From the Heart ★★★★ Garrick Theatre | October 8 - 18, 2026


According to a well-known anecdote, Dorothy Hammerstein once overheard someone praising Jerome Kern for writing ‘Ol’ Man River’, the famous song from the 1927 musical Show Boat. Kern had composed the music, while her husband, Oscar, had written the lyrics. Mrs Hammerstein reportedly intervened, saying, “Jerome Kern wrote ‘dum, dum, dum-dum’. My husband wrote ‘Ol’ Man River’.” From the Heart celebrates the art of the lyricist, and Don Black is pre-eminent in his field. His writing ranges from witty to wistful, combining incisive satire with emotional insight. His lyrics capture the mood of a melody, giving voice to our feelings and shifting the emotional register in an instant. Although Black has worked with some of the finest composers, this is unmistakably the lyricist’s evening. Evoking the atmosphere of one of New York City’s wonderful after-hours cabaret clubs, the programme features familiar hits such as ‘To Sir with Love’, ‘Tell Me on a Sunday’ and ‘Born Free’, alongside the Bond themes ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ and ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’. There are also lesser-known songs that deserve a wider audience, and the talented cast of Frances Mayli McCann, Shona McGarty, Caroline O’Connor, Clive Rowe and Michael D. Xavier deliver each number with great skill. They move effortlessly from the comedy of ‘Doctors’ to the poignancy of ‘I’d Go to Bed Earlier’. The lively duet ‘Fizzy or Still’, the excellent ensemble number ‘Straight Men’ and terrific solo performances such as ‘Unhealable’ and ‘How Do You Fall Out of Love?’ further showcase their extraordinary range. On the night we attended, Michael Ball also made a special guest appearance, bringing the house down with his rendition of ‘Love Changes Everything’. There isn’t a weak moment in the show, and the performers articulate Black’s lyrics beautifully, giving each word its full weight and drawing out every nuance. Ultimately, From the Heart is a musical journey that celebrates the lyricist’s craft while reminding us how words and music become woven into our lives, helping us make sense of our experiences and understand ourselves.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Eamonn B Shanahan

When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: 2 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0HH, UK

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