1. Overview

London Record is a Korean original musical that brings warmth, humor, and spontaneity to the stage. Set in an old record shop on the outskirts of London, the show tells the story of John, the owner of a failing store, who encounters Sally, a traveler returning from abroad, and Scarlett, a singer who has just failed an audition. The three strangers form an unlikely bond through music and shared dreams — rediscovering courage, laughter, and the joy of connection.

The musical is known for its free-spirited and interactive atmosphere. Unlike traditional theatre, audience members are encouraged to take photos, eat, drink, and even dance during the show. A highlight of each performance is a mini “concert” segment called Open Your Vocal Cords, where the audience joins the cast in singing, waving light sticks, and jumping together to release stress.

2. London Showcase (2024)

The musical held a two-day international showcase at The Other Palace Studio in London’s West End on January 20–21, 2024, marking its first overseas performance. Presented by M Stage, the event featured the original Seoul cast and creative team. The London engagement introduced local audiences to a fresh, participatory format rarely seen in Korean musicals, blending humor, warmth, and audience interaction in a relaxed, music-bar-style setting.

3. Seoul Production

In Seoul, London Record is periodically restaged, remaining popular among both musical fans and casual audiences. The relaxed format — allowing food delivery, photos, and real-time interaction — challenges conventions while emphasizing that musicals can also be a communal space for joy and release.

The production company explains that London Record was created “to give people the courage to dream again, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.” Its compact cast of three actors — John, Scarlett, and Sally — captures this message through music that blends pop, rock, and acoustic ballads, transforming small moments into large emotional resonance.

4. Critical Response

Critics have described the musical as “a free-spirited performance where the audience truly becomes part of the story.”

The final act’s participatory concert is often cited as the show’s highlight — an uplifting moment when performers and audience members sing, dance, and share laughter together.

Beyond its cheerful tone, London Record delivers a quietly powerful message about resilience, friendship, and the ability to find connection through music.