drama

A Christmas Fair

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Not Too Tame have built up quite the reputation for putting on fun, interactive shows that deliver an entertaining night out. For the latest offering, a reworking of playwright Jim Cartwright’s A Christmas Fair, in collaboration with Oldham Coliseum, the interaction and fun are present, but so is something a little grittier.

Set in the beautiful Chadderton Town Hall, we are introduced to a community group attempting to organise the annual Christmas fair. There is the Elvis loving Town Hall Caretaker (Lee Toomes), who isn’t filled with Christmas cheer at all, and just wishes that people would clear up after themselves. Next up is the fair’s organiser-in-chief, Veronica (Samantha Robinson), who wants the fair to be just like her, perfect in every way. Next up is the fun loving cycling enthusiast Vicar (Dickon Tyrell), who is roped in, despite having the Christmas sermon to write. 

Then there is cafe worker and all round good egg, Lucy (Kelise Gordon-Harrison), who is fully into the Christmas spirit and happy to help in any way she can. And finally there is out-of-town writer, Johnny (Paddy Stafford), whose cynicism and sharp tongue threatens to derail everything.

As the quidditative quintet begin setting up the hall making it look festive, with a Christmas tree and stalls, we learn a bit about each of them. However, later, when the fair has closed and the clean up begins, we learn that each one has a story to tell of Christmas’s gone by that isn’t quite as in keeping with the joyous, festive time of year.

This is very much a play of two very different acts. The first, a fun-filled hour where we are introduced to our characters and their foibles. All this is mixed in with festive-fun, with sing-along carols, festive readings from the works of Dylan Thomas and Charles Dickens, and possibly one of the most impressive and quick Christmas decorations performed in live theatre. Add in the mix a possible blossoming love story between the younger characters Johnny and Lucy, and it sets up for what promises to be a memorable show.

However, the warning signs were there in the first act, and the second act takes a darker turn, with lengthy monologues, involving loneliness, crime and murder. Whilst some of the stories successfully highlight that not everyone will be celebrating this Christmas, some felt they a little more development.

Lee Toomes is in fine form as the fed-up but kind hearted caretaker, and is the glue that holds everything together. He’s the most rounded of the five characters. Kelise Gordon-Harrison brings the energy as the lovely, infectious Lucy. She’s perfectly paired with Paddy Stafford’s misery, Johnny. The chemistry between the pair is engaging and their duet on Fairy Tale of New York is a treat. You just wish there was a bit more of their story.

Samantha Robinson is brilliant as Veronica. She nails the festive officiousness; it’s a great comedic turn, that could in lesser hands irritate, but never does.  She strikes the balance between comedy and anguish perfectly. Dickon Tyrell’s turn as the Vicar is somewhat restrained until his Christmas monlogue, which, despite being one of the grimmer stories, his charismatic turn makes it an engaging watch. They are supported by a fine group of young actors for some of the song and dance numbers, which enhances your viewing.

As always with Not Too Tame, there is a spot of audience participation, in this case we are required to peruse the Christmas fair during the interval. The cast set up the fair during the first half of the performance and this is just a nice touch that adds an extra layer to the show.

Overall this is a well-acted, clever production that is at times funny and poignant. Whilst it won’t leave you with a warm Christmas glow, it’s well worth a watch and offers something a little different for the Greater Manchester theatre scene this Christmas.

A Christmas Fair on at Chadderton Town Hall until 2nd January tickets are available here.

The Shark is Broken

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Reviewed by Matthew Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hard to imagine really that a mechanical shark by the name of Bruce, very nearly killed the Hollywood blockbuster, even before anyone knew what a Hollywood blockbuster was. Bruce was one of the main stars of the first Hollywood mega movie: Jaws. Bruce had a habit of breaking down on a regular basis, leading to several halts in production, and a great deal of frustration from his fellow co-stars. But how do a trio of actors pass the time, when cooped up on a small fishing boat? They argue, they drink, they gamble and get on each other’s nerves!

Co-written by Joseph Nixon and Ian Shaw, son of Robert Shaw, The Shark Is Broken is set in 1974, on the Orca, the fishing boat used in the film. Here we find the three principal actors, Roy Scheider (Dan Fredenburgh), Richard Dreyfuss, (Ashley Margolis) and Robert Shaw (Ian Shaw), struggling to fend off boredom, as Bruce is repaired. They discuss their careers, their families, and gamble. However not all is plain sailing, and soon tempers fray, with Scheider playing peacekeeper to the warring Dreyfuss and Shaw, with the former feeling disrespected by Shaw. Whilst Shaw sees Dreyfuss as arrogant, more interested in fame than the craft of acting.

