The Choir of Man – The Lowry

Every so often, a show comes along which reminds you that theatre doesn’t need elaborate scenery, spectacular special effects or a complicated storyline to leave an audience completely captivated. Sometimes all it takes is nine incredibly talented performers, a few pints and some fantastic music.

The Choir of Man, currently playing at The Lowry as part of its first UK tour, delivers exactly that; an uplifting, energetic and surprisingly moving celebration of music, friendship and the importance of having somewhere to belong.

Set inside a working pub called The Jungle, the show welcomes the audience into a world where everybody knows your name, the beer flows freely and the regulars just happen to possess extraordinary musical talent.

From the moment the cast take to the stage, there is an infectious atmosphere which rarely lets up. The performers don’t simply sing familiar songs; they reinvent them with stunning harmonies, impressive musicianship, brilliant choreography and an authenticity which makes every number feel personal.

Gustav Melbardis as Maestro leads proceedings with tremendous charisma, while Oluwalonimi Owoyemi as Poet delivers some of the evening’s most touching moments through beautifully written monologues exploring friendship, loneliness and the connections we make with others.

There are equally impressive performances from Levi Tyrell Johnson as Hard Man, Ben Mabberley as Joker and Rob Godfrey as Beast, alongside Jack Skelton, Joshua Lloyd, Sam Walter and Aaron Pottenger, who together create an ensemble with remarkable chemistry.

Musically, the show is a real treat. Songs made famous by Queen, Adele, Sia and Guns N’ Roses are given a completely fresh identity, moving effortlessly between powerful anthems, intimate acoustic moments and joyous singalongs.

What makes The Choir of Man particularly special, however, is that beneath the humour, tap dancing and free beer lies a genuinely heartfelt message. In a world where loneliness and isolation are increasingly common, the show celebrates the simple importance of friendship, community and looking out for one another.

There is something wonderfully refreshing about a production which can have an audience laughing one minute and reflecting on their own relationships the next, without ever feeling forced or sentimental.

The staging is deceptively simple, yet the energy and talent filling The Lowry’s Lyric Theatre makes it feel like the biggest party in town.

The Choir of Man is joyous, funny, heartfelt and performed by an exceptionally talented company who deserve every moment of applause.

Verdict: Forget your troubles, grab a pint and enjoy one of the most uplifting nights in theatre.

Reviewer: Max Eden

Reviewed: 13th October 2026

North West End UK Rating: