JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND: SEX WITH STRANGERS

Soho Theatre Walthamstow

★★★★★

“There’s a deep connection that runs beneath the surface, and it’s felt in every gesture, every note, every pause”

Mx Justin Vivian Bond is a spectacular force of nature, commanding the stage with a presence that evokes the spirit of the magnificent Marianne Faithfull. With a selection of songs from Faithfull’s youth, Bond presents a beautifully curated cabaret, rich with emotion, wit, and reverence. Backed by five exceptional musicians, they deliver a performance that is both powerful and intimate, one that, without a doubt, Marianne herself would be proud of.

Between songs, elegantly chosen and performed, Bond shares poignant glimpses into their own childhood. These stories, sometimes humorous, sometimes heartbreaking, draw the audience closer, creating a sense of shared experience and emotional honesty that lingers in the room long after the final note.

Mx Bond is particularly perfect in this role, perhaps because Faithfull’s music and persona have been a part of their own journey, both metaphorically and literally. There’s a deep connection that runs beneath the surface, and it’s felt in every gesture, every note, every pause.

The feeling you’re left with as you leave the theatre is one of nostalgic warmth and raw beauty. You’ll likely want to go home, put on a vinyl of Broken English, and sing along, revisiting the voice of Marianne Faithfull through the lens of Mx Justin Vivian Bond’s exquisite tribute.

JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND: SEX WITH STRANGERS

Soho Theatre Walthamstow

Reviewed on 11th July 2025

by Beatrice Morandi

Photography by Matthew Placek for Apparatus Studio

Last ten shows reviewed at Soho Theatre venues:

ALEX KEALY: THE FEAR | ★★★★ | June 2025

KIERAN HODGSON: VOICE OF AMERICA | ★★★★★ | June 2025

HOUSE OF LIFE | ★★★★★ | May 2025

JORDAN GRAY: IS THAT A C*CK IN YOUR POCKET, OR ARE YOU JUST HERE TO KILL ME? | ★★★★★ | May 2025

WHAT IF THEY ATE THE BABY? | ★★★★★ | March 2025

WEATHER GIRL | ★★★½ | March 2025

DELUGE | ★★★★ | February 2025

ROB AUTON: THE EYES OPEN AND SHUT SHOW | ★★★½ | February 2025

DEMI ADEJUYIGBE IS GOING TO DO ONE (1) BACKFLIP | ★★★★★ | January 2025

MAKE ME LOOK FIT ON THE POSTER | ★★★★ | January 2025

JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND

★★★★

“His mix of intellect, relatability, and nerdy charm makes for a brilliant night out”

Alex Kealy is a standout comedian who brings a clever mix of personal stories, political insights, and nerdy references into his act, all with a unique, self-aware charm. His comedy is full of sharp observations and honest moments that many in the audience can instantly relate to, turning everyday situations into laugh-out-loud experiences.

One of the most unexpected and delightful parts of his set is how often he draws comparisons to The Lord of the Rings. Whether he’s poking fun at the characters or using them as metaphors for modern life, these references are not only funny but surprisingly insightful. It adds a playful, geeky twist that makes his material stand out.

Kealy’s delivery is fast-paced and intelligent, and while he sometimes appears a little nervous on stage, it works in his favour, making him seem approachable and genuine. He interacts with the audience just enough to keep the energy high, without making anyone feel uncomfortable or put on the spot.

Already making a name for himself on the UK comedy circuit, Alex has supported big names like Jack Dee, Shaparak Khorsandi, Tom Rosenthal, and Kieran Hodgson. His writing talents have been featured on BBC Radio 4’s The Now Show, Catherine Bohart’s TL; DR, and Rhys James What Are You Talking About?. He’s also contributed to Mock The Week and The News Quiz, further proving his skill for smart, topical humour.

Alex Kealy is one of the UK’s most exciting rising talents in stand-up. His mix of intellect, relatability, and nerdy charm makes for a brilliant night out. If you get the chance to see him live, you absolutely should.

JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND: SEX WITH STRANGERS

Soho Theatre Walthamstow

★★★★★

“There’s a deep connection that runs beneath the surface, and it’s felt in every gesture, every note, every pause”

JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND: SEX WITH STRANGERS

Soho Theatre Walthamstow

Reviewed on 11th July 2025

by Beatrice Morandi

Photography by Matthew Placek for Apparatus Studio

Last ten shows reviewed at Soho Theatre venues:

JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND

JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND

JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND

ALEX KEALY: THE FEAR

Soho Theatre

★★★★

“His mix of intellect, relatability, and nerdy charm makes for a brilliant night out”

ALEX KEALY: THE FEAR

Soho Theatre

Reviewed on 26th June 2025

by Beatrice Morandi

Photography by Matt Stronge

Previously reviewed at this venue:

ALEX KEALY

ALEX KEALY

ALEX KEALY

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