Police Cops in Space ★★★★ Underbelly Festival, Cavendish Square | Jul 31 - Aug 18, 2024


Trigger warning! If you have sequel issues, this show will definitely make you want to catch the original Police Cops: The Musical that inspired all this superlative silliness. The boys are back with all their signature moves, awesome choreography and magnificent mugging. If you remember the original Police Cops, you'll recall that Jimmy Johnson had some prequel or father issues. Well, now his son, Sammy, unsurprisingly also has some unresolved parental baggage! Just as Jimmy had the challenge of living up to expectations, Sammy now has a similar dilemma, but on a galactic level. He has to avenge his father who has been killed by an evil robot and to assert himself as the best damn police cop in space. The low-brow, low-tech show which simultaneously spoofs the tropes of TV cop shows and sci-fi epics is full of corny jokes and zany antics that are delivered at warp speed. Indeed it is the pacing that really makes it all work. Zachary Hunt, Nathan Parkinson and Tom Roe, who have devised the show and perform in it, all display an energy that is infectious and a comic timing that is impeccable. This is an extremely polished production that consummately continues the screwball tradition of the great Carry On movies and the Mischief Comedy franchise. We will definitely be in the queue for any next episode in the Police Cops adventures.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo Adam Bottomley

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When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: Cavendish Square, London W1G, UK

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