The Return of the Jinkx and DeLa Holiday Show at Troxy

166 contestants have competed on the runaway hit that is Ru Paul’s Drag Race. While some have faded into obscurity, others have utilised the platform and carved out impressive careers. Jinkx Monsoon, the narcoleptic winner of season five, and BenDeLaCreme, who made her mark on season six before appearing on All Stars, are two examples. Embarking on an international tour, the artists serve as co-writers, with DeLa also directing and producing the show. Touring the US, Canada and the UK firmly cements the duo as two of the most successful drag acts of our time and they more than deliver with their unique blend of pithy humour, sassy wit, and comedic musical numbers. 

This is a Christmas extravaganza quite unlike any other. Verging on Panto, the two play on their Bette Davis /Joan Crawford disdain for one another and Jinkx’s anti-Christmas attitude. Superficially worlds apart in terms of personality and appearance, the pair are strangely and enticingly compatible with Dela’s waspish enthusiasm contradicting Jinkx’s saucy schtick. 

Jinkx and DeLa enjoy a natural rapport, effortlessly bouncing off one another and their audience. The chemistry between them is infectious and endearing, although on occasion they verge too close to crude and at times seek too hard to shock. When appearing more natural, the performers are engaging and well suited to the stage.

With references to the pandemic, the show feels timely and relatable. Refreshed for 2021, the duo stick to their award-winning formula with a crowd pleasing set that lives up to its hype – matchless, memorable, and raucous evening indeed.

Filling a venue as large and iconic as the Troxy is no mean feat, however one can’t help but think this production would benefit from a more intimate setting. As it veers off on tangents and at times meanders, the script would undoubtedly benefit from some refinement. That said, this is an evening of hilarity and infectious fun that is sure to please the stars’ legions of fans. 

Jonathan Marshall

The Return of the Jinkx and DeLa Holiday Show was at Troxy on 19^th November 2021 and is on tour in the UK until 23^rd November 2021. For further information or to book visit Jinx and DeLa’s website here.