There is a great deal to enjoy and admire about this production. The script is funny, witty and packed with cracking gags and one-liners. Opening with a nod to John William’s famous score, we see a shark fin, gliding through the ocean projected on a screen at the back of the stage, and soon any dramatic tension disappears as the shark breaks down, it’s a superb joke that sets the tone for the show. Other standout big laughs come when Scheider rules out doing a sequel to Jaws, which of course he did. Another highlight is Shaw’s making reference to Steven Spielberg’s next project: “Aliens? What next, dinosaurs?”

It’s a classic situation comedy set up, as three very different people find themselves in a cramped environment and the script plays up to this throughout. Duncan Henderson’s Orca recreation is beautifully claustrophobic, and dingy, as the cast clamber over it and at times each other.  It looks so authentic that at times you almost smell the stench of fish guts and hard liquor coming from the stage.

The cast are in form throughout: it’s quite disconcerting how captivating Ian Shaw’s portrayal of his father is. Obviously, the close resemblance helps, but this is a performance filled with fire and passion as Shaw doesn’t flinch from showing his father’s battle with his demons including alcoholism, insecurities and disdain for elements of his profession that provided well for him and his family. It’s a towering presence that commands your attention throughout.

Equally impressive is Ashley Margolis’s unflattering portrayal of Richard Dreyfuss, filled with a nervous energy and self-doubt that in lesser hands could have been grating, but he navigates that tightrope perfectly. Finally there is a Dan Fredenburgh’s excellent understated, if slightly under-written turn as Schieder, who is essential in keeping proceedings grounded. Special mention to Carole Hancock’s whose flawless make helps to transform the actors into mirror images of the stars they are portraying.

The play tackles some weighty issues such Shaw’s alcoholism, and how it wasn’t just Bruce that was causing issues with production. It alludes to the well documented issues Dreyfuss would have with cocaine addiction in later years. One touching scene where the men bond over issues with their father’s is well played out, and one of the show’s highlights, you just wish there was a bit more of this depth in places

This is a funny, sharp insight into the magic of Hollywood, understandably executed with a great deal of love and affection for its subject matter. Fans of Jaws, and the Hollywood movie machine will undoubtedly love it. There is something for everyone to enjoy from the towering performances, high quality production values, all anchored by a sharp, poignant and well-crafted script.

The Shark is Broken is on the Lowry till 8th February tickets available here.

Frank 4 Sophie 4 Eva

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As the interval started a lady sat in front of me and said to her friend “There is something in there I think everyone can relate to”. The more I thought about this, the more she was bang on the money. Frank 4 Sophie 4 Eva is an honest, sometimes hilarious, occasionally uncomfortable look at the struggles and pitfalls of married life.

We are first introduced to Sophie (Alexandra Maxwell) and later Frank (Simon Naylor) as they attend a couples therapy session. Frank’s lateness starts the session off on the wrong foot and things go from bad to worse as there are petty squabbles a plenty to be had over personal hygiene habits and each other’s minor irritations. However the crux of their problems stems from sex, or lack of it.

Frank cannot understand why Sophie no longer wants to be intimate with him, when he is still madly in love with his wife. His frustrations are further exacerbated by the fact that Sophie may not be attracted to him, but seems to have a lot of time for Scottish beefcake Jamie from TV show Outlander or that she changes her personality everytime they bump into her old boyfriend when shopping in Tesco.

What starts off as childish bickering turns into a game of one-upmanship between the pair, where it soon becomes more serious, eventually with both leaving the session with the outcome neither wanted. The second act takes place in a bar three years after the session where we get to catch up with the warring couple, but to say any more would spoil the show.

The play is anchored by two outstanding central performances. Simon Naylor is in fine form as loutish Frank, clearly relishing the spicey dialogue. However the shift from male bravado, to a caring, lost sensitive soul is one that feels natural and thoroughly believable.

Alexandra Maxwell is equally impressive as the hard-faced, cold Sophie. She more than holds her own in the verbal jousts, however it takes a little more time for her to show her vulnerability, it’s a subtle, measured turn. The pair have exceptional chemistry and this is the bedrock of the whole show.   

