Visa-Vis the Musical: Stamped with Skill and Style | Smile, It Might Never Happen | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Game Called Chat | The Mash House @ Just the Tonic

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Improvised musicals are always a gamble — but in Smile, It Might Never Happen, the risk pays off thanks to a super talented cast, razor-sharp wit and a strong sense of trust that radiates from the stage. For a troupe this new to the Fringe, their synergy and confidence are remarkable and the result is a show that feels both polished and joyfully chaotic in all the right ways.

From the very first note, it’s clear the company are all great singers, each with a flair for blending vocals with quick comic timing. At the centre is the lovely Oscar, whose brilliant piano accompaniment never falters, no matter where the cast takes the story. (Seriously, what a star). His ability to follow, support, and elevate every moment gives the show its heartbeat.

What was our musical about? Oh, just a casual romp about a young man desperately trying to complete his visa application for a master’s in computer science — while dodging disapproving parents, sweating through a language test and handing over wads of cash. Throw in a shady backdoor fixer at the visa office, a surprising romance between them and the stern examiner and a squad of computer-hacking nerds, and you’ve got an irresistible ride of comedy, music, and unexpected heart.

What really makes this show sing (pun fully intended) is the trust between the cast. Improv only works if everyone has each other’s backs, and you feel that in every scene, every harmony, every perfectly timed callback – and our post-show interview only reinforced how much faith they have in one another as performers.

As a brand-new troupe, their limited time together shows in small ways, but that’s not a criticism — it’s exciting. With more practice and more stage time, this team could become something truly special on the improv-musical circuit. For now, what they’ve created is already fresh, funny, and filled with promise. I sincerely hope this isn’t the last we see of them at the Fringe — because if this show is any indication, their next steps are going to be unmissable.

The Arts Business Top Tips

1. Trust Your Team Like an Improv Troupe

·       Just as the cast trusted each other to build a story on the spot, businesses thrive when there’s complete trust across the team.

·       Give your people the space to take risks and back each other up.

·       Create a “yes, and…” culture (just like in the rules of improv build on ideas rather than shutting them down.

·       Consider extracurricular excursions or team-building activities to strengthen the bonds and in turn the levels of faith your team has in itself.

2. Turn Obstacles into Opportunities

·       The show’s story involved language tests, interview hurdles, and even shady backdoor dealings – yet every obstacle became a springboard for comedy and creativity.

·       In business, lean into challenges instead of avoiding them; use them to showcase resilience and adaptability.

·       Create an ethos in your teams which encourages a solutions rather than problems attitude. Basically, “I have this problem BUT we could do X, Y or Z to fix it.

·       Customers connect with stories of overcoming struggles, not perfection. Just like the Japanese art of Kintsugi, let your cracks show and highlight them as parts of your story. They all help you become a work of art.

3. Keep It Playful, but Professional

·       The show balanced silliness (a proposal based solely on being able to select a good pâté) with genuine musical skill. That’s why it just works.

·       For brands, especially those who find themselves seated in the creative industries fun is great – memes,  quirky campaigns, bold copy – but make sure to underpin it with quality and professionalism.

·       Don’t be afraid to surprise your audience with humour, but make sure your products or services deliver.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice

·       The troupe is new, but their potential is huge — they just need more shows under their belt.

·       It’s the same with running a business or being a freelancer: don’t expect to go viral overnight. Consistency, networking and practice are what sharpen your edge.

·       Test campaigns, refine your offers and, most importantly, keep showing up until you hit your stride.

5. Build Stories People Remember

·       The troupe turned a mundane visa application into a full-blown epic saga, complete with romance, shady deals and computer-hacking nerds. That’s the magic of storytelling – even the dullest detail can become unforgettable if it’s told with creativity.

·       For your business, don’t just list features. Wrap your product or service in a narrative that excites, entertains, or inspires your audience.

·       What if your freelance? Well, it’s even easy because your story is literally your story: your skills, your experience and your personality!

·       People don’t remember facts. They remember stories, so don’t be afraid to tell yours.