McFarland takes his audience on a journey through song that pulls on the heartstringsRating
Excellent!
I was lucky enough to attend the only performance of London, You’re Perfect, Now Change at the Canal Café Theatre. This award-winning theatre, situated on the edge of the Regent’s Canal, has been supporting the arts since the 1970s. It is a renowned comedy, cabaret, and theatre venue which has helped launch the careers of some of the biggest names in comedy, including John Oliver and Miranda Hart.
As I walked into the space, it was clear this was going to be a lively, fun-filled evening. The set-up, with chairs and tables, created an intimate and informal atmosphere, and every seat was taken.
Matthew McFarland, a thirty-something American, took to the stage, introduced himself, and was instantly likeable. This was his story, about how he left his beloved New York after feeling lost in the city and asking the universe for guidance. That search ultimately led him to London, where he came to attend drama school and begin a new chapter.
What followed was part concert, part storytelling and part personal journey. McFarland is engaging and funny, but he also has a vulnerable side, which he reveals through his honesty about insecurity, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. There is something very relatable about hearing someone who has followed their dream admit that, at times, they have questioned whether they are good enough to achieve it.
He took us on a journey through song, with each number relating to how he was feeling at that moment in his life. His vocals were strong and demonstrated his ability as a singer and a performer. He was accompanied by pianist Adam Morris, who also directed and arranged the music, and some of the numbers were performed with other singers. There were some beautiful harmonies and duets, alongside classic musical theatre numbers, including music from Into the Woods and Sunset Boulevard.It was clear that the music meant a great deal to him, and that he has an emotional connection with each of the songs. Rather than simply performing a collection of musical theatre favourites, each song helped McFarland tell his story, allowing the audience to see another side of him, especially when the humour gave way to moments of vulnerability.
In between each number, McFarland glanced at his script before telling the audience more about his journey of self-discovery. His delivery was conversational and honest, and quite emotional at times.
As someone who loves both New York and London, I could particularly relate to his descriptions of how both cities can draw you in and pull at your heartstrings, while at the same time making you feel lonely. There is something universal about that feeling of being surrounded by people in a huge city but still wondering where you fit in.
It was lovely seeing such a personal story performed in such an intimate venue. McFarland doesn’t try to hide the uncertainty that comes with pursuing a career in the performing arts. Instead, he embraces it, allowing the audience to share in both the highs and lows of his journey.
McFarland is clearly someone with a dream that he doesn’t want to give up on, even though at times he has felt like doing so. He believes in being shown the way and feels that his next path is back in America. But London is where he found himself, and for that, the city will always have a special place in his heart.
This was a lovely way to spend a Friday night. McFarland is a talented showman who genuinely loves the stage. As he heads back to the Big Apple, I wish him all the very best.
Music Directed and Arranged by Adam Morris
Directed by Claire Adams
Produced by Elissa Gerrand
London, You’re Perfect, Now Change has completed its run at the Canal Café Theatre
