After a record-breaking run at The Old Vic, Just For One Day – The Live Aid Musical has thundered into the Shaftesbury Theatre with all the energy, heart, and swagger that made its premiere such a sensation. Now marking the 40th anniversary of the legendary 1985 Live Aid concerts, this production is more than a jukebox musical—it’s a vibrant, emotionally charged tribute to a moment when music truly changed the world.
John O’Farrell’s book deftly balances humour and poignancy, weaving together the stories of those on stage, behind the scenes, and in the crowd. The concept is that Geldof is explaining the Live Aid phenomenon to a Gen Z’er who thinks that their generation could do it better than “a bunch of old white men”.
It’s a sprawling narrative, but director Luke Sheppard keeps the pace tight and the stakes high, ensuring the show never loses its emotional core. Whether you lived through Live Aid or are discovering it for the first time, the show captures the spirit of unity and urgency that defined that day.
Craige Els reprises his role as Bob Geldof with commanding presence and gritty charm, anchoring the show with a performance that’s both larger-than-life and deeply human. He’s joined by a powerhouse ensemble including Kelly Agbowu, Julie Atherton (a very funny Mrs Thatcher), and Tim Mahendran, each delivering standout moments that elevate the production beyond nostalgia.
Melissa Jacques is wonderful as Suzanne, one of the narrators looking back at how that day would change her whole life. Perhaps the stand out performance of the evening comes from George Ure playing Midge Ure (no relation, the programme assures us) but you may struggle to believe that when you see and hear George embody the role.
The musical numbers are, unsurprisingly, the show’s beating heart. With a setlist that includes anthems from Queen, U2, Elton John, Madonna, and more, the production could easily coast on the strength of its soundtrack. But thanks to Matthew Brind’s dynamic arrangements and Ebony Molina’s kinetic choreography, each number feels freshly imagined.
Soutra Gilmour’s set design cleverly evokes both the grandeur of Wembley Stadium and the intimacy of backstage moments, aided by Andrzej Goulding’s slick video projections that transport us across continents and decades. Fay Fullerton’s costumes and Howard Hudson’s lighting complete a visual palette that is as bold and eclectic as the music itself.
The show doesn’t shy away from the complexities of charity, fame, and activism, but it ultimately celebrates the power of collective action. The decision to donate 10% of ticket sales to The Band Aid Charitable Trust adds a meaningful layer to the experience—this is theatre with purpose.
Just For One Day feels like a breath of fresh air, it reminds us (or educates the younger amongst us) of what an incredible feat that day was, and the difference it made to the world then, and in the years that followed. Most importantly it reminds us how powerful humanity can be, if only we can come together for the common good.
