Old Red Lion Theatre Review 5th September 2026

A country-rock musical with heart, Oil and Whiskey follows an on-off relationship largely played out in a New York bar. Teddy has returned after a couple of years away pursuing a singing career in Nashville, bringing him back into the orbit of his ex, Zelda, who works at the bar.

In a sparse studio setting, a four-piece band and two backing singers accompany the action, while bartender Ray and Zelda’s best friend Bree serve as narrators. Over the next 80 minutes, we discover, mostly through song, the story of Teddy and Zelda’s relationship, their past breakup and their possible reunion in the present.

The central pair, Cornelius Versa and Juliet Perel, are exceptional. With little spoken dialogue, much of the storytelling rests on their singing, and both prove superb singers and performers. They give the relationship the emotional weight it needs, making us care about what happened between them and what might come next.

Sarah Giulianti and KJ Nugin, playing Bree and Ray, provide brilliant support, bringing welcome comedy into the mix and making the most of their own chances to shine.

The 16 songs, music by Kit Nolan and lyrics Dax Wiley, are the glue holding the show together. Strong both lyrically and musically, they carry the story forward, with the band playing them with style. At times, I caught a hint of classic Fleetwood Mac, which can only be a good thing.

My only tiny criticism is that the stage feels too small for what this musical could become. That is hardly a fault of the production; it is more a reflection of its potential. It feels like a much bigger show. I could happily watch an expanded version across two acts with an interval. The songs and performances certainly suggest there is room to go bigger and bolder, and I hope its creators get that opportunity.

For now, this intimate setting offers a great chance to catch a show with plenty of promise and much to enjoy already. A toe-tapping musical packed with outstanding performances and plenty of heart. Go see it while they are still in the UK.

Show	Oil & Whiskey
Dates & Times	3 to 18 September 2026
Venue	Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse
Company Website	Oil & Whiskey
Tickets	Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse