Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors – Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

Writers: Terry Deary and Neal Foster

Director: Neal Foster

This is a hilarious, entertaining romp of a show for kids which adults can really enjoy too. It is a production from the Birmingham Stage Company that is celebrating its 34th anniversary this year. The Company has a world–wide reputation in children’s theatre and it is not difficult to see why after experiencing this show. It makes history come alive in a very enjoyable and memorable way that the whole family can appreciate. Based on the best– selling series of books by Terry Deary, it presents a fast paced history lesson of the Tudor period that was never this fun in school. Starting with the establishment of the Tudors when the future Henry VII defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, it encompasses all the famous names. Pride of place, as you might expect, goes to Henry VIII and his six wives, but Elizabeth I also gets a fair bit of attention. In between there are segments devoted to Edward VI and Bloody Mary with a nod to Lady Jane Grey (the “nine days queen”). 

The whole thing is presented by three excellent performers: Rob Cummings as Dr Dee, the main narrator and multiple other roles; Jack Ballard as Drab and multiple other roles; and Megan Parry as Dross and multiple other roles. All three are widely experienced actors, particularly in children’s theatre, and wear their knowledge lightly on their sleeve – or you could say “Green sleeves”, so called because of Henry VIII’s habit of wiping his nose on his sleeves – boom boom!

With colourful, rapid costume changes, a witty script, plenty of facts mixed in among the jokes, visual and sound effects, the aid of 3D Bogglevision glasses supplied for the second half, various topical references (Andy Burnham, Liz Truss, the Manchester City football scandal, Sheffield football), singing and audience participation that sometimes resembles a pantomime experience, and the inclusion of some gruesome details such as the execution of Mary Queen of Scots and the harsh Tudor crime and punishment laws, this history lesson is memorable entertainment all done in an exciting and light way that has a very serious underlying message. Judging by the rapturous reception from a (mainly) young audience it is a lesson that is very well received. 

Runs until 3rd October 2026