A local and meaningful authentic production, combining good humour and wit, and acting aplenty in this retelling of the Regency era play, Quality Street.
Northern Broadsides’ version of the original J.M. Barrie’s 1901 hit involves a group of retired Halifax chocolate factory workers (where the Quality Street chocolates are made) helping out in a production of Quality Street. This play-within-a-play concept altered between different time periods, intermittently breaking the fourth wall, including a surprising dance number, aided a confusing, yet enticing viewing. Still, once we got to grips with it, it was a refreshing take. It added a depth of local meaning to the play with the factory workers reminiscing about their time in the Halifax factory.
“As a northern, working-class woman, a play reflecting attitudes and a background similar to my own reverberated well, and the representation throughout the play is something much needed in modern theatre, so I massively applaud Northern Broadsides for this.”
Alicia
Some of the scenes felt quite long and static but the production did its best to shake things up, such as in the scene with puppeteered schoolchildren and a dance number that was reminiscent of a night in Flares, both were really hilarious. The costumes also were a standout, especially the second act opening with a number outfits that reflected the sweet wrappers of the iconic chocolate tin. This was also shown in the lighting, which also took on a Quality Street colour theme, and added a bit of funkiness to the ball scene.
There’s no doubt the two stars of the show were the leads, Paula Lane (Coronation Street, Call the Midwife) as Phoebe (and her alter ego, the infatuating, fictitious niece Miss Livvy) and Aron Julius as the love interest Captain Valentine Brown. Their chemistry ebbed and flowed nicely with the character progression. Each member of the ensemble shines within their respective roles, portraying the nuances of their characters with depth and authenticity yet, the production did not lose sight of the Shakespearean Beatrice-and-Benedick-style love story at the heart of the play. One criticism we would raise is that the factory worker’s commentary on the love story in the transitions between scenes added very little. This being said, the play strikes a perfect balance between comedy and heartfelt emotions, exploring love, self-discovery and societal expectations in a witty, sharp manner.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable evening. This was a play for everyone, especially those who love regency-era stories, or Yorkies proud of their chocolatier heritage. There’s something for everyone, just like a box of Quality Streets.
Northern Broadsides is definitely a production company worth keeping an eye out for.
Quality Street is on a National tour and will be performing at the York Theatre Royal until Saturday, 20th May. You can get your tickets here.