Jonny & The Baptists Announce UK Tour for The Happiness Index

Edinburgh Fringe Festival hit show The Happiness Index to tour the UK in 2025

After a critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Jonny & The Baptists (Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers) are set to embark on a UK tour of their new show, The Happiness Index, from February to June 2025. This hilarious yet poignant musical comedy delves into the intersections of mental health, politics, and the chaos of modern life, delivering a powerful mix of absurdity, emotion, and biting satire.

Taking its title from David Cameron’s short-lived attempt to measure Britain’s happiness, the show critiques 14 years of Conservative rule, exploring its effects on mental health, personal tragedy, and societal structures. Each act is structured around the tenure of the five Tory Prime Ministers during this time, offering audiences a sharp and comedic lens on political turbulence.

Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers, known for their signature musical comedy style (Every Brilliant Thing, Stop UKIP), have developed The Happiness Index alongside acclaimed theatre-maker James Rowland (Learning to Fly, Piece of Work). For the first time, the duo will step away from their instruments to embrace a fully theatrical production, complete with a set and lighting design.

Addressing themes of grief and resilience, the show draws heavily from the performers’ personal experiences, including Paddy’s ongoing struggle with depression and the impact of austerity on accessing mental health support. As Paddy prepares for arm surgery in April 2025, this new format creatively adapts their performance style while retaining the emotional depth and humor that fans have come to love.

“The Happiness Index is a show about friendship, coping together, and finding connection in the darkest times,” say Jonny and Paddy. “We hope it resonates with audiences and leaves them feeling inspired and connected.”

Suitable for ages 12+ (contain some strong language), the show is 70 minutes (including interval).

Tour Details for The Happiness Index

The tour will visit venues across the UK, including:
– Friday 21st February: Arts Depot, London
– Saturday 22nd February: South Street, Reading
– Saturday 1st March: Royal Court, Liverpool
– Sunday 2nd March: Trades Club, Hebden Bridge
– Wednesday 12th March: Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh
– Thursday 13th March: Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh
– Friday 14th March: Tolbooth, Stirling
– Saturday 17th May: Curzon, Clevedon
– Saturday 24th May: Tron Theatre, Glasgow
– Friday 30th May: Quarterhouse, Folkestone
– Saturday 31st May: The Y, Leicester
– Saturday 21st June: Playhouse, Norwich