If you’re expecting a deep-dive into Cher’s life and legacy, The Shoop Shoop Show takes a different approach. Rather than telling a chronological story, it focuses on what Cher does best: delivering hit after hit, wrapped in glamour, confidence, and unmistakable stage presence!
Making its London debut at the Aldwych Theatre, the production leans into spectacle from the outset. It’s a fast-paced, music-led experience that moves seamlessly through the decades, celebrating the breadth of Cher’s catalogue, from disco-era favourites to her more powerful pop-rock moments.
At the centre of it all is Rachael Hawnt, winner of Starstruck on ITV, whose performance brings both precision, presence and star power. Vocally strong and impressively controlled, Hawnt captures the tone and character of Cher without tipping into caricature. There’s a natural ease to her performance, particularly in the show’s larger numbers, where she commands the stage with confidence.
Visually, the show delivers on its promise of glamour. A series of well-executed costume changes, supported by clean choreography and a tight live band, creates a polished and cohesive production. Nothing feels overworked, instead there’s a clear understanding of the tone the show wants to strike, elevated, but still accessible and enjoyable.
Audience engagement plays a key role throughout. Without ever feeling forced, the show encourages participation, creating a lively, shared atmosphere that builds as the evening progresses. It’s this balance between performance and participation that gives the production its energy and keeps it feeling dynamic.
The inclusion of tracks inspired by Cher’s Dancing Queen era adds a subtle shift in tone, introducing familiar ABBA moments that broaden the show’s appeal. While not strictly central to Cher’s own catalogue, they complement the overall experience and contribute to the show’s crowd-pleasing nature.
Ultimately, The Shoop Shoop Show succeeds by staying focused on what matters most: the music. It’s a confident, well-executed tribute that doesn’t try to overcomplicate its concept, instead delivering a polished and thoroughly enjoyable evening built around one of pop’s most enduring icons.
While the London performance was a one-night-only stop, the show continues its UK tour. So if you missed it in the West End, there are plenty of opportunities to catch it elsewhere.
For other UK tour dates, check here.
Review: David Simmons