WILLY RUSSELL as Shirley Valentine

 

If you weren't at the Liverpool Playhouse last night to see Willy Russell give a performed reading of 'Shirley Valentine', then you missed out not only on a piece of theatrical history but a little bit of theatrical magic.

Over the years I've seen more than ten productions of 'Shirley', and each time I've watched it, I've discovered more about this ordinary woman who achieves what seems to be the extraordinary, but in fact Shirley is being herself and pursuing her own dreams instead of everyone else's.

I first saw Willy Russell be his own creation in the 1980s when 'Shirley Valentine' was first staged at the Everyman Theatre. The talented Noreen Kershaw was playing 'Shirley' and she was taken ill, so Willy stepped into the breach and gave several memorable performances. It was special over twenty year ago to hear Willy bring his own words to life, but at the Liverpool Playhouse it was an even greater treat to witness his witty, warm, powerful and tender lines.

For me 'Shirley Valentine' is a classic play, as much part of our theatrical history as 'Hamlet' or any of Shakespeare's plays. It is timeless and is as affecting now as when it was first performed.

Male and females alike identify with 'Shirley' and her dreams of getting away from a humdrum life and familiar surroundings. We applaud her courage in going to Greece and discovering herself. Willy Russell is a writer who keenly and sensitively observes the human race. He has a deep affection for people and he writes equally well for men and women.

The icing on the cake was to see Willy Russell onstage at the Playhouse and be reminded of what a master craftsman he is, continuing to delight audiences and his performance was as assured, and as funny and moving as any of the many actresses I have seen play 'Shirley'.

Liverpool salutes you Willy.

 

ANGELA HESLOP
Liverpool Playhouse, Wednesday 16 April 2003

BBC Radio Merseyside

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