Review - By the Waters of Liverpool

Last night we went to watch By The Waters Of Liverpool at Lowther Pavilion, Lytham. Adapted from Helen Forrester’s million-selling book, By The Waters Of Liverpool is a stunning period drama set in the 1930s. After Helen’s father went bankrupt during the Depression her family were forced to leave behind the nannies, servants and comfortable middle-class life in the South West of England. The Forrester’s chose Liverpool to rebuild their shattered lives. They were in for a terrible shock. Taken out of school to look after her young siblings, Helen is sick of being treated as an unpaid slave and begins a bitter fight with her parents for the right to go out to work and make her own way in life. But by 1939 and with Britain on the verge of war Helen, now aged 20, has still never been kissed by a man. But things start looking up for her when she meets a tall strong seaman and falls in love......

Coronation Street’s Tom Roberts plays John Forrester, Helen’s father; Emmerdale’s Joe Gill plays Harry O’Dwyer, Helen’s love interest; with Emma Mulligan in the lead role of Helen Forrester. The line-up also features Lynn Francis, Daniel Taylor, Lynne Fitzgerald, Joe Owens, Samantha Alton, and Roy Carruthers.

The set design, lighting and smoke machines created an eery and nostalgic wartime atmospheric whilst the scouse humour added a comedy element to the show. The majority of the cast played multiple parts but were convincing in all roles. Emma Mulligan played the part of Helen brilliantly and the audience could not help sympathise with her situation.

From start to finish the production is captivating and a great night of entertainment!

The show continues at Lowther Pavilion until 21st Oct and then moves to The Floral Pavilion New Brighton.  Book tickets here!