A new play was upon us at the Liverpool Royal Court Theatre. Haunted Scouse by Gerry Linford, is a tale about husband Charlie (Michael Starke) who has sadly passed away, and he can’t complete his journey to the other side as there is something he needs to deal with first at home. His widow Molly (Lyn Francis) has turned to the bottle something she never used to do she feels alone as their son is in Australia. Molly blames herself for Charlie’s untimely death. All Charlie wants to do is give Molly a kiss and a hug just one more time as he is struggling with being on the other side but his guardian angel or should I say his auntie Peggy (Helen Carter) is on hand to guide him through to what he needs to do to get on to the other side. Charlie doesn’t like the fact that there is another gentlemen hanging round Molly, his name is Gordon (Paul Duckworth) who is trying to work his way in to Molly’s life. Sending her wine, chocolates and offering to take her for dates. However, Molly is being watched over not only by Charlie but spiritual neighbour Linda (Julie Glover). To make sure he keeps his distance.
Normally when watching a show at the Royal Court it’s fast paced and quick fire lines to keep the crowd in fits of laughter. This however, was a change in pace. Don’t get me wrong it had laughs and quick fire lines but this show had heart while also offering thought provoking moments. It was a nice and unexpected change to what’s usually on at the court. Starke had the audience in the palm of his hand throughout the show we all wanted him to succeed and to help Molly. The visual effects in terms of lighting was something out of this world with added use of projection and paranormal activity. Which was put together by Jamie Jenkins, Kate Harvey and Ian Scott. Things definitely a show worth watch because it had it all. Laughter, tender moments, stellar cast and a script that keeps you wanting more. I hope to see this show back at the Royal Court as it definitely resonated with audiences as you could see fellow patrons laugh one minute and wipe away the tears the next. I am a huge fan of the cast’s effort at multi-rolling of one another, it had us all in fits of laughter. Haunted Scouse is running at the theatre until the 9th a March so don’t wait go and see this production.
Reviewer: Luke Stephenson
Reviewed: 16th February 2024
North West End UK Rating: 4