Review: Sing Street at Lyric Hammersmith Theatre

⭐⭐⭐ (Three Stars)

The UK premiere of Sing Street at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, directed by Rebecca Taichman, brings plenty of energy and charm to the stage, though it doesn’t always hit the right notes. Based on the 2016 film of the same name, the musical transports us to 1985 Dublin where teenage Conor, played with charisma and confidence by Sheridan Townsley, forms a band to impress the mysterious Raphina (Grace Collender). Townsley proves a compelling protagonist, with a strong stage presence and believable teenage angst.

Sing Street’s greatest strength lies in its musical numbers. Under Nick J Barstow’s musical direction, the band’s performances within the show feel electric, with the actors impressively playing their instruments live onstage. Gary Clark and John Carney’s original songs rival the 80s classics that pepper the pre-show playlist and scene transitions: many of these musical numbers are genuinely catchy and pulse with youthful hope and energy. Luke Halls’ video design, especially the live camera feed during music video sequences, enhances these moments without ever feeling like a gimmick, giving the production a vibrant, retro feeling.

However, while the musical moments soar, the production falters in its storytelling. Enda Walsh’s book somewhat lacks the emotional depth needed to support the high-energy score. Dialogue at times feels slightly awkward and characters are sketched rather than developed: Raphina remains a one-dimensional muse rather than a fully realized person, and the school bully Barry’s redemption arc after spending the first act sporadically appearing to shout homophobic slurs feels unearned.

The set, designed by Bob Crowley, is minimal and functional, with large props such as a sofa and telephone box wheeled on and off stage by the cast. This simplicity works for the most part, but some transitions, particularly in the first act, drag. This includes one instance where a character dances around a moving sofa for far too long to maintain interest. The use of pre-existing 80s tracks in these transitions is hit-or-miss, at times atmospheric but at others awkwardly prolonged.

Overall, Sing Street shines in its musical performances and nostalgic aesthetic, but struggles with character depth and narrative coherence.

Sing Street runs at Lyric Hammersmith until 23rd August 2025.

Photos by Manuel Harlan