Our House
Recently Updated
Unpacking "Our House" on the West End
"Our House" is a lively jukebox musical that brings the infectious ska-pop hits of Madness to the West End stage. Premiering at the Cambridge Theatre on October 28, 2002, and running until August 16, 2003, this production turned the band’s quirky tunes into a theatrical romp through 1980s London. With a book by Tim Firth and direction by Matthew Warchus, the show won the 2003 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Musical, blending humor, heart, and a dual-timeline narrative that keeps audiences skanking along.
The Tale of Joe Casey
Set in Camden Town, "Our House" follows Joe Casey, a spirited lad who, on his 16th birthday, takes his crush Sarah on a daring date breaking into a building site for a rooftop view. When the police arrive, the story splits into two parallel paths: "Good Joe" stays and faces the consequences, while "Bad Joe" flees, setting off a chain of chaotic choices. This inventive fork explores love, loyalty, and the ripple effects of a single decision, all underscored by Madness classics like "It Must Be Love" and "Baggy Trousers."
A Madness-Fueled Creation
Tim Firth, a fan of Madness’s witty lyricism, crafted the musical’s book, weaving their songs into a cohesive narrative. The band’s frontman, Suggs, contributed to the project’s authenticity, later taking the stage as Joe’s Dad in a 2012 anniversary concert. Matthew Warchus’s slick direction, paired with Peter Darling’s choreography, brought a dynamic energy to the production. Despite its Olivier win, the show faced mixed reviews and closed after less than 10 months due to sluggish ticket sales a bittersweet note for a musical brimming with potential.
The West End Debut and Beyond
Opening in 2002, "Our House" starred Michael Jibson as Joe Casey in his professional debut, earning him an Olivier nomination. The search for Sarah proved tricky until Jibson suggested classmate Julia Gay, rounding out a fresh-faced cast. After its West End run, the show toured the UK in 2008-2009, tweaking elements like swapping "House of Fun" for "Los Palmas 7" to address earlier critiques. A one-night gala at the Savoy Theatre on November 11, 2012, marked its 10th anniversary, raising funds for Help for Heroes with Suggs leading the charge.
Musical Highlights and Ska Spirit
The score pulses with Madness’s signature sound, featuring hits like "Our House," "Driving in My Car," and "Night Boat to Cairo." These tracks, laced with wry humor and catchy hooks, propel the story, from Joe’s romantic escapades to his mates’ misadventures. The 2008 tour introduced "NW5," a newer Madness hit, replacing "Sarah’s Song" to refresh the lineup. The music’s upbeat tempo and nostalgic charm make it a love letter to the band’s North London roots.
A Legacy of Fun and Reflection
Though its initial West End stint was brief, "Our House" left its mark, inspiring tours in Japan (2006) and the UK (2017), plus smaller stagings like the 2015 Union Theatre run. Its Olivier win underscores its creative spark, often likened to a British "Rent" for its youthful verve. The musical’s exploration of choice and consequence, wrapped in Madness’s irreverent style, keeps it a cult favorite among fans and theatre buffs alike.
Why "Our House" Stands Out
"Our House" shines as a jukebox musical that dares to tell an original story, sidestepping the biographical trap of its peers. Its dual narrative and ska-infused score offer a playful yet poignant ride, celebrating London’s working-class spirit. For West End audiences, it’s a nostalgic nod to the ’80s, proving Madness’s songs can leap from airwaves to stage with infectious glee.