Review: HORRIBLE HISTORIES LIVE (AND DEAD!) THE CONCERT, Royal Festival Hall - Tour
Photo credit: Matt Crockett
A show for the fans, HORRIBLE HISTORIES LIVE (AND DEAD)! The CONCERT is currently on tour around the UK. Some of the Horrible Histories’ live shows capture the vibe of the TV series and share history in a fun, upbeat way, but this is the show that fans have been waiting for; not only is it packed with the well-loved songs from the award-winning CBBC show, but it also stars a number of the actors from the series.
The concert fizzes with energy and fun from the off, as Richard David Caine, narrating as Shakespeare, attempts to find a finale act for the show, accidentally promising the gig to a number of monarchs along the way, under the terrifyingly watchful eye of Harrie Hayes as Queen Elizabeth I.
The lively ensemble cast play a number of characters, with Ethan Lawrence shining as Henry VIII and Inel Tomlinson stealing the show as Mansa Musa, all singing the familiar-sounding parodies packed with historical facts and figures. It’s great to see the show’s composer Richie Webb leading the accomplished band on stage and featuring in a number of the sketches too.
Popular songs from the episodes, including ‘Stupid Deaths’, ‘I Like to Spend It’ and ‘10 Prime Ministers’, all feature, as does the viral ‘The Monarch’s Song’, but don’t worry if you aren’t familiar with them. With karaoke-style words on the big screen, the audience is invited to sing-along, heckle, and dance, creating a wonderfully relaxed and upbeat environment. Appealing to youngsters, teens and grown ups alike, there really is something for everyone here. This show is also an ideal introduction to theatre (although it is important note the age guidance is 5+ and there is a lot of beheading chat!)
A raucously funny family show, Horrible Histories the Concert is perfect entertainment for the whole family, where you may also learn a thing or two along the way!
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Cara Brazier
Horrible Histories Live (and Dead!) The Concert tours until 18 April, with further info here.