Juke Box Baby (Salford)

Lee Lomas' gripping new play of love, loyalty and self-discovery is brought to life in Juke Box Baby, a new and original production by Manchester’s 1956 Theatre.

Set against the backdrop of 1950s New York, Juke Box Baby tells the story of Jimmie and Bobby Rose, two brothers from Brooklyn who dream of a better life.

Stuck in a dead end job with no qualifications and a bleak future ahead of him, Jimmie does all he can to keep his kid brother Bobby out of trouble, but when Bobby's baseball scholarship and ticket out of Brooklyn is threatened, his brother does him an act of kindness that changes both of their lives forever.

Written and directed by Lee Lomas, Juke Box Baby is one of four productions performed by Manchester’s 1956 Theatre Company over a four week period as part of their ambitious Rep Season. It also marks the playwriting debut for Lomas, whose unique brand of story-telling and creative direction is both original and refreshing.

A modest cast of 9 bring the play to life in their own unique and classy way. Lomas’ performance as Jimmie is flawless, playing the complex lead with both skill and perfection. Ben Wolstenholme is also superb as the headstrong yet vulnerable younger brother Bobby.

The supporting cast are equally excellent, particularly Hannah Ellis as Angie, Josh Morter as Freddie Hunter and Bradley Cross as JC, who had the audience in stiches with his quirky physical mannerisms and seamless comic timing.

The script doesn’t shy away from bold or intense themes with class, sexuality, alcoholism and rape, all explored during the 90 minute play. But don’t let that frighten you as Juke Box Baby also boasts plenty of comedy and romance to balance out the tension, resulting in a captivating and enthralling story that will make you want to both laugh and cry at the same time.

Bold, intelligent and extremely enjoyable, this is a sharp-tongued and gripping drama that deserves to be recognised for the superb piece of local theatre that it is.

Juke Box Baby is at the Salford Arts Theatre until 18 October.