Willy Russell is well known as the writer of plays and films such as Educating Rita, Our Day Out, and the musical Blood Brothers. His work has attracted huge and appreciative audiences all over the world and his plays and musicals have won countless awards. Read more …
There were a few understandable wobbles along the way, but Allan and director Rita Henderson are to be congratulated for making the most out of the situation.
If Allen’s deft and passionate handling of the play’s vital opening scene is any guide, then future audiences will have a rich, nostalgic, and yet still timely theatrical, treat in store.
For obvious reasons, Henderson’s production may be taking a little longer than usual to completely find its feet, but Allan has already passed the play’s most significant test – making the audience care about and connect with the spirited Shirley – with flying colours.
Byre Theatre, St Andrews from Thursday July 23, 2015, until Saturday August 8, 2015. More info: www.byretheatre.com