Female Gladiators? It’s not something that ever really think of. Most assume gladiators to be men, unwilling Christians and slaves, so it’s a surprising twist to find that in the deep pools of ancient history there were indeed females in the arena. Gladiatrix takes us back to the arena to meet 4 female gladiators, fighting for their freedom, rights and identities, or at least they were until Septimius Severus (Dashan Severus) decided that the arena was no place for a woman. With the options of becoming a servant or wife not fitting for all, what happens to the women who are left behind?
The show opens with some very impressive stage combat and choreography, 4 brilliant actresses battling to the words of “what am I doing here?” in the song: Sex Sells. Whilst I wouldn’t call it the most riveting number of the show, it does set our scene well enough, but I would argue the rest of the sound track is far better. This musical exhibits all new music, very well composed with strong lyrics by Paul Bianchi, Tony Gonzalez and Sam Johnides, the only issue was you could barely hear the cast singing them. Even on the second row I had to strain to hear some of the lyics which is a shame for the performers who all have very beautiful voices. Get these actors some mics!
Each female character had their own song and story, looking into why each of these warriors would struggle to integrate themselves into any life style other than the arena. We start with Felicitas (Olivia Blair) who is born with a large birth mark on her face making her undesirable, her ballad is sweet and so very sad (although again volume made it a little hard to hear), then comes Deireoe (Bukky Oronti) a fighter with a contract: 100 fights and she earns her freedom. Deireoe is 3 fights away from freedom but with the emperor’s new decree she will not be able to complete her contract. Her song: Three Fights was a stand out with Oronti’s voice and emotional performance really bringing her character’s story and struggle to life. Kirsten Longmuir is the strong noble woman turned fighter Mevia. Her rockstar vocals made for a very impressive and move shifting turn in the show as she proclaims that she will not back down to Severus. Finally, Stella Antonogiannaki takes on the role of Vita, a former servant whose beauty became her downfall. Vita’s song personally was my favourite in the show giving us a full story of romance, betrayal and female power.
We are also emcee’d by Paul Bianchi and Stephen Quinn who do well to bring a comedic and at times solemn narration to the show. Vegas’ performance as Severus is an absolute scene-stealer, playing the baddie so well that it’s hard to hate him (very much King George in Hamilton vibes).
This new musical is a star in the making, every cast member played their part well, the stage combat is top notch, and the narrative is effect and hard hitting. This is an example of the Fringe at its best!
Gladiatrix runs at The Space@Venue45 until 23rd August (excluding 17th ,21st ) at 19:40. Buy tickets at Gladiatrix | Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Reviewer: Beth Eltringham
Reviewed: 12th August 2025
North West End UK Rating: