This is our review of The Royal at Liverpool‘s Royal Court Theatre. So, let’s take a look at The Royal!
The Royal
Description Of The Royal
We come to the Royal Liverpool Hospital, with the old hospital facing imminent closure for the new building. On the final ward to close, we have a dying patient, Mrs Llewellyn and Nurse Flo. Both Llewellyn (Joe Matthew-Morris) and Flo (Angela Simms) have a bed to themselves. There’s also the tea lady, Teresa McDonald (Lindzi Germain). Between them, they all lament the impending demise of the “old” Royal. As they share stories and ponder their futures, we learn of both discoveries and revelations. And these create a sense of angst in the final hours of the hospital.
Before they know it, all three (along with a forgotten patient in Walter Bush a.k.a. Alan Stocks) are trapped. The demolition of the hospital is underway despite these staff and patients still being inside the building. As they look to escape, their fate seems to get worse with a tragedy becoming more and more inevitable. But their plight allows for heartwarming moments of candour as they prepare to meet their demise. Unless, of course, they can find a way to get out at the last moment – but is that possible?
Analysis Of The Royal
Lindzi Germain wrote the show herself while actually sitting in a waiting room at the hospital. She came on stage beforehand to discuss health issues that attendees had experienced. This leads to some very funny moments as Lindzi reacts incredulously to some of the suggestions. There is also irony, as Lindzi points out, in the nature of the story. That’s because, when it first premiered a few years ago, the Royal was seemingly about to close. This would make way for the new Royal. Fast-forward to 2022, and, well, we’re still waiting!
As for the show itself, it’s an absolute gem from start to finish. Royal Court shows emphasise witty one-liners, outrageous capers, eye-catching moments and local insults. And all of these are present in this production, as well as authentic sets reflecting the actual hospital. The story is all about generating laughs, but it also has the ability to create emotion as well. And the performances themselves are tremendous; you may be sore with laughing so hard at certain jokes and facial expressions.
Summary Of The Royal
This is a terrific Scouse production that I urge everybody to check out. It’s a reminder of what life is like on hospital wards during good times and bad. But it’s also a chance to remember what you’re thankful for when it seems the end is nigh. And of course, it’s a chance to laugh your head off during one of the funniest shows of the year.
Notes
Target Audience: Ages 30+
Content: Frequent Strong Language
Recommendation?: Yes
