Reading the 2019 reviews of this show it was natural that I took my seat at its revival with high expectations. The story is undoubtably inspiring and it feels right at home in this theatre, however, as a stage show this lacked depth for me.
With an 80:20 ratio of music to dialogue, albeit good music, it was difficult to feel much emotional pull towards these characters. As characters themselves, I imagine it was difficult to ascertain much difference between them for the actors as their personalities were as similar as their costumes in most parts of the script, noticeably different only by which love interest they had.
Nothing can be said of the talent of the cast though. Their skills as musicians were undeniably central to the success of this show’s success; I just wish they were given more to work off as actors.
As a stage show this lacked story mostly. It was one level and dare I say simple theatre. For the most part of the production, the audience were unenthusiastic and there was audible silence during the small number of emotive beats. If more emphasis was on story rather than song this may have been different, too much was packed in too quickly and you really had to listen to keep up.
The performances were best when there was some emotion to believe in, Val’s decision (played by Molly-Grace Cutler) to leave the band and care for Sebastian (Guy Freeman). Outside of that choreography, at times, felt pedestrian which may be down to the choice of same cast from the original production 5 years ago.
Thanks to the imaginative and funky set design, it was a visually striking performance and there was always something to look at when one’s eyes wondered.
This show is enough to get your foot tapping but not quite enough to get you on your feet. It is a fun and slick production and will make you smile if nothing else.
Girls Don’t Play Guitars is available to watch until Saturday 26th October. Girls Don’t Play Guitars – Royal Court (liverpoolsroyalcourt.com)
Reviewer: Hannah Esnouf
Reviewed: 2nd October 2024
North West End UK Rating: