Review: LIZZIE, Hope Mill Theatre

Photo credit: Pamela Raith

Following last year’s hit run at the Hope Mill, a UK tour and a stint at Southwark Playhouse, LIZZIE returns to Manchester with a brand new cast. Based on a true story, the musical follows Lizzie Borden as she takes revenge on those who wrong her. With a rock score and a cast of powerhouse women, this is the perfect show for fans of SIX the Musical as well as true crime fans.

Tim Maner’s book is fast paced, but the conclusion of the story could have been given a little more time to be explored. The music and lyrics by Maner, Steven Cheslik-Demeyer and Alan Stevens Hewitt is enjoyable to listen to and sounds excellent under the direction of Ella Ingram. The lyrics could be stronger though – they often feel quite repetitive.

William Whelton directs and choreographs the production. The choreography is energetic, fitting with the style of the show, and Whelton draws out the romance and emotion as well as the anger in the piece. Andrew Exeter’s set design is simple, but Dan Light’s video design in addition to Exeter’s lighting design could have been used more effectively to make the different locations much clearer. Adam Fisher’s sound design is perfectly loud, filling the space but never being too deafening.

Kayleigh McKnight takes on the titular role of Lizzie. Her acting is wonderful as she portrays Lizzie’s descent into mania, with a hint of glee behind her revenge filled eyes. McKnight’s vocal performance, unsurprisingly for those who know her as a performance already, is impeccable. She blows the roof off with powerhouse rock belting, whilst also give stunning moments of her more classic vocals.

Katie Tonkinson is lovely as Alice. Her vocals are beautiful and there’s a nice chemistry between Tonkinson and McKnight. Emilie Louise Israel takes on the role of Emma, delivering powerful and soulful vocals, whilst Jennifer Caldwell demonstrates some good comic timing and strong vocals as Bridget.

At just under two hours long with an intriguing story and a powerhouse cast, this is an enjoyable evening or afternoon out at the theatre. Be sure to catch this talented ensemble of West End performers in the North while you can!

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Jacob Bush

LIZZIE plays at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre until 17 November, with further info here.