The Prat Pack

Four of the country’s greatest comedy entertainers will tour the UK in 2025 with their own special take on the Rat Pack - Bradley Walsh, Brian Conley, Shane Richie and Joe Pasquale are The Prat Pack. Inspired by the performances of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford, the UK stars are hitting the road (with Pasquale at the wheel of the tour bus). Packed with laughs and songs, backed by a 15-piece band, the show will let the audience in on the banter between some of television’s best-loved stars - who are also very close friends.

Let’s start with the tech side of things—often overlooked but crucial to pulling off a show like this. The lighting design may have been straightforward on paper, but it was elegantly simple, which is a whole different ballgame. It didn’t rely on flashy tricks or dramatic effects but used well-timed cues and warm, focused tones that elevated key moments without ever overwhelming them. It knew when to hold back and shine (pun very much intended). During the musical numbers, the lighting subtly shifted to complement the rhythm and mood, adding just the right amount of drama or softness to support what was happening on stage.

The sound design was impressively strong—almost flawless. The audio levels across the stage were generally well-balanced, letting the comedy, vocals, and band all have their moments to shine. That said, there were a few minor blips where a performer’s voice got a bit lost in the mix. Most likely, the result of a mic turning up a touch too high—or, in some cases, the classic performer faux pas of holding the mic a little too far from their face. Let’s be honest, that one’s not on the tech team. Still, these were brief and rare moments in an otherwise smooth and polished audio experience.

Visually, the set design stuck to a minimalist approach, but did so with style and intention. The main focal point was the orchestra, placed across a beautifully tiered, multi-layered stage that gave a sense of depth and grandeur. Behind them, a stunning star curtain shimmered softly, mainly in a clean, glowing white that acted as a perfect canvas for the action in front. It was understated but elegant, providing just enough sparkle to feel theatrical, without ever pulling focus from the performers—a masterclass in doing more with less.

As for costumes, the cast went all-in on vintage flair, rocking classic black-and-white tuxedos complete with charming bow ties. It was a loving tribute to the golden age of British variety and old-school comedy. Everyone looked sharp and polished, fitting right in with the retro vibe of the evening. Even the orchestra matched, dressed to the nines in coordinated attire that beautifully tied the whole aesthetic together.

And speaking of the orchestra, what a phenomenal addition. The 15-piece band brought a richness and energy to the show that can’t be replicated by anything pre-recorded. From the very first note, they injected life into the room. Hearing those timeless crooner classics performed live by such a passionate, talented ensemble was honestly goosebump-inducing. Each musician played with heart and soul, and the full-bodied, velvety sound of the band added a layer of magic and nostalgia that carried the whole evening to another level. They weren’t just background—they were an integral part of the atmosphere, and the show would’ve felt incomplete without them.

Now onto the stars of the show. Our leading man, Joe Pasquale, absolutely stole the stage every time he appeared. His 10-15 minute set flew by so quickly that time was speeding up. His prop-based comedy—an art form that’s sadly too rare these days—was downright side-splitting. It was like watching a living cartoon in the best possible way.

Bradley Walsh opened with a bit of comedy that was... fine. But where he truly shines is in that golden voice of his. Every time he started to sing, the room melted. His vocals are smooth, warm, and irresistible—an unexpected highlight.

Brian Conley brought his signature charisma and showbiz polish. Not every gag hit the bullseye, but most did, and when they landed, they landed. He played the audience like a pro, delivering laughs and lovely vocals with charm to spare.

Shane Richie felt more like comic relief between the comic relief. His bits didn’t quite take off like the others, and he didn’t get much solo time musically. He was a strong team player—great in the harmonies and complete with charm and stage presence.

What made this show so special, though, was the chemistry between them. Their genuine friendship shone through in every unscripted glance, every off-the-cuff joke, and all the seemingly improvised moments that the audience howled. It felt like being in on a private joke between old mates, and we were lucky enough to be invited.

This was hands-down the funniest show I have ever seen. I was crying with laughter, and honestly, I needed the interval to recover from the first half. It’s rare to get this kind of pure, joyous comedy today—genuine old-school British humour done brilliantly.

Tickets are sold out at every venue (no surprise there), but keep checking for returns—you might get lucky. Catch them if you can at the New Theatre Oxford or Southend-On-Sea. And fingers crossed this isn’t the last time these comedy legends team up—because we all need more nights like this.