Review: The Shark is Broken at LOWRY is full of ‘humour, nostalgia and wit’

The open ocean, 1974. Filming is delayed—again. The lead actors—seasoned theatre veteran Robert Shaw and young Hollywood hotshots Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider—are crammed into a too-small boat, entirely at the mercy of foul weather and a faulty mechanical co-star.

Alcohol flows, egos collide, and tempers flare on a chaotic voyage that just might lead to cinematic magic.

The Shark is Broken

The Shark is Broken is a fascinating and entertaining take on the making of Jaws and how a malfunctioning robotic shark became an icon. The play brilliantly captures the tension, humour, and camaraderie between Shaw, Dreyfuss, and Scheider as they navigate the frustrations of being stranded at sea with little to do but wait, argue and bond.

The stage is set as the infamous boat, the Orca, complete with three screens behind it displaying a constant rolling ocean, effectively immersing the audience in the setting. The screens are bordered by a film reel design—an excellent touch by Duncan Henderson, whose production design successfully brings the ocean to the stage.

Ian Shaw delivers a phenomenal performance as Robert Shaw

Ian Shaw delivers a phenomenal performance as his late father, Robert Shaw, bringing both gravitas and wit to the role. As co-writer alongside Joseph Nixon, Shaw ensures the dialogue flows naturally, capturing the era’s language and the actors’ personalities with remarkable authenticity.

“You’re gonna need a bigger boat”

Dan Fredenburgh impresses as Roy Scheider, the man behind the iconic line, “You’re gonna need a bigger boat.” His resemblance to Scheider is striking, and his vocal delivery further enhances the authenticity of his performance.

Ashley Margolis takes on the role of Richard Dreyfuss with infectious energy, perfectly capturing the young actor’s enthusiasm and frustration. His dynamic with Shaw’s character adds a compelling layer to the story, highlighting the tensions and friendships that shaped the making of Jaws.

Each actor successfully brings their real-life counterparts to the stage, making it feel as though the audience is witnessing the actual behind-the-scenes drama unfold in real time. The attention to detail in both appearance and mannerisms is exceptional, adding depth and credibility to the performances.

What makes The Shark is Broken truly special is its ability to blend humour, nostalgia, and insight into a seamless theatrical experience. The witty script, engaging performances, and immersive set design create a captivating production that movie lovers and theatre enthusiasts alike will enjoy.

The Shark is Broken at LOWRY

The Shark is Broken is playing at The Lowry until February 8th.