Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

As part of their Caledonian Express season, the Pleasance Theatre in Islington is playing host to a whole range of shows that performed at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Having had major FOMO over the summer, I was super excited to check out the season. The first show I visited was Paul O’Donnell’s hysterical one man show We’ve Got Each Other.

Based on the music of Bon Jovi, O’Donnell pitches to the audience a brand new rock n roll jukebox musical that will take the West End by storm. O’Donnell’s musical follows the story of Tommy and Gina. Both from different backgrounds, the couple must overcome all challenges to be together, from Julio, Gina’s fianceé and Tommy’s boss, to the strike at the docks. The difference with this production is that Paul O’Donnell was only given only an hour of stage time to condense a 2 hour 35 minute show and no budget. So the audience is invited to imagine what the production would look like, with the help of a (reluctant) techie.

We’ve Got Each Other was perhaps one of the most fun hours I’ve had in a theatre. O’Donnell’s comic timing was just perfect; his banter with the audience and his expert storytelling made for an engaging production that delivered a community vibe, that we’ve really all got each other. It’s as if the audience bonded together on how much jukebox musicals can be a little ridiculous but if you have the right music (or in this case – the right song) you can create a bloody good time.

I really loved this show, Paul O’Donnell’s hilarious production spins jukebox musicals on its head and creates a fun atmosphere for the audience to come together and bond over the love of Bon Jovi’s Livin’ On A Prayer. Undeniably clever, I didn’t want it to end.

For tickets and more information on the Caledonian Express season at the Pleasance Theatre, please visit https://www.pleasance.co.uk/via/search/london/tag/cally/

Until next time,