Werq the World – AO Arena, Manchester

AO Arena in Manchester played host to some of the most fabulous drag queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race last night. Featuring probably the world’s most malfunctioning time machine, Werq the World was full of laughs, fantastic costumes, bad lip syncing and amazing hairography. If you’re looking for a slice of diva, then you’re definitely in the right place.

Hosted by the fabulous Asia O’Hara, the premise of the show is she is trying to use the time machine to take her back to Season 10 of Ru Paul’s Drag Race, where she can go back and snatch the title.

What was amazing to see at AO Arena on this night, is not only how much love there is for the drag queens, but that it comes from all walks of lives. Some people had waited two years to see this show as the original run was cancelled due to Covid, so were very excited for the show.

Quite early on, two volunteers from the audience are chosen to lip sync for their lives. One looked more comfortable than the other, but in true Ru Paul fashion they slayed and the audience certainly enjoyed it.

Asia O’Hara has to be applauded for not only her hosting, but impeccable comic timing. A group sat near the front where late for the show, and she came down from the stage to find out why they were late. Her continuous banter with a security steward called Joe was also a running gag for the evening. She is certainly the star of the show, and the audience let her know by giving her the biggest cheer of the evening.

Miss Vanjie was another big hit with the audience. Her Latin inspired performance was as flawless as her hair and makeup. The slight wardrobe malfunction she had, didn’t seem to faze her in the slightest.

One of the highlights of the evening for me was Plastique Tiara’s performance. She descended from the ceiling in an angel costume, and then proceeded to lip sync to Ariana Grande’s hit ‘God is a Woman’.

Most of the comedy moments of the evening are meant in good spirit, however, may not be appropriate for a younger audience. So, I would definitely only recommend this for people who are aged 16+.

The set for the show did showcase Las Vegas calibre – a platform in the middle, with a staircase either side. The lightning was on point and the use of special effects such as confetti was effective.

Werq the World continues its tour across Europe until 4th June 2022. Tickets and information can be found here – https://vossevents.com/werq-the-world-tour/

Reviewer: Brian Madden

Reviewed: 19th May 2022

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★