Fisherman’s Friends – Milton Keynes Theatre and Touring

Fisherman’s Friends continues at Milton Keynes Theatre until 8 October 2022 and then tours until 13 May 2023.

Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The tide is turning and there’s a new show at Milton Keynes Theatre this week. Fisherman’s Friends is the true story of the Cornish sea-shanty band and their unusual journey to fame. The emotive tale will pull at the heartstrings and warm your cockles with its wholesome characters and moving music.

Starring familiar face James Gaddas (Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Waterloo Road) as the lead character Jim, we’re introduced to the secluded village of Port Isaac in Cornwall, where fishing is a way of life. Early each morning, Jim and his crew battle the waves to earn their living on the boats. To motivate them through the tough conditions of being at sea and to relax their minds after a hard day, the men sing traditional a cappella shanty songs. The men and their families are comfortable in their close-knit community, which revolves around the harbour and the local pub.

But, the arrival of London boy Danny (Jason Langley) shakes up the quiet village. Danny, who has recently been fired from his A&R job at Island Records, sees potential in the men to sign for a record deal. Initially focused on profit and winning back his old job, Danny’s perspective is changed by the place and its people, as he becomes more ingrained in their lives.

Fisherman’s Friends is a beautiful story of love, friendship and community. With powerful songs, the multi-talented cast delivers a performance that will have you enthralled from start to finish. Folk music is at core of the show, which is emphasised by the musicians that remain on the stage throughout and at times also partake as characters in the story. Expect lilting lyrics and soulful voices that will give you goosebumps. Each actor has an unexpected commanding voice and is adept at shifting from playing their part to picking up a violin or guitar.

The scenery (designed by Lucy Osborne) of a harbour scene, cleverly transforms from pub to London streets, using authentic maritime props to emphasise the seaside theme. Praise needs to be given to the idea for the boat scenes – the front half of a small fishing boat transports the cast to sea, with ropes used to mimic its movement over the waves. I was very impressed with this touch.

It’s difficult to pinpoint just one stand-out performance, as the entire cast blew me away, but just because her crystal-clear singing voice stayed with me beyond the show, I’d have to give a special mention to Parisa Shahmir as Jim’s daughter, Alwyn.

Even if you’ve never heard of the band or seen the hit movie, this is a show not to be missed. It was refreshing to see a musical with such a unique genre of music, topped off by superb acting and a stellar set. It’s five stars from me.

Hannah Grimmette