All Things Gee

Hey my loves,

Today’s post is for the theatre lovers, the undecided fans of theatre and to be honest I feel like this show would also attract my book tok peoples (Keep reading… it will make sense.) Today we are reviewing The Choir of Man… Grab your favourite drink and let’s get started.

So on the 21st of June a day after my 26 birthday we were lucky enough to get tickets to The Choir of Man which in itself had been on my must watch list. We loved it so much we went back to see the evening show. Two weeks later I gathered my best friend and took her to see it to.

We loved it. So much so one I desperately feel the need to talk and shout about it to everyone in my life, but especially you guys. Now strap yourself in because this review will be a mixture of both days that I saw it because THE CAST IS SO BLOODY TALENTED, they all need a mention.

Synopsis:

Welcome to THE CHOIR OF MAN, the best pub in the world… Come ready to drink in the excitement!

Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry to name but a few, this is a pub like no other! A wildly talented group of incredible instrumentalists, world-class wordsmiths, and sensational singers; this cast of nine (extra)ordinary guys serve it all… live!

An uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome. It’s 90 minutes of feel-good, foot-stomping entertainment unlike anything else in the West End.

Produced by Immersive Everywhere, Nic Doodson, Andrew Kay, Wendy & Andy Barnes and AK Theatricals.

My Thoughts:

Where to start… The Choir of Man… the local you never knew you needed but knew it immediately felt like home.

Picture this… A cosy little pub named The Jungle. A group of incredibly talented and genuinely lovely men. There is a whole lot of heart and soul. All in one place. This show is perfect for anyone wanting 90 minutes of joy and fun with no distractions. It is like sharing a room with all your favourite people.

The moment you walk into the theatre (the arts theatre in the west end), you’re greeted by a set that’s straight out of your favorite local pub. Not only does it look and feel like a traditional local… IT HAS A WORKING BAR. It’s warm, inviting, and the perfect setting for what’s to come.

The cast, a lively bunch of nine, make you feel right at home. They’re not just performers; they’re your friends for the evening, sharing stories, jokes, and, most importantly, some amazing music. Both times we had the pleasure of Sam our poet introducing us to The Jungle and the other lads… His voice is insane. His sense of humour and the way he grabs your attention make you chuckle along as if you have known them for ages. He also draws a couple of tears when he talks you through their stories and what home means to them.

Barman:

Mark/Niall we were lucky enough to see two separate people play the bartender. Each put their own stamp on the role. Both leaving us laughing a lot.

Niall’s voice is unreal… during the ending of somebody to love, the crowd was electric in joy and appreciation for his high notes. The only way to describe Niall’s personality as the bartender is cheeky. Let’s be honest, this is why we love him.

Marks barman was the first person we saw grace the stage on our first time seeing the show. I say we… I mean mum who proceeded to punch me in the arm because he had tattoos and is Irish. (Don’t ask) but his performance of the pina colada song without giving too many spoilers (YOU HAVE TO SEE IT FOR YOURSELF) had us smiling and laughing so much our jaws ached. Niall Horan fans will be excited. I know because I screamed it too. He is from the same place as him. That’s all.

The Romantic:

Luke (The romantic) well it’s safe to say our interaction started in the audience of the matinee show. You see, Luke kindly decided to come and see how we were doing. Quite frankly, I must have looked like a deer in headlights. He said, and I quote, ‘you look really scared.’ Now to note there is absolutely no need to be scared of the cast… I am just awkward with a resting b*tch face. Not scared of him at all but utterly in awe of his voice. He comes across as the world’s most lovely human. He also has the voice of an angel (I WILL HEAR NO DIFFERENT).

Beast:

Played by Rob, how would we describe him other than the worlds most friendly looking ‘beast’ to have ever existed. But his voice is something else. He not only has a charming presence on stage, but his voice will also have you mesmerized. Also if you left your checked shirt obsession behind… it will come around again. Also for those who are on book tok (I know a lot of you are) think lumberjack that sings vibes.

Bore:

We had the pleasure of seeing both Olugbenga and Richard play the bore. Wow, what a powerhouse they both are. They sing one of my all time favourite songs. This song will always bring a tear to my eye. They sing it so well the entire audience fell silent. This was during a little comedic section that had us all chuckling seconds before.

Hardman:

Adam and Seán. Again incredibly lucky to see them both as the hardman and quite frankly we love them. I am not sure that anyone else on the planet could pull of double denim as much as them both. As with the rest of the cast… their voices… INCREDIBLE.

Joker:

Sam Pope plays our joker and let’s be real its a role he plays incredibly well and he is based in Hove (I’m just saying bonus points.) If you want to laugh until you cry his character gives you this in abundance. And if you’re lucky you also get attacked by exploding crisps (pretty sure he couldn’t do this again if he tried).

Maestro:

Now listen… the sass on this man is unmatched and WE LOVE IT. Not only does he have an incredible voice but he plays the piano like a damn angel and I cannot/ do not have the words to describe how incredibly talented he is. I also am a little bit obsessed with the sass he throws during one of the scenes.

Handyman:

Again we were incredibly lucky to see both Ben and Niall in this role. The handyman role is one that you cannot help but love, especially when described as the person therefore everyone. Without spoiling too much there is a scene about the importance of also being there for those there for everyone else and it is amazing. It features some tap dancing that if we are being honest… just incredibly cool.

I could sit and forever talk about the cast individually but we would be here forever! When I tell you there is something for everyone, there is something for everyone. I am not sure its normal to be in love with an entire show cast but The Choir of Man is our exception because you cannot help but fall in love with every single one of them.

Music:

Now, let’s talk music. The show is a fantastic blend of classic rock, folk, pub anthems, and even some pop. From Queen to Adele, they’ve got it all covered. And these guys can sing! Each one of them brings something unique to the table, whether it’s a powerful solo or harmonizing with the group. Their voices blend beautifully, and the arrangements are fresh and exciting.

But The Choir of Man isn’t just about the music. It’s about camaraderie, community, and the simple joys of life. Between songs, the guys share personal stories and humorous anecdotes that give you a glimpse into their world. There’s a lovely balance of laughter, sentimentality, and sheer exuberance that keeps you engaged throughout.

One of the highlights for me was their rendition of Sia’s “Chandelier.” It’s a song we’ve all heard a million times, but they managed to give it new life with a soulful, acoustic twist that gave me chills. And just when you think they’ve hit the peak, they pull out another surprise that leaves you grinning from ear to ear. Luke your high note here INSANE.

Overall:

The energy in the room is infectious. You’ll find yourself clapping along, tapping your feet, and maybe even singing out loud (don’t worry, no one will judge you!). Just remember to use your inside voice.

And just like in any good pub, there’s a bit of audience interaction. It’s all done in good fun and adds to the overall sense of inclusivity that makes this show so special. Whilst I would like to tell you about my favourite audience interaction I really don’t want to spoil the show for you. Take my word for it and go grab a ticket!

A lady I was sat next to had been to see the show 23 times… Challenge accepted! And obviously I need to collect a few more photos.

It has to be mentioned that whilst this show is 90 minutes of fun and laughter, it also has its charity aspect. Supporting the amazing charity CALM who provide support to those who need it.

Star Rating:

The Choir of Man is more than just a performance; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder of the joy of music, the strength of friendship, and the power of a shared moment. So, grab your friends, get yourself a ticket, and prepare for a night that’s as heartwarming as it is entertaining. Trust me, you’ll leave with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. Or stuck in your head for the foreseeable future.

Until the next visit (I am already looking) Welcome to the Jungle!

Love Always,

Gee xoxo