Rob Madge is a performer whose star has been rising (having most recently graced the London Palladium stage in Jack and the Beanstalk as Pat the Cow), their auspicious one-person show is one of the most heartwarming and remarkable productions that I’ve ever seen on stage. They begin the show – from the very get go – aware that this show is going to be self-indulgent with its sharing of personal footage, for it is after all all about them and their parents Jon and Jan. It entails the story of young Rob who enjoys all-things Disney, and especially Belle’s yellow dress(they’re given the Beast costume which features in a hilarious section from the archives featuring their dad). Along the way, we learn about the bullying they endure for being different and the impact it has on their life. Despite all the initial adversity, they’re supported by wondrous parents and the love of their grandparents who provide them solace with their dolls, costumes and wigs.
The gorgeously cosy set is crafted with such care – kudos to Ryan Dawson Light for taking us down memory lane to recall the times my immigrant parents used to be obsessed with VHS cassettes (not Cosette, she’s a soprano😉). This, along with a wooden tv cabinet along with a huge screen on stage mimicking a TV set, made me quite reminiscent of my own childhood. Lighting for this show is unique in that we see them bathed in a warm light, when they’re able to express their happiness; additionally, we’re given a disco-ball glam, dancing mice and a lot of heart throughout. The wit with which the piece has to be commended, and is reminiscent of the late Victoria Wood. The storytelling is sublime, and I went on a journey getting to know Rob’s parents. The piece spoke to me, will continue to speak to people and has the infectious charm we all need when going to the theatre.
I also have to note the brilliant lyrics, as the songs by Pippa Cleary (of Bake Off Musical fame) all sound so uplifting and heart-breaking all the same. Highlights include “Anything is Possible”, “Pieces of my heart” and “We will be loved anyway”. The graphics on stage are captioned, and it’s great to see that accessibility is considered too. Under Lee Sheppard’s direction, Rob successfully builds the action to reach the back of the dress circle. The positioning of their props, and in particular unravelling of the pieces of the set does happen seamless and with gusto — in particular the costume reveal in the final song is a thrilling watch.
To me, this piece is representative of all those under-represented once-children who were told to alter their behaviours and conform to society’s cis-hetero-patriarchal nature. “Talk properly” is a line from their dad during the video clips of Rob’s childhood, and it struck me just how much I could relate to this phrase and what was displayed through the camera lens: that we just want to simply be happy. This production will save lives. This production is so vital and necessary viewing. I really hope that every school can be provided with a recording of this show, for it needs to be seen more widely to ensure that the happiness of children who are born this way are given the space to be who they are. It speaks to those who are on the margins, those who are non-binary or other, as well as family relatives of Queer people. The verve with which Rob commands the attention of every audience member is to be commended massively. They’re just a vessel for the LGBTQIA+ community and I’m so proud to see their star rise even further.
From its humble beginnings at the Turbine Theatre, to Edinburgh Fringe and most recently a stint at the Garrick – it seems that the audiences for MY SON’S A QUEER just can’t get enough of this show. And I truly wish the entire creative team the best with its next steps – for it is a powerful show that will only help us towards the better understanding of what makes us queer and how we can support those who are by living their best and authentic self.
Don’t walk to see this, run and pirouette towards this. It’s a piece I’ll never forget, and found myself so pleased to have witnessed on stage – never mind in the blimmin’ West End! #MoreMadgePlease
Listing Information: MY SON’S A QUEER Ambassadors Theatre: West Street, London WC2H 9ND
📅25 January – 18 March 2023
🎟️TICKETS From £20 https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/my-sons-a-queer-but-what-can-you-do/ambassadors-theatre/
Monday – Saturday at 7:30pm
Thursday at 9:15pm
Saturday matinees at 4pm