Titanique review: Titanic musical is a hilarious and outrageous must-see show

As a fellow enthusiast, let me share my excitement about the Titanic parody musical, Titanique! This production is so unique that it either captivates you from the get-go or leaves you feeling somewhat baffled – but trust us, if you’re hesitant, we can assure you that a spontaneous late-night road trip to witness it would be an experience you wouldn’t soon forget!

Celine Dion temporarily halts a Titanic museum tour to recount the genuine events of the tragic night in 1912, focusing on the ill-starred romance between Jack and Rose. Yes, indeed, Celine was present, and she plans to narrate the tale using her timeless melodies.

Titanique shares a closer resemblance with last year’s Cruel Intentions musical on the West End compared to other current musical adaptations like The Devil Wears Prada and Back to the Future. Interestingly, Céline’s songs have been cleverly revamped to align with iconic scenes, including the infamous moment when Rose refused to let Jack aboard the door. These reimagined renditions add a touch of humor to the musical.

Despite the fact that it probably shouldn’t be as successful as it is, it’s tough not to envision a more hilarious West End production for the rest of the year – even though it’s still early January.

Titanique review: Titanic musical is a hilarious and outrageous must-see show

Buy Titanique tickets at TodayTix

Before you think it’s inappropriate due to its basis on a real-world tragedy, “Titanique” is actually a humorous takeoff of James Cameron’s popular film. It satirizes not only the movie itself, but also the memes that have emerged from it, as well as other pop culture moments and broader theatrical allusions. Although you might not recognize every reference at first, you’ll soon come across one that you do.

Throughout the 100-minute span of this musical, the unyielding enthusiasm, thanks to its high joke count and talented performers, carries it past its occasional weaker moments. Not everything in the show is perfectly timed and some jokes linger a tad too long, yet this imperfection adds to the show’s appeal by giving an improvised feel, except for one brilliant segment that varies each performance.

The creators of “Titanique,” Tye Blue, Marla Mindelle, and Constantine Rousouli, haven’t merely adapted the show from its successful Off-Broadway production. They’ve incorporated UK-specific references and regularly update the script with the latest pop culture memes, ensuring that the production remains fresh and engaging for multiple viewings.

Significantly, Lauren Drew’s rendition of Céline’s songs takes on a comedic twist, yet it’s handled with tender affection and executed flawlessly. The challenge for Drew is to fill the shoes of Céline, which she masterfully accomplishes by mimicking her mannerisms and vocal style. Interestingly, even Céline’s character seems to make an appearance as she frequently interrupts the narrative of Jack and Rose.

Titanique review: Titanic musical is a hilarious and outrageous must-see show

Buy Titanique tickets at LoveTheatre

Celine could potentially be the main attraction, but the ensemble is filled with stars butted against one another. Stephen Guarino delivers an outstanding performance as the harsh mother Ruth, particularly during a scene-stealing tirade, while Layton Williams plays various roles, notably the Iceberg in the show’s most daring segment – revealing this detail would be unfair to the audience.

It is important to note that Adrianne Langley, Madison Swan, and Rodney Vubya, who are also Céline’s backup singers, deserve special recognition for their impressive vocal performances on stage. The group may be small, but the production of Titanique has a powerful sound that contributes to its captivating cabaret/drag show atmosphere.

To ensure there’s no confusion, let me clarify that “Titanique” isn’t a serious production. Instead, it’s extremely humorous, over-the-top, and filled with humor that everyone seems to be in on. It’ll have you rolling with laughter within the first few minutes, and chances are, you won’t stop laughing until the end.

Is the show “Titanique” flawless? Not entirely, but it certainly manages to be consistently humorous and frequently over-the-top. It offers an unparalleled experience of pure joy, which, let’s face it, we could all use a dose of these days.

Titanique review: Titanic musical is a hilarious and outrageous must-see show

How to buy Titanique tickets

The play titled “Titanique” is currently showing at London’s Criterion Theatre and tickets are available until Sunday, March 30th. Shows take place Tuesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 PM, while Sundays have performances at 7 PM. Matinee performances occur on Saturdays and Sundays at 3 PM.

Currently, you can purchase tickets for various shows featuring TodayTix, LoveTheatre, and London Theatre Direct. The ticket prices start at £30 for each performance.

TodayTix also runs a daily Rush sale for limited last-minute tickets for only £25 via their app.

The content carries strong language and sexual themes, making it suitable only for those aged 12 and above.

Titanique is now running at London’s Criterion Theatre.

2025-01-10 03:49