one4review | On 15, Aug 2023

First of all don’t be expecting a boy band’s Christmas Hits musical. This is a musical parody of a Christmas Carol and It’s a Wonderful Life that follows NSYNC founder Chris Kirkpatrick as he travels back in time to his boy band glory days.

It’s Christmas eve 2009. Kirkpatrick has his annual seasonal gathering with his bandmates, Lance Bass, Joey Fantone and JC Chasez. Justin Timberlake hasn’t shown up as he’s too busy enjoying his wonderful life being a mega superstar. Kirkpatrick, still holding onto the fact that the band are still on a hiatus, suggests a band reunion tour.

As Kirkpatrick is struggling to be someone other than Chris Kirkpatrick from NSYNC he is visited by the ghost of Christmas past. Marky Mark (not Mark Wahlberg as he’s still alive) grants Kirkpatrick a Christmas wish. Wishing for an NSYNC reunion Marky Mark tries to dissuade him suggesting Kirkpatrick reinvents himself (like he did when he became a famous actor). He then takes Kirkpatrick back in time to revisit the band’s rise and fall from fame. We are treated to a great song and dance performance from the first rehearsal, meeting Lou Perman the bands manager, the exhaustion of constant touring and Justin Timberlake leaving the band for a solo career.

The story is told through an original music score with amusing lyrics. This very talented cast are amazing singers, perfectly harmonising together during an a capella performance. They easily take on the role of multiple characters throughout this performance (band members can be identified by their stuck on facial hair and fabulous wigs).

Factual references throughout will keep the NSYNC fans happy. Who knew Mark Wahlberg was once in a Boy Band called Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch! Great concept for a modern day musical. A very enjoyable, entertaining show,

****

Reviewed by Lynn

Pleasance Courtyard (Pleasance Two)

15:10 (1 hr)

Aug 2nd – 28th (except 9th,16th,23rd)