Eurovision (Your Decision) ★★★★ Wonderville | Apr 29 - May 13, 2023


How do you send up Eurovision? The beloved international song contest is already so far over the top it almost defies parody. Eurovision (Your Decision) does the job with lots of love and a great deal of talent. While there is plenty of humour, this show is as much a tribute to the joy and energy of the original as it is a spoof. All of the songs were previously real entries in the contest, and they are all performed to comic perfection by a super talented cast. Tim McArthur as Demetrius and Lucy Penrose as Katie were terrific both as the hosts of the event and in their various incarnations throughout. They were well matched by Leigh Pollard and Steven Serlin whose spirited interpretations of the entries are a delight. We didn't think it was possible to make Serbia's 2022 entry even funnier, but this version of "In Corpore Sano" brought back all the hilarious memories. We also loved the rendition of Sweden's "Euphoria," and both the performance of Celine Dion's iconic "Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi," plus her subsequent interviews, were spot on. While it might add to the enjoyment if you remember some of the Eurovision occasions that launched these moments of musical madness, you really don't have to be a Eurovision superfan to enjoy this evening. The first act of the show with its presentation of the fifteen song entries flies by, but, as with the actual Eurovision, things flag a bit during the second act while we wait for the votes to come in and watch the 'celebrities' present the country selections. The performance of the amazing guest artist, Lizzie Bea, picked things up and the announcement of the winner had the audience back on its feet and singing along to the reprise of their favourite. On the night we attended, Norway's "Spirit In The Sky" took the honours, but there were close contenders. A few votes could have changed history! So if you can't get enough Eurovision (who can?), and if you want to make your voice heard by voting for your choice, this thoroughly entertaining show is the one for you.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo © PBG Studios.

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When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: 57-60 Haymarket, St. James's, London SW1Y 4QX, UK

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