Bad Girls - The Musical

SWAMP (South West Amateur Musical Productions) has once again proven that community theatre can pack a powerful punch with their latest production, Bad Girls: The Musical. Based on the acclaimed ITV drama series, this bold, high-energy show delves into life behind bars at Larkhall Women’s Prison and explores themes of justice, identity, and redemption with both grit and heart. Directed with flair, this production confidently walks the line between the dark realities of prison life and the emotional, often humorous, moments of hope and humanity that emerge amid adversity. The staging is clean and effective, using minimal set pieces and clever lighting. 

From the opening number, “I Shouldn’t Be Here,” the audience is immersed in a world brimming with conflict, tension, and female solidarity. The ensemble delivers strong, consistent performances throughout, with standout turns from several principal cast members. Shell Dockley (Justine Davies) is brought to life with unnerving charisma and volatility, her presence electric and unpredictable. In contrast, Nikki Wade (Emily Kelly) provides the show’s emotional anchor—her vulnerability and strength portrayed with quiet dignity and a beautifully nuanced vocal performance. Helen Stewart (Rebecca Lewis), the prison’s progressive wing governor, is another highlight, offering a measured, empathetic portrayal that balances authority with compassion. The chemistry between Helen and Nikki creates one of the production’s most tender and compelling subplots. The villain in this musical is of course Jim Fenner (Dafydd Matthewa-Williams, played very well, retaining that memory we all have of the TV Character, his slimy ways and disgusting actions. 

Yvonne Atkins (Kim Darkin) and Denny Blood (Perri Price) both bring energy and attitude to the stage, while Sylvia “Bodybag” Hollamby (Catherine Joyce) steals several scenes with her sharp comedic timing and perfectly judged disapproval. The entire cast works together with a cohesion and energy that keeps the pacing taut and the tension palpable. Kath Gotts’ score is a diverse mix of punchy ensemble numbers and moving solos. Songs like “All Banged Up,” “Freedom Road,” and “Guardian Angel” allow the cast to shine vocally and emotionally. The live band provides strong musical support, never overpowering the vocals and helping to maintain the show’s momentum. Any musical has great one liners and I have to say that my many laugh out loud moments came from Jodie Baker who played Noreen Biggs. Jodie has impeccable comic timing and always delivers, no matter what role she plays. Congratulations to all the cast, ensemble and band for delivering a musical rarely performed and one that I have never seen before which is a rarity. 

Technically, the production is polished although I did feel that some of the scene changes could have been smoother, but I am confident that this would have been the case on the second show. Lighting changes are used effectively to heighten drama and create emotional focus, while costuming authentically reflects the institutional setting. Sound was largely clear, with only minor issues quickly corrected. SWAMP’s Bad Girls is a well-executed musical—it’s a fearless, thought-provoking production that shines a light on women often pushed to the margins. It challenges its audience to consider how society treats the vulnerable and incarcerated, and it does so with humour, compassion, and courage.

Congratulations SWAMP, I look forward to seeing your next production. 

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