Spend Spend Spend at The Royal Exchange Theatre Manchester Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Lucy Gwilliam
Visiting the Manchester Royal Exchange for Spend Spend Spend was a delightful and enriching experience for my husband and me. The play, a heartfelt yet humorous portrayal of Viv Nicholson’s tumultuous journey from working-class roots to sudden fortune and its aftermath, was brought to life with immense talent and energy.
The Royal Exchange Theatre itself added a special charm to the evening. Its unique in-the-round stage ensured an intimate atmosphere, allowing every seat in the house to feel connected to the unfolding drama. This setup heightened the emotional impact of the story and created a shared sense of immediacy among the audience. From the moment the lights dimmed, we were transported into Viv’s world—her laughter, her heartbreak, and her unrelenting spirit.
The cast delivered outstanding performances, especially the actress portraying Viv Nicholson. Her ability to balance Viv’s brash humour with moments of raw vulnerability was captivating. Through her performance, Viv became more than just a lottery winner known for “spending, spending, spending.” She emerged as a complex, relatable character whose choices and struggles echoed universal themes of hope, loss, and the pursuit of happiness. The chemistry among the cast members was palpable, particularly in the scenes with Viv and her husband, Keith. Their relationship, full of love and volatility, was portrayed with authenticity and depth.
The musical numbers were another highlight of the evening. The score, a blend of rousing, cheeky tunes and poignant ballads, perfectly complemented the narrative. One standout number was the heart-wrenching solo that captured Viv’s disillusionment with wealth and fame, a performance so moving it left the audience in stunned silence before breaking into applause. The choreography was vibrant and inventive, making full use of the circular stage to create dynamic, visually engaging scenes.
The production design also deserves special mention. The set cleverly depicted the contrasting worlds of Viv’s modest upbringing and the glamorous yet hollow trappings of newfound wealth. Costumes played a vital role in illustrating Viv’s transformation, from her humble beginnings to her flashy, larger-than-life persona. Combined with the lighting design, which shifted seamlessly between bright, celebratory hues and more sombre tones, the visuals deepened the emotional resonance of the play.
What struck me most was the relevance of Spend Spend Spend’s themes even today. It’s a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of material success and the enduring value of love, resilience, and self-acceptance. The play’s humour, often self-deprecating, never detracted from its more serious undertones, striking a perfect balance that kept us thoroughly engaged throughout.
As the final bows were taken, the standing ovation from the audience was well-deserved. My husband and I left the theatre feeling moved, entertained, and reflective. Spend Spend Spend at the Manchester Royal Exchange was not just a play; it was a vivid, emotional journey that lingered in our minds long after the curtain fell. If this production is any indication of the Royal Exchange’s quality, it’s a venue we’ll eagerly return to for future performances.
Rating: 5/5
https://www.royalexchange.co.uk/event/spend-spend-spend/
Spend Spend Spend Sat 23 Nov 2024 – Sat 11 Jan 2025
Ticket prices are varied from £12 but there are some priced at £7 for Under 30’s