Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 15th August 2026
Reviewed by Jacqui Radford
5*****
If you’re after a night out that lifts the spirit from the very first note, The Choir of Man absolutely delivers. Set in ‘The Jungle’, the friendliest of pubs, the show offers a fantastic mix of storytelling, banter and song. It genuinely feels less like a theatre trip and more like a great night out at your local with new-found friends.
The production centres around nine men who come together in their local and winds its way through the stories and experiences of each of them through the medium of song. The cast introduce themselves as themselves, adding a touch of authenticity and making the whole experience feel even more genuine.
The title sets the expectation that singing is front and centre, and the show more than delivers. Familiar songs are transformed into emotionally sensitive renditions, while folk-style songs bring group together and draw the audience into the mood of the pub. The music doesn’t just accompany the storytelling it enhances it.
The pub set creates an instant sense of familiarity for anyone who’s ever stepped into a true local. Its doors are thrown open to the audience, inviting everyone to join the fun. You’re not just watching the show; you’re part of the night out. Whether you’re joining in from your seat, hopping up on stage, or being welcomed as a punter during the interval, it feels as though you’ve become part of the pub community for an evening.
Born at the Edinburgh Fringe, the show has added a special touch for its UK tour. Local choirs are joining the cast for cameo performances, reinforcing the power of finding community in song.
The Choir of Man is the tonic everyone needs. From start to finish, it celebrates friendship, music and the magic of shared moments. It’s not just a night out. It’s a reminder of why we get together, why we sing, and why a good pub (real or imagined) can feel like home.