A Taste Of Honey National Theatre Review (Lowry Theatre)

On Friday night my husband and I were excited to be invited along to the press night of A Taste Of Honey at the Lowry Theatre in Manchester.

The Lowry is one of my favourite local theatres. Situated at Salford Keys in Greater Manchester, it’s always a treat to watch a show here. We had a pre-show drink in the Pier Eight Restaurant and were treated to a gorgeous waterside view from our table. The show itself was shown within the Lyric theatre which is large enough to accommodate over 1700 seats, yet still manages to feel intimate enough to enjoy the show. We usually books seats in the stalls and we’ve never had a bad view.

A Taste Of Honey National Theatre Review

A Taste Of Honey was the first play by Shelagh Delaney which went on to inspire the film by the same name. Written when she was just 19, the play is an honest depiction of working-class life in post-war Salford.

The play focuses on the complicated relationship between mother and daughter. Helen, played by Jodie Prenger, is an alcoholic “good time girl” and, at best, a reluctant mother. Her daughter Jo is an erratic and wild 17 year old who, despite who claims to the contrary, just wants a real relationship with her mum.

The clashing of the two strong female characters make the scenes come alive. The shouting, the quick come-backs and underlying resentment provide comedic moments in what otherwise is quite an unhappy tale. Both characters are flawed products of circumstance. Helen in particular has been hardened by life while Jo, though fiesty and opinionated, has moments of vulnerability.

After ultimately being abandoned by her mother as she choses a new married life, Jo is left to find comfort in her black sailor boyfriend. When left alone yet again, art student Geoff moves in and they begin a very unconventional platonic relationship.

The social prejudices of the time now make for uncomfortable viewing. Her boyfriend confessing she’s the first girl who hasn’t been ashamed to be seen out with a black man. The clearly gay Geoff being described as a “pansy”. In one particularly upsetting moment, Geoff confesses to Jo that before her, he didn’t care if he lived or died. And yet, despite these obvious prejudices, it was the black man and the gay man who provide a source of comfort and hope for Jo.

The staging, together with the smoke and jazz music, created an atmospheric backdrop to the action on stage. Jodie Prenger plays Helen to perfection and her natural humour shines through. Gemma Dobson adds a real grit to the feisty character of Jo and allows her moments of vulnerability. However, for me, it was Stuart Thompson’s portrayal of Geoffrey that stole the show. His rendition of About Of Boy was poignant and moving. His whole performance was just captivating and his scene with the mop was a real highlight.

A Taste Of Honey National Theatre Review – Summary

While there are plenty comedic moments, A Taste Of Honey is a bleak and often sad tale that isn’t afraid to be gritty and honest. Its depiction of social prejudices and the struggles of the working class pack a punch.

The National Theatre’s touring production of A Taste of Honey is heading across the UK throughout Autumn and you can check out the upcoming theatres here.

Disclaimer – I was offered complimentary tickets but as always views are my own.