Audience reactions

What people say about THE FREDDIE STORY

"A hidden gem of the Fringe. Jim Smart — Scotland's longest running solo Freddie Mercury performer — brings to life the dynamism and character of this most iconic of frontmen in a non-stop, intense performance with costume changes, cinematic visuals and live vocals of the finest kind. Queen fans were on their feet, turning the intimate Forest Theatre into a stadium experience, capturing a tiny bit of the excitement of Live Aid 1985."

"It's difficult to pull off Freddie Mercury's vocals, but this singer does a fantastic job, interspersed with video to tell the story. An accomplished show that generates an energy which oozes out into the auditorium — fun for fans of Queen and Freddie Mercury."

"I was very pleasantly surprised by Jim's performances and incredible vocals. He got into character and never left. Like a man possessed he deliver song after song hitting every note perfectly and in his own way. Crowd participation is a must and really gives the show a great feel good vibe. So well done - Congratulations Jim on a stellar show!"

"Jim Smart is excellent, completely capturing Freddie Mercury's power and energy. It is far more than a standard tribute act—the clever mix of live hits, narration, and visuals tells a moving story. Performer Jim Smart has the vocals, the looks, and the electric stage presence. An absolute must see!"

"An incredible tribute to a legendary performer."

Anonymous

Edinburgh Fringe audience review

"Outstanding performance — truly unforgettable."

Anonymous

Edinburgh Fringe audience review

"Highly recommended show at Edinburgh Fringe: 'The Freddie Story'"

MusicOnThePromGirvan

Edinburgh Fringe audience review

"The Freddie Story – A Theatrical Concert Experience by Jim Smart has toe-tapping songs and some film reels from Live Aid in the background. It feels a well put together, accomplished show. This is fun for fans of Queen and Freddie Mercury. There is an energy generated that oozes out into the auditorium."

Louise Cannon

Bookmarks and Stages — Greenside Venue launch, Edinburgh Fringe 2026

"Fantastic performance and loved the audience interaction. Absolutely top drawer 👏👏"

Haddington Rugby Club

Goatfest

"Great night and the interaction with the crowd was amazing."

Jan Walker

Gartcosh Works Social Club

"Great night of entertainment with Jim Smart and his new Freddie Mercury show…went down a blast with all👏👏"

James Kenney

Dumbarton golf ⛳️ club

"Jim was outstanding as Freddie, his voice amazing, what a show. Would recommend everyone see his shows."

Susan walker

Denny civic

"Jim is a fantastic performer. Sounds amazing and gives it his all when performing. Loves to get the audience involved "

Mhairi Fraser

Denny Civic,Dumbarton

"Fantastic reminds me of the real Freddie xxx Outstanding Freddie would be proud as no I am well done Jim "

Lynn drummond

The pawn

"Best Freddie tribute act ever super star 🌟 "

Liz Donnelly

Denny civic theatre

" I saw the Freddie Mercury Tribute on 7th September 2024 & I was really impressed by Jim's outstanding performance, I am good friends with Brian May & I told him about Jim & he said " if any performances are in an area where we are I will come & watch the show ""

Lord Peter Kelsey.

The Parkville Hotel

"Absolutely outstanding highly recommend to go see jim is a fantastic professional performer "

Karen bonner

The denny civic. Theatre

"Jim’s performance as Freddie Mercury is outstanding! Have seen his shows many times and look forward to seeing the revamped theatre show. "

Maggie Gallacher

"We have regularly booked Jim in 3 to 4 times a year at our venue for a number of years and his show never disappoints. His Freddie Mercury show always does great business and Jim makes sure it's a great night with his fantastic vocals and audience participation. All I would say is if your looking for a great Freddie Mercury act then you don't need to look much further!"

Thomas McCall

The Ferry, Glasgow

"Best performance of Freddie in Scotland. I can't recommend Mr Jim Smart highly enough. His performance of Freddie Mercury sells out our venue every time we book him. The show is full of energy, Jim was born to perform, such a genuine guy, who really cares about every performance."

Patricia Thomson

King Robert Hotel, Stirling

"Outstanding performance — truly unforgettable."

Audience testimonial

"An incredible tribute to a legendary performer."

Live event attendee

"Full of energy, emotion and fantastic music."

Theatre audience member

"A superb night of entertainment."

Promotional event feedback

"A show with heart, style and real crowd connection."

Audience comment

"A must-see for Queen fans and live music lovers alike."

Venue guest

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