Reviewed by Amelia
Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review.
The Choir of Man originally premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017, with the show quickly gaining popularity and touring internationally, stopping in the West End, North America, Australia, and on cruise ships. Created by Nic Doodson and Andrew Kay, the show is a feel-good pub story combining live music, fun narratives, and dance, to create one of the best night outs currently on the West End. Following a recent extension to the 4th of January at the Arts Theatre, the production has also announced its very first UK national tour beginning on the 14th of March at the New Wimbledon Theatre. As the closing cast on the West End celebrate the prestigious 4 year London run, let’s delve into why this little Fringe gem has become the diamond it was always meant to be.
 |
| Previous 2025 Cast. Photo by Mark Douet |
Heading to the pub is perhaps one of the most universally relatable experiences, and The Choir of Man captures that spirit perfectly — especially when audience members can actually enjoy a pint on stage. Blending heartfelt explorations of men’s mental health and friendship with feel-good energy, it’s no wonder this show has become such a hit. Since its Fringe beginnings, this musical has been charming audiences of all kinds. Whether you’re dancing along to The Pina Colada Song, feeling the emotion of Adele, or drumming your glass to Some Nights, this production is pure crowd-pleasing joy.
This new cast, consisting of Levi Tyrell Johnson, Jason Brock, Ben Goffe, Oliver Jacobson, Cal T King, Benji Lord, Paul McArthur, Aled Pennock, and Alex Mallalieu, is as amazing as ever. The cast feel like lifelong friends, effortlessly reflecting the kind of connections you build in your local. Each has their own story to tell, and every one of them gets their well-deserved moment in the spotlight. Standout moments came from Ben Goffe’s sensational tapping, Jason Brock’s rendition of ‘Hello’ and of course, the glass smashing choreography towards the end of the show.
 |
| Previous 2025 Cast. Photo by Mark Douet |
Each actor demonstrates impressive versatility as a multi-instrumentalist, consistently surprising the audience with their range and skill. The strength of this ensemble lies in their unity, as their shared connection fuels performances of a very high standard. The show stands as proof that friendship and togetherness can carry you through anything. Championing this is the shows running partnership with CALM, which is a UK-based mental health charity focused on preventing suicide and offering support to anyone in crisis or struggling with their mental health. You can donate through their website or via the QR code displayed around the Arts Theatre.
The Choir of Man staging does all the talking here; it doesn’t need any flashy tricks or effects to fit the story. The flow between songs is effortless, and the choreography, though simple, suits the setting perfectly and keeps everything feeling authentic. The whole creative team have mastered the feel of the show within all the choices made, and I can’t wait to see how it translates on the UK tour. I sincerely encourage you to grab tickets to whatever spot you can, whether that West End or across the country, and bring all of your friends! Who knows, next time you’re at your local, you might wanna whack out your tap shoes and trumpet as well?!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Choir of Man plays at the Arts Theatre until the 4th of January 2026, before heading out on their afore mentioned UK tour. Visit https://thechoirofman.com/ for tickets and for UK tour dates.
 |
| Previous 2025 Cast. Photo by Mark Douet. |
Post a Comment