Fisherman’s Friends: The Musical is based on the heart-warming true story of the group of fishermen whose sea shanties made the Top Ten and provoked a new wave of love and appreciation for sea-shanties. The musical, which is currently performed at Richmond Theatre, follows a group of fishermen who spend their time on land in the local pub drinking and singing sea shanties. When Danny turns up from London and sees their potential, he encourages them to take the leap to share their love of sea shanties with the world.

Sailor’s sea shanties have been around since at least the mid 1400s but up until recently were only really appreciated by fishing towns and villages. Thanks to the original Fisherman’s Friends, the enjoyment of sea shanties has been passed on to a wider audience. Their unlikely story based on community, respect for each other and love provided one of the most enjoyable, uplifting theatre experiences that I’ve had in a while. 

A spokesperson for the production said that “It is a really amazing atmosphere here at Richmond theatre with Fisherman’s friends. It’s so heart-warming and it is so feel good, and everyone is really enjoying themselves,” and I wholeheartedly agree. In fact, I believe that everyone who has seen the play would agree that it was absolutely delightful and well worth a watch.  

Watching the performance seemed like stepping into a lively Cornish pub, thanks to the incredible set and extremely talented actors, singers, and musicians. There seemed to be non-stop dancing and shanty singing which was hugely entertaining and honestly it seemed as if the actors seemed to be enjoying themselves as much as the audience was. The play is perfect for those who love feel-good musical’s and want to have a fun night out, and Richmond theatre is the perfect venue for that. 

Simply put, this production was truly charming and (mostly) cheerful and left the audience with a lovely feeling and a new love of sea shanties. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone because it’s one of those musicals that will stick with you for a long time to come for how genuinely fun it is.