★★★★

Reviewer - Annie

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

The Union theatre will always have a special place in my heart. Not only for the wonderful atmosphere and friendliness of the staff, but for the love and work they put back into the theatre community.

I attended their first full production since covid of ‘Betty Blue Eyes’ and it’s fair to say The Union and team are back with a bang.

Like its surroundings, Betty Blue Eyes is an honest, humble and heartwarming show which wouldn’t struggle to put a smile on anyone’s face. Set in post-war Yorkshire the local villagers find themselves agitated by the lessening rations available to them.

The staging is wonderfully curated, offering enough detail for each scene but remaining spacious for movement and focus. Despite being an off West-End production, the level of detail and talent in the staging and props on display was as good as some productions I’ve seen in “grander” venues.

The cast is led by Amelia Atherton and Sam Kipling with huge success as the loveable Joyce and Gilbert Chilvers. Both provide such excellently studied portrayals which are animated and humorous without overstepping the mark. Atherton is a natural born performer, her comedic timing is sublime and her voice is like none other, she was nothing but a delight to watch.

The ensemble are equally as excellent with their comedic timing and attention to detail. I found myself totally entranced by a different member in each number watching every single expression and movement.

The choreography throughout is slick, impactful and considered. Taking many an influence from 1940’s stylistic features and moves reminiscent of a flapper girl’s routine, each number packs a punch whilst utilising the space available. What makes the choreography even more joyous to watch is the ensemble’s individual interpretation of the routines. As mentioned above each member has created their own persona and this is applied to each routine with hilarious expressions and interpretations of the story.

Stiles and Drew’s music is every bit as heartwarming as the show. Perfectly timed and full of classic British wit, it totally immerses you within the community it is set. Personal favourite numbers were “nobody” and “pig no pig”

Lastly how can you not comment on Betty herself. The puppetry is just stunning, and performed excellently by Georgia Boothman. The pig really is the heart of the show and I think the entire audience fell in love with her.

The Union is such a magical venue, and deserves to stay exactly as it is. If you get a chance to go down to see Betty Blue Eyes I encourage you to, and to support The Union Theatre as much as you can so they can continue to put on such special shows!