Read the opening night reviews from Whats On Stage here and from City Life here.

The award-winning Middle Ground Theatre Company bring their highly acclaimed production of The Holly and the Ivy to The Lowry.

Set in a Norfolk vicarage on Christmas Eve 1947, the vicar’s family gather for the festive season. Peace and goodwill radiates from the warm-hearted elderly vicar, cared for by his young daughter. But with the arrival of two irritable aunts and an errant daughter, the emotional veneer is skilfully peeled away. As skeletons tumble from closets and stones are turned over, family members are forced to confront their regrets and secret anxieties. Even the lovable vicar is not immune to the stresses and strains of a normal family life.

This atmospheric and absorbing human story, which stars that doyen of Welsh actors Philip Madoc along with Tom Butcher (The Bill, Doctors), Zoie Kennedy (The Royal) and Corrinne Wicks (Doctors), is a perfect Winter warmer.

Read an interview with Welsh actor Philip Madoc in Theatre Reviews here.

View our gallery of stills.


‘Profoundly moving…marvelous.’ ***** Whatsonstage.com

‘Brilliant performances…first rate cast…here is theatre at its best.’ BBC Nottingham

‘Charming example of classic theatrical values…beautifully structured…superb.’ The Birmingham Post

‘Middle Ground Theatre Company’s impressive production of this richly narrative piece captures the period beautifully, with its finely detailed set and terrific character acting.’ Birmingham Express Star

Tue 17 February, vs. Fulham, 8pm kick-off.
Sat 21 February, vs. Blackburn, 5.30pm kick-off.