The Legend of Rooney’s Ring – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5 Star Review

Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre has built its reputation on fast-paced, madcap musical comedies laced with Scouse humour and more than a few cheeky one-liners. Known for its no-nonsense, over-14s-only brand of fun, the theatre rarely takes itself too seriously — and that’s exactly why it works so well.

Their latest offering, The Legend of Rooney’s Ring, continues that proud tradition with a riotous mix of parody, panto-style storytelling, and pure Liverpool flair. Written by Helen Serafinowicz and directed by Stephen Fletcher, this summer show swaps Christmas tinsel for sunshine but keeps the feel-good, fourth-wall-breaking energy of the theatre’s popular festive productions.

Set in the mythical land of Liverpool, the play follows the tale of a heroic but hilariously self-absorbed Wayne — a clear nod to footballer Wayne Rooney — on a quest to win back his beloved Coleen after she hurls his enchanted ring into the unknown during a row. Cue an epic, ridiculous journey filled with barely shrouded truths, magic spells, political parodies, and more glitter than a Eurovision afterparty.

The casting is spot on. John May, as Wayne, channels just the right amount of gormless bravado, while Emma Grace Arends is excellent as Coleen, not only capturing the voice and mannerisms but also sounding uncannily like Kylie Minogue when belting out one of the show’s musical highlights. The chemistry between the pair holds the piece together and gives the story its heartbeat, amidst all the mayhem.

Fans of the Royal Court’s familiar faces won’t be disappointed. Lindzi Germain is in her element as Queen Colette, delivering zingers with the confidence of a true comedy pro and lighting up the stage with her powerhouse vocals.

Keddy Sutton, as the wisecracking Nana and on-stage narrator, does a stellar job keeping the madness (mostly) on track, slipping in her trademark line “You sexy sod!” to raucous applause.

One of the surprise highlights of the show is Terry Mynott’s brilliantly absurd Donald Trump, arriving on stage orange-faced and full of bluster — ostensibly to “Make Liverpool Great Again”, while secretly hell-bent on stealing the magical ring for himself. His appearance in a gold mankini, emerging from a sunbed, is one of those gloriously cringe-worthy moments you won’t unsee (nor forget), mercifully cushioned by the knowledge of a bodysuit beneath.

While the show follows the Royal Court’s well-loved format, there was one noticeable departure: the absence of a live on-stage band. Instead, cast members sang to pre-recorded backing tracks. Initially, this felt like a downgrade — particularly when four actors whipped out inflatable guitars as if in protest. But any disappointment quickly faded thanks to the strong vocal performances and a crowd-pleasing mix of pop songs spanning the decades.

Plenty of liberties were taken with the lyrics, of course — and to great comic effect. One standout moment came when Beyoncé’s 2008 hit was hilariously reimagined as “All the Dingle Ladies”. Four duck-lipped Scouse girls — albeit in puppet form — burst onto the stage, imploring Wayne to “put a ring on it”. It was as unexpected as it was brilliant.

With tight pacing, constant laughter, and tongue-in-cheek songs, the show rarely slows down. It’s not just a celebration of local culture — it’s a celebration of fun, wrapped in faux fur, glitter, and scouse wit.

If you’re a fan of the Royal Court’s Christmas shows, The Legend of Rooney’s Ring is a summer essential — a heatwave-ready panto packed with irreverence and heart. And if you’re someone who thinks theatre is all velvet curtains and Shakespearean monologues, this just might be the show to change your mind.

It runs until August 23rd — don’t miss it.