The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show – London Palladium

Rib tickling funny and hopeful!

The divas of the queer universe of RuPaul’s Drag Race have arrived in London. And in a blink, this marks the duo’s fifth self-written holiday show produced and directed by BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon. In London for three days with a UK-wide tour, they bring oomph, holiday cheer and pragmatism. They bring together the best of drag, dance, and duets with entertainment that is sharp as chilli and cuddly as your favourite teddy bear.

They sleigh through the decades trying to find that one moment that must have led to this ever-declining hellscape we face. They take us through the past eras of change. A critical look also at how the ‘save the planet’ jargon has transformed over the past years, always putting the onus on individual actions to avert community climate change. The duo has you in spits from the first note they share. The costumes, the premise building, the humour, and the music are rapturous.

The reframing of the Christmas myth had me in splits. The troupe of dancers perfectly complemented the storytelling—each of the eras was recreated with panache, flair and imagination. Hope, joy and presence are true ‘presents’ for us to carry home.

At the show’s beginning, they acknowledge the foreignness of references; for future year shows, I would love for the text to be projected to follow better.

For some queer folks, the holidays are challenging. History is being made by witnessing two queer friends celebrate their friendship year after year to create a piece of art that gives the entire community hope. One can’t help but feel happy and proud of their success. 

I would recommend going by yourself, go with your beau; if you are straight, go to be sprinkled with queer joy and excellence! Don’t miss this show! https://www.jinkxanddela.com/tour#tour-uk

Reviewer: Anisha Pucadyil

Reviewed: 18th October 2022

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★