Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody is exactly what it promises to be: a gloriously outrageous send-up of the hit book and television series Heated Rivalry.
From the moment the opening number, ‘What We Want’, begins, the production plunges us into Susan’s world, where women’s entertainment fantasies are summed up as “gay hockey players, with big butts having sex”. It immediately establishes the show’s unapologetically campy sense of humour and sets the tone for what follows: a whirlwind of innuendo, ridiculous scenarios and plenty of laughs.
The music is one of the production’s biggest strengths. The catchy numbers do more than simply deliver punchlines; they help drive the storyline forward, introduce us to the characters and offer hilarious commentary on the world of Heated Rivalry. Dylan MarcAurele has clearly put considerable thought into crafting songs that are both memorable and genuinely funny, ensuring the audience remains entertained from start to finish.
One particularly inspired decision is the absence of a cast member playing Scott Hunter. Instead, an unsuspecting audience member is brought onstage to take on the role, reading directly from the script. The resulting chaos is comedy gold. Watching him break character, struggle to keep up and even being forced to eat a banana as the audience looks on is a highlight that has the theatre howling with laughter.
The production is deliberately over-the-top, cheesy and gloriously camp, but beneath all the silliness is a genuine affection for its source material. Fans of the book and television series will recognise plenty of familiar plot points and iconic moments, cleverly reimagined for the stage. The cast brings infectious energy to every scene, embracing the absurdity while keeping the story moving at a lively pace.
May Tether is a particular standout as Susan. Her charisma, versatility and impeccable comedic timing make her thoroughly engaging to watch, whether she is delivering a punchline or inhabiting one of the production’s many larger-than-life characters. She commands attention throughout and is a major part of what makes the show such a joy.
Honestly, the only real criticism is that it ends too soon. As a one-act production, it leaves you wanting more just as you are getting fully swept up in its madness. Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody deserves to become a full-blown musical. With its catchy songs, outrageous humour and infectious energy, this is a parody that leaves you desperate for an encore.
Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody runs until 1st November 2026 at Underbelly Boulevard Soho with tickets available at Underbelly Boulevard Soho | Theatre & Bar
Reviewer: Zain Russell
Reviewed: 13th October 2026
North West End UK Rating: