As the Christmas Markets and colourful pantomimes take over Manchester’s culture scene, tucked away in a pocket of Deansgate, a seasonal offering from 53two comes in the form of Imaginality Production’s ‘Realms of Glory’, a World War Two-inspired musical.
The Manchester Blitz of 1940 sees munitions worker Lizzie entombed in her home at Christmastime by the heavy bombings. Trapped and alone, she reminisces about times gone by.
A theatrical festive feast is promised in the show’s synopsis, but a lack of story depth and characterisation leaves little to feed on. The focus is on Lizzie’s ‘love at first sight’ relationship with RAF pilot Robert and their desire to raise a family, with time also dedicated to her friend Mavis, who falls for Jim. What unfolds is simply a series of sombre soap opera vignettes with fragments of comedic relief.
This show struggles to deliver a take-home message: other than that people died, its commentary on the war or those involved in it is unclear. The title itself is indeterminate. Too much time is spent in the past, providing minimal opportunity for progression in the present; this is further impeded by the fact that Lizzie doesn’t become buried until the end of the first half.
Though some lines are delivered so rapidly that the humour does not have chance to land, the cast of five lend silver-toned voices to the songs and channel much vivacity into their otherwise one-dimensional characters. Along with the two couples, warden Ida offers an authoritative but reassuring presence, often interacting with civilians to warn or assist them. Locals will enjoy the nods to nearby areas featured in the dialogue.
The music is not reminiscent of World War Two, instead flipping between unembellished pop tracks and short ballads where Vera Lynn and George Formby-inspired tunes would be expected. Lyrics rarely venture beyond rhyming couplets, and microphone hitches distracted throughout.
The air raid shelter-like arches of 53two make it a fitting location, and the simple, wooden set being surrounded by pieces of flying furniture and shrapnel- in suspended animation from the blast of a bomb- is a clever touch. Torches resembling searchlights make for some atmospheric scenes, also.
Perhaps more senior generations will appreciate the opportunity to reminisce, and it does end on a fairly optimistic note, but ‘Realms of Glory’ offers far more Christmas drear than cheer.
‘Realms of Glory’ continues at 53two, Manchester until 22nd December with tickets available from https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/realms-of-glory-tickets-446557083257
Reviewer: Scot Cunningham
Reviewed: 14th December 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★