There are good theatre productions, there are great theatre productions, and then there are those rare performances that leave you with a smile on your face, a song in your head and a genuine feeling that you have been part of something special. The Choir of Man, as performed aboard Norwegian Cruise Line, falls very firmly into the latter category.
Having seen this production at sea, I can honestly say it is one of the most entertaining, uplifting and thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experiences you could hope to find on a cruise ship. In fact, calling it simply a cruise ship show rather undersells what is happening on that stage. This is a full-blown theatrical experience, packed with outstanding performances, infectious energy, wonderful musicianship and a tremendous sense of camaraderie.
Set in the atmosphere of a traditional British pub, The Choir of Man brings together music, storytelling, humour and a wonderfully diverse collection of personalities. It celebrates friendship, community, love, loss and the importance of having somewhere — and someone — to belong to. It is a show with real heart, and that is what makes it so special.
What makes this Norwegian Cruise Line production particularly impressive is how effortlessly it captures the spirit of the original concept while making the most of its unique cruise ship setting. The audience is not simply watching a collection of performers; they are being welcomed into the pub. From the very beginning, there is a warmth and intimacy that makes the whole experience feel personal.
At the heart of this production is an exceptionally talented cast who demonstrate that great musical theatre is about so much more than having a good voice. It is about personality, connection, timing and the ability to make an audience feel something. This company has all of that in abundance.
One performer who particularly deserves recognition is Hunter Conrad, playing Romantic. He brings a wonderful combination of charisma, charm and genuine emotional warmth to the role. There is an ease to his performance that draws you in, and he has the sort of stage presence that makes you want to watch every moment he is on stage. His contribution adds another dimension to the show’s storytelling, and he is undoubtedly one of the standout performers of the evening.
Equally deserving of special mention is Michael Karl-Lewis as the Poet. The Poet is such an important character in The Choir of Man, providing the storytelling thread that helps bring the different personalities and emotions together. Michael handles this role beautifully. There is a naturalness and sincerity to his performance, with a wonderful ability to communicate the meaning behind the words rather than simply deliver them. He brings an engaging presence to the stage, helping to give the show its emotional depth and reminding us that beneath all the singing, dancing and laughter, there is a genuinely touching story about life, friendship and human connection.
Both Hunter and Michael deserve particular recognition for the individuality they bring to their characters. They are excellent examples of the strength of this company.
Of course, this is very much an ensemble production, and the entire cast deserves enormous credit. Jordan Louis-Fernand as Pub Bore, Tomo McSorley as Barman, Harry Stanton as Handyman, Jack McGowan as Hardman, Benjamin Bortone Page as Maestro, Robbie Alexander as Beast and Jack (Doug) Simmons as Joker all contribute to creating the wonderfully eclectic group of characters that makes the show work so well.
The chemistry between the performers is infectious. You get the feeling that they genuinely enjoy performing together, and that camaraderie translates directly to the audience.
Musically, the show is an absolute delight. The selection of songs is superb, moving effortlessly between powerful anthems, familiar favourites and more intimate musical moments. The arrangements give the songs a fresh identity while retaining everything that makes them memorable.
The live band is another huge asset. Marcos de Barros on guitar, Fellipi Oliveria Sodré on drums, Juan Sebastian Kantor on violin and Joaquin Desir on bass provide an outstanding musical foundation. Their musicianship adds energy, texture and excitement throughout.
The creative and production team also deserve recognition. From the direction and musical direction to the choreography, lighting, sound, costumes and set, everything comes together to create an entertaining and polished production.
It is particularly impressive how much is achieved within the theatre environment of a cruise ship. Nothing about this production feels like a compromise.
One of the things that makes The Choir of Man so enjoyable is its ability to connect with just about everyone. You don’t need to be a theatre enthusiast, a musical theatre fan or even particularly familiar with the songs to enjoy it.
It makes you laugh, it makes you smile, it occasionally catches you off guard emotionally, and before you know it, you are completely immersed in the experience.
There is something wonderfully refreshing about a show that celebrates ordinary people, everyday friendships and the simple pleasure of spending time together. Its message is universal, and perhaps that is why it works so brilliantly with a cruise ship audience made up of people from so many different backgrounds.
The production is also a fantastic showcase for the calibre of performers working aboard Norwegian Cruise Line. These are talented artists delivering a professional, energetic and genuinely memorable performance, night after night.
The Choir of Man aboard Norwegian Cruise Line is entertaining, uplifting, beautifully performed and full of heart. The entire company deserves huge applause, but Hunter Conrad and Michael Karl-Lewis deserve particular recognition for the wonderful contributions they make to the production.
Cruise ship entertainment is sometimes viewed as an added extra, something to enjoy between ports of call. This show is a reminder that it can be a highlight of the entire holiday in its own right.
If you are sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line and have the opportunity to see The Choir of Man, do yourself a favour and go. Better still, see it more than once.
A brilliant cast, fantastic live music, superb storytelling and an atmosphere that leaves you feeling part of the family. Quite simply, one of the best shows at sea.
And as the spirit of the show reminds us, sometimes all you really need is good company, a great song and a place to call your local.
Review: Oliver Popa