This charmingly camp and thoroughly Scouse comedy features stellar performances of 80s hits and three delightful bingo games for the audience.

I was back at Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre this week for what was to be my first exposure to bingo since way back in primary school. Bingo Star gets its name from the declining, family-run Liverpool bingo hall owned by the well-intentioned but floundering Arthur played by Alan Stocks. The hall is maintained by his daughter Lesley (Keddy Sutton) and granddaughter Bella (Paige Fenlon), along with the butch, no-nonsense Debbie and the eccentric hippie Keyboard Keith, played by Helen Carter and Jonathan Markwood respectively. The story follows the crew’s hapless struggle to keep the hall safe from the looming threat of imminent seizure due to Arthur’s failure to repay a massive loan. Soon enough, the flashy and enigmatic Tony (Paul Duckworth) appears as a possible financial saviour for the group, but the big question is whether he’ll live up to his claims. The show certainly shares some elements of panto, with plenty of audience participation and cheesy jokes galore. However, its heartfelt plot and emphasis on the importance of community and sticking to your guns sets it apart. The show’s writer, Iain Christie, takes care to emphasize the character’s well-rounded backstories, and the females of the cast form the glue for this great group. The female trio is not without warmth, strength, and resilience, particularly Paige Fenlon who stole the show as the young and endearing Bella epitomizing the role of a sweet and caring daughter struggling to choose a path. Arthur’s daughter Lesley is sincerely heart-warming, and this brings out the best in her family members, not neglecting to mention hardened yet caring Debbie, whose swagger and wisecracks were relentlessly entertaining.

Many quips are very centred around the ‘bingo is for the elderly’ stereotype, which I actually really enjoyed. Olivia Du Monceau outdid herself with a fabulous revolving stage; the ageing bingo hall dazzles with neon and a makeshift Henry Hoover ball machine that then revolves into a downstairs food bank that the group diligently stocks throughout. Onstage plot developments are broken up by three audience bingo games with the chance to win £50 each time – the use of dabbers is highly recommended! There are plenty of local references thrown in to enjoy and even two special guest appearances. 

Ultimately, Bingo Star is a unique, feel-good theatre experience full of heart that I would encourage both young and old to attend. The interactive bingo element truly sets it apart from other productions and has an undeniable appeal. Get down to the Royal Court Theatre before the last show on the 8th of April.