Theatre Review: Fisherman’s Friend (The Musical)

AD: This Press Night Review refers to the September 2022 Touring Production of Fisherman’s Friends (The Musical) at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham*

This humble story is the tale of a group of Cornish fisherman who would meet to sing the traditional songs handed down to them by their forefathers. The original “buoy” band, if you will. Their sea shanties unexpectedly hit the charts in 2010, and unlikely stars were born. Or spawned.

Based on a true story, the real life “Fisherman’s Friends” are still touring and raising money for charity. You could understand if fame went to their heads, after all, they’re now the subject of two hit movies as well as this musical adaptation of their tale. They’ve had a Top 10 Album, and performed at Glastonbury.

This heartwarming production takes us from Port Isaac to the Pyramid Stage, via a trip to London. As we enter the auditorium of the Alexandra Theatre, we’re transported to the fishing villages of Cornwall. Seagulls are gently squawking in the background. I can almost smell the salty air.

The opening scene unfolds behind a gauzy curtain. Our sea legs are tested as we seem to bob along with a vessel out at sea. This is a world where fisherman battle the weather to earn a living; their families anxious that one day tragedy will strike and their husbands won’t return

I’ve been reeled in. Hook, line and sinker.

The set (designed by Lucy Osbourne) effectively conveys a bustling quayside, littered with lobster pots and fishing nets. Subtle changes transform the quayside from a working harbour to a lively pub and even a gay bar, resplendent under a twinkling glitter ball.

I’m immediately drawn into this sense of community, invested in these unlikely celebrities. James Gaddas leads the crew convincingly as Captain Jim, a devoted son and father. But Fisherman’s Friends is truly an ensemble piece, and the strongest performances are when the cast perform as one. However, the standout individual performance is Parisma Shahmir as Alwyn, Jim’s daughter. Shahmir has an incredible voice, particularly showcased in her mesmerising rendition of “Tidal Pool”.

The on-stage musicians add to this feeling of belonging, and create an unexpected intimacy and familiarity. They merge with the principal cast seamlessly to create a single wall of music. Kudos goes to David White and James Findlay for musical direction and arrangements, and choreographer Matt Cole, for working with this 20 strong ensemble.

It’s a warm and poignant tale. Quiet wit and reflective moments are woven seamlessly through Amanda Whittington’s script. There’s a gentle sideswipe at seasonal tourists, paddleboarders and holiday home owners. Cornishness runs through the script like letters through a stick of rock.

There’s a sprinkling of romance between Alwyn and disgraced A&R mogul Danny (Jason Langley) but it’s the friendships and camaraderie that provides the heart of this show. The music is outstanding, with almost 40 songs sprinkled throughout the show. The entire St Piran’s Day Sequence is a wonderful celebration. culminating in the powerful “Cousin Jack,” full of passion and anger.

Such was the rush of joy in the final number that many of the audience were scrambling to their feet even before the curtain raised for the bows.

In a week which has seen incredible change in the UK, it was wonderful to watch something so comforting and gentle. Theatre is as important now as always as a means of escaping real life, if just for a few hours. Fisherman’s Friends definitely floated my boat.

Fisherman’s Friends (The Musical) is at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until Saturday 17th September 2022. Purchase your tickets here. The UK Tour continues until May 2023; for a full list of dates and to buy tickets, visit the Fisherman’s Friends (The Musical) website.