An electric jukebox musical with immense heart, Just For One Day celebrates the fortieth anniversary of legendary world rock event Live Aid, underpinning the sensational music with sobering pathos. 

Deftly blending cheeky humour and breathless tension, book writer John O’Farrell frames the action with reminiscences, as Live Aid attendee Suzanne recounts the historic times to daughter Jemma. A focus on the different approach of their generations brings the occasion to like for a new audience whilst also providing glorious memories for older viewers.

As the story hurtles along, Bob Geldof, Midge Ure, and Harvey Goldsmith come to life, along with African nurse Amara, technicians Marsha and Jim and a host of music legends. In a clever touch, specific renditions by superstar performers such as Madonna, Freddie Mercury, and Paul McCartney are not played as impersonations but rather as simply capturing the essence of the original artists.

Just For One Day respects the traditions of musical theatre but is not bound by conventions, freely playing with time and space as characters interact and share their part of the story. Although the audience knows the outcome, tension bubbles along with the sheer scope of the project to be achieved in such a short time. The highs are thrilling and the context is clearly grounded with unflinching inclusion of the scale of tragedy that was being addressed.

As orchestrated and arranged by Matthew Brind, the songs sound fabulous, expanded into lush vocal harmonies sung by the talented ensemble cast who are on stage for almost the entire performance. As well as “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” and “We Are the World,” some 35 iconic songs are interwoven, some as part of the musical and some as featured in the climactic Live Aid scenes. Although there is perhaps too much of a reliance on the Great. Big. Finish. for the songs, this certainly maintains a high level of musical excitement.

Director Luke Sheppard neatly ensures that the fluid, abstract narrative shines with clarity, balancing the humorous with the more harrowing. Choreographer Emily Molina creatively draws upon a range of styles, as fits the breadth of music included. 

Set designer Soutra Gilmour and lighting Designer Howard Hudson collaborate closely, with concert lights making up a significant part of the backdrops. Conjuring the stadium vibe, a set of bleachers is occupied by the cast members throughout the show. Video and projection designer Andrzej Goulding judiciously includes real footage and images at key moments. Sound designer Gareth Owen creates chest-thumping volume for a true rock-concert feel.

Every member of the ensemble cast has their featured role to play, and even lead performers sing back up on many occasions. 

Craige Els perfectly captures the awkward body language and casual foul mouth of driven Live Aid instigator Bob Geldof. 

Melissa Jacques brings ready warmth to adult Suzanne, supported seamlessly by Hope Kenna as the impassioned Young Suzanne. Faith Ifil capably represents the awareness and aspirations of Gen-Z as Suzanne’s daughter Jemma. 

Julie Atherton is hilarious in her pitch perfect portrayal of Margaret Thatcher. Thatcher and Geldof rap their way through their conversations, with a highlight being the repurposing of Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing.”

Expertly conceived and thrillingly performed, Just For One Day is a unique and heartfelt musical that deserves the widest possible audience. 

Just For One Day was reviewed 2.30pm Wednesday 12 November 2025 at Shaftesbury Theatre, London where it plays until 7 February 2026. For tickets, click here.

Photos: Evan Zimmerman

Watch the current trailer for Just For One Day: