AFTER the recent five-star production The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher the question is how do they follow that?
Well, I'm happy to say the Everyman has done it again with their latest drama - Attachment.
A totally different theme and storyline, but one that will leave a lasting impact on you.
Sound and lighting play an important part in creating an intimate atmosphere to hear likeable Mat's tense and tender tale unfold.
Again The Everyman is flying the home-grown 'Made in Liverpool' banner.
It is another successful celebration of local talent and those creatives who have come shining through the Everyman and Playhouse nurturing process and effective programme from writers to performers and stage crew.
This has the 'Everyman' ethos stamped all over it with the crisp, funny, poignant and powerful writing from Julia Cranney and a stellar performance from the very versatile actress Paislie Reid as Mat.
At just 75-minute running time, this monologue about various aspects of parenthood and adoption from the stark practicalities to the heart-tugging emotions grabs your attention from the outset.
It all takes place on a raised living room set allowing Paislie to pace the boards.
As with all great monologues the skill is connecting immediately with the audience.
Paislie does this so well throughout as she reveals bits about her life - and other bits about her love of her Nan and apparent hatred of kids. Her doubts and insecurities are soon out weighed by her optimism.
We hear how she met her partner, James, and how she reacts to his ex-wife and child.
We see and hear a maturity in Mat as she becomes less frenetic.
The outbursts switch to a more considered analysis of her deeper feelings as her relationship lives up to her dreams.
A child would complete that joy.
We are guided on her journey from her work place in a pharmacy to various locations in the North West from Sefton Park to Stockport.
The sheer strength of the writing means this play could actually be set anywhere.
It could ( and should) tour so more people hear about adoption in all its forms.
There's some deft touches of humour notably a reference to an octopus in St Helens.
No spoiler here - you would have to see it so Mat can explain.
Paislie has perfect timing when delivering some heart-felt moments of reflection.
You really do care about the vulnerable Mat. You want to give her a hug.
Director Kate Treadell and set designer Ellie Light keep our attention focused on the dialogue with striking snow-like imagery used during some scenes.
Writer Julia dedicates this new work to 'every family who has experience of the UK's care system.'
While Everyman creative director Nathan Powell welcomes its humanity, honesty and boldness.
Attachment is a welcome piece of modern-day theatre.
Home-grown talent really is coming home.
The production is on until Saturday, June 13, there is a post-show discussion on Wednesday June 10.
VERDICT: A Liverpool love story - 5 Stars
Tickets from everymanplayhouse.com or 0151 709 4776
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