Bristol Hippodrome: 3rd May 2023
I was last at the Bristol Hippodrome in late 2019, to see The Lion King, and was really excited about returning to see Fisherman's Friends - The Musical. And I certainly wasn't disappointed. The second that the curtain went up and the cast launched into the first musical number, Nelson's Blood (Roll The Old Chariot Along), my spirits soared, and I knew for sure that I was going to love it.
The cast featured a few well-known names - James Gaddas, best known for his roles in Medics, Coronation Street and Bad Girls, veteran Cornish actress, Susan Penhaligon, and Robert Duncan, best known for his role as Gus Hedges, in the classic TV comedy series, Drop The Dead Donkey. I really liked how, even though these three were billed as the stars, onstage they were very much part of the ensemble, and therefore melted very comfortably into the Cornish community being portrayed.
The show was full of energy, and was pretty fast paced, thus making it very engaging to watch. The overall feeling onstage was one of joy, although the story did also feature some more poignant moments of psychological struggle, and the death of one of the characters. There was a really good atmosphere on stage, and the cast came across as genuinely enjoying themselves.
Fans of the folk group, Fisherman's Friends, would have instantly recognised a number of the songs featured, including South Australia, John Kanaka, Bully in the Alley and Pay Me My Money Down, but there were numerous additional songs - some of which were sung by Parisa Shahmir, who played Alwyn. She had a gorgeous voice, which was extremely well suited to the haunting melodies which she sang. Live musicians on stage really added an extra layer to the ambience.. I was thrilled that one of my favourite poems, Sea Fever, by John Masefield, had been set to music.
At the end, the audience, which was at full capacity, were encouraged to clap and sing along during the final number - No Hopers, Jokers and Rouges. There were quite a few lighter moments during the show, and it was a real 'feel good' show. I really enjoyed the show, and would happily sit through it again. I would definitely recommend it.
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