theatre royal

‘It’s a girl’ – the words that both open and end director Sally Cookson’s stage vision of Jane Eyre. In my opinion, there couldn’t be a more apt way of rounding up Charlotte Brontë’s well known tale. Jane’s journey from powerless child to strong, spirited, independent woman in this...

Based on a children’s novel by Jacqueline Wilson, Hetty Feather is a show for all ages. With humour, heartache, and at times a horrendous temper, Phoebe Thomas’ Hetty is the glue that holds together a strong team of six actors, as they present this incredible story. Thomas not only brings Hetty...

You will not be disappointed by this timeless classic of a panto…oh no you won’t! Christopher Biggins’ ebullient performance as Widow Twankey carries the production, with the aid of her increasingly inexplicable and outrageous outfits. All the ‘pantomime-musts’ were ticked, and it went beyond anything I remember from childhood,...

Upon entering the theatre, the indistinguishable set is visible, acting as a balcony for the orchestra. Never before have I seen a show where the conductor is always visible; an interesting but valuable choice that only added to the musical aspect of this production. After an amazing overture featuring...

Another opening, another show! This is how Opera North open their production of Cole Porter’s backstage musical Kiss Me Kate, with an appropriately meta-theatrical number about opening a show for the first time. Flawless, full of energy and an all-round feel-good performance; this opening number sets the tone for...

Like most sixteen-year-olds across the country, I studied An Inspector Calls at GCSE level, and four years ago I saw the play performed on stage in London.  Walking into the Theatre Royal this evening, therefore, I felt more than prepared to turn my critical eye towards the performance.  Although...

Set during the consequent terms of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Moira Buffini’s Handbagged provides a behind-the-scenes perspective on the apparent power struggle between two of the longest serving British patriots, Thatcher and Queen Elizabeth II. Presented as a light-hearted comedy, the play depicts the relationship between Liz and Mags...