Fringe review: The Choir of Man
Adelaide Fringe
Some pubs have a darts team, this pub has a choir. ★★★★★
Welcome to “The Jungle”, your local pub where the pints are free-flowing, an espresso martini is yet to be seen and a counter meal is served straight-up without a brioche bun in sight. It’s a familiar place once found on every town corner but which now often falls victim to apartment living and fancy hipster bars.
This pub is where friends come to unwind, have a beer, chat, escape… and to sing.
From the moment the audience walks in, the atmosphere is set: choir members mingle, audience members venture on stage. We are all here together – tonight this is our local.
The Choir of Man have gained an Adelaide Fringe following with their high-energy, authentic feel-good repertoire, and this year’s show doesn’t disappoint. By the end you’ll be singing along to John Farnham’s “You’re the Voice” but not before a bit of Queen’s “Somebody to Love”, The Proclaimers “500 Miles” and Adele’s “Hello”.
You’ll have a pint or two poured from the friendly on-stage barman (who likes pina coladas and getting caught in the rain), and it’ll be the best night out you’ve had at your local in a while.
The songs and choreography are exhilarating and exceptionally well executed, but underlying the fun is an earnest message: value these moments and these community spaces where people come together.
This is the third time The Choir of Man has brought their show to Adelaide and there’s no sign the local audience wants them to stop. If anything, their message is becoming increasingly relevant as more iconic pubs close.
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There is a sense of unbridled joy throughout the performance that has the audience leaping to their feet. The Choir of Man is presented with all the charm and wit that nine lads from the UK can fit onto one stage, and it will never get old no matter how many times you are lucky enough to see it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-tqLIcNhwo
The Choir of Man is showing at Moa in Gluttony until March 15.
See more InDaily Fringe and Festival stories and reviews here.
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