Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors at Milton Keynes Theatre Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Mel Randle

Last night we went to Milton Keynes Theatre to see Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors. The Birmingham Stage Company are currently touring with, and performing two Horrible Histories productions – Terrible Tudors and Awful Egyptians, so you have the opportunity to see one or the other or both! We have seen this company perform various Horrible Histories shows and as always, this one did not disappoint, however they have introduced a new dimension this time – 3D Bogglevision!!

The age guidance for the show is 5+ however I would hope that everybody in the audience has seen some Horrible Histories before and know a little of what to expect because it follows the same premise as the TV show. They are educational yes, but they are full of all the nasty bits -blood, death and disease, presented in a fun and frivolous way. Some young, sensitive members of audience could find it a little ‘scary’, especially when we get to the 3D. There was also an abundance of silly jokes and toilet humour to be expected which had the kids howling with laughter!

The show presented us with a whistle stop tour through the Tudor monarchs starting with Henry VII’s victory over Richard III through to the death of Elizabeth I, with some other noticeable figures such as Mary Queen Of Scots and Sir Walter Raleigh. As a keen history fan I believe the way they deliver the key facts through audience participation and songs etc is what captivates a child’s attention for the subject.

Throughout the first half, the show was very much dominated by the three main actors (with the odd appearance from Drudge) and their cart of props and costumes. These shows are never about elaborate scenery and staging, but very much about the performance. Each actor takes on multiple roles, swapping a coat or a crown to present their character. There is also puppetry involved which is always great fun and engaging for the kids.

The second half then took a new and very exciting turn – the backdrop became a 3D screen. Now somehow a lot of the audience, at least those around me, missed the announcement to collect their 3D glasses in the interval, so I did mention to a few people who looked like they were ‘glassless’. The rest of the show was an absolute treat! Entwined in the story of the final three Tudor monarchs we had fireworks, rocks and even blood thrown at us in 3D. This is where I would possibly take caution with more sensitive children, because the skull of Elizabeth I coming out of the screen at us was the stuff of young nightmares. But me and my 9 year old absolutely loved it!!

So in summary, with the history, the laughs, the audience participation and the 3D, we had a fantastic night and can’t wait to go and see Awful Egyptians. From the reaction of the audience, kids and parents alike, I think everybody felt the same. Each half was approximately 45 mins long with a 15 min interval. Long enough so we felt we got value for money, but not so long the kids got fidgety. Although aged towards primary aged children, I think anyone of any age would enjoy an hour and a half of unadulterated fun!

Rating: 5/5

Tickets available from £15.00 to £45.00 subject to a transaction fee of up to £3.95

Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors is on a UK tour until 12th July. Details and booking can be found at ATG website www.atgtickets.com