Once a year we gather in front of our TV’s, expect the unexpected and enjoy a singing competition like no other. Parodying the popular tournament of talent, Eurobeat is a wacky, hilarious piece of theatre sure to appeal to the masses.
After previous concern, Liechtenstein finally has its chance to host this celebration of European pop and it does not disappoint! It’s everything you wish for, and some more. There’s questionable lyrics, hidden politics (ahem, Brexit), outlandish costumes and campness galore!
Marlene Cabana, (played by David O’Reilly’s Orla Board) is the glamorous host with the most, treating us to costume changes and double entendres with every appearance. Marlene also dazzles with some performances of her own, opening the show with a classic dance tune and a hilarious distain for the rules reader “boring Sven”.
The weird and wonderful competitors are introduced with the recognisable strange waving videos, and then the fun begins. Beginning with Sweden, Christine Allado (Prince of Egypt) sings her power ballad flawlessly, sprinkling in some vocal over-embellishments to keep it funny.
Contrasting this style, there are some real chaotic and bizarre performances in there too. A silly, stereotypical song named “Diddly-Dee”, showcases Scott Garnham (Nativity the Musical) and the dancers faking their stressful Riverdance choreography. And also, Lithuania’s competitors perform erratic dance moves, hilariously put together by Callum Tempest, with absolutely no facial expression.
Aisha Jawando (Tina the Musical) shows that the songs may be funny, but the talent in this show is nothing to laugh about! She stuns in everything I’ve seen her do; an absolute triple threat who I can’t stop raving about.
The script, by Craig Christie, has all the right jokes and hits all the expected reference points. But what elevates this show is that the talent is genuinely top draw. Boasting a cast of West end top-billers, a Drag Race UK star and even a Celebs Go Dating cameo (Tom Read-Wilson is a trained actor, of course) every single performance is brilliant.
The show also asks for you to choose your winner, a clever addition to this show that will keep it in your thoughts for longer. With innuendo filled songs and concert-style performances, the show is the perfect viewing for a pandemic party. I urge you to grab your tickets and vote for your Eurobeat champion, now! https://www.stream.theatre/home
Reviewer: Coral Mourant
Reviewed: 1st May 2021
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★
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