Horrible Histories Terrible Tudors Review

09/03/2013

1,479 1 minute read

Horrible Histories
Terrible Tudors

Showing from 5-9 March 2013

www.thelowry.com

Reviewed by Debbie Tasker

Loosely based on the hit TV series by Terry Dearly, Horrible Histories Live on Stage brings historical figures back to life using the fun factor to educate children on the past.

I have watched the TV show on numerous occasions, and it always brings a smile to my face so I was thrilled to be going to the live show at the Lowry Theatre, Salford.

Three characters Dr Dee, Drab and Dross educate the audience in all things terrible about the Tudors, (hence the title) with enthusiasm and wit. From the beginning the audience were encouraged to participate and boy did we. Full of blood and guts and all things yucky the cheering and shouting from the youngsters proved what a good time we were having while learning about history.

Simon Lloyds outstanding performance as Henry VIII was a joy to watch. His rendition of Greensleeves rap style had the audience in fits of laughter, especially me, to the disgust of my 10 year old granddaughter, I think I was laughing a little too loud. There are plenty of sing-a-long moments and the soccer chants C of E and I'm the Pope are hilarious.

The second half is mainly in Booglevision (3D to us adults), we were treated to blood splattering in our faces, cannons being shot at us and flying frogs amongst other things. All whist learning about Francis Drake and the Spanish Armada. Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I.

The show finishes with King James being crowned and a 3D firework display to celebrate.

We both enjoyed Horrible Histories, it was full of fun, bad jokes, music and education. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all ages. The flyer advertises Vile Victorians too, I am not sure if this is performed alternate nights? But I would love to watch it at some point.

We left chatting about Henry’s wives and how they died, and dare I say I had actually learnt a little. Fabulous!

Rating: 5/5