At the Royal Court in Liverpool, Ellie Clayton and Angela Simms deliver a superb performance in a funny and tender adaptation that stays faithful to its 1985 cinematic origins. Despite marketing efforts often linking the production to Margi Clarke, who portrayed the sharp-tongued chicken-factory worker Teresa in the original movie, the story rightfully centers on Alexandra Pigg’s role as Elaine, Teresa’s best friend.
In the film, Elaine trades her dead-end existence marked by unemployment for a fantastical romance with a Russian sailor. Set a few years before the Soviet collapse and a year prior to Willy Russell’s similarly themed Shirley Valentine, the narrative captures Elaine’s bold belief in escape and love that transcends borders.
Clayton embodies the character with equal charm, blending wit and wonder as she portrays the Kirkby native who, armed with stolen cash, enjoys a night out that unexpectedly opens up the world to her. Although Elaine can appear naive, petulant, and cynical, her spirit remains compelling, ensuring the audience continues to root for her journey.
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