The Choir of Man | Storyhouse Chester

There are few shows that offer the theatrical experience that The Choir of Man does, combining live music with dance, audience participation, comedy and an on-stage working bar to create a joyous and uplifting celebration of friendship, the power of music and a sense of community which can all be found in the local pub.

Since it first graced the stage at the Edinburgh Fringe back in 2017, The Choir of Man has embarked on quite the journey, from an incredibly successful run in London's West End to countless tours in the United States, Australia, Europe and the Norwegian Cruise Line to name but a few; proving that sometimes the simplest of ideas can grow into something incredibly special and heartfelt.

Created by Nic Doodson and Andrew Kay, rather than presented as a linear storyline or plot, we are introduced to an array of likely characters that we may find in the local; with each 'character' having their moment in the spotlight to tell their story in the form of music and dance. What makes this show stand apart is the way in which each of the character's own personalities and stories are infused with their character type. Ben Norris' monologues are beautifully written and ensures that amongst all the uplifting fun, that there is still acknowledgment of recognising the importance of mental health, particularly in men.

Where the show succeeds is the way in the sense of community is built almost instantly as you enter the auditorium. Oli Townsend's design transports you into a traditional pub where audience members are invited on the stage to buy a pint of beer and mingle amongst each other as well as the cast. Freddie Huddleston's choreography seamlessly incorporates the appearance of spontaneous pub antics, but it's Jack Skelton's tap dance that becomes the highlight choreography of the show.

Jack Blume as music supervisor, vocal arranger and orchestrator ensures that the music really is the driving force of the production, and audiences can delight in an eclectic soundtrack spanning artists from Queen, Adele, Sia, Avicii and many more. Vocally, the company are outstanding, with harmonies proving the tight-knit ensemble that has been created and impressive musicianship, often jumping between various different instruments.

At the heart of the show is the incredible cast. Oluwalonimi (Nimi) Owoyemi takes on the role of The Poet with an endearing and cheeky charm that has audiences on side instantly. Ben Mabberley's dry take on The Joker is refreshing and Gustav Melbardis is hilarious as Maestro, meeting the geared up audience with his own fire and sass. Aaron Pottenger as The Bore is anything but, providing some great moments of physical comedy with just a certain glance or facial expression.

Rob Godfrey's rendition of Katy Perry's Teenage Dream and Sam Walter's Hello by Adele are beautiful and give the show the breathing space it needs. Joshua Lloyd's effortless quality allows him to move comfortably between moments of comedy and storytelling through song. Levi Tyrell Johnson's powerful vocals make him a particular standout during the show's larger musical moments. Skelton also deserves an honourable mention for the natural rapport he builds with the audience, ensuring that everyone is having a great time.

Having seen the show on the West End, if there's one slight criticism to be made, it's that unfortunately the recognition of the importance of men speaking out when struggling with mental health seems to be lost in translation on this tour. It's difficult to pinpoint why, perhaps the larger venue and staging diminishes the sense of intimacy, or the fact that the audience are highly geared up to have a good evening (which is apparent in the most receptive Tuesday evening audience ever witnessed). An added interval encourages buying more beer from the on-stage pub and having singalong with the cast, which causes the show to stay at a complete high throughout. This means that the moments of contemplation through Norris' monologues don't always land as well as they should or leave much food for thought. And this is in no way a reflection on the cast or the show itself, and if you've come expecting an incredibly entertaining evening at the theatre, then The Choir of Man more than hits the mark.

The Choir of Man provides a feel-good night out in every sense, and it's easy to see why audiences respond so well to it each night. The show is built around atmosphere and connect; it's joyous, energetic

The Choir of Man plays at the Storyhouse in Chester until Saturday 22nd August - tickets and more information can be found here.

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Mark Senior