Review: Lovers Actually

Star rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Photo by Pamela Reith

Based on the movie Love Actually, there is now Lovers Actually. Walking into The Other Palace, the theatre already felt really festive; Christmas music was playing, instantly putting you in the holiday spirit.

Throughout the musical, we meet several memorable characters. Ross Cliff as Harry, the Prime Minister, Jamie, and others; Martha Pothen as Natalie, Judie, Peter, and others, Joseph Beach as John, Liam Neeson, Billy Mack, and others, and Holly Sumpton as Karen, Trump, Juliet, Aurelia, and others. Every role is so well played, and as a musical theatre enthusiast, it was an absolute joy to watch and admire their energy on stage.

The stage is very small, which could have been a problem, but the team came up with a really clever solution: a giant gift-box structure that also doubles as a backstage area. Inside, some compartments open up to reveal extra spaces, a window, a door, even a place to put a CD or DVD. How incredible is that? It’s such a smart and playful way to make the stage feel bigger, and it keeps you excited to see what will pop up next.

They also use different lighting attached to the gift box to show scene changes. Sometimes there’s a short pause between scenes, but it works, giving the audience a moment to take in what’s happening and building anticipation.

It was hilarious to see how much fun the cast were having, and because it’s live theatre, unexpected things happen too, like a mustache falling from someone’s face, which made it even funnier! The whole audience was laughing, and the atmosphere was incredible.

Pay attention, because the show also involves audience participation. If you get picked to be Mia, congratulations, you’re now part of the show!

Overall, Lovers Actually is definitely the perfect show to see during the Christmas period, full of energy, laughs, and festive cheer.

Playing at The Other Palace until 4 January 2026 🎭