The Choir of Man ★★★★ Arts Theatre | Oct 29, 2021 - Feb 13, 2022


A night in the pub! How long has it been? Here's that thoroughly entertaining evening out that we've all been missing. Even before the show starts the cast go out of their way to welcome us into the world of "The Jungle," the local that they all frequent. Mingling with the audience and sharing a pint, we were all in the mood for a night of fun before the first song had even been sung. And when the music did begin, we were transported to one of our best pub nights ever. The nine principals who all assume the personae of different, but immediately familiar, public house denizens really created a wonderful atmosphere. The powerful singing and slick choreography brought new life to great favourites like "Chandelier," "The Impossible Dream," and "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover." The score went remarkably from Adele to Guns N' Roses, and it all works. For us, standout moments were Mark Loveday's "Somebody to Love" and the tap dancing sequence of Freddie Huddleston. Ben Norris' monologues tie the show together, differentiating the members of the choir and meditating on the importance of the pub as a space which can foster cohesion, camaraderie and compassion. Whatever pub you frequent, you couldn't have a better night out, with a nicer and more talented group of men, than the evening we enjoyed on our visit to 'The Jungle.'

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Helen Maybanks.

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When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: 6-7 Great Newport St, London WC2H 7JB, UK

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