If you’re after a girls’ night out that hits all the right notes – emotionally and musically – Thursdays With Elvis is the one to book. Written by Belfast’s own Martin Lynch and directed by the award-winning Charlotte Westenra, this heartfelt, hilarious new comedy had the Grand Opera House crowd in stitches from start to finish.
Set in a working-class Belfast kitchen, the story follows single mum Lana, who’s battling rising bills and sinking spirits with a weekly Prosecco-fuelled boogie in her kitchen. When Elvis (yes, the Elvis – or maybe not?) turns up out of nowhere, the night – and her life – takes a totally unexpected turn.
The cast of three are simply brilliant. Their chemistry fizzes onstage, bouncing between belly-laugh banter and moments of genuine poignancy. You’ll laugh, you’ll hum along to the soundtrack of the sixties – and you might just shed a wee tear.
Musically, the show is a knockout. From Aretha Franklin’s Respect to Etta James’ At Last, and a string of Elvis classics that had us all all shook up, the performances were top drawer. Elvis himself was especially sensational – smooth, soulful, and just the right amount of swagger.
But make no mistake, this isn’t just a jukebox show. The music is deeply woven into the narrative, helping tell a story that’s as real as it is uplifting. Themes of friendship, survival, and finding magic in the mundane are all explored with warmth and wit. And yes – the cost-of-living crisis gets a mention, but in a way that’s relatable and resonant without ever feeling heavy-handed.
The staging is simple yet smart, letting the performances shine. The production quality is high, but it never overshadows the heart at the centre of the show. And the standout moment? A drunken high between Lana and her best mate that had the whole theatre howling – pure Belfast gold.
Final word? Thursdays With Elvis is a must-see. Whether you’re out with the girls, treating yourself to a solo theatre night, or just in need of a feel-good fix, this is one show that delivers. Hilarious, heartfelt, and full of soul – long live the King, and long live Belfast theatre.
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