Gwenda's Garage at Southwark Playhouse Borough Review
Photo by Chris Saunders
Written by Cathie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Content warning: This production contains flickering lights, loud noises, strong language and themes of adoption, homophobia, sexism and racism
In life, when you are in doubt, call a woman to fix it; for she’ll get it done right. That seems to be the unofficial motto of Gwenda’s Garage, a small, women-owned and run mechanical garage in the heart of Sheffield’s industrial area. In this delightful show, we are thrown back forty years to 1985. The mines and factories are shut or dying, Thatcher is tightening her iron grip on the north, and wallets are cinched to the max. Yet hope is not lost, for there are still those fighting to make a difference and take down the patriarchy in Gwenda’s garage.
The show is a cheerful slice of life rooted in reality. It’s loosely based on real women who worked in the garage and who came from a variety of backgrounds. We see their joy in running the business despite the men who wouldn’t give them work in their own, and we meet ordinary folk determined to make a difference in their corner of the world. With the garage named after pioneering racing driver Gwenda Stewart, it’s easy to root for and champion their progress, even as they struggle under the sinister shadow of Clause 28.
Director Jelena Budimir and scriptwriter Nicky Hallett carefully balance the comedy and harshness of Sheffield life under Thatcher. The themes are profound and sincere, exploring romance, identity, adoption, racism, and sexism. While they’re shown with some nuance, they’re not explored in great depth. Even so, this is a deeply captivating musical that grabs your attention positively and joyfully. The only drawback is that the different days in the garage can feel rather episodic, and it’s mostly through Joe Dines’ sound design and Callum Macdonald’s lighting design that we understand when time has shifted.
The music, written by Val Regan, is fast and fun, with a soundtrack that beautifully underscores the heartfelt moments. The lyrics, by Regan in collaboration with Hallett, are full of witty one liners, soaring emotion, and fantastic jokes, though the songs themselves aren’t particularly memorable afterwards. The pacing is fast but episodic, using songs as a way to pinpoint different events; we see over four years pass in the 80s. The set, designed by Sarah Booth, is minimalist but highly effective. The details, such as the car slowly being built as the relationship’s strength, add wonderfully to the story and give it much depth.
The cast are simply magnificent, with brilliant chemistry throughout. Nancy Brabin Platt is powerful and sincere as Bev, a woman seeking to adopt and facing the challenge of being a lesbian in a conservative society. Georgina Coram shows great pathos and compassion as Feona, a teacher and constant visitor to the garage, who gradually finds the courage to be true to herself. Sia Kiwa is captivating as Terry, a confident activist who stands firm in her beliefs no matter the cost. Lucy Mackay is sweetly enthusiastic as Dipstick, the apprentice, offering a brilliant glimpse into the struggles of young adults in 1980s Yorkshire. Eva Scott is wonderfully magnetic as Carol, the empathetic, intelligent business owner and lead mechanic. She is the rock of the show, always there for everyone with a smile and open heart despite her own struggles. Liz Kitchen is a comedic powerhouse in multiple smaller roles, as well as drumming live throughout.
This is a wonderful show that will leave you feeling empowered, uplifted, and inspired to make your own positive change in the world. It’s captivating, sincere, and a reminder of how collective action can create real, lasting impact. If you enjoy joyful, slice of life dramas with uplifting spirit, nostalgic warmth, and inspiring characters making a difference in their community, then this is the show for you.
Running until 29th November at Southwark Playhouse (the large) Borough.
★ ★ ★ ★
