Reading Time: 2 minutesRuairi Conaghan's one-man show explores the enduring effects of trauma rooted in his childhood during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The narrative highlights the violent loss of his uncle and its impact on family dynamics. Through humor and physical performance, Ruairi confronts mental health challenges and the generational scars of conflict.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe Soundhouse Winter Festival in Edinburgh featured a captivating opening night. Pianist Amy Laurenson played songs from her debut album, complemented by guitarist Miguel Girão. Following intermission, the 1933 film "The Rugged Island" was screened with a live score by fiddle player Catriona Macdonald and Inge Thomson, creating an immersive experience celebrated for its Scottish creativity.
Reading Time: 2 minutesThe pantomime, inspired by 'The Little Mermaid', features Danny Crabstix and his comedic struggles with love. The show captivates with vibrant underwater sets, impressive costumes, and high-energy performances, particularly from Danny Adams and Joe McElderry. With clever humor and stunning effects, it provides a delightful Christmas experience for families.
Reading Time: 2 minutesJack and the Beanstalk: What a Whopper is an adult pantomime that humorously blends traditional elements with outrageous comedy. While the show features entertaining performances, particularly by Matthew Baldwin as the pantomime dame, it struggles in its second half as the novelty of its shock humor fades. Ultimately, slight edits could enhance its impact.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSpend, Spend, Spend is a vibrant musical at the Royal Exchange Theatre, chronicling the life of Viv Nicholson, a football pools winner. With humor and depth, it showcases her rise and fall through wealth, loves lost, and personal struggles. Strong performances, especially by Julie Armstrong and James Lyne, enhance its engaging storytelling.
Reading Time: 2 minutesMichael Keegan-Dolan's "Nobodaddy" is an avant-garde interpretation of William Blake's poem, blending dance and folk-rock music into a mesmerizing performance. The choreography is distinctive, highlighting each dancer's individuality amidst a playful atmosphere. With effective staging and haunting vocals, the show delivers an uncanny experience filled with delightful oddities and emotional depth.
Reading Time: 2 minutes“Whether you’re revisiting a panto classic or experiencing it for the first time, Cinderella is sure to deliver an unforgettable night of laughter and magic.” This year, Edinburgh audiences are in for a treat with a brand-new,…
Reading Time: 2 minutes“Eva Recacha has created a world that is at once grotesque and beautiful, unsettling and deeply moving—a dream worth stepping into.” When I first heard about Eva Recacha’s The Picnic, inspired by Hieronymus Bosch’s The Garden of…
Reading Time: 2 minutes“You can have opinions if you want, just it’s best not to talk about them”: A series of short, urgent plays addressing censorship in the arts in Britain
Reading Time: 2 minutesThe festive season is swinging into full gear at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre, where the legendary Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto is back, bigger and brighter than ever. This year, it’s time to “let your hair down” as Rapunzel takes center stage from now until 18 January 2025.