The Choir of Man at Arts Theatre Review (2025)
Production photographs by Mark Douet.
Written by Philip for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
‘The Choir of Man’ continues its triumphant run at London’s Arts Theatre, having first won hearts at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017. Now in its third West End season, the show — conceived by Nic Doodson and Andrew Kay — has evolved into a global phenomenon. Blending jukebox musical flair with spoken word and poetry by Ben Norris, it offers something rare in contemporary theatre: heartfelt storytelling wrapped in song, laughter, and raw honesty.
From the moment you enter, you’re transported to ‘The Jungle’ — a fully realised pub set on stage, complete with a working bar where the cast serve pints and engage with the audience. This immersive touch immediately sets the tone: warm, communal, and disarmingly authentic. The pub becomes both literal and metaphorical — a safe space where nine men share their stories, fears, and vulnerabilities, often through music that is both familiar and reimagined.
At its core, ‘The Choir of Man’ is a profound exploration of male identity and mental health. Through the lens of nine archetypes — the Hardman, the Bore, the Romantic, the Barman, and others — the show examines the societal labels men are often given and gracefully subverts them. Each character, brought vividly to life by the performers, becomes a layered, fully human figure. The cast not only embodies these roles but also infuses them with personal authenticity, breaking down barriers and inviting us to see beyond the stereotypes.
The performances are uniformly exceptional. Vocally, the cast are nothing short of phenomenal, with harmonies that are intricately arranged and flawlessly executed. Jack Blume’s vocal arrangements shine throughout — from completely reworked renditions to subtly enhanced versions that elevate familiar songs with emotional depth.
The ensemble on this particular evening featured Levi Tyrell Johnson as the Hardman, Ben Goffe as the Handyman, Jason Brock as the Romantic, Oliver Jacobson as the Barman, Cal T King as the Beast, Benji Lord as the Joker, Aled Pennock as the Bore, swing Alex Mallalieu as the Maestro, and Paul McArthur as the Poet. Each performer commanded their moment in the spotlight — whether through powerhouse vocals, masterful musicianship, or, in Goffe’s case, a show-stopping tap routine.
Among the evening’s musical highlights were soaring takes on Adele’s Hello and Fun.’s Some Nights, but the emotional centrepiece was undeniably Dance With My Father by Luther Vandross, led with aching vulnerability by Paul McArthur. It was a hauntingly beautiful moment that left much of the audience visibly moved — a powerful reminder of the show’s emotional depth beneath the camaraderie and pub banter.
Visually, the production is equally compelling. Oli Townsend’s design transforms the stage into a space that feels lived-in and loved — stained glass windows, worn wood, and a working beer tap add to the authenticity. This isn’t just a backdrop, it’s a character in itself — a symbol of comfort, connection, and community.
And that is ultimately what The Choir of Man captures so perfectly: the power of community. In a time when mental health challenges claim lives every 90 minutes, the show delivers a vital message — that connection, vulnerability, and shared experience are not only healing but essential. Whether it’s in a pub, a theatre, or among strangers-turned-friends, we all need a place to feel seen and heard.
The Choir of Man is a joyous, cathartic celebration of music, masculinity, and the magic that happens when we truly open up. Don’t miss it!
The Choir of Man runs at the Arts Theatre until 4th January 2026 before embarking on a UK tour.
★★★★
