The true story of the Cornish chart topping buoy band has dropped its anchor at New Theatre, Cardiff and is here all week.
You will be transported through 200 years of history, as a group of Cornish fishermen come together to sing traditional working songs (sea shanties) they and their ancestors have sung at sea for generations.
The star cast includes James Gaddas, (Coronation Street, Billy Elliot the Musical), Parisa Shahmir (Mamma Mia!), Robert Duncan(Drop the Dead Donkey), Anton Stephans (The X Factor) and Susan Penhaligon (Bouquet of Barbed Wire).
What brings us back into the 21st century is their chance of a top 10 hit in the UK charts, and the possibility of playing at Glastonbury.
How could this opportunity possible come about? When a stereotypical A&R talent manager from London comes to Port Isaac, that’s how. This newly discovered unconventional band, has quickly become his new obsession as he finds new meaning in life and love along the way.
This feel-good voyage about friendship, community and music does not only focus on the headline act. There are powerful performances throughout when the band sing as one, and some genuinely gentle visceral individual moments from non band members.
The moving set (as though you are out at sea) was a real hit with the audience and an element that brings a true atmosphere of the sea into the theatre. Interwoven into every aspect of the production are live musicians on stage, which amplifies the overall performance.
Island Records have a history through folk acts such as Nick Drake but can they make this group of fishermen a hit? They are real men, with real beards but are they the real deal? They joke that they could be called The Cornish Pasties but things get a little more serious than that.
This is a high-energy, at times gentle tale from a Cornish village down by the sea that will warm your heart and certainly make you smile.
So, climb aboard, find your sea legs and allow yourself to fall for this critically acclaimed musical – hook, line and sinker!
Fisherman’s Friends – The Musical is now showing at the New Theatre in Cardiff until Saturday, 29 October. To find out more and book tickets, click here.
