A Greasy Spoon started its life as part of the Everyman’s new writing showcase written by Alice Bunker-Whitney. Alice is described by Kevin Fearon (Liverpool Royal Courts Executive Producer) as “a great new writing talent”. So, it’s no wonder the Royal Court has made this production its new home for the next four weeks.
A Greasy Spoon is set in ‘Scrantastic’ which is just your completely normal ‘caff’ and takes you on the journey with your completely normal workers Mandy & Shannon. Honestly, it sounds quite bland when you put it like that.
But, if you’re a regular at the Royal Court you know their productions are anything but normal and absolutely anything but bland. I wouldn’t want to give too much away but you can expect MURDEROUS laughter from the audience and a lesson that whatever you put it that ‘cupboard of *****’ will always come out in the end.
The ‘Scrantastic’ set is bold and bright with beautiful attention to detail – a combined effort of many that really pays off. It fits the stage well and is utilised strongly by the performers. Direction by Francesca Goodridge in this production is top quality. Focusing on the attention to detail in the direction of small character choices from supporting roles in the scenes really keep the audience engaged adding more context and even more hilarity. I loved the use of Siri, The Chuckle Brothers and The Bill.
Lindzi Germain proves time and time again why she is the Queen of Scouse Humour – and this time is no different. Her portrayal of Mandy is loud, brash and well-articulated throughout. But it’s great to see a vulnerable moment from Germain in a scene within this production when she strips it back and shows her versatility as an actress. Anthony Gough’s performance throughout as Badges Guy was well characterised with great comedy timing. Jay Johnson makes his first appearance as the Builder on the Royal Court’s main stage, and I hope it’s not his last. Personally, I often find ‘Jack The Lad’ type portrayals of typical Scouse males too much which loses the realism for me and becomes to ‘cringe’. But Johnson’s was perfectly executed with enough personality to really bring a believable character to life. A stellar cast.
It does have to be echoed from words within the programme that there is something so familiar that comes as standard with Liverpool’s Royal Court productions and their characters. They remind me of the warmth you get from a bowl of Scouse (or a fry up); it’s nostalgic, it’s bloody delicious and I always want more.
Overall, A Greasy Spoon will have you crying with laughter and leave you with a hunger for MORE! It’s running until 26th August 2023 so if you can grab a ticket, I urge you to do so (and if your boss doesn’t give you the time off…you could always murder him). https://liverpoolsroyalcourt.com/whats-on/a-greasy-spoon/
Reviewer: Daniel Cox
Reviewed: 2nd August 2023
North West End UK Rating: