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A disco-tastic, riotous romp that reimagines La Thatcher as redeemed by gayfulness: now that’s special! An unmissable, fabulous night out!Summary
Rating
Unmissable!
Tonight it’s off to the wonderful Wilton’s Musical Hall with its historic, faded grandeur and friendly staff. What’s not to like? On my way, I encounter a plaque commemorating the Cable Street riots, the anniversary of which is coming soon. On that occasion ordinary people rose up in the streets to resist fascism and prejudice. If only there were a way to do that today without chucking bricks…
But there is! Here at Wilton’s Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho takes on the evil legend that is Mrs T, reimagining her in a riotous gay cabaret that will leave you with your face aching and jaw open (not for the naughty reasons you might think!)
It’s 1988 and the eve of the vote on Clause 28: legislation to make it illegal to promote homosexual relationships in schools (youngsters – this was a real thing!). Mrs T goes the wrong way and ends up in a gay club in Soho with some lovely people who makes her rethink her support of the bill. On the way she encounters the astounding Peter Tatchell (superhero) and the nasty Jill Knight (supervillain), and there’s even an appearance from Sir Ian McKellen. It’s an incredible fantasy, but one to totally embrace, with everyone agreeing to just be nice and tolerant of difference by the end.
This is a fabulous evening of camp cabaret and historical histrionics. Matt Tedford is gloriously wicked as the evil old witch, handbag ready to strike and a thorough tongue-lashing available for anyone in the audience who dares interrupt. He is searingly quick-witted and highly charismatic, managing the crowd with dexterity and charm that has us clapping and booing like we’re at the panto. Tedford is more than ably supported by two amazing backing dancers, Hesel and Tine, who in fact take several opportunities to upstage him, especially when channelling the spirit of Winston Churchill through his portrait in a gay confessional. There’s a playful, pleasing, teasing tension between the trio that is palpable and completely hilarious.
This show has been doing the rounds for a few years but the Iron Lady has not rusted! The script, written by Tedford and the talented Jon Brittain, is kept fresh and up to date, making it satisfyingly intergenerational. And clearly at the story’s core is detailed research, threading a distinct ribbon of truth and shocking facts throughout the outward hilarity, educating while entertaining.
The superb 80s soundtrack alone is enough to make this a five star evening, brilliantly tailored to the show. From You Spin Me Round to YMCA and an inspired rewrite of Billy Joel’s Always a Woman, we’re singing along with gusto. All of it is absolutely authentic to the period, generating nostalgic warmth and familiarity. Even soundclips from TV shows are meticulously pulled from the era.
Daughter Carol’s lighting too is magnificent, with a giant “Maggie” in bulbs (which must have cost most of the budget) and superbly dramatic spotlights and disco ball moments. The show is visually packed with energy and excitement.
This is a fast moving, camp and clever, audience-interactive wonder of a show, but intensely timely given this week’s governmental comments about how gay refugees should basically be thrown to the dogs, and we should stop caring about people who face execution without our help.
Margaret Thatcher changed my life. She really did. I never imagined I could hate someone with such visceral anger but the Toxteth riots, the miners’ strike and all round vicious prejudice created a gap for that poison and I carry it with me still. Tonight in virtual Soho however, I love this reinvented Queen to bits, and speed off into the night beaming happily.
Created by Jon Brittain and Matt Tedford
Directed by Jon Brittain
Produced by James Seabright by arrangement with Áine Flanagan Productions
Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho runs at Wilton’s Music Hall until Saturday 30 September. Further information and bookings can be found here.
