A Dynamic Cast Delivering Stellar Performances

Acid’s Reign isn’t just a musical—it’s a bold call for revolution. Relish Theatre’s vibrant drag cabaret, staged at London’s Pleasance Theatre, fuses queer performance art with an urgent environmental message, transforming the way we engage with the climate crisis.

At its heart, Acid’s Reign is a dazzling tale of resistance, resilience, and collective action. The production grabs you from the first dimming of the lights, delivering a spectacular blend of drag, cabaret, and climate activism. It challenges conventional narratives about environmental apathy by “queering and querying the climate discourse,” prompting audiences to ask themselves: How are you planning to save the world? In doing so, the show insists that sometimes the most radical act is simply refusing to stay silent.

The energy on stage is undeniable. Joshua Oakes-Rogers commands attention as Alex Acid—the cunning, corporate antagonist whose journey sparks a clash of ideologies. Equally compelling are the ensemble members who embody the elemental forces of nature:Together, these performers—reminiscent of the fierce “Climate Queens”—deliver a narrative that is as emotionally charged as it is visually stunning. Their interplay is not merely about personal triumphs but a unified stand for our shared future.

• Son of a Tutu as Mother Nature: Radiates both nurturing warmth and formidable strength.
• Scarlett Harlett as Sea: Offers a sultry, enigmatic presence with a voice that leaves a lasting impression.
• Jamie Fuxx as Land: Combines exceptional vocals with magnetic stage presence, effortlessly mixing humour with gravitas.
• Mischa Velasco as Air: Brings an ethereal quality that deepens the thematic resonance of the production.

A Fusion of Humour, Heart, and Advocacy

Acid’s Reign expertly balances its serious subject matter with razor-sharp wit and humour. The musical numbers, a seamless mix of original compositions and reimagined pop classics with an environmental twist, provide both nostalgic brilliance and a pulse of urgency. This clever fusion not only entertains but also provokes thought, challenging the audience to reconsider their role in addressing the climate crisis.

A Feast for the Senses

The visual spectacle of Acid’s Reign is as impressive as its message. Caitlin Mawhinney’s kaleidoscopic costume designs and Catja Hamilton’s meticulously crafted lighting elevate every emotional beat of the performance. From dazzling cabaret nods to the theatrical brilliance reminiscent of classics like Cabaret and Company, the production’s aesthetic is a vivid celebration of creativity and activism.

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A Call to Action Through Art

More than just a performance, Acid’s Reign serves as a rallying cry for environmental stewardship. It refuses to offer simple solutions—instead, it leaves the ending deliberately open, mirroring the ongoing nature of the climate crisis. By framing this issue through the lens of queer experience and collective action, the show underscores the importance of every voice in the fight for a sustainable future.

In essence, Acid’s Reign is a revolutionary blend of artistry and advocacy. With breathtaking performances, compelling visuals, and a message that resonates long after the final note, it’s a must-see production that inspires, provokes, and ignites change.

The show is currently lighting up Pleasance Theatre until Saturday 1 March - don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary eco-mission.

Tickets

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