Best of the West End at theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall Review
Best of the West End Musicals is a new production at this year’s Fringe, inviting audiences to celebrate some of the world’s most-loved musical numbers. From heartfelt ballads, soaring duets to iconic finales, this show promises a night of glitz, glamour and theatrical flair.
Unlike concerts which simply present their chosen show tunes with little to no context, Best of the West End Musicals offers a fun framing device- pairing different combinations of songs to meet a specific theme, and letting audiences vote for their favourite song from each round. The show opened with two golden age musicals, Funny Girl and The Sound of Music, before entering the battle of the cockney accents- My Fair Lady vs Oliver! As the performance continued, this unique structure allowed a wide range of shows to be covered, including Phantom of the Opera, Come From Away and Mamma Mia. The audience clearly loved it- cheering, clapping and even singing along (which was highly encouraged by the performers). I’m sure that the responses to each vote vary quite significantly from night to night, ensuring that the show remains fresh each time and giving the performers more opportunities to build up rapport with the crowd.
Though the premise and setlist are thoroughly enjoyable, the show would not be possible without its two performers. Jasmine Alice and Sarah Alexandra Brown work brilliantly together to make each song look effortless, showcasing polished vocals and performing these huge musical numbers with ease. Though the show is scripted, there is a level of natural banter and spontaneity that flows throughout. It was clear that the performers completely admire and respect each other- and it made perfect sense when they explained that they are also involved in another show together (Nearlyweds - The Musical at Venue 45). It was a fitting end to the evening to perform a number from their new show, and showing that Fringe is simultaneously about supporting new work and paying homage to existing shows.
For a fan of musical theatre, this show is an absolute must-see. Many performances are now sold out, and I can only hope that the show returns next Fringe. Given the right space, I could absolutely see this production being scaled up- a longer run time; more props and costumes; and even more battles of the show tunes.
Best of the West End Musicals runs until Saturday 29th August at theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall (Venue 53)
★★★★
Written by Jacqueline for Theatre and Tonic, August 2026.
