Holy Crap at the King’s Head Theatre
Holy Crap is a theatrical experience quite unlike any other. The musical blends together themes of religion, power and money into an entertaining performance with catchy songs. It follows the story of the “Reverend” Bobby Del La Ray and his venture of “GOD TV”, launching in the UK. When he realises that there is no need for this channel he adapts it to show “religious” porn instead. This prompts the beginning of the end of mankind, dealings with the mafia and religious hit men, and becomes a battle between morality and sin.
It is interesting to see serious themes such as corruption explored in a frivolous and ultimately funny way and the subject matter seems to work perfectly in this genre. The songs are likeable and performed with the perfect amount of energy and vigour; though the production would have worked better had it been slightly shorter.
The actors are captivating and fill the stage, and each gives their all to every moment; they work off each other well, and the characters can be easily defined as either good or bad. Rachel Marwood, playing one of Bobby’s Henchmen, Charlotte LaFayette, gives one of the strongest performances on stage, her booming American accent filling the room. She is particularly entertaining when “visited” by God in order to convince the two dubious members of the team. The song that ensues is one that forces the audience to laugh at the ridiculous nature of it. Emma Salvo also stands out, with a voice that has a lovely quality to it when narrating the show.
The simple set works to accentuate the aesthetic of “GOD TV” and the band play on stage, though this does not really add much to the staging. Coloured lights represent different moments of the narrative, with the white set allowing the many hues to be reflected, and light is used to show good versus bad, which works towards the question of morality explored throughout the story. Overall, it is fascinating to see how Holy Crap explores its themes in a unique and entertaining way, poking fun at what is right and wrong.
Manisha Sondhi
Photo: Paul Dyke
Holy Crap is at the King’s Head Theatre from 7th June until 8th July, for further information or to book visit here.
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