Fresh from smash-hit runs in London’s West End and the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe, One Man Musical by Flo & Joan makes a triumphant Australian debut at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and it is every bit as hilarious, sharp, and brilliantly offbeat as you’d hope, it’s an absolute riot from start to finish.
This “one-man musical” turns out to be an unhinged spoof of none other than Andrew Lloyd Webber himself. The premise? An iconic composer of stage mega hits finally tells his own story, in the most overly dramatic, self-aggrandising musical fashion possible.
The show is a gem for musical theatre and comedy lovers alike especially with Flo & Joan at the helm! Their razor-sharp wit, catchy songs, and clever storytelling always land perfectly. Pairing that with George Fouracres’ theatrical chops, he is a revelation in the role of Andrew Lloyd Webber with impeccable timing, dramatic flair, and a wonderfully deadpan delivery, he embodies the caricature of the overblown musical genius with complete commitment. His performance is both parody and masterclass.
Flo & Joan, serving as the show’s onstage band and backing vocals, are an unstoppable comedic force. Their original score is a whirlwind of musical theatre pastiche—mocking everything from sweeping overtures to dramatic eleven o’clock numbers. Every song is a tightly crafted blend of parody and praise, with laugh-out-loud lyrics and wickedly smart musical nods to Phantom, Cats, Evita, and more.
It’s not just funny—it’s clever. A triumphant spoof of Andrew Lloyd Webber that manages to feel both familiar and completely fresh, One Man Musical is a standout hit of this year’s Comedy Festival.
It’s better than Cats. And you will want to see it again.