Review: Grindr: The Opera! (an unauthorised parody), Union Theatre

With book, music and lyrics by Erik Ransom, Grindr: The Opera! is searingly witty, stark and yet tender. From being awarded Best New Musical at the 2019 Off West End Awards, the show has continued sharing arch insights to the gay dating scene and its many facets. Those less familiar with the scene will find plenty to learn about the intersectionality of technology and humanity; the cultural shifts in the urgency of fulfilment, whether brief or long term, since the arrival of the Grindr app.

Christian Lunn embodies Grindr, with soaring vocals, six-inch heels, depicting both menace and sensuality. Developing from the app’s murky beginnings to its insidious daily presence, Lunn is both strong and statuesque. Costuming by David Shields evolves their camp elegance, reflecting the growing allure of Grindr as a consuming presence for those seeking liaison, gratification or more.   The beautiful acolytes (Will Loader, Oliver Cartwright) are the constants in this fast-paced musical depiction. Their movement is captivating, coquettish and purposeful, their facial expressions a delight. Loader is particularly compelling, with charm, athleticism and grace. Together, this trio are omnipresent, depicting the burgeoning presence and compulsion of interaction with Grindr’s subscribers.

Dereck Walker plays Don, a closeted and conflicted individual who is disturbingly vulnerable.  Depicting the complexity of age, internal conflict, shame and power dynamics, Walker’s performance is unnervingly raw and honest. Jack (Will Joel) is the tenderfoot of the piece; wide eyed, determined and energetic. Joel instils the role with a gentle vulnerability but a thirst for life in all its forms, leading to complex situations and predictable outcomes.

It is the haunting presence and voice of Patrick Barrett as Devon that enchants, depicting compelling vulnerability and yearning. Together with Kane Verrall playing Tom, the charisma, affection and relationship evolution is wholly believable. Their duets are beautiful, with well blended voices, physical expression and intense magnetism. Barrett’s transitions across Devon’s personal and professional life whilst maintaining strong values and intentions is inspirational. The fluent dance four-hander between Barrett, Loader, Cartwright and a hospital screen is delightful. William Spencer (direction and choreography) does a stellar job of navigating Shields’ complex set design, depicting tenderness, intensity and fluidity throughout.   

With tragi-comic opera intentions, the production is both thought provoking and humorous, its complex arrangements captivating. The volume of the musicians occasionally overrides the witty lyrics, compensating for occasional lapses in enunciation or tuning from both Joel and Lunn.

Modern gay culture is exposed without apology in this production, its strong political commentary reflecting societal pressures of age, ethnicity, class, size, sexual health/performance and consequences, powerfully explored. There’s vocabulary to appreciate, sexual depiction and the emotional toll experienced from multiple perspectives, across time.

Grindr: The Opera! challenges our compassion, awareness and understanding of the dynamics and influence of technology on social interaction, human expectations and outcomes. Its layered script and lyrics bring both revelation and contemplation, aspiration and resignation.  

With whimsical nods to musical legends, this is certainly not a traditional opera. Ransom is brash, proud and open in his commitment to the lulls and crescendos of the gay scene. From ‘twink’ to ‘daddy’ this show shares, declares, celebrates and confounds, and you can ‘colour me enticed’!

CREATIVES

Book, Music & Lyrics by Erik Ransom
Directed and Choreographed by William Spencer
Musical Direction and Orchestration by Aaron Clingham
Set & Costume Design by David Shields
Lighting Design by Chuma Emembolu
Sound Design by Dominic Young
Video Design by Tom Edwards
Associate Direction by Lilly Butcher
Production Management by Jacques James Moussi
Intimacy Direction by Emma Bailey
Casting Direction by Daniel Lobo
Produced by Peter Bull for Above the Stag Theatre Ltd.

Grindr: The Opera! plays at Union Theatre until Sunday 19 July, and then on tour until Saturday 12 September.