The Miracle of Great Homer Street- known to most scousers as the beloved greatie – came in second place in the Liverpool Hope Playwriting Prize. Both executive producer Kevin Fearon and star of the show Les Dennis were on the judging panel, and both believed that this play would be an ideal fit to be performed in Liverpool’s Royal Court – they weren’t wrong.
It’s a comedic piece which is perfectly reminiscent of the society that our parents, the baby boomers, grew up in. From the overly patterned set which perfectly epitomises 70’s interior styles, to the overtly scouse humour, the audience couldn’t get enough.
The addition of punk-rock characters Bella and Jamie highlighted the very labour-central, out-with-the-tories humour which is so loved around Liverpool. The angsty Jamie totally stole the show with his uncouth attitude and hilarious one liners.
The characters of Marion and Terry perfectly exemplify typical, relatable Scouse parents with the banter they share and their different opinions regarding religion- we challenge you not to see at least a small amount of your own parents in them!
Les Dennis’ character Father Aherne is a wonder, poking fun at priesthood throughout the twists and turns of the play. With the help of St Cajetan, he takes a poor Scouse family on a journey to show them that money isn’t everything.
The striking similarities in the viewpoints of Father Aherne and Jamie are ironic and funny with their shared “down with the system” attitude, even if they don’t articulate it in the same way.
As for the theatre itself, it’s truly unlike any other. The option to have a meal & drinks whilst you’re watching adds a true homely feel, and the Royal Court is the only theatre we’ve been into in Liverpool that doesn’t have uncomfortable AF seats! They even had gluten free options on the menu, hallelujah! The staff are welcoming and go out of their way to be accommodating, we couldn’t fault them.
We’re not gonna spoil the ending for you, but this play pokes fun at scousers in a way that only scousers can. It’s funny, emotional and heartwarming. We deffo recommend.
The Miracle of Great Homer Street runs at Liverpool’s Royal Court until 30th June 2018, and tickets can purchased on their website.
