Last night, I took my seat at Manchester’s Opera House for The Choir of Man, a show I had been genuinely looking forward to returning to. From the moment the doors opened, there was a real buzz in the theatre, the kind that tells you you’re about to experience something a little different. Even knowing what was coming, it still felt fresh, energetic, and completely uplifting.

What is The Choir of Man About?

Created by Nic Doodson and Andrew Kay, with musical supervision by Jack Blume, the show first premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017. It quickly became one of the festival’s standout hits thanks to its unique concept and infectious energy, before touring internationally, landing in London’s West End, and even finding a home at sea.

Set in a working pub on stage, The Choir of Man is a high-energy, feel-good theatre experience. A cast of nine incredibly talented performers sing, dance, and play instruments, all while sharing stories about friendship, community, and everyday life. The soundtrack blends familiar rock, pop, and folk songs with moments of spoken word and choreography, creating something that feels far more like a night out with friends than a traditional musical.

There’s humour throughout, and the audience becomes part of the experience, whether that’s through interaction or the chance of being handed a pint on stage.

Review of The Choir of Man

This is one of the most uplifting, joy-filled shows I’ve ever seen, and it barely feels like “theatre” in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s more like stepping into the best kind of pub night, warm, welcoming, and full of energy. It breaks all the usual rules of musical theatre, but in a way that makes it more accessible, drawing in audiences who might not usually book a show.

The cast are exceptional, not just performers but hosts. From the moment you arrive, they’re there to welcome you, often with a drink in hand, setting the tone for what’s to come. That connection carries through the entire performance, even into the interval, creating a genuinely immersive experience.

Last night’s performance had an incredible atmosphere, with not one but four standing ovations. A real highlight was the addition of local choirs joining the cast for the finale, an uplifting moment that had the whole theatre buzzing. If you could bottle that feeling of pure joy, you would.

Quite simply, this is feel-good theatre at its very best, and a show I’d happily see again and again.

Where Can You See The Choir of Man?

The Choir of Man is showing at the Opera House, Manchester until the 9th May and then at….. 

• Sunderland Empire, Tue 12 May – Sat 16 May 2026
• Milton Keynes Theatre, Tue 26 May – Sat 30 May 2026
• Grand Opera House York, Tue 30 Jun – Sat 4 Jul 2026
• The Alexandra, Birmingham, Tue 14 Jul – Sat 18 Jul 2026
• Richmond Theatre, Tue 25 Aug – Sat 29 Aug 2026
• Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Tue 1 Sep – Sat 5 Sep 2026

Disclaimer: I was gifted the tickets, but a review is optional. However, all opinions are my own. Check out where to park near the Opera House Manchester. See more Manchester Theatre Reviews Here.