Writer Ian Watson’s clever, punchy script has a trojan horse quality to it. It lulls you in at first with some caustic one-liners as Sophie and Frank trade shots, which are at times gross, scathing but hilarious, with no subject off limits – porn, haemorrhoids and toilet habits are all covered to brilliant comic effect. However throughout there is a gradual shift in tone, and eventually the play makes observations about mental health, sexual abuse and trauma, handling them in a sensitive yet unsentimental way. Whilst at first it may come across as ‘laddish even, crude’, it certainly softens towards the conclusion.

With such strong themes running through the show it’s great to see that the run is in partnership with Andy’s Man Club, a suicide prevention charity doing a great work across the UK.

This is a sharp, entertaining and intelligent comedy/drama that comes from a good place. By the end you want more and genuinely care for its characters, which for me is the hallmark of a great production.

Frank 4 Sophie 4 Eva is at 53two until 8th November, tickets available here.

For more information about Andy’s Man Club visit: https://andysmanclub.co.uk/

Vignettes 6

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Reviewed by Jodie Crawford

Opening Night ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vignettes returns to Hope Mill theatre with 6 exceptional pieces of theatre, which are short in minutes but packed with character, emotion and in parts good old Mancunian humour. These 6 pieces of stand alone theatre, are a celebration of the great talent that female identifying playwrights have to offer us in Manchester. The cast, production team, and direction live  up to the writing – each piece captivating in its own right. 

We begin Act 1 with Race for Life. Written by Christine Mackie, Directed by Joyce Brannagh. Our two main characters, Alice (Christine Mackie) and Stevie (Ellaney Hayden), have a chance encounter after taking part in their local Race for Life event. The two women have very different reasons for entering the event, but ultimately both women find something in the other that they were searching for. 

This piece is so beautifully and humorously written by the incredibly talented Mackie. The characters are so well connected and real. Often stories about women feature women who are downtrodden or who have achieved the unexpected. But this piece tells the story of two types of women that society don’t really talk about or identify with greatly. This story is about two women that people maybe don’t notice. There is a real vulnerability in both characters (not that they’d ever want you to see it). A well told story, with lots of heart and humour. 

Our second piece in Act 1 is a powerful piece written by Nasima Bee, and Directed by Nikki Mailer. Haiesha Mistry is a triumph in this piece. She just pulls you in from the minute she begins in her role of Ranad. She is mighty and strong. She fully encompasses this role and I was mesmerised by her from start to finish. Lamin Touray, as Ali, also works well on stage with Mistry. They together deliver a narrative about freedom, expression and the importance of having a voice. The written dialogue is compelling and is delivered with such energy. It is worth the ticket price alone to see this performance. 

The final piece of the first act is Interesting written by Alex Keenan and directed by Jess Gough. This piece is clever, well developed and insightful. It explores so many themes that are relevant with so many of us. The loss of a child in pregnancy, depression, marital difficulties and so much more. The character of Bo, the daughter of a counsellor, is played by the talented Eleanor Booth. Bo is angry and depressed, she is struggling to connect with her mother and in an act of childish retaliation towards her she impersonates her mother in an online counselling session. The couple attending the session, played by Stacey Harcourt and Barney Thompson, are experiencing so many emotions relating to the loss of a child in pregnancy at 5 months. The husband Max just can’t communicate how he is feeling and the wife Laura is desperate to talk about their loss. Bo’s prank doesn’t go to plan and exposes so many complex feelings and emotions for all three characters. A wonderfully written and acted piece that gives us insight into the difficulties experienced in grief and mental well being. 

Act 2 begins with Anatomy of Desire written by Obesi Osi-Lyere and directed by Justina Alna. This piece introduces us to HER played by the brilliant Ntombizodwa Ndlovu. HER is easy to identify with, HER is desperate to be successful, loved and respected, but things aren’t smooth sailing. HER takes us on a journey through time and events that are at times quite confronting. At times the chronology is hard to follow, but the acting is powerful and the main themes are present. I think we can all identify with the hopes and dreams of HER in this highly emotive piece of theatre. 

The second piece of Act 2 is one of the highlights of this entire production: Birds Don’t Run. They Fly. This beautifully crafted script is written by Lauren-Nicole Moyes and directed by Laura Woodward. Here we meet Ashleigh (Laurie Ogden) and Helena (Kate James), two women with a connection from school, reunited at a Blackpool Park Run. This piece starts with so much humour and banter, that when we begin to peel away the layers of these women’s armour we are aghast to the hidden reality they are in. 

