‘A fun-filled mix of country music, comedy, and wedding-day chaos’
Some theatre productions are designed to make you think, some are designed to make you cry, and others are simply there to make you laugh. Regal Entertainments Ltd’s Achy Breaky Bride firmly belongs in the latter category — and at the Theatre Royal St Helens, it delivers an entertaining evening packed with comedy, music and plenty of feel-good moments.
Merseyside favourite Leanne Campbell takes on the role of Jolene, joined by X Factor star David Heath, Rachel Wood, Conor Barrie and Liverpool drag queen Shania Pain.
The action takes place in a St Helens bridal shop run by Jolene and her brother A Boy Named Sue, played by David Heath. What should be a straightforward wedding soon turns into anything but, as romance, family disagreements, misunderstandings and one chaotic situation after another begin to unfold.
The storyline may have all the familiar ingredients of a wedding comedy, but Achy Breaky Bride doesn’t pretend to be anything other than a bit of fun. It embraces the silliness and allows its larger-than-life characters to take centre stage.
There are plenty of laughs along the way, with quick-fire jokes, amusing situations and some excellent comic timing. The cast clearly enjoy playing their characters, and that enthusiasm quickly spreads into the audience.
Leanne Campbell brings plenty of personality to Jolene, combining the comedy with a warmth that gives the character plenty of heart. The relationships at the centre of the story also provide some genuinely enjoyable moments, particularly when the bickering and chaos make way for the show’s more emotional scenes. Whilst the supporting performances are equally entertaining, with several characters managing to steal the spotlight at different points throughout the evening. There are plenty of unexpected moments, and the St Helens audience is certainly more than willing to respond with plenty of laughter.
Music is another major part of the production. With its country-pop influences, Achy Breaky Bride is filled with lively songs, upbeat rhythms and plenty of opportunities for audience participation. The musical numbers fit neatly into the comedy, keeping the production moving at a good pace and adding to the party atmosphere. There’s a real sense that the audience is being invited to join in rather than simply sit back and watch.
The visual side of the show follows the same colourful approach. Wedding dresses, sequins, boots, bright costumes and plenty of sparkle help create a suitably over-the-top bridal world, while the choreography adds energy without overshadowing the comedy.
But it’s the atmosphere that really makes the evening work.
There is a wonderfully relaxed feeling inside the Theatre Royal, brought about mainly by the very welcoming and helpful staff. It’s the kind of production where you can hear people laughing together and enjoying the sheer absurdity of what’s happening on stage. That’s ultimately where Achy Breaky Bride succeeds.
It isn’t trying to reinvent musical theatre or provide a particularly deep theatrical experience. Instead, it knows exactly what its audience is looking for — a funny story, catchy songs, colourful characters, a few ridiculous situations and a chance to forget about everything else for a couple of hours.
By the final curtain, there’s a definite sense of having enjoyed a night out in good company. The production is warm, cheeky and energetic, with plenty of heart underneath all the comedy and chaos. If you’re looking for an entertaining night filled with country-pop music, laughter and wedding-day mayhem, Achy Breaky Bride is a lively and feel-good choice. It’s theatrical fun that doesn’t take itself too seriously — and sometimes that’s exactly what a night at the theatre should be.
Review Date: 24th September 2026
Star Rating: FOUR