Review: Why Am I So Single?

Review: Why Am I So Single?

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The Garrick Theatre 13-09-24 by Jamie Griffiths

Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the creative minds behind the smash hit (and Matinee Radio favourite) Six, bring their signature blend of sharp wit and emotional depth to Why Am I So Single?, a “big fancy” musical that’s as dazzling as it is relatable. The show delights with clever choreography, brilliant performances, and a strikingly familiar 90s sitcom vibe, with standout musical numbers and smart staging, the  hallmarks of a Marlow and Moss production.

At the heart of this production are two strong performances. Leesa Tulley is a fantastic Nancy, delivering a pitch-perfect performance that resonates with all the right emotions. Her portrayal is both powerful and deeply relatable, capturing the complexity of her character with warmth and finesse. On the other hand, Jo Foster as Oliver is an absolute revelation. Watching them in this role feels like witnessing something truly special—they embody Oliver so authentically, it’s as though this part was written for them. Jo and Leesa carry so much of the show’s emotional weight, yet they never stop looking like they’re having the time of their lives on stage, which only enhances the magic of their performances.

Moi Tran’s staging at the Garrick Theatre is bright, sharp, and easy on the eye, with a polished, vibrant aesthetic that draws you into the world of the show, namely Oliver’s modest apartment (with a well stocked fridge!). One of the most delightful elements is the way inanimate objects are brought to life—transforming seamlessly into cast members. Whether it’s the happy bin or the sweet coat rack, these characters add humour and charm, making the complex choreography look effortless.

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The “push and pull” dynamic between Nancy and Oliver is the driving force of the drama. As the pair indulge in increasingly large quantities of Sainsbury’s Finest bubbles, their playful banter turns sharper, peeling back layers of emotional fragility. The escalating tension between them evokes the intensity of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, with similarly gut-wrenching moments as events spiral out of control. (And no, I’m not referring to the giant bee!)

The musical’s clever commentary extends beyond its characters. The use of technology and apps, and the way it critiques those in stable relationships or with a LinkedIn profile, is not only humorous but also sheds light on the genuine anxiety behind dating apps and social media for Gen Z and Millennials. In a tricky 2024 landscape for finding happiness and stability, this musical reflects the zeitgeist with both humour and insight.

For fans of 90s sitcoms, the production captures the familiar essence of US TV’s Friends, not just through direct references but also by setting the action in a flat that feels like it was pulled straight from a beloved TV set. The cosy, quirky space, coupled with dynamic characters, evokes the lovable oddball duo Tom and Linda from UK TV’s Gimme Gimme Gimme. Marlow and Moss brilliantly fuse these two worlds, creating a setting that feels nostalgic yet fresh.

The musical numbers are, as expected from Marlow and Moss, nothing short of spectacular. Songs like 8 Dates have already become fan favourites, making their way onto Matinee Radio’s A List. The score explores universal themes—friendship, love, anxiety, loss—with a mix of raw emotion and playful humour. Each number transcends the confines of the flat, whether it’s through the outrageous randomness of the Act One finale or the tear-jerking beauty of Just In Case, which is destined to be a Matinee staple for some time.

One of the show’s standout moments is the song Disco Ball, a seemingly fun, upbeat showstopper with an undercurrent of haunting emotion. Beneath its catchy melody and vibrant energy lies a powerful message about the anxiety of gender and sexual identity. It’s rare to find a number that can balance such weighty themes with such joyful performance, but Disco Ball achieves this with elegance and depth, leaving a lasting impact.

The Oliver Twist references sprinkled throughout are cute, if occasionally a bit laboured, but undeniably charming. In fact, the groans and laughs from the audience felt entirely intentional, adding to the production’s cheeky dismantling of the fourth wall. These references, while sometimes a bit heavy-handed, were a playful addition that enhanced the musical’s quirky tone and charm.

Jo Foster performs ‘Disco Ball’ (Image-Danny Kaan)

On a personal note, this production has had a profound impact on me. Throughout university, Friends was must-see TV, and watching it with housemates brought us closer together. However, in recent years, the show has been criticised for perpetuating heteronormative stereotypes, and I experienced first hand how damaging they can be. With that in mind I’ve never watched it since, but thanks to this production, I’ve come to terms with these issues and I Got Off The Plane and got over it.  Similarly, the musical beautifully shows how Nancy and Oliver can come to terms with their situations and see themselves for who they truly are. This production is bound to surprise and delight many, proving to be much more than just a two-hander musical sitcom. I’m already planning to return for seconds.

Ultimately, Why Am I So Single? is a joyful, heart-warming ride that blends laugh-out-loud comedy with poignant reflections on modern life. Do we need the regular pauses and meta-exposition? Possibly not as it already lands many of these elements without further explanation, but i feel like I’m being picky. It’s in the character’s fragility that we discover the show’s charm, wit, and most memorable musical numbers and that, combined with the standout performances of Tulley and Foster, make it an absolute must-see modern musical.

Get more details and book tickets for Why Am I So Single from the official site HERE.