Theatre Critic

Les Dennis discusses returning to Liverpool to play Old Joe in the touring musical Waitress at the Liverpool Empire from September 7 to 12, 2026. He describes the character as initially curmudgeonly but ultimately kind and supportive, and praises co-stars including Carrie Hope Fletcher. The production explores love, domestic abuse, loyalty and female empowerment while offering an uplifting message. Dennis also looks ahead to playing Stan in Dinner Ladies, a production inspired by Victoria Wood's work, and reflects on his wide-ranging career, possible future stage and television projects, fundraising for KIND, and his desire to continue taking on creative challenges at age 72.

Off the Ground’s outdoor production of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” is reviewed as an atmospheric, inventive and highly entertaining celebration of the company’s 40th anniversary. Staged at Liverpool’s “bombed out church,” the production uses an Alice in Wonderland-inspired design, inventive entrances and exits, colourful costumes, a strong ensemble cast and a lively soundtrack. The performances of Sir Toby Belch, Sir Andrew, Malvolio and Feste receive particular praise, with the production awarded five stars as “joyous and jubilant.”