For anyone who has ever hummed “I’ll Be There for You” while picturing six friends on an orange couch, Friends! The Musical Parody delivers exactly what it promises: a fast-paced, joke-packed celebration of one of television’s most beloved sitcoms, Friends, writes Neil Edwards

The show leans wholeheartedly into nostalgia. The script weaves together famous plot points, from the leather pants fiasco to the infamous “we were on a break” and “PIVOT!”, in a way that feels brisk rather than overloaded.

Audiences are invited not just to remember the jokes, but to laugh anew at their exaggerated theatrical retellings. It’s clear the creative team understands what makes Friends so popular with all most generations, not just catchphrases, but the affection people hold for these flawed, funny, steadfastly loyal characters.

The cast members step into famously well-worn roles with impressive comic precision. Enzo Benvenuti portraying Ross, captures his neurotic intensity and perpetual romantic despair, while Eva Hope who looks the most like her character Rachel, balances fashion-forward poise with just enough wide-eyed vulnerability.

Meg Darcey stepped into the role of Monica for the night with her competitive fire and control, with probably the most convincing role of Chandler played by Daniel Parkinson who landed punchlines with impeccable timing alongside the well observed hand-gesture mannerisms.

Amelia Atherton’s convincing Phoebe floats in with offbeat charm, and Ronnie Burden’s Joey earns some of the biggest laughs with his wide-eyed dopey innocence and exaggerated bravado. Also a big shout out to, Edward Leigh with his variety of cameo acts, stepping into roles that included Gunther and Marcel the Monkey, with hilariously funny results.

The musical numbers are solid, and delve into the sitcom’s best-loved moments of humour, although as it is a Parody, copyright caveat restricts the use of the iconic theme tune and if you are hoping for Phoebe’s rendition of ‘Smelly Cat’ - it is there but with a different twist which was a tad disappointing although excellently performed.

The set design cleverly evokes the iconic apartment and coffeehouse without getting bogged down in realism. Quick transitions and simple staging keep the pace snappy. This is not a spectacle-driven production; it’s a comedy engine, fueled by recognition and rapid-fire references and at the beginning of both acts, there is feverish action from the crew and participation, that lended the feeling you are part of the live studio audience.

What makes the show work is its understanding of its audience. It doesn’t attempt to stray from the original series and the loudest reactions come not from surprise twists, but from the anticipation of familiar punchlines delivered with theatrical flourish.

For die-hard fans of Friends, the show is a warm reunion filled with affectionate ribbing, lively, occasionally frenetic comedy that rarely pauses for breath. It is not designed to replace the sitcom it lovingly mocks, nor does it try. Instead, it offers audiences a joyous reunion with characters who shaped a generation, all wrapped in a delightful package of song, satire, and nostalgia. For fans, it’s an irresistible chance to relive favourite memories that made Friends a worldwide phenomenon.

The show is running until Saturday, February 28, so grab yourself a table at Central Perk, settle back in a comfy seat and enjoy.