Shake It Up Baby – Epstein Theatre

Have you ever wondered how The Beatles became THE BEATLES? If so, get yourself down to the Epstein Theatre for the fantastically toe-tapping ‘Shake It Up Baby’ written by Ian Salmon and directed by Stephen Fletcher.    

Dive into the 1960s on a musical journey which spans Liverpool, London and Hamburg. A multi-talented and creative cast take to the stage to delight and entertain you with outstanding vocals, a story of determination and energetic choreography (Carrie-Anne Ingrouille and WOW LIVERPOOL), making you feel that you want to get right up and dance with them.

The characterisation of every character on stage was diverse and relatable, with many actors showing their wide range of skills by easily transitioning between multiple roles.

Onto the main stars of our show, Allan Williams was portrayed by Andrew Schofield who captivated the audience with his convincing portrayal of Williams, the man who ‘gave the Beatles away’. You would be convinced the story was his own. A believable depiction of a man who almost had it all, the ups and downs of a dream that very nearly came true. From the beginning, his character developed from a chancer to a genuine champion for the boys. An absolute stand out performance.

In enter the boys, firstly you have cocky, self assured and leader of the band John Lennon portrayed with confidence by Michael Hawkins. Perfectly imitating Lennon’s voice and mannerisms. All the boys were spot on in their delineation of their characters. Calm, cool and collected Paul McCartney was wonderfully played by Guy Freeman, Lovable, childlike and with a sense of naievity about him at the beginning, you see the development of maturity throughout the show of George Harrison portrayed by James Jackson. Lastly, the multi skilled and very diverse Nick Sheedy who managed (through slight subtle changes to his costume or appearance) to adapt to play the differing drummers of the group from Pete Best to Ringo Starr. All the boys are very talented performers and musicians.

Starting as one of the boys at the beginning and again switching to play a completely contrasting and different character in the end, Kieran Andrew played the softer, yet intelligent Stuart Sutcliffe before becoming more of the music icon who catapulted the Beatles to fame Brian Epstein.

One performer who really stood out for me who was not necessarily a principle was Grace Galloway. From the range of character portrayals, accents and emotions needed on stage to the musical accompaniment and some pitch perfect and razor-sharp vocals. Excellent!

Overall, the set (Alfie Heywood and Christopher McCourt).  although stationary, is exactly what is needed and provides all the differing scenes perfectly. The right balance or busy and essential. My only criticism is I sometimes notice that some things were happening behind the drums on stage, but I couldn’t see what exactly as action and set on stage was blocking.

The lighting (Ciaran Cunningham) and sound (Kate Harvey) gave you the feel you were in the thick of it all, upfront and personal with the band in the clubs as they move from audition to stage and so on.

Finally, onto costumes (Alfie Heywood and Christopher McCourt) they were authentic with good attention to detail. They demonstrated the evolution of the band and we’re easily adaptable so that characters were able to quickly and easily transition into new characters with ease.

Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable show whether you are a big Beatles fan or not, the story is engaging, thought provoking, rhythmic and lively. Perfectly timed comedy and one liners all entangled in a story of triumph against the odds.

Congratulations to all involved.

Reviewer: Sam James

Reviewed: 30th September 2025

North West End UK Rating: