Review: MOLECULAR MIXOLOGY & MUSICALS, Town and Gown Cambridge

Cambridge Gin Lab is the number 1 ‘thing to do’ in the city on Trip Advisor and the Town and Gown is undoubtedly the best pub in Cambridge so pair the two together and you get a spectacular cocktail of an event.

Starting earlier this year, Molecular Mixology and Musicals began operating bi-monthly at the venue and has been a hit since the get-go. Judging on last night, we can certainly see why. Welcomed into the theatre bar with a glass of their elderflower liqueur and cava (not Prosecco!), it sets the tone perfectly for the evening ahead. 

The theatre is set up for tables of six guests, making for a wonderfully intimate and interactive couple of hours. Despite attending on my own (for review purposes, of course!), I soon got to know the people on my table and we had the best time. 

Matt from Cambridge Gin Lab charismatically leads the proceedings, accompanied by John and Jamie and the always fantastic Town and Gown staff. Matt talks us through making three musical-themed cocktails, accompanied by a visual aid of said musicals projected behind him. The lighting changes also lend themselves well to the musical in question, such as green for Wicked.

The drinks we created were Two Blooms inspired by Oliver!, Oz-mopolitan inspired by The Wizard of Oz/Wicked and Pure ImaGINation inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. With the use of flavoured rosemary mist, dry ice, colour changing elixirs and much more, the scientific elements are as enjoyable as the cocktails themselves and they are certainly top notch.

In additional to some pre-recorded music to underscore the evening, we are treated to interwoven live entertainment from the sensational Lizzie Robins who slinks around the space to perform musical numbers between courses (cocktails), as well as an energetic and utterly joyful 30-minute set at the end of the night, which has every single person up on their feet dancing. She also looks dazzling under a disco ball!

This is a well-thought out programme, with premium products and entertainment, and those magic words: GREAT value for money.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Jenny Ell

The next Molecular Mixology event will take place on 10 September at the Town and Gown Theatre, with tickets available here.