When ‘Six’ made its debut back in 2017, its meteoric rise from fringe show to international phenomenon defied all expectation. Seven years on from such a strong debut, Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss have opened their second musical ‘Why Am I So Single’ at Garrick Theatre.
Rather than focus on historical figures this time, Marlow & Moss have instead created a semi-biographical show based on 21st century dating. We meet Oliver (Jo Foster) and Nancy (Leesa Tulley) who struggle to understand why they both remain single, in a story which explores multiple types of love.
With so many film-to-stage adaptations popping up left right and centre, it is refreshing to have a brand new musical with both original music and a fresh narrative.
Marlow & Moss set the bar high with the music in Six, but they absolutely deliver here. This pair really know how to write an absolute bop, delivering banger after banger throughout the 2.5 hour show. Standout songs include the hilarious ‘8 Dates,’ an utterly relatable ode to the perils of getting ghosted and cancelled on last minute. Anyone who has delved into the world of online dating would struggle not to resonate with it. This sort of relatability shines through as one of the key strengths of the show. Another highlight is Foster’s enigmatic performance ‘Disco Ball’, which every bit deserved its rapturous applause on press night. This absolute ear-worm will be ringing in your ears for days after seeing the show!
The music is perfectly complimented by choreography by Olivier and Tony Award nominated choreographer Ellen Kane. Who else would have thought to make a song about letting go of ex’s into a tap number, with ensemble members dancing on tables in a cafe? It might sound bonkers, and it is, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a stroke of genius.
However, whilst the music impresses, the script is screaming out to be developed further. As it is, the lack of depth makes it challenging to fully connect with the characters and their stories. This is all the more frustrating as the bones are all there, with themes around self-acceptance and grief begging to be explored more fully. Bucket loads of musical theatre references are littered throughout, from Wicked to Chicago and everything in between. Many of these land well, especially when integrated into the lyrics as unexpected easter eggs. Where this doesn’t work as well is when they are more overtly at the forefront, making much of the humour niche requiring significant prior knowledge of musicals and pop culture. Those unfamiliar with ‘Oliver!’ and ‘Friends’ may subsequently feel alienated from much of the humour.
The level of queer visibility however is refreshing, and is brilliant to see on a west end stage. Subtle humorous tackling of non-binary labels throughout make for a truly inclusive show. Foster was made to play the extroverted non-binary Oliver, enabling legions of young fans to see themselves represented on stage for (potentially) the first time. The ensemble work hard to bring a truly magnetic energy throughout, you can’t help but smile watching them bringing their all to the performance. It is hard to believe that many of the dynamic ensemble are in fact making their west end debut here.
There is a lot to enjoy in this new British musical with fantastic performances and infectious music, even if the story never reaches its full potential. ‘Why Am I So Single’ remains at Garrick Theatre until February 2025.
Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a show is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone.
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