This is our review of Red Or Dead at Liverpool‘s Royal Court Theatre!
Synopsis Of Red Or Dead
Bill Shankly built the foundations for Liverpool Football Club to thrive as a true sporting powerhouse. He was the man that took the club from the Second Division to winning First Division titles, FA Cups, and more. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Liverpool may not exist in its current form is not for Bill Shankly.
This show tells the story of Shankly at Liverpool, from him joining the club to signing players to enjoying success. Crucially, the show emphasises his unbreakable connection with the Liverpool fans themselves. But we also see the struggles he encounters with Liverpool’s board members and his concern for his wife Ness. And when he resigns from Liverpool, he recognises that retirement isn’t what he hoped.
Analysis Of Red Or Dead
It was a major occasion for the press night of this show, with many Liverpool legends in attendance. The appeal of Bill Shankly remains enduring, more than 50 years after he left the club. And this show is a terrific and dignified manner of covering his story. Shankly was kind and caring, but also headstrong and willing to sacrifice himself for the good of the club. And his influence turned everyday footballers into all-time legends.
The cast of 52 is very good on the whole, but I must emphasise Peter Mullan’s exceptional performance as Shankly himself. He is terrific in the role of the Scotsman, capturing his every mannerism and quirk. He also delivers some of Bill’s most memorable phrases with authenticity and respect. Les Dennis also does a great job as the foil to Shankly during heated exchanges in the boardroom. Furthermore, the show has many funny moments, with one particularly humourous reference to Emyln Hughes’ nickname of Thrush.
Summary Of Red Or Dead
Liverpool fans simply have to see this show. It’s a flawless production and a superb recreation of David Peace’s novel. What’s more, virtually everything that takes place is 100% true. But even rival football fans should watch this show as a history lesson, a hark back to football’s glory days. I give my highest recommendation to this show that covers the most important figure in Liverpool Football Club’s history.
