THIS happy-go-lucky, home-grown musical is evolving all the time with each incarnation thanks to its writer, director and co-producer Stephen Fletcher who also acts in it.
This ensemble work warmed up a freezing cold Central Hall back in 2012 and was a welcome surprise package for local theatre land.
It went on to enjoy a successful run in 2015 at its ‘spiritual’ home the Royal Court and had many of the audience (me included) singing and dancing along to the ’70s hits.
I was transported back to the She Club and so many halcyon days and morning after hazes.
Now this wonderfully-titled Scouse parody play returns with some new cast members and re-writing.
It is certainly more frenetic than the 2015 version which was nicely-paced switching seamlessly from slapstick to poignancy.
But this 2018 outing has strengths of its own as you happily suspend belief in the modern day rom-com storyline.
It is inspired, of course, by Abba’s Mamma Mia now enjoying a sequel.
But there are no songs from Sweden’s Fab Four in this two and half hour production.
Instead we are treated to classic disco favourites - with the aid of a live on-stage four-piece band and harmonies from Rachael Wood and Mia Molloy as two white-wigged, sparkly disco divas.
Wishing on a Star, Have You Seen Her and Boogie Wonderland are lovingly interpreted in this joyous celebration.
It is a far cry from the sun-drenched Greek Islands of the film location and is here set on a run-down holiday camp slickly depicted by Mark Walter’s clever caravan site design.
Eithne Browne as Brenda and Andrew Schofield as Dave play lovers with a history and again display their expertise in conveying sensitivity when called for.
Dave’s flashbacks reminded me of what I tried to look like on the dance-floors of my youth with my platform shows and - just like Dave - a green velvet jacket.
There’s some spot on comic timing from Lyn Francis as psychic Mandy and there’s a cracking Bee Gees tribute from Mr Schofield, Stephen and Jake Abraham.
All in all, this love-gone-wrong, love-caught- -in-the-middle and eventually love-gone right tale invites you to let your hair down and be part of the ever-growing Royal Court family
The theatre - celebrating its 80th birthday this year - aims to always ‘connect’ cast and audience together. Mam I’m ‘Ere does that with great affection.
Four Stars
BOOGIE FUN-DERLAND!
On at the Royal Court until August 12.
Tickets are available from the box office on 0151 709 4321.
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