I found this piece moving, confronting and heartbreaking. It is so cleverly constructed by Lauren-Nicole Moyes- the use of the bird analogies throughout is inspired. Both actors deliver exceptional performances, but Ogden was truly breathtaking in her portrayal of Ashleigh: this piece will stay with me for a long time. 

And the final play is Maharani of Manchester. Written by Anshan d’souza-lodhi and directed by Gituka Buttoo. Described in the programme as  “If the Godfather was a South Asian woman with morals.” This play takes place in the wilds of Rochdale. Here we meet Maharani (Ifeoma Uzo) who is determined to take Joshua (Raphael Santiago) out into the wild to see whether he is good enough for her daughter. Joining them on the expedition is Princess (Riah Amelle) who isn’t completely unbiased! This play is fun, simple and shows us that the truth is often the best place to start. 

Vignettes 6 is an incredible evening of a diverse selection of plays. Each wonderful in its own right. It is a feast of entertainment with something for everyone. So many characters delivered by an incredibly talented group of actors. An absolute celebration of 6 playwrights, telling six very different stories. How lucky we are to have this wonderful selection of theatre here in Manchester, all on one stage together. 

Vingettes is on at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre until 24th April tickets available here.

Work It Out

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Many of us have been there, stood in a random community centre or school hall early evening, trainers on, ancient leggings dug out of a long-forgotten drawer as we await the arrival of the class instructor and just hope they’re not quite as bouncy as we’ve imagined. 

It’s the perfect material for a piece of theatre, from the characters we meet to the problems and predicaments they find themselves in. It’s something we can relate to, empathise with, and laugh along with as we reflect on our own brushes with ‘fitness’. Writer Eve Steele (who also stars in the production as Siobhan) has taken this basic premise a step further with the exercise class being one specifically for people who have been referred due to the mental health challenges they face.

This distinct group of characters go on a unique and engaging journey, from beginning as strangers who struggle to be in the same room together to becoming their own unique and fiercely proud community. Each has their own story and moment to shine as the weeks pass by and the heart of each character is carefully revealed. From alcoholism to hoarding, sexual abuse to overeating the issues they’ve face are many, however together they find a sense of belonging and a genuine sense of purpose without this production ever feeling cliche.

Writer Eve Steele and Director Sarah Frankcom have lovingly worked with these characters to ensure they are relatable, believable and touch the hearts of the audience in ways we don’t see coming. The subtleties of their journeys collectively make for a powerful, emotive piece of theatre packed with heaps of heart and humour.

There’s Rebecca (Raffie Julien), who is deaf and refuses to speak who brings along her Grandma Marie (Eithne Browne), Rebecca gradually finds freedom and confidence as the weeks progress while Marie evolves from angry and anxiety ridden to loving, caring and contemplative. Shaq, portrayed sensitively by Dominic Coffey is a care-leaver who is struggling to survive in a wholly unsuitable home environment. His moving dance solo to a jazz version of Radiohead’s Creep is a real highlight of the show.

Eva Scott’s portrayal of Colette a shy, sensitive soul who struggles with body image is deeply moving, seeing her find her place and purpose within the group as they bid to secure funding feels like a monumental triumph. Aaron McCusker’s journey as Rob is perhaps one of the most profound, his transformation is poignantly realised in the final touching scenes as Siobhan (Eve Steele) with whom Rob has become close takes a step back from the group while her personal progress stalls. Class leader Alice (Elizabeth Twells) who seems so composed and complete at the start goes on her very own unique journey of vulnerability where she too realises, she needs the strength of the group to get her through.

The powerful final scenes illustrate both the positive change community and inclusion can bring while exposing the stark reality of the damage done to a society failed by ineffective Governments and underfunded services. The focus on individual stories brings a real sense of hope to this piece as the characters unify becoming closer and tighter as the weeks go by.

Work It Out is on at HOME until Saturday 16th March https://homemcr.org/theatre/

Ghost Stories

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Reviewed by Matthew Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Finally, a decade after it’s theatrical premiere at Liverpool’s Playhouse Theatre, Ghost Stories is embarking on a full national tour, and trust me it was well worth the wait!

From the twisted minds of childhood friends Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman, comes the ultimate scary theatrical experience, that will chill to your core.

Both Dyson and Nyman are no strangers to horror and the supernatural: Dyson is arguably best known for his work with, The League of Gentleman. Whilst Nyman is an actor and writer, who recently starred opposite Renée Zellweger in the Oscar winning film Judy. However, it’s his previous work with Derren Brown, which undoubtedly feeds into this production.

It would do the show a disservice to offer a review complete with plot synopsis and spoilers, the less you know going in beforehand the better. So, this review like a government investigation into Russian donors to the Conservative Party will be heavily redacted.

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Beginning with a lecture from Professor Goodman (Joshua Higgott), Goodman specialises in the study of the supernatural, especially debunking people’s stories, or exposing fakers and frauds. However, of all the cases that he has investigated there have been three that have stuck with him.

The first is that of security guard, Tony Matthews (Paul Hawkyard), and his unsettling final shift. The second is that of teenager, Simon Rifkind (Gus Gordon) and the strife his troublesome car gets him into. Finally, businessman, Mike Priddle (Richard Sutton) and the events that lead up to a family tragedy.

Can Professor Goodman offer up a rational explanation behind each of these stories, if so what can be?

If the aim of Ghost Stories is to have you jumping out of your skin then it achieves its goal ten times over, like a rollercoaster the thrills come thick and fast, just when you think you’re safe there’s another scare right around the corner. It’s not all shocks, there are several laughs too, with a pitch-black script and lots of fun gags, horror and comedy have often made strange bed fellows, Ghost Stories undoubtedly have got the balance spot on.

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With a production of this nature it of course relies hugely on its creative team and high production values and what they have created is something quite special. With James Farncombe’s lighting design, sound design by Nick Manning, then add into the mix Jon Bausor’s impressive set design and you have an atmospheric, gasp-inducing full-on sensory experience.

The cast are on fine form, Higgot has an engaging stage presence as our guide to the paranormal, whilst the three storytellers each bring something different to their tale. There’s comedy, drama, and terror from each turn but all done very differently, which is a credit to all three actors as well the sublime writing and direction.

This is so much more than a fright-fest: it’s smart, innovative and most of all an enormously fun piece of theatre that pulls out all the stops to give you a night out that will live long in the memory.

Ghost Stories is at the Lowry until the 22nd February 2020 tickets available here.

 

 

 

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

Last year, the Royal Exchange had for its autumn offering of Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie, (it was originally scheduled for the stage in 2020 but was temporarily shelved due to Covid-19). The production garnered huge commercial and critical success. Hoping that lighting will strike twice, the Royal Exchange has once again turned to the great American playwright to kick off their spring programme with another Williams’ classic, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.

Set over the course of one evening, the Pollit family has gathered at the huge family estate for their patriarch, Big Daddy’s (Patrick Robinson) double celebrations. First of all, it’s his 65th birthday, and secondly Big Daddy has received the news that he is cancer free following a health scare. However, the event isn’t the joyous affair one might expect.

First of all you have Big Daddy’s youngest son, Brick (Bayo Gbadamosi) a retired American Football star, who has recently injured his leg in an athletics accident, hobbling around on crutches.  This is the least of his worries, for he has descended into alcoholism following the death of his close friend Skipper. Adding to his woes is his wife Maggie, (Ntombizoda Ndlovu). With the pair trapped in a loveless, sexless marriage, with Maggie desperate to reignite the flames of passion and restore the marriage to its former glory, and hopefully produce a child.

Other attendees at the party are Brick’s older, ambitious brother Gooper (Daniel Ward), his scheming wife, Mae (Danielle Henry), and their five children or “no necks” as they are comically referred to throughout. The final family member is Big Mama (Jacqui Dubois), Big Daddy’s wife, who is trying to hold the family together unaware that her overbearing nature is doing more harm than good.

This play follows a three-act structure, with the first undoubtedly belonging to Ntombizoda Ndlovu, as Maggie.  She dives headfirst into Willams’ script with many, many monologues highlighting the troubles between her and Brick, and foreshadowing the drama that is about to unfold. It’s a mesmerising performance filled with heartbreak and humour, and one that will quite rightly earn Ntombizoda a great deal of plaudits.

The second act sees a standoff between Brick and Big Daddy, with a sombre, beautifully understated turn from Bayo Gbadamosi, going up against, powerhouse performance from Patrick Robinson, as the straight-talking father, ready to right his wrongs, for better or worse, now he has a new lease of life. Robinson, delivers some brutal dialogue with so much charisma, that you almost, (and I do stress almost ) side with Big Daddy.

