Rise & Fall of Little Voice (Manchester)

Jim Cartwright‘s play has won critical acclaim, numerous awards and was
also turned into a successful film starring Jane Horrocks and Ewan
McGregor. With the film so fresh in my mind, I was worried that this latest
production would pale into insignificance. Thankfully I was proved wrong.

L.V (Emma Lowndes) is a quiet, unassuming young girl. Alone in her room, she
spends her time listening to the sounds of Judy Garland, Marilyn Monroe
and a record box full of other divas. These strong but troubled women enable
her to escape into their world and cling to memories of her late beloved
father.

Her mother, Mari (Denise Welch) neglects her and spends every waking
day fawning over small time agent Ray Say (David Hounslow). Always out for a
quick buck Ray realises that L.V can be exploited as her bedroom impersonations of her idols are spot on. Soon, the local club is full
of punters waiting to hear L.V’s big voice.

Cartwright’s wonderful writing is a gift for any actor. Welch’s
Mari is not a monster. The actress brings an air of sympathy to the role and
she has superb comic timing. At the same time also portraying the
character’s loneliness underneath her loud facade.

Lowndes has the
voice of an angel. She also displays awkwardness and inner turmoil
perfectly. She really lets go during the final scenes when she confronts her
mother. Hers is a beautifully understated performance. Andrew Sheridan is
also excellent as Billy, L.V’s one saviour and love interest. His scenes with
Lowndes are delightful.

David Hounslow’s Ray Say is sleazy and money-grabbing but like Mari also sad and quite needy. Lorraine Cheshire steals
many scenes with her comic portrayal of Mari’s selfless friend, Sadie.

Sarah Frankcom‘s direction is very assured. She respects Cartwight’s
material and it shows. She never allows the play to become overly dramatic
or sentimental, always holding back allowing the audience to make the
decision whether to laugh or to cry.

This moving play is complimented by Liz Ashcroft‘s circular shaped set
complete with a record label in the middle of the floor which adds poignancy
to an already pitch perfect production. Yes, this Little Voice is definitely
worth shouting about.

– Glenn Meads