Why Am I So Single? – Garrick Theatre, London

Writers: Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss

Director: Lucy Moss

Choreographer/Co-Director: Ellen Kane

Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss are without a doubt two of the biggest names in modern musical theatre. Having achieved unimaginable success straight out of university with their mega-hit musical Six, the young pair is renowned on a global level. This, of course, puts incredible pressure on their next big project: Why Am I So Single?

The pair fares extremely well under this weight of expectation, however, and approach their new musical from an intelligent, unexpected angle. Departing from the fantastical faux-concert format of their previous hit, Marlow and Moss have created a more personal audience experience, digging deep into their real lives to answer the omnipresent title question.

Why Am I So Single? follows two perpetually single besties who have been tasked with creating a new musical to be staged at the Garrick Theatre in London. Besides changing character names for confidentiality, which becomes a gag in itself, the show fully acknowledges its identity as a blatant parody of the Six creators’ lives. Stuffed to the brim with meta-references and self-aware gags, Marlow and Moss’ willingness to experiment with style and form results in a unique, inventive and riotously entertaining final product.

The production’s humour is arguably its greatest asset and this will come as no surprise to fans of Hot Gay Time Machine, a hilarious previous project from the creative pair. While Six does, of course, demonstrate Marlow and Moss’ intelligent wit, its strength is the undeniably robust and varied pop album score. Why Am I So Single? is certainly cut from the same cloth with a range of infectious and energetic tunes, yet its focus is more comic and characterful. Therefore, it may be less likely to go viral in the same way as its predecessor, but the actual viewing experience is much stronger.

Jo Foster as Oliver is chaotic, colourful and camp, giving a career-making performance which redefines the expectation of a West End lead. Responsible for so many premium punchlines, they could be forgiven for phoning in a few smaller gags – yet they fully invest in every possible opportunity for comedy. Foster truly puts their soul, sweat and tears into an exhilarating performance that is sure to make a big impact on audiences.

Taking home the gold for their vocals is Leesa Tulley in the role of Nancy, as she completely slays a heart-wrenching ballad which is destined for many an audition room. Tulley packs a punch with her impressive belt, but also her powerful ability to demonstrate unflinching vulnerability. This tenderness complements Foster’s playful ego beautifully and the pair are incredibly endearing together.

As director, Moss makes inspired choices to utilise the fabulous cast for maximum effect. The narrative centres entirely around the two protagonists, sure, but the ridiculous antics of the ensemble are critical in fleshing out Nancy and Oliver’s laughable, melodramatic existence. Choreographer Ellen Kane has also done slick and nuanced work with the company to bring the pulsing score to life. The dance numbers are camp, sleek and chic, and Kane has also birthed one of the most attitude-fuelled tap numbers in contemporary musical theatre.

Marlow and Moss have absolutely surpassed expectations and have established themselves as consistent powerhouse creatives. Unlike anything else the West End currently has to offer, Why Am I So Single? is a new calibre of British theatre.

Runs until 13 February 2025