Steve TimmsIn a cine literate world, critics happily acknowledge the combined effort that goes into film production, from the contributions of the director, writer, and set designer, right down to the grips, stunt men and dolly operator. Even caterer Madge...
Dave PorterA huge bodhran hangs over the set of Dancing at Lughnasa like some leaden sky settling down on the inhabitants of this village in Donegal. Together with the fiddle it represents freedom from the cares of everyday life, a chance to dance and escape...
Carmel ThomasonIn the early 2010s, when Ray Davies was first telling his story of 60s icons The Kinks on stage, who would have thought flying the Union Jack flag and talk of Britishness could be so controversial? Forget the high jinks of an intoxicated Dave Davies...
There are very few times I’ve been left speechless after a performance. Watching Rambert’s recent collaboration with French company (LA)HORDE is one of them. (LA)HORDE is a Paris-based collective of artists — Marine Brutti, Jonathan...
The 90’s and noughties was a golden age for television comedy. Looking back, it’s hard to believe Father Ted, The Day Today, Knowing Me Knowing You, Big Train, The Fast Show, League of Gentlemen, Smack the Pony, The Mighty Boosh, Brass Eye, and The...
Cathy CrabbI think it would be good if one day a pop group musical could make us all believe in ourselves and go out into the ether changing our world for the better. And today, I will carry that through and try and be the best me that I can be. Because Here...
Returning to the Here & Now musical for the UK and Ireland tour, Rebecca Lock promises that audiences are in for a theatrical treat. “They can expect a rollercoaster of emotion,” she says, “and it’s so joyful, colourful...
As soon as you walk in the doors of the Palace Theatre, it is clear why Moulin Rouge, which takes residency at the venue for the next 6 weeks, is billed a ‘Spectacular Spectacular’. This show is so spectacular you have to say it twice to grasp the...
Next year Salford celebrates its 100th year as a city. To mark the centenary, Art With Heart, also reaching its own milestone decade of creating accessible art in the city, is launching a new project Salford Voices. Salford Voices is a series of...
This ghost story, directed by Matthew Dunster and written by Danny Robins, has enjoyed huge audiences and many rave reviews. A leap of faith is necessary to believe what happens, although it is directed and acted the best it could be. Two hapless...