'Two of us' by Bob Eaton and Mark McGann at Liverpool's Royal Court
- dramadirect
- Feb 21, 2023
- 2 min read
Wirral Globe Review by Peter Grant, Theatre Critic
JUST imagine...It's the show they never gave together – the pair of them with a little help from their friends. A couple of Quarrymen who later ignited the world when they became Lennon and McCartney ... super-natural songwriters and performers.
They met at a church fete in 1957 and clicked - going on to write as 'one' at their respective final childhood homes: John’s Mendips in Woolton and Paul’s council house at 20 Forthlin Road just a mile away in Allerton. George Harrison joined and then - post-Hamburg and after a roll apprenticeship in the Cavern - Ringo replaced Pete Best and they became the band we have loved for all these years.
Now more than five decades after they split, more books, films, re-mixed releases and documentaries appear as well as tribute acts and stage shows. Here ls the latest and it has premiered in the town where they were born. As a piece of Beatle entertainment it’s hard to beat.
Very fab, indeed and that’s because it comes from those creatives with a track record.
Writer and director Bob Eaton gave us the global smash musical Lennon at the Everyman in 1981 starring Mark McGann who is credited here as co-writer.
And playing John and Paul are two dab hands at performing. Mark Newnham as a laid-back Lennon and Tom Connor with all the Moptop mannerisms of McCartney.
Four musicians under the baton of musical director Howard Gray back up the leading men and they deserve a round of applause - they certainly passed the audition: Adam Keast (bass); Ben Gladwin (Keys) Mike Woodvine (guitar) and Greg Joy (drums).
The instrument-strewn set is a cross between the film studios were they filmed the Get Back sessions and the final Apple rooftop concert. Dialogue is kept to a minimum - almost like aural sub-titles as the two of them talk about their own craft of song writing and there’s nice banter.
You are not overwhelmed with facts, dates and figures. We hear these two friends talk about the loss of their mothers and their mentor - Brian Epstein. We hear about the break up and how ultimately the love you take is equal to the love you make. There are some back-projections - notably old Liverpool accompanying In My Life and there is a poignant visual moment when John and Paul share a piano. This is a two hour Beatle show with a subtle difference - you won’t hear the names George and Ringo mentioned. Very clever – because we all know they are there.
The Beatle songs do not need an introduction the classics from the back catalogue are all here. A rousing finale of Hey Jude and a standing ovation seal a a timeless production.
No costume changes, no wig swaps or explosions – this is a Beatle show with superb harmonies throughout. I could watch it again and again. Yes, it’s that good. A splendid time is guaranteed for all.
Verdict: Five stars
Thumbs up!
This is a wonderful review that captures the intimate and powerful energy of "Two of Us." Focusing on the deep bond and creative partnership between Lennon and McCartney—without needing flashy costume changes or distractions—really allows the music and the storytelling to take center stage. It’s a beautiful tribute to the town where it all began and a poignant exploration of the friendship that changed the world.
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The intimate focus of "Two of Us" on the creative bond between Lennon and McCartney sounds like a deeply moving experience, especially the way it captures the quiet, personal moments behind their world-changing collaboration. It’s wonderful to see a production that prioritizes the craft of songwriting and the depth of their friendship over big spectacles or costume changes. Just as these artists nurtured their craft and connections through both loss and triumph, I believe that intentional, consistent care is vital for our own well-being and personal growth. For me, that includes maintaining a steady hair roots treatment as a way to keep things feeling healthy and revitalized. If you're looking for expert guidance and specialized care in your wellness routine, hair…
What a fantastic review of what sounds like a truly moving production. It’s wonderful how the show focuses so intimately on the bond between Lennon and McCartney, especially by highlighting their shared experiences and the craft of their songwriting. Capturing that 'Moptop' energy while diving into the deeper, personal moments is no small feat. For anyone who finds themselves inspired by the stories of these iconic figures, finding a compelling Book series that explores the history of legendary artists can be such a rewarding experience. If you’re looking for more great Books to read about creative partnerships and the 'Harlem of the North' music scene, there are so many incredible stories out there to discover. Thanks for sharing this five-star recommendation!
What a powerful and moving piece — it’s clear how much heart and insight went into Two of Us. I love how theatre can shine a light on human connection and bring stories to life that stay with you long after the curtain falls. That same commitment to craft and care shows up in all kinds of fields — whether artists shaping a narrative or marine insulation companies engineering solutions that truly work. When people focus on doing something well, with attention and purpose, even the smallest details matter, whether in performance or choosing the right marine pipe insulation. Thanks for sharing this inspiring project!
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