Judy And Liza Musical At The Epstein Theatre Review

Reviewed by Rebecca Wong

I visited the Epstein Theatre in Liverpool with my Mum to watch the Judy & Liza show, we’re both huge fans of musical film and were very much looking forward to the show despite not knowing much about it the draw of the music was enough for us. The Epstein is a lovely little theatre with lots of history and is easy to find and access; being right in the centre of the city. The staff are very friendly which ensures a lovely welcoming atmosphere. Upcoming shows can be viewed here: https://www.epsteintheatre.co.uk/

Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli are absolute legends of the musical film world. The Judy & Liza Show is described a Bio-Musial and takes you on an emotional journey (there were a few tears shed) to showcase some of the highs and lows of the lives of both mother and daughter. Using a backdrop screen to feature photos from their past lives, which was really powerful in invoking the reaction of audience; showing photos from their childhood, their families, husbands and some of the works they have done. The characters talked us through the story of their lives, interspersed with plenty of their most well-known songs, they didn’t shy away from the difficult times, and they celebrated the good times.

For the audience this was a real trip down memory lane for some, and in the interval, there was lots of chatter about what people remembered about the pair. It was a lovely atmosphere and felt like people sharing memories of old friends. It was clear that the audience were really enjoying the show and were fully immersed in the experience.

Judy, played by Helen Sheals and Liza (that’s Liza with a z) was played by Emma Dears. Both had a striking resemblance to the actresses; a clear gasp was let out by the audience when the curtain first lifted! The hair, make-up and costume design were brilliant, and the set had a very Hollywood feel to it, simple but effective. Both actresses’ star quality was very glaring and made us believe we were really in the presence of Hollywood stars. The real star quality came from the songs, which were performed to perfection. Liza Minnelli and Judy Garland are above all known for their beautiful singing voices and the show did not disappoint on that score. Both characters were able to hit the notes and belt out the classics just as well as their namesakes.

My Mum and I loved the songs that were featured, including The Man That Got Away, Somewhere Over The Rainbow, You Made Me Love You and of course the showstopper – Cabaret. The show ended to a standing ovation and a wonderful feeling of having been in the presence of old friends.

The Judy & Liza Show is currently touring until April 2023 with dates coming up in Halifax, Bolton and Lowestoft to name but a few. Tickets can be bought at https://www.judyandliza.co.uk/tour-dates and retail at around £22.50. It’s a show not to be missed for a wonderful, enlightening trip down memory lane and a great celebration of two of the most iconic stars of Hollywood, who brought so much joy and music to the World and who are continuing to do so through the awesome talents of Helen and Emma. It’s a 5/5 from me – don’t miss out!