The final act sees all the players gather for a restrained, darkly comedic showdown, which sees grievances aired and issues come to the fore. It may not be the big set-to, you would expect, the rather toned down conclusion is no less satisfying.

The production is not without flaws, the script is a seemingly never-ending torrent of monologues, which repeat the same thing over again, as Talking Heads said in the song Psycho Killer, “Say something once, why say it again?”. Whilst the play does offer an interesting take on mortality, grief, and wasted life to name but a few it certainly takes a long time making its point, some of Williams’ self-indulgent tendencies could do with a bloody good trim.

Director Roy Alexander Weise has done a fine job creating a claustrophobic environment for which this toxic group thrive in, as you would expect it’s a dramatic piece that never strays into melodrama and has more darkly comic humour than I certainly expected.

At over three hours long it’s a challenging watch, but one that rewards with enjoyable performances and some stringing lines of dialogue.

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is on at the Royal exchange till 29th April, tickets available here.

Vignettes

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Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Following a hugely successful run back in February of 2020, HER Productions in conjunction with Alex Keenlan, return to Hope Mill Theatre with a new set of Vignettes: a series of short plays from some of Manchester’s finest writers.

With six stories showcased, there is something for everyone, from family drama to sci-fi, kitchen sink to sitcom, all sharing the common theme of humanity. All have something to say about the world we live in.

It’s a smart choice to open with Fresh Meat: a sharp, fun story of empowerment as Abbi (Carrie Crookall) takes the plunge to visit a strip club, where she meets sassy dancer Frankie (Shireen Ashton). Despite their initial difference, the two ladies have more in common than they think. The script is packed with some punchy dialogue and two really fun performances.

The next offering  is Wildfires, a story looking at discovery and being out of your comfort zone. Niamh (Amy Gavin) reluctantly joins a retreat in the hope of making new friends and seeking out some answers, but things don’t quite pan out as they should. Again, a sharp, witty script with some solid work from the ensemble cast.

Closing the first act is XYV, a dystopian science fiction drama, which explores themes of gender, power, and the consequences of our actions. Performed by Elaine McNicol and Emily Dowson, with terrific sound design from Andrew Glassford, this bold, daring piece attempts to pack a great deal into its short running time.

First up following the interval is To Have and to Hold, a beautifully written, directed and performed piece focusing on the relationship between Ange (Joanne Heywood) and Barry (Shaun Hennessy), a pair of championship winning ballroom dancers stopped from doing the thing they love by an oh so familiar enemy. Containing some great gags and more laugh-out-loud one-liners, this is the perfect way to start act two.

The penultimate offering is, It’s a Pea Picking Privilege, a bitter sweet slice of social realism, as Aggie (Sophie Ellicott) and her daughter, Alice (Carla Rowe) discuss identity, and life’s struggles in a not-too-distant past. With a script filled with humour and pathos, it certainly leaves you wanting to learn more about this fractured mother and daughter unit.

The show closes with Signs, a look at loss, grief and forgiveness. Spiritualist Eileen (Wendy Albiston) works with sisters Amanda (Francesca White) and Jess ( Liz Simmonds) as they both deal with their sister’s illness in very different ways. Packed with emotion and a sprinkling of humour, this dark comedy seems the fitting finale to bring the production to a close.

Vignettes will have something for everyone, containing a tale or two that we can all relate to and a timely reminder that whilst live entertainment has been decimated throughout this pandemic, there are still stories to be told, with talented creative’s ready to tell them by whatever means they can.  

Vignettes is on at Hope Mill Theatre till 3rd July

Tickets available from: https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/events/vignettes

C.O.N.T.A.C.T

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📷 Phil Tragen

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Reviewed by Matt Forrest


Over the last 14 months many of us have had a great deal of time to take stock and reflect on the world around us, so wouldn’t it be exciting to enter the head space of someone different for a short while, and become immersed in their world.

Well for 50 minutes you can, with the unique production of C.O.N.T.A.C.T brought to audiences by Aria Entertainment, WEF Productions and The Lowry, staged either at Media City and/or a Manchester City Centre.

We were told prior to the event to meet near the tram stop at Media City and to bring a brolly: this after all is Salford where the city and grey sky fit like hand in glove. In addition we were asked to download the C.O.N.T.A.C.T app for your smartphone of choice and to bring a set of earphones.

