Fred Lawless’ hit comedy Scouse Pacific returned to the Royal Court Liverpool this month, nine years after its debut.
Nine years on, it’s still as witty, wonderful and wacky as ever.
When the Sisters of Mersey are washed up on the Island of Secosu, they don’t expect to find a community of scousers living in the Pacific!
Learning that they are descendants of Billy Riley, a scouser who washed up ashore two hundred years ago, the Sisters soon settle into life on the island – but not before trouble comes heading their way!
Scouse Pacific is the summer sensation you’ve been waiting for. It’s your perfect destination for sun, sea, sand and comedy.
Combining Father Ted-esque antics with popular music and the Royal Court’s take on classic desert island stories, Scouse Pacific is a laugh-a-minute show.
The flashback to the shipwreck that led to Billy Reilly’s island visit is superbly choreographed. A wonderful mixture of slapstick comedy and clever wordplay, this set the bar for the songs that followed – and they certainly didn’t disappoint.
Jamie Clarke’s rendition of ‘Girls just want to have fun’ made me want to jump out of my seat and dance, while Jake Abraham’s superb acoustic number in the Stag/Hen Party during the second act showed his multi-talented skills on stage.
It was the reworking of Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ that will stay with me forever. The harmonies were second to none, while the satirical lyrics were perfectly delivered in one of the best performances I have ever seen at the Royal Court.
A special mention to the incredible band, whose flawless musicianship not only left me in awe, but also left me smiling in every song. Look out for a particularly hilarious moment with the band during ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ – it’ll have you cheering for more.
Every member of the cast gave it their all tonight. Lindzi Germain and Michael Starke both combine one liners with a comic timing that leaves you crying with laughter. Stephen Fletcher and Guy Freeman gave an energetic and enthralling performance of a Tom Jones classic in the second act, while Abby Middleton and Mia Molloy were a delightful duo to watch throughout.
Mark Walter’s set design and Ian Scott’s Lighting Design was a beautiful paradise of colour. The transitions from flashbacks and the passage of time were seamless, thanks to the use of simple props and excellent lighting. Plus the addition of nods to Liverpool culture and everyday life within the set and props, added the Royal Court twist we all know and love to this tale.
If you’re looking to jetset to a tropical paradise, or just looking for a great night out, then head to Scouse Pacific at the Royal Court and take a journey you’ll never forget.
5 stars
