Lovers Actually | The Other Palace Studio

Neil Hurst and Jodie Prenger are at it again with another Christmas special. After the success of last year’s spin on the classic Home Alone, the bar was set very high for this particular production — and boy, did it not disappoint. Their growing tradition of festive parodies has quickly become a highlight of the season, and audiences clearly came in expecting something big.

Love Actually is one of the world’s most beloved romantic comedies, famous for its complex intertwining storylines and cleverly written characters. Whilst this structure works perfectly on screen, it may also be the reason why Lovers Actually doesn’t quite reach the same level as last year’s Homo Alone. With a hardworking cast of just four actors, bringing such a layered story to life on stage is no easy feat. Still, their commitment to juggling so many roles adds a kind of controlled chaos that becomes part of the charm.

That being said, whilst the emotional heart of Love Actually sometimes gets overshadowed in this production, it remains one of the most hilarious nights of the year. The writing is genuinely brilliant — sharp, self-aware, and packed with references both to the original film and to the cast’s own careers. For example, seeing Joseph Beach appear as Liam Neeson from Taken inside the world of Love Actually created an image that was as funny as it was initially baffling.

Every performer had to switch rapidly between characters, from restaurant workers to Keira Knightley’s Juliet to little 11-year-old Sam. Standout moments were certainly delivered by Beach; his range is incredible. Jumping from Billy Mack to Liam Neeson from Taken (and beyond) is a challenge in itself, yet he handled each shift with such confidence that he often ended up stealing the scene.

The set design is clever and minimalist, allowing the actors the freedom to break character when needed and giving the audience space to erupt into raucous laughter. This reviewer personally loves when small things go wrong on stage — it adds a human quality to what is essentially a superhuman job. Lovers Actually seems intentionally designed for these tiny mishaps to shine, letting the audience feel even more connected to the goofy, unpredictable energy of the show.

Lovers Actually may not capture every emotional beat of the film it parodies, but it more than makes up for it with sheer creativity, wit, and chaotic holiday joy. It’s a celebration of theatre at its most playful — a show that knows exactly what it wants to be and revels in the fun of it. If you’re looking for a night full of laughter and festive spirit, this production absolutely delivers.

Lovers Actually plays at The Other Palace Studio until 04th January 2026.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Pamela Raith