REVIEW: Helen Forrester's By The Waters Of Liverpool

On Wednesday 3rd October, Liverpool Empire Theatre opened its doors for the phenomenal world premiere of Helen Forrester's "By The Waters Of Liverpool". Presented by Pulse Records Ltd in association with Bill Elms the magnificent show was written by Rob Fennah and directed by Gareth Tudor Price.

Maria Lovelady as Helen. Photo credit: Anthony Robling

Having seen Twopence Across The Mersey twice, I was excited to see the sequel performed on press night especially seeing as it was the first time that the book has been brought to life on stage. The book has sold more than a million books, such is its acclaim and appeal. The opening scene with the familiar piano music from Twopence evoked nostalgic emotions. The cast stood proud and the story unfolded on the imposing stage with its grand design and backdrop.

Maria Lovelady & Danny O'Brien. Photo Credit: Anthony Robling

Twopence told of protagonist Helen Forrester's struggles with her parents and hardship endured due to their drastic change in economic conditions. The sequel focuses more on the next chapter of Helen's life.  By The Waters is set in 1939 and tells of her emotional development as she and her family adjust to life as the country is on the brink of war. We see Helen come into her own, to become independent and find love with a loving gentleman.

Maria Lovelady & Mark Moraghan. Photo Credit: Anthony Robling

Rob Fennah's writing is exceptional. The way in which the talented cast narrate the scenes continues to be a trade-mark and it seamlessly ties the storyline as well as inextricably linking the characters together. As with Twopence, the show is produced by Pulse Records Ltd in association with Bill Elms 

Nathab McMullen, Eric Potts & Roy Carruthers. Photo Credit Anthony Robling

Maria Lovelady is consistently excellent in her depiction of Helen. Her articulation, expression of emotion and clarity of delivery is enthralling. She is endearing and her stage presence is incredible. She draws the audience in and she steals our hearts. Everything about her performance was exceptional.

The whole cast are superb and their interaction with each other results in a seamless performance. The play is filled with emotion and you feel Helen's struggle and frustration. The cast convey the highly charged emotions with ease and you as an audience member are mesmerised. Despite the show being lengthy, your attention is captivated and the investment is a worthy one. With the exception of Maria Lovelady, each cast member has multiple roles to play and they do so seamlessly. 

This is a stunning piece of theatre, it lived up to my expectations and I highly reccomend it. Catch the show as it plays until 13th October.

Emotive, compelling and a compassionate portrayal of Helen Forrester's real life experience. Enjoy the sail as the cast navigate efficiently and effortlessly. Exceptional!

Cast
Roy Carruthers
Emma Dears
Stephanie Dooley
Lynn Francis
Emily Hughes
Maria Lovelady
Nathan McMullen
Mark Moraghan
Danny O'Brien
Eric Potts

Remaining performances
Saturday 6th October at 2:30pm and 7:30pm
Sunday 7th October at 5pm
Monday 8th October at 7:30pm
Tuesday 9th October at 7:30pm
Wednesday 10th October at 7:30pm
Thursday 11th October at 2:30pm and 7:30pm
Friday 12th October at 7:30pm
Saturday 13th October at 2:30pm and 7:30pm

Tickets 
From £12 
Concessions and group rates available

To book visit the Empire's box office, call 0844 871 3017  or buy online