Shantify | Underbelly Boulevard Soho

Shantify, which was developed in 2021 as an online chorus of West End performers singing popular songs from musicals and mainstream music in a sea shanty style, has grown over the years into a fully fledged show. Having delighted audiences twice at the Edinburgh Fringe and currently on a UK tour, Shantify has found itself a niche following for fans of musical theatre. Shantify, with its close knit brotherhood of six cast members and unique renditions of well known songs, draws comparisons with a similar beloved musical, The Choir Of Man, yet the musical style is more akin to the critically acclaimed The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. 

Shantify's success comes from its gorgeous musical arrangements by Ashley Jacobs and Harry Style, who are co-musical directors and arrangers; capturing the sense of freedom and love in their songs. The show leaves no genre untouched; with a grand compilation including 9-5, Teenage Dirtbag, Hamilton, Man in the Mirror, SIX, Crazy In Love, Anything Goes and much, much more.

It's a gorgeous, spine tingling evening of musical theatre that feels richly moving and ethereal in its grandeur; whilst also bringing a joyful rhythm that has the audience clapping and head-bopping along with the cast. Chris Hall's choreography allows the performers to use the most of the intimate space, often splitting them into pairs to create smaller moments of synchronisation. Hall's choreography adds a lovely visual element to the show; yet never distracts when the song calls for a more still and sombre moment; yet always allows for a dramatic pose to be struck for the audience applause. 

Shantify's creator and director Jo Parsons brings out the heart and warmth in the cast as they have a real sense of brotherhood with one another, and bravado on stage. Parsons keeps the show feeling lively and anchored in its emotional depth even when the book falters, allowing audiences to connect with the characters. Aptly for this show, Parsons emphasises having a good time, both for the cast and the audience, allowing for a much more relaxed and informal approach to guide the show, allowing it to feel like a jam session with friends, especially in the second act. 

Emily Wood has been brought in as the book writer, and unfortunately this is where the otherwise mighty show slightly begins to sink. Perhaps wishing to be further developed into a more traditional musical, there is an attempt to shoe-horn a narrative into the show, that already has its hands full with hit song after hit song. The first fifty minutes tries to not only introduce six characters with their own lives and dreams, but introduce an overarching story about community, duty and family.

This premise is interesting, especially as it draws on Wood's personal experiences growing up in a seaside community, especially as the men are all RNLI volunteers and this clashes with Jack's dream to find fame as a performer. This is weighed down by the songs that don't take themselves seriously and a good chunk of the show including audience participation, almost dissolving the story entirely. The plot is resolved with little to no real stake or depth, before being completely abandoned in act two for a more "gig-like" set as comeback of the Barnacle Brothers. 

Richard Williamson's lighting design provides much of the show's atmosphere, with an impressive ability to change from a warm and cosy town, to a small pub gig, to a storm complete with thunder and lightning. 

Michael Riseley, described in the show as "the songbird of their generation" delights with sweeping vocals and a clarity that is deeply evocative. Joe Bishop is a steady presence with his own powerful vocals and warm stage presence. Alfie French adds a sense of gravitas with his impressive vocals and mischievous charm. Ollie Wray brings a standout sense of cheeky charisma to the stage, with a wonderfully dramatic performance and excellent vocals. Cal T King's deep voice provides a mesmerising quality to the songs, along with a heartfelt performance that draws audiences in. 

Jack Whittle makes himself the glistening pearl of the show with a fantastic performance. Whittle's performance is endearing as he brings a perfect mix of friendship, love and loyalty to Jack who's torn between his future and his present; winning audiences over quickly. Whittle's commitment to the role renders his performance magnetic, bringing his triple threat talent to the foreground (perhaps unintentionally stealing the show). 

Shantify is a highly enjoyable night out at the theatre, especially for those who want to witness first class vocals, wonderful songs and a real sense of friendship and community.

Shantify is currently playing at the Underbelly Boulevard Soho until 14th June - tickets and more information can be found here. 

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Danny Kaan