📷 Phil Tragen

We are soon introduced to Sarah (Chloe Gentles), a young women with a lot going on in her head: from the uncomfortable fitting of her bra to the odd feeling in the pit of her stomach, all the while taking in the sounds of the city, lost in her own little bubble.

However her world is soon turned on it’s head with the introduction of Raphael (Cellan Scott), a mysterious stranger who knows more about Sarah then she knows about herself.

Sarah and Raphael soon begin a journey of discovery and reflection which will change Sarah forever.

C.O.N.T.A.C.T was first performed in Paris at the height of the pandemic, moving to London last summer and garnering huge praise for it’s bold, innovative attempt to stage live theatre. After all we can’t order a drink without an app, so why shouldn’t we enjoy theatre in the same way?

📷 Phil Tragen

Both Gentles and Scott do not utter a world throughout, with both giving visual, expressive performances whilst their dialogue is drip fed into our conscious’ via the app. The two actors performances, in conjunction with the highly impressive 3-D sound design allow you to switch off and become totally immersed in Sarah’s world, so much so that as we strolled around the grounds of the Blue Peter Garden I became aware that I was part of the production, as baffled on lookers watched a group of people with headphones observing two others have a silent but very heated debate.

This unique, production is the perfect reminder of how much we need human connection and the importance of looking after not only ourselves but also looking out for others. No matter what challenges we may face, there can always be a solution found.

C.O.N.T.A.CT is on in Manchester and at Media city until the 27thJune. Tickets available at: https://thelowry.com/whats-on/contact-salford-quays/

The Last Quiz Night On Earth

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If it were your last night on earth, how would you spend it? Surely, with friends, family, neighbours maybe even complete strangers? How about with all of these whilst participating in a pub quiz? A pub quiz probably wouldn’t be your first thought when faced with your imminent doom, but The Last Quiz Night on Earth may just change your mind!

With an asteroid hurtling towards the earth, and all hope gone, landlady Kathy (Meriel Schofield), and quizmaster, Rav (Shaban Dar) decide the best way to go out is by throwing a quiz and we’re all invited. However, with the pending apocalypse, it’s inevitable that the night won’t run smoothly and the arrival of Kathy’s estranged brother, Bobby (Chris Jack), as well as of Rav’s ex-childhood sweetheart, Fran (Amy Drake) throw a spanner in the works. Will the sibling rivalry and matters of the heart get in the way of the sports round? Will we crown a quiz champion before our untimely demise and just which team will have the best name?

Writer Alison Carr and director Hannah Tyrrell-Pinder have created a fun, innovative slice of a theatre, packed full of comedic set pieces, great one liner and a pinch of high drama. In its rather unique setting the play tackles issues such as redemption, forgiveness, and tolerance. However, there is an extra dimension  to the performance, as it’s fully interactive, the quiz is real, so you’ll need a quiz team, think of a witty team name (my personal favourite this evening was Salford Analytica) and you may even be called on for a bit of audience participation, you could end up playing Paul, Kathy’s no good ex!

The cast are on fine form, Schofield is the show’s heart and soul, holding the production together, Dar injects some razzmatazz and sparkle as our quiz master general, with Drake showing  a gift for comedy and Jack adding a touch of intrigue and pathos as Bobby. All four have great chemistry and with one another, and because of the interactive nature, adlib and bounce off the audience and get them involved whilst staying tight to the script.

Some of the more interactive elements can prove a bit tricky, as it’s staged in a real pub, depending on where you sit it, you can miss some of what’s going on. With this being a quiz, the competitive aspect can grip some audience members and cause a distraction from the action, it does give the show an air of authenticity but can frustrate in places.

Sound designer Chris James adds depth to proceedings with an apocalyptic sound scape, that includes a War of the World inspired radio broadcast. In addition, there is a tongue-and cheek soundtrack featuring the likes of REM, Europe, and Lisa Stansfield that will raise a smile throughout.

The show resembles an episode of a sitcom, more than it does a piece of theatre, which is meant as compliment, The Last Quiz Night On Earth is a fun, entertaining night out, which makes you wish you had more time with Kathy and the gang, but sadly the giant rock hurtling towards you the Earth has other plans. So, enjoy their company whilst you can! Ps Sue Pollard, if you go, you’ll know.

