The Shark Is Broken, which I caught (pun intended) out on tour at The Everyman, Cheltenham, is an absolute must-see for Jaws fans or anyone who loves a great night at the theatre.
From the moment the play starts, you’re pulled into the world of the film with the iconic boat interior set. The screens behind the actors aren’t just for decoration—they’re used a clever way to show the passing of time and the change in weather and other details that really enhance the atmosphere.
The opening with the classic Jaws theme tune hits you with that perfect sense of nostalgia, setting the tone for what’s to come.
From there, the play just builds, keeping you hooked through the entire performance.
The cast was spot on. Ian Shaw, playing his father Robert Shaw, brought real emotional depth to the role, capturing both the humor and the complexity of his character.
Dan Fredenburgh and Ashley Margolis also nailed their roles as Roy Scheider and Richard Dreyfuss, giving performances that felt genuine and full of heart.
They all looked the part, and their chemistry together was fantastic, making the whole behind-the-scenes vibe of Jaws feel incredibly authentic.
One of my favorite things was how each character had a chance to do a bit of a set piece, which allowed them to show off their talents and added another layer of fun to the show.
What really stood out was how the play balanced all the parts that made this show so good.
It’s part comedy, part biopic, and part history lesson, and it’s done in a way that keeps things light and fun, but still offers insight into what went on behind the scenes during the making of Jaws.
The play never takes itself too seriously, which is part of its charm—it pokes fun at itself while still giving you a deeper understanding of the problems they had with the film and the actors who brought it to life.
The pacing was spot on. With just three actors and one set, it could have got boring or felt repetitive, but the direction and timing kept everything moving smoothly. There was never a moment where I felt bored or disconnected from what was happening on stage, and it really did capture the spirit of Jaws while giving us a fun and interesting peek behind the curtain.
If you get the chance, The Shark Is Broken is definitely worth seeing as it tours the UK. Whether you’re a die-hard Jaws fan or just someone looking for an entertaining night out, this play has a little bit of everything – great performances, humor, insight, and of course, a touch of nostalgia for anyone who’s seen the iconic film.
Catch The Shark Is Broken at Everyman Cheltenham until 26th April
