CabaretFeaturedLondonMusicalReview

Eurovision Your Decision – King’s Head Theatre, London

Reviewer: Sonny Waheed

Writer and Director: Tim McArthur

Musical Director: Aaron Clingham

Of all the things that would appear to be worthless to parody, Eurovision is probably close to the top of the list. The song contest, with participating countries from a rather extended definition of Europe, is probably more famous for its bizarre performances and nonsensical voting system as it is for the songs it produces.

When memorable acts in the contest include buxom milk churners, heavy metal zombies, and bread-baking grandmothers, the comedy is already there. So, is there a need for a parody? Quite simply, yes! And Eurovision Your Decision fits the bill perfectly.

It’s a truncated version of the Eurovision Song Contest featuring 13 classic tracks from the competition’s 60+ year history and presented by international hosts Dimitrius (Tim McArthur) and Katie (Lucy Penrose), whose lack of chemistry and faux excitement is only matched by some of the real presenters.

The whistle-stop rummage through the back catalogue includes classics like La, La, La, Ding a Dong, and Cha-Cha-Cha. We’re treated to Michael Ball performing in an overtight suit with his testicles swinging between his legs, two men in neon wolf heads, and even Jedward. McArthur and Penrose are joined by Hannah Ponting and David McMullan to complete the team of performers who faithfully, and comically recreate all the performances. The live vocals hit the mark, the choreography is spot on and the performances are OTT in just the right dose to carry it all off.

Fans of the competition will be in their element. Whilst the performances may never top the campness or the bizarreness of the originals, they are brilliantly, and creatively, reinterpreted. The addition of the host and the voting process perfectly completes the reimagining. And the glory of it all is that those who are not fans or completely new to the idea of Eurovision will get just as much fun out of it, though possibly with a lot more puzzled expressions on their faces.

This is a hoot of a show and, at just under 90 minutes, can teach the real Eurovision a thing or two about timing. Have a few drinks and make a beeline for the King’s Head. As a warm-up to this year’s competition, just a reminder of years gone by, or an introduction to a very European tradition, this is a wonderful journey for all.

Runs until 11 May 2024

The Reviews Hub Score

Pitch-perfect parody

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The Reviews Hub - London

The Reviews Hub London is under the acting editorship of Richard Maguire. The Reviews Hub was set up in 2007. Our mission is to provide the most in-depth, nationwide arts coverage online.

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