The Last Quiz Night on Earth is on at The Welcome Inn before touring until 11th April. Tickets available here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Letter To Boddah

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In the song Hey, Hey, My My (Out of the Blue) Godfather of grunge Neil Young muses the statement: “It’s better to burn out, than to fade away”.  Sadly, this was a question posed in Kurt Cobain’s suicide letter, tragically titled Letter to Boddah.

Writer Sarah Nelson has used this desperately heart-breaking event as the inspiration behind her play, also titled Letter to Boddah. Set entirely in the disabled toilet of a Tesco store, we find childhood friends Billy (Sam Glen) and Neil (Jordan Reece): the pair are dressed in full military combats, armed to the teeth and carrying a ruck sack packed full of explosives ready to blow up the supermarket, its customers, and if necessary themselves.  What has brought these two to this point? Is there any going back for the pair?

Nelson has written a pitch-black comedy drama which explores themes of friendship, grief, domestic abuse and lost potential. Taking a setting more associated with that of a British ‘sitcom’, we are treated to some razor-sharp one-liners and darkly comedic dialogue, mixed with moments of heartbreak, as well as a few twists that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Both leads are excellent. Sam Glen puts in an intense, gut-wrenching turn as grief-stricken Billy, whilst Jordan Reece plays Neil to perfection, striking the right balance between comedy sidekick and unhinged psychopath.  The chemistry between the two is outstanding and fully believable, which makes their actions seem all the more desperate. The two manage to captivate and entirely hold your attention throughout.

This is an important production that addresses issues of male depression and suicide, as well as containing strong political themes of globalisation, and commentary on a lost generation without a voice. Powerful, dark, shocking and packed full of humour, with a finale filled with tension. This is an outstanding piece of work that deserves to be seen by as many people as possible, and on the strength of the quality on display tonight, will surely find an audience.

Letter to Boddha is on at the Edinburgh Fringe throughout August at C CUBED (Venue 50) daily at 1:15pm tickets available here.

 

Rotterdam

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Every once in while a play comes along that really strikes the right chord, one that you would encourage as many people as possible to go and see, writer Jon Brittain’s Rotterdam is that play!

First performed in 2015, this Olivier Award winning play offers an honest, raw portrayal of gender dysphoria and the impact that it can have not just on the individual but their loved ones as well.

Set in the Dutch city of Rotterdam, a vibrant port town where people come and go as much as the cargo that passes through its docks; however, this isn’t the case for Alice (Rebecca Banatvala) and her partner Fiona (Lucy Jane Parkinson).

The pair have been living there for seven years now, with both trying to come to terms with who they are. It’s New Years Eve and Alice has finally decided to come out as gay to her parents, with much encouragement from Fiona. However, before Alice undertakes this brave step, Fiona also has a confession to make that she wishes to be recognised as a man and would like to be called Adrian from now on.

This revelation has a huge impact on the pair and their relationship as Adrian seeks acknowledgement from a world that he sees will not accept him as a man, whilst Alice questions her own sexuality. Through their journey of discovery, the pair are supported by Lelani, (Stella Taylor) Alice’s free-spirited work colleague, who has more than friendship on her mind as it pertains to Alice. Making up the quartet, is Josh (Paul Heath) Fiona/Adrian’s brother who is also the former boyfriend of Alice.

This could so easily fall into a ‘preachy’ message driven play about transgender issues, instead focusing on the impact Adrian’s decision to transition impacts on those around him. The script handles its subject intelligently and sensitively, whilst pulling no punches. There are moments of levity throughout with some sharp, funny throw away lines.

The cast under Donnacadh O’ Brian, skilful direction are superb, with Parkinson giving a raw at times feral turn as Adrian: filled with conflict and heartbreak. Whilst Banatvala is also outstanding giving a more restrained but no less gut-wrenching turn as Alice. Both Taylor and Heath are on good form in their supporting roles, with the pair turning in great comedic performances, demonstrating a gift for timing and delivery.

There are some plot contrivances that test plausibility, such as Josh’s decision to stick around despite losing the women he loves to his sibling, but this is a minor quibble on what is a weighty, heartfelt, powerful piece of theatre that will make you laugh and may even cause you to get the odd bit of sand in your eye too.

Transgender issues despite having some media coverage are still hugely unrepresented. Productions like Rotterdam are much needed and important to help educate and hopefully create more positive conversations. This however is not the shows key drawing power, that comes because it is a beautifully told story about the struggles of relationships and real life that will resonate with us all.

Rotterdam is at the Manchester Opera House till 15th June. Tickets available here.