Picture: Pamela Raith
Lovers Actually continues at The Other Palace Studio, London until 4 January 2026.
Star rating: four stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ✩
Inspired by the much-loved film Love Actually, Neil Hurst and Jodie Prenger’s Lovers Actually takes the audience through all the ups and downs of the story, performed by a cast of only four people who each play several characters.
The show moves through different locations, so we meet the Prime Minister (Ross Clifton), Judy (Martha Pothen), Liam Neeson (Joseph Beach) and Karen (Holly Sumpton).
Every character is performed with so much energy and fun. You don’t have to think too hard about who is who, it all flows naturally, which is impressive considering how many characters they switch between.
The production is set on a very small stage, which makes it even more challenging to create space. To solve this, a giant gift box structure also works as a backstage area. The space is extremely limited, but the creative team really uses it well.
Inside the oversized present are several compartments that open up into extra playing spaces, a table, a telephone, and even little ‘rooms’. It’s such a clever idea, and it keeps the stage feeling fresh and surprising throughout the show. The result is both creative and genuinely impressive.
Different lighting (designed by Sherry Coenen) and some smart staging choices from director Alex Jackson create the right atmosphere for each scene and ensure there is a clear sense of location. Sometimes the pace dips slightly in the transitions from scene to scene, but these moments also build a bit of anticipation which actually works quite nicely.
One of the things that really adds to the comedy is the music. Lyrics of recognisable songs are changed in the most unexpected ways so they fit the show. They get a big laugh every time, especially because you think you know where the song is going, and then…
A highlight comes just before the interval when the whole cast is onstage performing a wonderfully chaotic and hilarious number. It’s such a good energy boost and sends the audience into the break on a high.
Among the bits involving audience participation, Clifton being “in love” with someone from the audience is absolutely hilarious. And because it’s live theatre, not everything goes exactly to plan, which actually creates some of the funniest moments of the night.
Overall, Lovers Actually is a super enjoyable show, full of clever ideas, great comedy and a lot of heart. If you want a good laugh at the theatre, this is the perfect choice.
Jolien Laeremans
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