The Choir of Man. The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham.
What started out as a fringe show in Edinburgh has now played all over the world and is now a major tour.
The Choir Man is set in the local pub (“The Jungle”) and we are welcomed there by the locals for a night out. We are introduced to the regulars, hear stories about the community, and are treated to a playlist of contemporary songs (the opening number is the apt “Welcome to the Jungle”). Real crowd-pleasing songs. A highlight is a stunning accapella version of Sia’s Chandelier.
There are not “pub” performances however. There are outstanding vocals, sensational harmonies, and fantastic choreography (including a fantastic tap solo) performed by an extremely talent cast of nine actors/singers/dancers/musicians.
It’s a relatively simple premise (it’s basically a night in a pub) but it’s absolutely genius. It ticks all the boxes of entertainment and is thoroughly relatable. I challenge you to have a better time. The audience lapped up every second. An absolute gem of a show.
It’s also interactive. The audience are included at every step. Some are even invited onstage to join the cast in the pub for a song and a pint ( a lovely touch).
A standout highlight was a moment where a local choir (Got 2 Sing) was invited in advance (something that must happen regularly on tour dates) to sing a reprise of Chandelier with the cast from the audience. Over 200 of then were there and it sounded absolutely stunning. A real goosebumps moment.
Such a special show. Full of warmth, fun, and joy.
The most fun you’ll ever have. Absolutely joyous.
5 stars. The best night out at the pub EVER.
