Gig review: “Imagine Lennon” at Boisdale Canary Wharf – A night of peace, power and pure Lennon magic
- Celebrity Interviews
- Published on Sunday, 12 October 2025 11:10
- Last Updated on 13 October 2025
- Monica Costa
- 0 Comments
There are tribute shows, and then there is Imagine Lennon — the closest thing to having John Lennon himself step back onto a London stage in 2025. Starring Tyson Kelly, the internationally acclaimed musician and actor who has portrayed Lennon across the world from Let It Be on Broadway to The Bootleg Beatles, this show at Boisdale Canary Wharf was a interactive and engaging journey through Lennon’s life and music.
Three days after what would have been John’s 85th birthday, the sold-out London show felt charged with emotion. Tyson didn’t just imitate Lennon — he became him, channelling the voice, wit, and vulnerable spirit that defined one of rock’s most complex icons. Backed by his superb four-piece band from Leeds, Kelly guided the audience through a seamless mix of Beatles classics and Lennon’s solo gems.
Tyson Kelly as John Lennon at Boisdale London – Image by marktgoddard
The set list was a dream for true fans — bold, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Opening with Come Together and Just Like Starting Over, the night set the tone with unity and renewal, before sliding into Instant Karma, I’m So Tired, and Happiness Is a Warm Gun, reflecting Lennon’s range from restless introspection to biting irony.
Moments like Woman, Real Love, and Watching the Wheels added tenderness and warmth, while the encore’s Revolution, Imagine, and Whatever Gets You Through the Night reminded everyone of Lennon’s timeless message — that love and peace will always outlast chaos.
Between songs, Tyson offered witty remarks and heartfelt reflections, giving a sense of Lennon’s humanity and humour. The audience responded with joy, clapping, singing, and in some moments, simply closing their eyes to soak in the magic.
Tyson Kelly and Monica Costa backstage at Imagine Lennon show at Boisdale Canary Wharf
Backstage after the show, Tyson — or “John”, as everyone naturally called him — shared a simple but powerful message of peace with the world. It resonated deeply with me. Pacifism is not just something I admire; it’s what I live and breathe. Hearing those words from a performer so fully immersed in Lennon’s spirit felt almost like hearing them from John himself.
In an age of noise and division, Imagine Lennon is a reminder of how music can unite us — how Lennon’s voice, through artists like Tyson Kelly, continues to inspire hope.
If you missed this run, don’t despair: Imagine Lennon is expected to return to the UK in 2026. When it does, don’t walk — run for tickets. This isn’t just a tribute show. It’s an act of love, truth, and peace.
Tickets and full UK tour details: www.imagine-lennon.com
Read my exclusive chat with Tyson Kelly in Celebrity Interviews section.
Impossible Interviews: John Lennon via Tyson Kelly.
Monica Costa founded London Mums in September 2006 after her son Diego’s birth together with a group of mothers who felt the need of meeting up regularly to share the challenges and joys of motherhood in metropolitan and multicultural London. London Mums is the FREE and independent peer support group for mums and mumpreneurs based in London https://londonmumsmagazine.com and you can connect on Twitter @londonmums
