Friends The Musical Parody
For those of a certain age, Friends was a defining moment of TV that shaped a generation, propelling 6 unknown American actors into super stardom. It was only a matter of time therefore that a musical of this phenomenon was created and thanks to writers of the book and lyrics, Bob and Tobly McSmith, Friends The Musical Parody was born.
Friends spanned over 10 seasons between 1994 and 2004, racking up an impressive 236 episodes during that time. Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Phoebe and Joey are names you only have to hear once and you instantly think of Friends. Based in New York City, this show is the perfect basis for a musical where nothing is taken seriously and everything is very tongue in cheek. This is the one where we laughed lots!
The performers are expertly cast, each of whom have perfected the mannerisms of each of the characters so convincingly. Amelia Atherton as Phoebe, Alicia Belgarde as Monica, Enzo Benvenuti as Ross, Ronnie Burden as Joey, Eva Hope as Rachel and Daniel Parkinson as Chandler are a wonderful group of performers leading this mad cap look at one of the most famous friendship groups on TV.
With there being so many episodes to take material from, the McSmith’s have carefully crafted some memorable moments into the script without anything feeling out of place. The pace is rapid, and the songs come thick and fast, but each serves its purpose with some extremely funny moments where a trip to Chicago, The Little Mermaid, Fiddler on the Roof and even Rent give that nod to the wonderful world of musical theatre. We even meet Marcel the Monkey like you’ve never met him before! A special mention must go to Edward Leigh who multi roles as the Warm Up Guy, Tom Selleck, Gunther and Paolo who provided some incredible vocals.
The set is very easy on the eye for any Friends fan, with the infamous purple apartment door with yellow frame around the peep hole which is instantly recognisable. Set designer Andrew Exeter really has encapsulated the many familiar sets of the TV show, including both apartments, and of course Central Perk, the coffee shop frequented by the 6. The costuming and wigs, hair and make up departments must also get a special mention for bringing the characters to life on stage, with even a special sighting of the giant turkey to adorn Monica’s head one Thanksgiving, if you know, you know!
I really didn’t know what to expect from this show, but what I did get was a hilarious, cheeky, fun and memorable show which any fan of the hit TV series would revel in. Many moments of familiarity, accompanied with such songs as “How You Doin’”, “We Were on a Break” and “Pivot”, make this a perfect night for you and your F.R.I.E.N.D.S!
This show was reviewed on the 13th October at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre where it runs until the 18th October 2025. Tickets available here: FRIENDS! The Musical Parody | Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
Review written by Emma Rowley
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Photo credit: Pamela Raith
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