Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of The Dubliners ★★★★ Dominion Theatre | March 23, 2025


Taking their name from the short story collection by James Joyce, The Dubliners were an Irish folk band which first came together in 1962 under the name The Ronnie Drew Ballad Group. They then went on to gain worldwide popularity, becoming legends in their home country and beloved everywhere. With various personnel changes, the band went on for an astonishing fifty years, giving its final concerts in 2012. This tribute show is a celebration of the band which became an Irish institution, and it is a rousing evening of nostalgia led by Ged Graham and featuring his grandson, Adam Evans. For the uninitiated, Graham walks the audience through the story of The Dubliners and also delivers some lovely musical moments. In contrast to some of his fellow performers, his enunciation is always clear and his voice has a trained quality. However, to be completely fair, it must be said that this isn't really an evening that is intended to display impeccable vocal skills, although some fine musicianship is on display. The atmosphere intended and the environment created is that of a singalong in an Irish pub. The majority of the audience know the words and happily join in to the familiar tunes. From the opening number, "The Black Velvet Band," through The Dubliners' humorous signature piece, "Seven Drunken Nights," to the roaring conclusion of "Molly Malone," this is an evening of camaraderie and good cheer, and the group succeed quite wonderfully in creating a feeling of pub-like intimacy in a theatrical setting. The show completely captures the spirit of The Dubliners and that of the nation they so brilliantly represented.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Prestige Productions

When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: 268-269 Tottenham Ct Rd, London W1T 7AQ, UK

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