Death Drop: Back in the Habit – Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

Writer: Rob Evans

Director: Jesse Jones

Following successful West End runs, Death Drop: Back in the Habit, the second in theDeath Drop franchise, is on the round and this week it visits Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre. With an all drag cast it focuses on Father Alfie Romeo who gets sent to visit St Babs’ church to investigate some strange goings on. This comedy meets thriller is hugely entertaining, even for those (like your reviewer) who aren’t as familiar with modern drag.

Rob Evans’ script is an absolute treat. It tells a gripping story, it’s funny with a few local references dotted throughout, and it gives enough opportunity for the drag performers to do what they’re known for without taking away the plot too much. Jesse Jones directs this engaging and fast paced production with a great set and costumes designed by Peter McKintosh. The set is relatively simple but it’s a fully practical set which is a rarity these days – there are no projections to be seen. The costumes are fantastic and help ground the piece in some sense of reality despite the bonkers events taking place. This really is, despite being fairly simple, a no expenses spared production.

LoUis CYfer leads the cast as Father Alfie Romeo and he does so very well. Despite his outlandish characterisation, the audience can still root for him and he is completely engaging. Opposite CYfer is Victoria Scone as Mother Superior who gives an exceptional performance. She is perfectly intense and sinister, has spot on comic timing and at times, as appropriate, has some beautifully tender moments.

In the absence of Kitty Scott-Claus, who has taken over the role of Sis Titis from Willam, Alex Roberts brings a huge amount of energy to the stage. He is brash and larger than life and gets to demonstrate his strong singing ability. Cheryl Hole as Sister Mary Berry is great fun and gets plenty of laughs, whilst River Medway gives a stunning performance as Sister Maria Julieandrews. She is one of the highlights of the show and has a lovely rapport with CYfer – it’s a shame we don’t get more of the two of them together to see a relationship blossoming. Corrina Buchan completes the cast as Inner Voice and various other roles who is very funny and has a fantastic stage presence.

Death Drop: Back in the Habitis a fabulous night out, although it’s not for the faint hearted. It does get a little rude and risqué at points, so it’s not a show for the easily offended. Nevertheless be sure to catch this talented cast in a fantastic production at a venue near you.

Runs until 14th January 2023, before continuing on tour.