EDINBURGH 2016 - Review: ROYAL VAUXHALL, Underbelly Med Quad, 11 August
Deep in the pulsating heart of Eighties London, at a time of great excess and egos, a trio of best friends make a pact to go out and forget all of life's heartaches. However, the pals are three of the most iconic names and well-known faces in the UK.
The idea of Freddie Mercury, Kenny Everett and Princess Diana going to a gay club in Vauxhall sounds incredible, but according to Cleo Rocos' book, it is very much the truth. This gives the premise to Royal Vauxhall: a mini-musical sharing that infamous night and the emotions that led up to it.
Three actors play the title roles, and minor parts throughout. The young cast stay away from mere impersonations, which keeps focus on the story and acting, instead of whether the accent is spot on or not. For a script that's fun but not radical, and a score that is an original set of lyrics to familiar earworm-inspired Eighties songs, the talented trio really bring the show together and pull it through. Their acting is entertaining and voices equally solid.
At a time where everything bigger was better, including the lives and personas of these characters, there are key moments of exposed fragility by the performers as the masks slip and cracks show in the brash facades of fame. These may not be as hard-hitting as other shows dealing with similar topics, but their relevance today and ability to move you do not go unnoticed.
Royal Vauxhall relives an unlikely but amazing alleged event with catchy songs, great fun and a stellar cast, all in the best possible taste. Whether you were around at the time or not, it is a playful piece of late night entertainment with some touching moments.
Royal Vauxhall runs at Underbelly Med Quad until 29 August
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