Under the direction of Robert Andrews, Shirley Valentine took centre stage at Tea Tree Players in a truly triumphant fashion. This beloved and enduring classic was brought to life with extraordinary heart and authenticity, spearheaded by the talented Theresa (Lilly) Dolman in the titular role. From the very first moment, Dolman captured the audience’s hearts with her warmth, wit, and masterful storytelling, taking them on an emotional and deeply relatable journey of self-discovery, courage, and transformation.
The play’s universal themes resonate as powerfully today as they did nearly 40 years ago. It’s a story that speaks to anyone who has ever felt trapped in the monotony of routine, longing to rediscover their passions and reclaim their own narrative. The audience was immediately swept up in Shirley’s world—her frustrations, her humour, and ultimately, her awakening. As Shirley bravely stepped out of her comfort zone, laughter rippled through the crowd at her sharp and insightful observations, only to be followed by poignant moments that prompted quiet reflection. One of the play’s most striking lines, “Some people are dead before they die,” hung in the air, leaving a lasting impact.
The set design was deceptively simple yet wonderfully effective, seamlessly transitioning between the confines of Shirley’s dreary kitchen and the liberating beauty of the Mediterranean. This striking contrast visually underscored Shirley’s own evolution, highlighting the journey from stagnation to renewal. The creative team deserves immense credit for bringing such an evocative transformation to the stage.
Dolman’s performance was sensational, she embodied Shirley Valentine with such sincerity and charisma that it felt as though she was speaking directly to each audience member, drawing them in with every word, every sigh, every knowing glance. Her comedic timing was impeccable, ensuring plenty of laughter, but it was her ability to convey Shirley’s vulnerability and strength that truly made the performance unforgettable. By the final act, the audience wasn’t just watching Shirley’s story—they were living it alongside her, feeling every ounce of her hesitation, her excitement, and ultimately, her triumph.
A packed house bore witness to this spectacular production, and judging by the applause and emotional responses, it’s safe to say Shirley Valentine at Tea Tree Players is definitely worth a visit. It was a performance that entertained, inspired, and perhaps even encouraged some to dust off their own forgotten dreams. If ever there was a play that reminds us to take that leap of faith and embrace life’s endless possibilities, this was it.
To book tickets to Tea Tree Players Presents Shirley Valentine, please visit https://teatreeplayers.com/production/shirley-valentine/
This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.
