Fringe review: MASSAOKE: SING THE MUSICALS, Underbelly George Square

Is there a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than singing along to some of the greatest musical theatre tunes? Underbelly George Square was nearly full for Massaoke: Sing the Musicals and the crowd were enthusiastic to sing and dance to familiar tunes played by a band of five, each dressed in a costume from a well known show.

This is a cut down version of their touring show, which goes back out on the road around the UK this autumn. For all those who like to join in with their musicals, this is clearly the show for you rather than joining in during a full West End production. What’s more, they accompany each with clips from the original films or promotional pop videos which adds to the atmosphere.

They pack in 24 songs from 18 shows and each one is a banger that you can't resist joining in on. There is something for everyone: starting and ending with The Greatest Showman, which set the tone, they went on to include songs from The Sound of Music , Mary Poppins, Frozen, Rocky Horror Show, Wicked, Fame, Les Miserables, The Jungle Book, Oklahoma, Singin’ in the Rain, The Wizard of Oz, Mamma Mia, Chicago, Hamilton and Annie. They conclude with a glorious sing-a-long of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ from We Will Rock You.

Without pressure from the stage, the audience formed a mass community choir to celebrate musical theatre. Great fun and uplifting for the spirit.

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Nick Wayne

Massaoke: Sing the Musicals plays at Edinburgh Festival Fringe until 24 August, with further info here.