Sodomy at the Stag

When two amateur performers, Fanny and Stella, took their penchant for women’s clothing from the stage to the streets of Victorian London, they encountered more than just shocked glances.

Inciting the full wrath of the law, the two transvestites were charged with wearing female attire in public (and sodomy of course), then dragged through a gruelling court case.

The latest performance at the Above The Stag Theatre recounts their fascinating true story. From the creator of Taggart, Glenn Chandler, the play guides the audience through the drag duos’ early life all the way to their trial. It’s a hilarious romp across nineteenth century London – from its opening number, telling us of the Sodomy at the Strand we’re about to witness, to its poignant close.

The title characters, William Park/Fanny (Marc Gee Finch) and Ernest Boulton/Stella (Robert Jeffrey), make for an irresistible duo, while the intelligent script keeps the audience engaged and emotionally involved in their plight. The costumes are of course fabulous and the set is well worked; with two wardrobes marking the entry points, the characters have to literally come out of the closet to appear on stage.

But beneath the hilarious innuendoes, songs and ensemble of accents and personalities from Mr Gimes (Phil Sealey), the show has a more endearing side. Whether it’s dealing with the internal homophobia of Louis Hart (Christopher Bonwell), parental rejection, or the innate need for freedom of expression, the audience is subtly reminded that many of these issues haven’t died away. “At least it won’t take another century for things to catch up,” we’re told, somewhat sardonically, at the play’s climax.

When the real Fanny and Stella toured Victorian theatres they received favourable reviews from the press; this celebration of their enthralling tale will no doubt follow suit. An exceptional tribute to two inspiring figures and a must see show.

• Fanny & Stella
• Above The Stag Theatre, Arch 17, Miles Street, London, SW8 1RZ
• www.abovethestag.com
• 13th May-14th June

 

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