Behind Bars: Sentenced to Sing – Ed Fringe 2025

Behind Bars: Sentences To Sing (Illuminations): theSpace @ Niddry St

19th August 2025

★★★★★

University of Exeter’s Illuminations are used to the A Cappella stage having had sold out runs over the past 7 years at the Fringe and last year placing third in the UK in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA). This year they are back with a new show – Behind Bars: Sentenced to Sing. Fifteen of the a cappella world’s most wanted have been put under lock and key in the high security prison: Acatraz. But now, they must sing for their freedom.

This year’s performance from the Illuminations includes fantastic harmonies, energetic choreo and a fab selection of songs. There is a clever theme with lots of witty singing related jokes and puns and the ratio of script to music is perfect – allowing the vocals to be the main focus.

The song choice is really varied with songs such as Lady Marmalade, Pink Pony Club and an excellent Michael Jackson mash up. The audience are really behind the performers which helps raise the energy and despite the Exeter Illuminations being a large group each voice is valued and heard. 

This is one a cappella show not to be missed. With its upbeat, energetic choreo, varied song choice and superb vocals definitely check this one out.

For more information and tickets click here.

AD – PR invite in exchange for a honest review.