With crowd-pleasing songs and an infectious pub atmosphere, THE CHOIR OF MAN is a lively, feel-good celebration of friendship and community.
Grab your dancing shoes, a packet of peanuts, and get the drinks in. The Olivier-nominated CHOIR OF MAN has arrived in Manchester, and it’s bringing the pub with it.
When I first heard about a musical based on the antics of a group of male pub regulars, I’ll admit I wasn’t immediately sold. It didn’t exactly scream “must-see theatre.” But after a quick look at social media clips and online buzz, my curiosity got the better of me, and I’m glad it did.
Created by Nic Doodson and Andrew Kay, CHOIR OF MAN is set in the fictional pub “The Jungle”, a direct reference to the Guns N’ Roses hit that welcomes audiences into the show. The production blends well-known songs from rock, pop, and folk with poetry and choreography, as the small but talented cast share heartfelt stories about friendship, community, and everyday life.
The show first premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017, where it quickly became a standout hit thanks to its unique concept and infectious energy. The idea is simple. Instead of a darts team or dominoes league, the pub has a choir, and the guys come together to sing. For one night, the theatre audience becomes the pub locals.
With the stage acting as a real-life bar, this is immersive theatre at its best. Crisps are thrown into the crowd, and a few lucky (or brave) audience members are invited on stage. Coupled with plenty of beer-swilling and repeated shouts of “Cheers everyone,” it’s a theatre etiquette nightmare. This is a pub, and a show, where everyone is invited in.
The cast, each portraying a different pub regular, ring the audience into the action from the outset. Nimi Owoyemi, as the Poet and narrator for the evening, delivers his monologues with passion in every line. Gustav Melbardis, who plays Maestro on the piano, is lightning-fast on the ivories and brings boundless energy to the stage. Levi Tyrell Johnson, as the Hardman, brings the house down with “You’re the Voice,” while Josh Lloyd exudes effortless charisma.
The cast comes together seamlessly, like a group of mates bonding over a pint. They sing like professionals but connect like old friends. Each performer brings something different, blending into something hugely entertaining.
There isn’t much in the way of plot or character development. We never really learn much about the men or the stories behind their nicknames. But it’s the glimpses of vulnerability where the show truly shines. At a time when conversations around mental health are more open than ever, it’s still rare to see men honestly and openly expressing emotion with each other on stage. THE CHOIR OF MAN handles this beautifully, whilst displaying sincerity through its high-energy numbers. The closing performance of The Parting Glass is especially moving and an unexpectedly poignant end to what might initially seem like a lighthearted and rowdy night out.
Musically, the show is as eclectic as its characters. The setlist spans genres and eras, bridging artists as varied as Adele and Red Hot Chili Peppers, and it works brilliantly. This is a show that knows exactly what it is: fun, heartfelt, and unapologetically inclusive.
If you’re looking for a night out that’s equal parts party and performance, THE CHOIR OF MAN is the show. Theatre goers beware – if you choose a front-row seat, be prepared for a little audience interaction, flying alcohol, and a sizeable helping of classic pub ambience.
THE CHOIR OF MAN runs at the Opera House, Manchester, until 9 May 2026
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