GROUP! returns to the Lyric Theatre with a production that leans fully into its central idea, a group therapy session where personalities clash, unravel, and collide.
Created and directed by Conor Mitchell, the production focuses less on spectacle and more on character. The energy comes from the cast themselves rather than the staging, carrying the piece through sharp performances and strong vocals.
The premise is simple but effective. A group of deeply dysfunctional individuals, weeks into therapy, are already fraying at the edges. When a new member joins, the dynamic shifts, and the session begins to spiral into confrontation, confession, and chaos.
The performances are where the show succeeds most. There is a confidence and commitment that keeps the audience engaged throughout.
While the show is billed as outrageous and laugh out loud, so funny it hurts, it does not land the same way for everyone. At times, the audience around me were in fits of laughter, suggesting the humour connects strongly for many. Personally, only a few moments cut through, most notably Carol Moore’s “Brighton bomber” segment, which genuinely lands in its chaos and confusion.
What stands out more than the comedy is the subject matter. Beneath the chaos, GROUP! explores themes that feel current and, at times, uncomfortable and surprisingly thoughtful. It touches on relationships, identity, and emotional vulnerability, raising conversations and thoughts not normally expressed in theatre.
At times, it feels less like a musical comedy and more like sitting in on a real group therapy session, messy, uncomfortable, and occasionally revealing.
GROUP! is a confident, well performed production that will clearly land differently depending on who is watching. For some, it is hilarious. For others, it is more reflective than funny. Either way, it leaves an impression.
Catch GROUP! at the Lyric Theatre Belfast until 4 April.
