Housewives’ favourites Alfie Boe and Michael Ball are the subject of comedians Adam Riches and John Kearns hour long show during which they playfully imagine life as the pair prepare for another tour.

Whilst the real Boe and Ball have frequently collaborated (4 albums, numerous tours and TV appearances), it came as a surprise to learn that this is the first time Riches and Kearns have worked together – their chemistry and rapport on stage always natural and believable.

Across the course of sixty minutes ‘Ball’ and ‘Boe’ banter, bicker and – of course – sing (although no spoilers here at the song choices) and whilst Riches and Kearns are the first to admit they don’t really look or sound like Boe and Ball, they perfectly capture their mannerisms and gestures, suggesting that behind the public personas the pair are more likely to be bickering over ‘Boe’ feeling he’d prefer to be partnering with (Michael) Bublé than Ball or reading aloud letters from their fans or considering potential sponsors for their brand.

Much like the imagined subjects, the story is unpredictable yet hilarious, the parody always funny and never cruel, one could imagine Boe and Ball giving their approval (if they’re not too busy recording another Christmas album!)

The show works particularly well in the basement space of the Soho Theatre with the sparse staging really giving the feel of a backstage/rehearsal space with the audience close enough to catch every gesture and nuance in the performance.

If you’re not a fan or not familiar with Boe and Ball the show will still delight – there may be one or two references that require some prior knowledge but overall this is a hugely enjoyable comedy piece rather than hugely specific to Ball and Boe.

Rumour has it that the stint in Soho is a warm-up for a wider tour in which case this would be well deserved and well worth watching! Who knows maybe next Christmas it’ll be Adam Riches and John Kearns topping the charts with their Christmas album…

If this plays near you be sure to ‘Boe’ and have a ‘Ball’

This show was reviewed on the 12th December 2024 at the Soho Theatre where it runs until the 7th January 2025.  Tickets available here: Adam Riches and John Kearns ARE 'Ball & Boe’ - Soho Theatre

Review written by Mike Stocks

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Photo credit: Matt Stronge

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