Scouse: A comedy of terrors

Venue:  Central Hall (Renshaw Street)

I’ve walked past the building many times over the years and never had a reason to venture inside.  Scouse:  A Comedy of Terrors was that reason and I wouldn’t be disappointed!   This hidden gem of a theatre space is beautiful and I hope it continues to be used and be restored to its former glory.

I didn’t know what to expect from this show; comedy or tragedy? I came away knowing I had both.  The script is deliciously cruel with a splatter of comedy, delivered with perfect scouse timing.  The play grabs you from the start and takes you on a ride filled with Liverpool history, political unrest and tragedy. 

The scenery was very cleverly put together and the whole space was used wonderfully.  Special mention to the director Margaret Connell, who made the transition between scenes seamless and little touches, such as the confessional scene, were very effective. 

The show has a very strong cast, particularly Jackie Jones and Peter Washington, who play Kath and Tom respectively.  Quiet often in plays, people who play couples don’t always look right together or try to hard to suit each other but these two actors were very believable and there was an honesty in their performances that you don’t always see.  Their daughter (Susan), played by Katie King, was brilliant.  Her character changed throughout the play, which is often difficult to do, but she performed it with ease and I would like to see her in other roles.  Her brother (Ben), played by James Ledsham, was equally great and played his character with passion and truth.  Tina played by, the ever dependable, Louise Garcia, epitomised the scouse tart.  Nicola Ferguson played Lisa, and gave a very moving piece alongside James Ledsham.  Curtis Watt played a very good Father Clive and had some great ones liners and delivered them with good comic timing.  Michael Hawkins was the most versatile actor, playing a number of roles.  He had different accents and I couldn’t tell which was his own voice, if any!  Macca, played by Reg Edwards, was perfect for Tom’s best mate and James McMartin (Big Frank) finished off the gang wonderfully. 

All in all I wasn’t expecting the play to be as good as it was and I came away thinking it was a scouse version of Les Miserables (Minus the songs).  Yes there is strong language in the lay but it isn’t over used and reflects language that is used. 

If you are looking for a thought proving night out that will make you laugh and cry then this is the play for you!