Overall Rating: 4****
Talented writing and performing.
Infectiously funny.
Emotive and relatable.
Twice Nightly is a must see show that has completed a successful short run at the Royal Court Studio and has moved onto Liverpool’s Shakespeare North Theatre (Sir Ken Dodd Performance Garden) and Gladstone Theatre. This is pure comedy genius. An original play written, choreographed and performed by two exceptionally talented artists.
Maria Lovelady is superb in the role of Madge. Her singing voice is pitch perfect and harmonises well with the equally talented Michael Alan Bailey who plays Don.
Both characters are believable and immediately immerse the audience in their tale of resilience, back luck and ultimate friendship. This play has you laughing out loud; feeling extraordinary unfairness for them not being able to catch a ‘lucky break’ against the backdrop of changing times in 1931. This was the era that sadly saw a decline of musical halls in favour of cinemas. All the while the audience is taken on a powerful and highly emotive journey of the trial and tribulations of amateur variety hall entertainers who whilst under the influence of alcohol do something they later regret.
Maria and Michael also deliver hilarious slapstick humour, and have synchronised comedic dance routines that would be enviable of many TV personalities today.
There are an abundance of references to Liverpool’s local landmarks and even a performance from Bella and Bertie the iconic Liver birds. With the voice of Joe Pasquale playing the role of The Beak/magistrate this catapults the play further into hilarity!
Please make it your priority to see this play as Michel Alan Bailey is a huge talent who will no doubt go on to achieve accolades within his career. He is a diverse actor and writer who recently received critical acclaim for his outstanding performance in Masquerade – another fantastic Bill Elms production. Maria Lovelady’s outstanding acting and singing voice, not to mention her comedic timing is truly magnificent! She is one to watch in the future as no doubt will be performing soon at one of London’s major West End theatres.
If you want to purchase tickets for this show at Shakespeare North, please consider and dress appropriately for the weather as the 1 hour 30 minute performance will take place in Sir Ken Dodd Performance Garden which is an outdoor amphitheatre. It also has unreserved seating meaning, it’s on a first come, first served for the best seats.
Please contact the box office directly on: 0151 433 7156 Tue–Sat, 11am–6pm Closed, Sun-Mon (except show days).
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