Some nights in London remind you why you fell in love with live entertainment in the first place, and tonight, tucked away in the glamorous Art Deco surroundings of Crazy Coqs, was one of them.
Jim Caruso's Cast Party is not so much a show as a joyous, unpredictable celebration of everything we adore about a night out, and the entire audience left grinning from ear to ear.
Let's start with the host. Jim Caruso is an absolute gift. Hilarious, warm, quick as a whip and utterly in command of the room, he had the audience in the palm of his hand from the moment he stepped out. His banter is razor sharp but never unkind, and he has that rare knack of making every performer feel like a star and every audience member feel like part of the cast. If you have ever wanted to be hosted by someone who makes a room full of strangers feel like old friends, this is your man.
And then there's the piano. To be in the same room as the virtuosic Billy Stritch on the keys is nothing short of an honour. His playing is effortless, elegant and endlessly inventive. Whatever was thrown at him, he made it sound at ease, lifting every performer who took the mic and supporting them with the kind of musicianship you simply cannot fake. Watching him work is a masterclass in itself, and we could have listened to him all night.
Put these two together in the intimate glamour of Crazy Coqs and you get pure magic: talent, humour, heart and a room full of people having the time of their lives. This is the kind of evening that makes you want to grab every friend you know and drag them along next time.
Whether you're a seasoned theatregoer or simply someone who needs a good night out, do yourself a favour and get a ticket. You'll thank us later.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Jeff Mostyn
Photo credit: Bill Westmoreland
Jake Caruso’s Cast Party plays at London’s Crazy Coqs until 8 Nov, with further info here.