Directed by Jesse Jones, created by Christopher D Clegg, written by Bob Evans and brought to the stage by Tuckshop; who have become engrained in the West End, bringing true Drag to the mainstream; and Trafalgar Theatre Productions, DeathDrop – Back in the Habit is the second instalment from Death Drop Cinema Universe (DDCU) proving there is an audience for this madcap drag escapism. Described by its creator as a ‘horror-murder-slasher-religious-comedy’ this production is by no means the usual second-rate sister to its 2020 predecessor. This second instalment may be charmingly and intentionally basic, but it doesn’t DRAG-its-heels and goes to show things improve as they grow!
The production is a homage to drag gone by, of panto dames, the roster of Drag legends, queer bars and performance spaces that no longer exist. But it is also a production of the Drag of now – visible, mainstream and diverse. These concepts are mixed together with a serious dose of theatre and stagecraft – even if the production is low budget and ‘cheap’ as it is frequently referred to by the cast! A mention must go to Set and Costume Design Peter McKintosh for wonderfully referenced costumes, I loved the curtain rings hanging from Sister Maria JulieAndrews apron. Additionally, Rory Beaton’s lighting design and Beth Duke’s sound design were a great addition to create the eeriness of the Convent and the entrances of the iconic horror characters. Jesse Jones adds some hilarious directing as the props and lack of budget are used to create some very funny moments as the cast try to compensate for the lack of set. Very Keystone Cops/Panto-esque and visual dynamite!
If you are looking for a strong plot, turn away now, this show is as carefree and fluffy as you get, but in that lays its beauty. Set in the convent of St Babs where unusual happenings and events are reported to be taking place. Father Alfie Romeo played with aplomb and vigour by Yorkshire’s very own Drag King and winner of Drag Idol UK, LoUis CYfer, is sent to investigate – but the real mission is to retrieve an invaluable ‘ring’. Let the euphemisms and innuendo begin!
The Convent is led by Mother Superior played by Victoria Scone; the first cisgender female to appear in Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK series; who has a wonderful stage presence and demeanour even if frequently corpsing due to on or off-stage antics. It is pretty obvious from the get-go that the 4th wall is definitely no existent in this production. River Medway; a cast stand out on the third series of Ru Paul’s Drag race UK; returns to the stage this time as the dizzy darling, ‘there’s a song in every situation’ Sister Maria JulieAndrews. The audience warm to and are immediately protective of this bonkers character. Cheryl Hole; the self-proclaimed ‘Mediocre Queen of Essex’ who made the top 4 of Ru Pauls Drag Race in 2019; joins the line up as Sister Mary Berry, the non-too bright but very visual character with the honour of performing the legendary Death Drop! The quartet of Nuns (if that’s what you can call them) is completed by Sis Titis who was played wonderfully; full of sass and scorn; by Alex Roberts on the evening, I saw the production rather than the regular Kitty Scott-Claus, apparently according to Mother Superior ‘her costumes weren’t ready’!
The cast is completed by Corrina Buchan as the Inner Voice and Joseph Lycett-Barnes/Ophelia Love has understudy and horror character cameo roles. Thanks to Truckstop’s hard work it is great to see real Drag Artistes on stage, rather than actor’s portrayals of Drag roles. Whilst this band of Drag Artistes will not be winning acting awards, they could be in the running for a comedy one, ensuring the audience are firmly onside and having a ball! With hilarious gags, one liners and enough double entendres to fill any creative hole, you can’t fail to leave the theatre smiling like the cat who got the cream. So, for a very charming nun-aughty night out don’t miss Death Drop. Back in the Habit. I can promise you your evening won’t Drag! (sorry).
Playing until 14th January, https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/death-drop
Reviewer: Tracey Bell
Reviewed 10th January 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★