The Stage

Lucky Numbers

Published Wednesday 17 March 2010 at 11:35 by Chris High

With the Royal Court taking a step away from its usual slapstick style, Lucky Numbers, with the help of a cast of skilled actors, is a play that’s both funny and thought provoking without ever overplaying the sentimentality card.

Sheila Reid plays Connie, a grandmother who, now that her memory isn’t quite what it was, lives with her daughter’s family and bounces off an exemplary Pauline Fleming, who plays Janice, and Michael Starke, Janice’s workshy husband Ron, to deliver a masterclass in timing and delivery that exudes deadpan sincerity with every word. Mike Neary too, as Ron’s best friend and Janice’s bit on the side Mick, turns in with some great lines that he utilises to the full.

But, as is often the case at the Royal Court, it is the younger members of the cast who excel and further underline the quality of burgeoning talent that Liverpool has. Chris Crookall as Steven is all energy as the exercise shy slob, but it is Rachel Rae and Kris Mochrie who really give the play its zing as Goth Lisa and boyfriend Shane. Indeed, it’s something of a shame Mochrie isn’t on stage longer as his performance is one to savour and credit goes to the Royal Court for consistently giving such ability a self-funded stage on which to shine.

It takes a while to get going, but once Lucky Numbers hits full throttle it delivers time and again and with an ending that really drives its message home - this is one Lottery show that is well worth buying a ticket for.