The Memory Of Water At The Little Theatre Leicester Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Leanne W
Nestled in the heart of Leicester, The Little Theatre is a charming, volunteer-run venue surrounded by lively bars and eateries, with convenient parking just opposite. Known for showcasing local talent, this latest amateur production continues that tradition.
Three sisters—Mary, Catherine and Teresa—reunite on the eve of their mother’s funeral and reflect on a childhood shaped as much by family myth as by reality. As memories clash and tensions rise, old rivalries resurface and their late mother, Vi, seems strangely present. Shelagh Stephenson’s Olivier Award–winning comedy blends humour and poignancy to explore grief, conflicting memories, and the stories families tell themselves about love and loss.
On arrival we are greeted by the fascinating set created by Stef Nichols. The inspiration for which is cited as The Swimming Cities of Serenissima an installation by the artist Swoon. A clutter of furniture and cases to represent Vi’s bedroom but also acknowledging the clutter of life and memories as the sisters gather.
This is a stellar cast – not a single weak link. Karen Gordon as Vi is suitable enigmatic in her spiritual presence, she captures the essence of the character beautifully. Mary – Kat Seddon takes a journey of emotions from the frustration of being tired to the scars of her history being shared; she portrays every emotion with precision and realism. On an equally tumultuous passage is Laura Brookes as the initially uptight Teresa; as she rides the unpredictable roller coaster of grief, Brookes provides a realistic performance which pulls at the heart strings of the audience.
The youngest and most troubled of the sisters is Catherine played by Nikki Favell, a petulant woman who brings some of the most comedic moments. Joff Brown and Jordan Handford bring a frustration and awkwardness to performance as they watch their partners unravel unable to make them see into the mirrors which the women are holding up to each other. To say that these are amateur performers is something quite remarkable.
Directed by Leigh White this is a real gem of a performance. There are moments which detracted from the drama, for example the blackout for the arrival of the coffin, where several audience assumed was the end and applauded, the slightly too tight space with the bed which resulted in some awkward angles and the bizarre moment when Mary removed her dressing gown to be fully dressed as she got out of bed? Some moments were lost as the cast were unsure of where the audience would react and started on the next line before the chortles ceased, however I am confident that these will be addressed as the run progresses.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable evening with all of the emotions we love to experience. Supporting local theatre is always worthwhile, and The Little Theatre remains a valuable cultural gem in Leicester; and this is an excellent production to see to give your support.
The Play runs until Saturday 28th February 2026 with tickets available priced between £17 and £19.50
thelittletheatre.co.uk/whats-on/the-memory-of-water/
Rating: 5/5