Shirley Valentine – Octagon Theatre

Heartfelt, Humorous, Honest

The Octagon Theatre Bolton’s production of Shirley Valentine offers a refreshing and deeply relatable take on Willy Russell’s classic one-woman play. The Lancashire setting offers a subtle but effective change that makes Shirley’s story feel even more personal and relevant, infusing the narrative with local charm.

Directed by Lotte Wakeham with warmth and sensitivity, the play follows Shirley Bradshaw (née Valentine), a middle-aged housewife who finds herself stuck in a monotonous routine of cooking tea for her unappreciative husband. As she reminisces about her younger, more adventurous self, she receives an unexpected opportunity to escape to Greece, where a simple holiday becomes a journey of self-discovery.

Mina Anwar, best known for her work on television and stage, gives a compelling performance as Shirley. She carries the entire play single-handedly, shifting between humor and vulnerability with remarkable ease. Her portrayal is both tender and humorous, capturing the essence of a woman reclaiming her identity. From witty observations about married life to moments of deep introspection, Anwar’s portrayal makes Shirley incredibly real and relatable to all who see the play. Her conversational style draws the audience in, making it feel as though she’s speaking directly to each person in the room, sharing secrets, frustrations, and dreams and making the audience laugh throughout at the antics she displays.

The intimate setting of the Octagon Theatre enhances the experience, creating a close connection between performer and audience as they become ‘the wall’ that Shirley is conversing with throughout.  The simple yet effective staging of Shirley’s modest kitchen in the first act and a sun-soaked Greek beach in the second, beautifully mirrors the transformation she undergoes. The change of lighting and subtle sound design helps to transport the audience from the dreary world of domesticity to the liberating warmth of Greece.

What makes Shirley Valentine such a timeless and inspiring play is its universal themes throughout: the longing for adventure, the fear of losing oneself in routine, and the courage it takes to step outside of our comfort zone. This production embraces those themes with sincerity and charm, ensuring that Shirley’s journey resonates just as strongly today as it did when the play first premiered 40 years ago

For those familiar with Shirley Valentine, this powerful adaptation brings a fresh perspective without losing the essence of the much-loved original. For newcomers, it’s a perfect introduction to Willy Russell’s sharp writing and an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Funny, moving, and uplifting, Shirley Valentine is a must-see play.

Shirley Valentine continues its run at the Octagon until Saturday 8^th March before embarking on a UK tour. Tickets can be found at www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Reviewer: Abigail Pendlebury

Reviewed: 12^th February 2025

North West End UK Rating: