The Choir of Man seeks Glasgow singers for King’s premiere

If you happen to be a regular at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the news that The Choir of Man is making its “Scottish Premiere” at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow next April might cause a moment of confusion. After all, the show—set in a working on-stage pub known as ‘The Jungle’—was a staple of the Assembly Hall for years, building the very cult following that eventually propelled it to the West End and across the Atlantic.

However, in the world of commercial theatre, the Fringe occupies a dimension all its own. So, officially speaking, this 2026 tour marks the first time the full-blown, Olivier-nominated West End production has crossed the border. Technicalities aside, the arrival of this high-energy “pub concert” musical is welcome news for Glasgow audiences who prefer their harmonies served with a pint.

But the producers aren’t just bringing a cast of nine guys to sing at you; they are looking for locals to sing with them.

The Jungle Choir Community Project: Glasgow Voices Wanted

In a move to ground the touring production in the cities it visits, the show has launched ‘The Jungle Choir Community Project’. The premise is simple but effective: they are scouting for a local choir to join the professional cast on stage for the opening night finale.

However, in the world of commercial theatre, the Fringe occupies a dimension all its own. So, officially speaking, this 2026 tour marks the first time the full-blown, Olivier-nominated West End production has crossed the border.

This isn’t a “sing from your seats” situation. The chosen group will be invited to rehearse, attend the show, and then take the stage to close out the performance. It is a smart way to bridge the gap between a touring juggernaut and the local arts scene.

Creator and Director Nic Doodson explains the logic: “Every city has its own musical heartbeat, and welcoming those voices into the show on press night is a powerful reminder of why this piece exists: to celebrate community, connection and the extraordinary feeling of singing together.”

West End Pedigree in a Pub Setting

For the uninitiated, The Choir of Man is less a traditional musical and more a meticulously choreographed lock-in. There is no complex plot to unravel; rather, it is 90 minutes of radio hits—ranging from Queen and Luther Vandross to Sia and Guns N’ Roses—rearranged into folk, rock, and choral harmonies. Oh, and the beer served during the show is free.

**Production images of Choir Of Man – Credit The Other Richard**

The cast for this “Scottish Premiere” brings a wealth of West End experience to the table. The line-up features Gustav Melbardis as ‘Maestro’, Oluwalonimi (Nimi) Owoyemi as ‘Poet’, and Levi Tyrell Johnson (Hamilton) as ‘Hard Man’. They are joined by Ben Mabberley (‘Joker’), Rob Godfrey (‘Beast’), and Jack Skelton (‘Handyman’).

Rounding out the regulars at The Jungle are Joshua Lloyd (The Lion King) as ‘Barman’, Sam Walter as ‘Romantic’, and Aaron Pottenger as ‘Bore’. It is a robust ensemble, suggesting that despite the casual pub setting, the vocal standards will be rigorously high.

Calling Time (and Talent)

While the Fringe versions of this show were known for their rowdy, intimate energy, this touring production promises the polish of its run at the Arts Theatre in London. It is a show that wears its heart on its beer-stained sleeve, populated by characters who tap dance on tables and deliver monologues that attempt to lend a little emotional weight to the spectacle of men drinking and singing.

In a move to ground the touring production in the cities it visits, the show has launched ‘The Jungle Choir Community Project’.

However, if you reckon your local vocal group has the chops to share the stage with the West End pros (and enjoy the on-stage bar privileges that come with it), you shouldn’t just be buying a ticket. Interested choirs are encouraged to email officeassistant@kennywax.com immediately to apply for the opening night slot. For the rest of us, we’ll just have to be content with the free beer.

Featured Image: Choir Of Man Press Portrait