Jason Brock is proudly part of our community—as is his character in Choir of Man, an uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome. QX spoke to Jason about his impressive career to date and his role in the show.
Tell me a little bit about yourself and your journey
I’m 39 this year, gay, out and proud. I come from Ilkeston in Derbyshire. Growing up being mixed race and gay was very hard in my time and place. But I stayed strong and got through it. I got into performing when I was 16, I did Pop Idol 2, joined a boy band called 5Boyz, toured around with West Life, Girls Aloud, Blazin’ Squad, Jamelia etc. Then moved into the West End and joined a show called Thriller Live (Michael Jackson). Sadly the show ended with Covid. Then I did Gary Barlow’s BBC’s Let It Shine and toured with him after the show. I am now back in the West End with the show Choir Of Man.
What has been a recent moment of ‘queer joy’ for you?
A few things for me. One, my track Hate (from my EP HATE & LOVE, out on all music platforms) that is about feeling hated from the world for having darker skin and being gay was track of the week, twice on BBC Introducing. Never thought that would have happened, specially on those topics.
And two, joining Choir of Man and being asked to be myself, it feels like this role was written for me! I can be loud, proud and camp and they love me for me. It’s the first show where I can really be myself and not feel like I should play it down.
You’re currently in The Choir Of Man, what is it about and what are the main themes surrounding the show?
The Choir of Man is set in ‘The Jungle,’ the best pub in the world! It’s a hugely energetic and heartfelt show where nine ordinary blokes sing, dance, and share stories while pouring real pints for the audience. The main themes really revolve around community and connection , it’s about the importance of having a safe space to share your joys and struggles, the power of male friendship, and how music can unite us. It touches on themes of mental health, vulnerability, and finding strength in coming together.
What about your role in the show specifically, you’re able to play an openly gay character, right? How does your own experiences help build your role?
Yep, openly gay, with all my pride things on too. At first I was afraid of how much I can be ‘myself’, this is the first show where I play as an open gay role and as myself – something I’ve always wanted to do. After a few shows in, something clicked and I felt free on stage to really be me. And I’d say because of doing this eight shows a week, it’s made me even more comfortable in my own skin, to really love me for me.
As it is Pride month, what other shows would you recommend people to see/support?
OMG, yes, Titanique, Cabaret, Oscar at the Crown, plus there is also Queenz the Show on tour. Plus our Resident Music Director Lee Freeman, who wrote the music and is the Music Director for the show called Proud. All such amazing shows, you’ll have such a great time and supporting the theatre industry. And of course, come and see me and the lads in the Jungle in the Choir of Man.
Choir of Man is currently booking until 31 August 2025 at Arts Theatre, Great Newport Street, London WC2H 7JB, United Kingdom.
