Fisherman’s Friends the Musical – Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

Writer: Amanda Whittington

Director: James Grieve

A rollicking good yarn that in essence tells the true story of how a group of sea shanty men in Port Isaac, Cornwall, who call themselves the Fisherman’s Friends, rise to fame and hit the big time. Their story has been made into a successful film. Fisherman’s Friends the Musical is based on the film and a book written by Amanda Whittington.

Earning a living in Cornwall is tough, with a strong tradition of sea faring, mining and an increasing dependence on seasonal tourism. The proud, tight knit community of Port Isaac are dismissive of incomers. When Danny (Jason Langley), a seemingly wide boy music promoter from London, happens across the Fisherman’s Friends singing to raise money for charity he is immediately entranced and sees a potential music deal. There is a love story thrown in for good measure between Danny and Alywyn (Parisa Shamir), the feisty daughter of Jim the sea captain (James Gaddas) and leader of the shanty men.

Resistant and very sceptical at first that Danny can get them a recording deal, they are finally won over by his persistence. The nine men singing a cappella fill the theatre with strong, harmonious and stirring traditional sea shanties that cannot fail to be captivating. The friendship, “truth, respect and community” as quoted by Gaddas is omnipresent and you can believe these men have sung together for years.

But it is not only men’s voices we hear, there are beautiful songs sung by the women of the village. They are accompanied by traditional folk instruments and carry the story along. Shamir’s crystal-clear singing voice is so melodic and delightful. She engenders a real sense of place and love of the sea.

The folk musicians are an integral part of the action and choreography of the musical. There is joy and exuberance and humour throughout. Rather than watching a series of set routines as can be the case with musicals, in Fisherman’s Friends everything feels natural and flows.

A good deal of the action is carried out at the Golden Lion, the locals’ pub at the heart of the village. It is in dire need of financial backing to keep afloat. Danny has a role in that too.

The pub is a central feature of the set design which morphs between the harbourside, the sea and Old Compton Street in London. Above is a gallery which helps convey a sense of distance between characters. The ingenious set design by Lucy Osborne even transports the audience to a rolling vessel at sea.

Maggie (Susan Penhaligon), Alwyn’s grandmother, plays a touching role. Penhaligon cannot fail to make you laugh and portrays the wisdom brought with age.

Langley is superb as Danny the music promoter, his cheerful, ever persistent optimism despite being shunned is a delight to watch as is the growing relationship between him and Alwyn.

This is a musical not to be missed. A real feel good, foot stomping experience.

Runs until 11th February 2023, before continuing on tour.