Masquerade
Written by Laura Lees with additional material by Tom Lloyd and James Baker
Produced by Bill Elms
Directed by James Baker
Assistant Director and Movement by Joey Colasante
Set design by Ellie Light
Costume design by Marina Diamantidi
Sound design by Daniel Mawson
Lighting design by Doug Kurht
Cast: Neil MacDonald, Catherine Rice, Jamie Peacock, Joe Owens, Michael Bailey, Joey Colasante, Leah Gould and Michael Latham.
Masquerade:
Inside was the place to be out.
Be transported back to 1980’s Liverpool in a powerful and poignant tale of love, loss, freedom and friendship among Liverpool’s LGBT+ community.
Mike loves Tony (but not like that). He’s his best mate. To be confident, outgoing, and open is a big deal in a city like Liverpool in 1986 especially during the Aids crisis. When they discover The Masquerade Club, Mike gets a taste of the life he could and should be living. He is welcomed with open arms, soon becoming the resident DJ in a club that becomes the centre of his universe. Outside of the club walls he needs to find the courage to tell his parents that he is not the son they want him to be. Will he find the strength to stand up for himself especially when tragedy strikes?
REVIEWS AND PRESS:
The Review Hub: 4.5 stars
‘A tremendously effective opening to the second half, as the Masquerade club and its regulars are met with horrifying scenes while Simple Minds’ classic Don’t You Forget About Me rings out – which then moves into one of the shows most poignant, powerful and heart-wrenching moments.’
Canal Street:
‘[Masquerade] is punctuated by brilliant music that is so evocative of the era and some pretty nifty dance routines, too.’
The Stage: 4 stars
‘Club scenes are energetic and flashy.’
Opening Nights:
‘The show features excellent movement and transitions as well as an epic 80s disco soundtrack that really engulfs you into the period.’