Review: Gangsta Granny at Manchester Opera House

Granny and gangster are not words you would typically associate together, but there’s nothing ‘typical’ about this granny! Yes, that’s right, we had the pleasure of being invited to see the ever so popular Gangsta Granny the stage show at Manchester Opera House on Wednesday night and we just have to talk about it!   

If the name sounds familiar to you, you’re probably thinking of a certain children’s book that was published in 2011, and you’d be right. You’ll be pleased to hear that this incredible show is the stage rendition of the award-winning book written by David Walliams titled – you guessed it, Gangsta Granny.  

For those of you who haven’t read the 2011 publication, the story follows eleven year old Ben who hates Friday nights as he has to stay with Granny. As you can imagine, there is nothing for him to do, the TV doesn't work, he has to play scrabble and she and everything else smells like cabbage. However, Friday nights are a delight for Granny as she gets to spend time with her only grandson. Expecting another incredibly boring Friday night, Ben is shocked – and delighted to find a biscuit tin full of jewels in granny’s house, and can’t wait to find out more about them. As you expected, Granny has a few secrets hidden in her closet and takes Ben down memory lane as she goes back in time to remise on one great adventure. Expect laughter, gasps and pure enjoyment as you sit back and watch all the excitement unfold in front of your very eyes.  

Justin Davies plays the loving 11-year-old Ben and brings lots of energy and amazing comic timing to the role.

Isabel Ford is perfectly cast as Granny. From her slow walking to her shaky voice and her little pauses as she lets out her cabbage farts (to the delight of the younger members of the audience) she has the character down to a tee.  Ford and Davies make a great on-stage team and bring Walliams well love characters to life. 

Jason Furnival as both dad and Mr Parker the nosey neighbour and Jess Nesling as Mum and the Queen did a brilliant job in both roles.

The show was hilarious, thrilling and heart-warming. The underlying message shinning throughout the show, being that the time we have with our loved ones is precious and we should appreciate every moment we have. A great message especially this time of year.  

Gangsta Granny makes a great family night out for all ages and we highly recommend for a lovely pre-Christmas night out.  

Gangsta Granny is running at Manchester Opera House until Sunday 28th November and tickets are available here.