Why Am I So Single? – Review

Why Am I So Single?: Garrick Theatre, London

10th September 2024

★★★

Why Am I So Single? is the hotly awaited new musical from the creators of SIX, Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. The story joins two best friends as they drink, eat, laugh, and cry while they attempt to answer the impossible question of why they are so single. Why Am I So Single? promises to be an all-singing, all-dancing musical extravaganza.

This musical is definitely different to any other show currently playing in the West End. It is a lively, upbeat comedy and has some very novel staging. In the show the two best friends, Oliver and Nancy, are writing a musical together and they break the fourth wall frequently allowing the audience see the writing process. However, this somewhat confuses the flow of the show and can make it a little disjointed. Perhaps just focusing on Oliver and Nancy and their relationship would have more of an impact and mean the audience get to feel more empathy towards the characters. There are some superb moments in the show and the script is undoubtedly hilarious at times, but there are also some very weird and wonderful choices… the end of Act One being just one of them.

The show is led brilliantly by Jo Foster and Leesa Tulley and they are both amazing in their roles. Jo Foster was almost born to be this character and it feels as though it could have been written solely for them. They are hilarious throughout the performance and really excel during the song ‘Disco Ball’ – finally allowing the audience to really see and understand Oliver. Leesa Tulley is a perfect match for Foster and the chemistry and energy between them is electric. The comedy bounces between them and definitely keeps this show going. The script is often very funny but after a while some of the constant references to musical theatre (you could definitely make it a competition to see how many other musicals are mentioned) and 90’s pop culture is a little grating, as is the almost constant need for rhyming lyrics in some of the songs.

For all of the flaws with the show, it is held together by an amazing cast. The ensemble cast excel and perform everything with high energy and commitment. It is during the big musical numbers when they really come to life and the choreography from Ellen Kane is fun and contemporary. The tap sequence during ‘C U Never’ is a real highlight. The musical numbers are very modern and pop inspired whilst also having nods to other genres making it a tricky sing for the actors. A lot of the songs rely on witty lyrics and whilst performed very well it is ‘Just In Case’ and ‘Lost’ which really stand out and show the characters real emotion utilising the actors superb vocal talent.

The simple set design by Moi Tran works well and is brought to life by Jai Morjaria’s bright and colourful lighting. The ensemble seem to almost have more costume changes than songs and the costumes by Max Johns again are fresh and modern. Why Am I So Single? has a very specific target audience and the style of the show from the costumes to the references and quick lyrics all plays to this. The problem may lie with the shows longevity. It is very fun and upbeat, lively and energetic but at times whilst it is witty not all of the jokes land and by the interval the audience haven’t really got to see the real Oliver and Nancy. The second act is much better and allows the audience to truly see the best friends, their inner struggles and their shared love for each other.

Why Am I So Single? is a totally original concept. It has a fantastic young cast, witty songs and some really heartfelt moments. It is also one of the only shows to talk about platonic love and friendship. Whilst it is worth a visit, perhaps book your ticket soon as see this new musical may not last too long in the overly competitive cut throat theatre industry.

Why Am I So Single? is currently booking until February 2025. For more information and tickets click here.

Photo Credit: Matt Crockett and Danny Kaan

AD – PR invite in exchange for a honest review.