It’s November 1994 and Vauxhall gay village is throwing a party of unprecedented proportions to celebrate the arrival of Sharia Law’s newborn baby girl, Belle, played by Mzz Kimberly. But when scene guuuuurl Myra Dubois, looking like her face has been doused in a vat of vinegar for a week, is not invited along, Belle’s card is well and truly marked.
The notorious RVT panto really is like no other. In what other panto would you find a ‘tranny with a fanny’ head to toe in pink, a singing Muslim mother, the ghost of Jimmy Saville, a character by the name of BB Chem Sesh and the Eastenders theme, ‘Anyone can fall in love’, shoehorned in? Not at your local Theatre Royal, that’s for sure!
The show opened kookily with Sharia Law, played by Alp Haydar and the Lady Mayoress of Vauxhall, Lorraine Bowen, who tinkled away on her keyboard like a woman possessed. Bowen provided so much of the comedy throughout, whether it be intentional or not – think Margarita Pracatan crossed with Sherrie Hewson from Loose Women and you’re almost there.
The fierce vocal range of Mzz Kimberly was also used to it’s fullest, as she took on most of the singing duties, along with Holestar, with their ‘sing offs’ being especially noteworthy scenes.
Myra Dubois plays the GHB dealing villain, and slips into the acidic role with ease. Her apathetic performance style, in which we mean her ability to be so funny whilst giving the impression of little effort or enthusiasm, is reminiscent of so many great comic performers, drawing you in like a fat kid to KFC.
This nonchalant execution works well because her character is so strong and relatable, and when mixed with Myra’s impeccable comic timing and unique tone the end result is a marriage made in heaven.
Comatose Beauty re-invents the traditional pantomime experience and takes it on an all night bender, Vauxhall style, peering down sardonically at the scene we inhabit. With the expert direction of Scottee and writer Gareth Joyner, this gem will shine like the diamond it is, come opening night.
A panto ‘experience’ you’re not going to want to miss this Christmas.
• RVT, 372 Kennington Lane, SE11 5H
Running 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 27th and 28th December.
www.rvt.org.uk
