Each show I see never fails to surprise not impress. This offering of the art of expression at the Lowry’s Quays Theatre just enhances the beauty of live theatre.
‘4 x 4’ is the ingenious collaboration of 4 jugglers and 4 ballet dancers sharing a stage for the first time in a celebration of where these paths meet exploring not just what juggling is, but what juggling can be.
The renowned Central School of Ballet celebrates its 30th Anniversary of their graduate performing company Ballet Central. This years tour kicked off in March starting at Tonbridge then continuing through 14 towns and cities for a duration of five months, with only one venue left - St. James Theatre, London (17th & 18th July) if you have not seen this years tour I highly recommend you pay them a visit in London, it is definitely worth seeing!
Mike Parry and Mike Graham AKA THE TWO MIKES are Britain’s brightest radio presenters causing chaos and catastrophe on the airwaves at TalkSPORT, Britain’s biggest commercial radio station.
Tonight The Two Mikes brought their mad cap zany show to The Lowry. Sadly it just didn’t work for us, filled with gratuitous humour from the beginning, at times it made for uncomfortable viewing.
After a long career of providing family entertainment across the boards and on television the Chuckle Brothers certainly didn't disappoint in this tour of 'Chuckles of Oz'. The atmosphere within the auditorium was electric as the famous double act captured the audience the second they stepped on stage.
The story followed the classic 'Wizard of Oz' where we was first greeted by 'Glinda' (the good witch). I felt this was a very clever storyline for Paul and Barry to pursue which would cater for all audiences. Glinda, portrayed by Beth Stoddart completely gripped our attention the minute she stepped on stage. Her interaction with the younger audiences was faultless and she certainly made them feel welcome. As well as younger children I believe the Chuckle Brothers certainly catered for my generation who was watching less than ten years ago. They've moved with the ties while adding modern humour for their past audiences.
Once again the hidden gem of a performance area in The Lowry’s crown server up another beautiful piece, this time in the form of James Gaddas’ inspirationally poetic one-man show; Shadow Boxing. Showcasing the struggle of dignity, despair and acceptance of a boxer wanting more than anything to succeed in the very thing his father failed at….winning.
The show begins with the voice of the X-Factor, Peter Dickson booming out with an introduction to a number of great inventors and scientists. Then the bubbly duo of Mike and Emma enter the stage from the Ministry of Science. Unusually for a stage production you are encouraged to take photos of the show and to tweet them to the Ministry giving you the chance to get goodies in the post.
Dreamers was an indie nightclub in the heart of Oldham town centre close to the Coliseum which was the only go to place between the 1970’s and 90’s. Written by Cathy Crabb and Lindsay Williams who were regulars at the club, Dreamers is the story of friends who spent most, if not every weekend at the club.
First developed at St Mary’s University College as part of the MA Physical Theatre (International Ensemble) course; a nerve-jangling, one-act tour de force, Beyond Cragporth Rock comes with acapella harmonies, clashing egos, murder and a few surprises along the way, jam-packed with comedy and perfect direction and well thought out characterisation.
The Horne Section is described as a "heady mix of spontaneous stand-up, spectacular performance and outlandish musical talent". I still wasn't really sure what to expect or how the mix of stand-up comedy and music would work so I went in with an open mind and I certainly wasn't disappointed.
Alex Horne and his five musicians (Ed - keyboards, Will - bass, Ben - drums, Pedro - saxophone and Joe - trumpet/banjo) are amazingly talented. Their musical ability is jaw droppingly good. One part of the show involved the audience calling out songs for them to play so that the saxophone break of "Baker Street" could be inserted into the songs to demonstrate how well it could go with any piece of music. (Apparently it works for anything except "Wheels on the Bus"!) They played faultlessly and without sheet music - presumably they are faced with different songs every time they perform so that has to be applauded.
'Organised Chaos Productions' hit the North West this summer with their new intriguing play written by Clem Haren with a maturity and style of writing well beyond his years.
The play is very original and it's refreshing to see new actors and creative team forge their careers in the theatre industry that shows off their untouched talent. Tartan Knight portrays the role of 'Charlie' with a unique approach that clearly shows the audience the vulnerable and caring side of his character, as he falls into a relationship with 'Emma' who is portrayed by Francesca Heraghty-Smith. The story is told backwards and in an unusual order which in my opinion is a clever way of exploring the themes in this piece of theatre further.
Ironically on the day the sun deserted Manchester to be replaced rain Jaleo Flamenco danced into town with all the vibrancy and colour you’d expect from this fascinating form of dance.
The shows website describes Jaleo Flamenco as a potent cocktail of explosive footwork, haunting singing, virtuoso guitar playing and percussive handclapping from southern Spain with some of flamenco’s finest award-winning artists.
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