The Choir of Man is a brilliant entertaining show. It is creative and original, bringing together a range of talented performers, who not only strut their stuff, but share their good vibes with an enthusiastic audience.
Lots of interaction with the audience from the get-go get the place buzzing. The set design is a lounge bar with tables and pumps a plenty which creates the familiar pub atmosphere. It’s a local thing and that intimacy, that friendly welcome you get in your local comes across in pintfuls. As you enter the auditorium the audience and cast mix on stage, welcoming and warm as they set up the atmosphere of inclusion. its part panto in places and part theatre and part variety, and all very physical but no sum of its parts is greater than the whole.
We get treated to monologue delivered with warmth and skill by the leading Irish actor who leads us through the exploits of a range of regulars. We recognise them all, the drifter, the disappointed, the bragger, the lover the jilted and the smart Alec but this bunch together bond together and share with us a story that gives friendship and support a good name. Thats what you find in your local, not just beer but a community who want to to share and support each other.
It’s an uplifting evening that allows individuals to shine, as they sing, or tap or play a mean guitar, or a sweet flute or a fiddle but it is their choral work that pulls them together with tight harmonies. Don’t just think pubs and lads there is more here than meets the eye. It’s a place for everyone and all are welcome. I suspect the title The Choir of Man is fitting – the kind bit may be missing but the sentiment is there – go one and all for a fun time. You will share an evening with folks you will feel you know – certainly by the end of the evening you’ll want to invite them back for the ‘craic’.
Aug 7-11, 13-26
Assembly Hall – Main Hall
Tickets: tickets.edfringe.com
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