We Will Rock You ★★ London Coliseum | Jun 2 - Aug 27, 2023


The music of Queen is original and unforgettable! You'd have to be comatose not to respond to hits like "A Kind of Magic," "We Are the Champions" and "Bohemian Rhapsody." This tribute show which previously ran for twelve years at the Dominion Theatre has all the hits, but they are strung together on a narrative that is rather unremarkable. The earth, now called iPlanet, has succumbed to homogeneity and musical blandness and it is presided over by the Killer Queen (Brenda Edwards) and her evil henchman Khashoggi (Lee Mead). In opposition to this dastardly regime a group of rebels, the Bohemians, try to restore the age of real rock 'n' roll. Led by Pop (Ben Elton) these outcasts are joined by a possible messiah, Galileo Figaro (Ian McIntosh) and his feisty girl pal, Scaramouche, played by Elena Skye. The satire is thin and the one dimensional characters never manage to generate much interest in the plot. It all seems a bit like we are just killing time until we get to the next song. It is a tribute to the enduring artistry of Queen that audiences have embraced this show. The appearance of Brian May on the night we attended had the audience on its feet in an ovation celebrating the hours of joy and inspiration that the band has provided.

Rated: ★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Dave Hogan/Hogan Media.

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When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: London Coliseum, St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4ES, UK

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