Just what’s needed at this time of year, Boys in the Buff is a charmingly irreverent, warm-hearted and joyfully affirming comedy written by Chris Burgess. Bursting with humour, heart and more than a little cheek, the show delivers a celebratory evening of musical theatre that champions self-acceptance while never taking itself too seriously.
At the centre of the action is Maxie, played with delicious warmth and comic timing by Tish Weinman. A kindly, no-nonsense, saucepot mother-figure, Maxie presides over their troupe of four attractive young performers, guiding them through a slick, high-energy dance ensemble that, true to the title, eventually ends with the boys dancing gloriously in the buff. Weinman anchors the show with confidence and generosity, their strong, rich vocal presence blending beautifully with the company while also giving the production its emotional spine.
Along the way, the show invites us into the inner worlds of each of the boys, as they reveal the insecurities that have shaped them. Each character has struggled to accept a specific part of their body or a defining personal trait; something that may have made them a target at school or simply ballooned into a crippling insecurity in their own mind. These anxieties have led to social withdrawal and diminished self-esteem, a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever fretted over weight gain, acne, crooked teeth or any perceived imperfection. The show’s message is clear and refreshingly humane: everyone has something they’re self-conscious about, and believing in that negative inner voice serves only to do us harm.
We meet the gorgeous Dan (Rowan Armitt-Brewster), Luca (Max Rizzo), Phil (Adam Norton) and Richard (Liam Bradbury), all of whom sing, dance and act their way through this uplifting story with skill and charisma. Under the direction and choreography of Robbie O’Reilly, the movement is inventive and dynamic, with unexpected elements of tap and ballet woven seamlessly into a cabaret-style performance. These stylistic flourishes keep the staging fresh and playful, while allowing each performer moments to shine.
Vocally, the show is a delight. The boys’ harmonious blend works exceptionally well, complementing Weinman’s powerful sound. The musical numbers are well integrated into the narrative – poignant when they need to be, joyously uplifting when the show leans into celebration, and undeniably catchy. More than once, I found myself humming along, a sure sign of a score that lingers pleasantly long after the curtain call.
There is a moment of audience participation for a particularly brave volunteer, invited, if they wish, to remove an item (or items) of clothing. I am happy to confirm that it wasn’t me, but equally happy to report that one game young man was more than willing to strip to the waist, earning raucous cheers and laughter from the crowd. It’s handled with good humour and consent, adding to the sense of shared fun rather than cheap gimmickry.
And then, of course, there is the strip finale, the moment many have been waiting for (or perhaps just me). Yet it never feels gratuitous. As the story unfolds and the shyest of the boys grows into self-acceptance, confidence blossoms, and the final reveal becomes a triumphant metaphor rather than a mere tease. The result is a blinding, liberating performance that celebrates bodies of all kinds and the courage it takes to inhabit them fully.
Funny, brave and impeccably professional, Boys in the Buff is a show brimming with fun, love and genuine heart. It leaves you smiling, cheering and perhaps feeling a little kinder towards yourself.
Bravo, boys!
Review by Bernadette Lintunen
Have you ever felt judged for not having the right body shape? Too fat? Too thin? Never exercise?
Our photo-shopped world is not always kind. Diana and her boys sing, dance and tell stories about self-confidence, body image, and society’s unreasonably high expectations on our appearance, sharing personal stories and daring each other to reveal more and more of themselves.
As they explore their bodies they discover 101 ways to look fabulous.
CAST
Tish Weinman
Rowan Armitt-Brewer
Liam Bradbury
Adam Norton
Max Rizzo
CREATIVES
Words and Music – Chris Burgess
Director and Choreographer – Robbie O’Reilly
Designer – Alan Meggs
Original Designer – David Shields
Musical Director – Aaron Clingham
“I Can Fly” music – Cathy Shostak
“I Can Fly” lyrics – Chris Burgess
Orchestrator – Joe Louis Robinson
Musical Arrangers – Andy Collyer and Aaron Clingham
Graphic Designer – Steve Caplin
Casting Director – Daniel Lobo
BOYS IN THE BUFF
Golden Goose Theatre
10 December 2025 to 10 January 2026
