The works reunion, invite sent to all and only four turn up! Five if you include the ‘only fans?’ girl. Introducing #KaraokeKarma a show focussing on the characters Vivienne, Lucinda, Barry, Nichola and Isla. A group of office staff, past and present, thrown together in a karaoke booth with its trademark blackout curtains and coloured neon lights.
Sparks and discourse ensue as the dark secrets, deceit and despair play out to its own merry tune.
This show written by Dylan Mooney unpicks the complexities of office politics and personal lives being affected by loss, grief and rejection. Through ‘Karaoke’ the characters lay their feelings bare through the lyrics of the songs hinged in sadness and reminiscence of the ‘good ole days’ when the tunes brought them together. A clever provocative spin in the use of the lyrical narrative to reflect the mood and personal emotion.
The story lines followed a thread which didn’t falter. From the outset it was clear the dysfunctional relationships and shared frustration and despair all revolved around one man. Chris, a work colleague, lover, a woman’s man who was known for his infidelity who influenced everyone except Isla she had her own demons to face. But empathetically shared in the camaraderie of grief.
At times the scenes felt a little unnatural out of kilter which disrupted the flow, but the characters recovered well. Some tuning issues, and yet it felt authentic to what we know and enjoy about Karaoke. This was their opening night at the Fringe. There is humour, and you can really invest in each character’s story, #KaraokeKarma will resonate with audiences.
Great song choices from 9 to 5 Dolly Parton to classical Italian Time to say Goodbye by Nichola ‘the only fans girl’? This stunning performance was an unexpected ‘beautiful moment’.
This is not just any Karaoke event #KaraokeKarmadelivers a poignant message of emotional struggle, grief and rejection that will tug at your heart strings.
Running Time: 1hr and 10 minutes: Showing from 19th until 25th August 2025.
Reviewer: Michelle Knight
Reviewed: 19th August 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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