Theatre News Wire

The gang's all here! International smash hit The Choir of Man has announce its Chicago cast, featuring a mix of Chicago area natives and all-star The Choir of Man veterans direct from the UK. A critically acclaimed theatrical sensation, known across the globe as "the ultimate feel-good show," The Choir of Man is 90 minutes of indisputable joy for all ages. Performances of The Choir of Man begin on March 27, 2024, at the Apollo Theater, 2550 N. Lincoln Avenue in Chicago.

The Choir Of Man at Apollo Theater in Chicago

Welcome to The Choir of Man, hailed as the ultimate pub experience worldwide. It's not just a gathering; it's a fusion of party vibes, live concert energy, and theatrical immersion that defies convention. From pop hits to classic rock, folk tunes, and beloved pub anthems, The Choir of Man offers a musical palette to delight every taste. A troupe of nine exceptionally talented individuals delivers spine-tingling harmonies, infectious singalongs, breathtaking tap routines, and heartfelt reflections on the essence of community. This uproarious tribute to the local pub scene invites you to join in the revelry, with an authentic bar right on stage ensuring you're part of the action. So, come prepared to raise your glass and toast to an unforgettable experience. Cheers to you joining us!



For the first time, The Choir of Man will be performed by a mix of local artists and British and Irish actors. Director Nic Doodson said, "We're thrilled to welcome our Chicago-based friends' world-class talent to our pub, The Jungle. The Choir of Man is all about community and the strength we have when we come together, and there is no better example of this than mixing local and international actors. The talent, energy, and unique Chicago personality that Kevin and RJ bring to the show is really exciting and will make this not only a world first for our show but also give the show a very unique and special voice. We can't wait to share a pint with everyone!"

The Choir of Man is an uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome. It's 90 minutes of feel-good, foot-stomping entertainment unlike anything else in Chicago! Brimming with hits from artists such as Adele, Paul Simon, Katy Perry, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Luther Vandross and more, the cast features world-class tap dancers, singers, and instrumentalists, ensuring that there is something for everyone in this feel-good show.

The Choir of Man made its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017 and has gone on to grace stages globally, with performances at prestigious venues like the Sydney Opera House and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. From 2018 onwards, it has established itself as a fixture on the Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Encore cruise ships. Currently in its second year on the West End, it earned a nomination for the 2022 Olivier Award in the Best Entertainment or Comedy Play category.

The cast of The Choir of Man includes Marc Akinfolarin, Paul Deegan, RJ Griffith, Ifan Gwilym-Jones, Norton James, Cal T King, George Knapper, Benji Lord, Mark Loveday, Shane McDaid, Kristian Morse, David Shute, and Kevin James Sievert.

Bringing the music to life each night is an incredible live band, including Rafe Bradford (Bass), Seth Pae (Violin, Viola, Keys), Scott Simon (Drums), and Kelan M. Smith (Guitar, Banjo, Mandolin).

A mug-clinking success, The Choir of Man comes from the creative minds of Andrew Kay (Soweto Gospel Choir, Bluey's Big Play, and the award-winning North by Northwest) and Nic Doodson (The Magnets, Gobsmacked, and Noise Boys), with lead producers Stephen Lindsay and Brett Sirota, Scott Prisand and Matthew Weaver (Rock of Ages and Soul Train) and The Everywhere Group. The music is arranged and orchestrated by the show's Musical Supervisor Jack Blume, while dialogue takes the form of spoken word monologues written by performance poet Ben Norris. The movement direction and choreography is by original cast member and tap dancer Freddie Huddleston.

Completing the creative team are Oli Townsend (Scenic Designer), Verity Sadler (Costume Designer & Co-Scenic Designer), Richard Dinnen (Lighting Designer), Sten Severson (Sound Designer), Norton James (Resident Associate Director), Michael McBride (Resident Musical Director), Debbie O'Brien (Casting Director UK), and Claire Simon (Casting Director, USA).