Jonny & The Baptists are embarking on a UK tour with their acclaimed Edinburgh Festival Fringe show The Happiness Index, kicking off next month at Finchley’s artsdepot.
The witty musical comedy from duo Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers will explore the connections between personal tragedy, government austerity, and mental health – and will feature the duo’s signature anthemic musical numbers.
Taking its title from David Cameron’s short-lived attempt to measure the happiness of Britain’s population, the show has been developed alongside theatre-maker James Rowland and produced by Impatient Productions.
The Happiness Index takes aim at the impact of 14 years of Conservative rule, five increasingly chaotic Tory Prime Ministers, and the consequences of unrestrained capitalism on mental health.
Structured around five acts, each reflecting the tenures of these Prime Ministers, it explores the political turbulence and societal impact of their time in power. In a country where it’s almost impossible to get a GP appointment, yet oddly easy to buy a healing vaginal egg from Gwyneth Paltrow, finding happiness feels increasingly out of reach.
The show explores themes of mental health, grief, and resilience, drawing from Jonny and Paddy’s own experiences, including Paddy’s ongoing struggle with depression and the barriers imposed by austerity in accessing mental health support.
Notably, this tour also marks a departure for Jonny & The Baptists, as it’s the first time they are not playing musical instruments on stage. This
decision is both creative and born of necessity, as Paddy is awaiting arm surgery in April 2025.
For the first time from the team, the show will feature a real set and lighting design, fully committing to the theatricality of the production.
Furthermore, in most venues, there’ll be a second show – a TBD Work-in-Progress – after The Happiness Index, with an interval in between. Led by the duo’s personable nature, the WIP will invite those in attendance to join in. It will be about half the length of the main show and will have a relaxed,
fun atmosphere.
The UK tour will run from February to June, starting at Finchley’s artsdepot on Friday, February 21.
Box office: https://jonnybaptists.seetickets.com/tour/jonny-the-baptists