Once in a while a show comes along that reminds you of the power of great theatre, ‘My Son’s A Queer (But What Can You Do?)’ is one of those shows. This one person show staring Rob Madge focuses on their own childhood videos, which they posted online during lockdown back in 2020. These hilarious home videos take centre stage throughout the 75 minute show, with Madge providing hysterical commentary.
Like many queer kids, Madge loved to dress up and put on shows for their family. The videos are charming and funny, with a young Robert (very seriously) often bossing about their father whilst recreating classic Disney scenes and parades. It is truly magical how Madge tenderly brings these to life with their trademark wit and warmth. Often using the same exact items on stage as seen in the videos, there is a certain authenticity and irresistible charm throughout. With the shows title alone giving a nod to a line in Les Mis, Madge makes various stagey jokes throughout which the captivated Manchester audience lapped up.
Being so heavily focused around home videos it could have easily lacked real substance and connection, but this show is amongst the most moving I have witnessed in recent years. Madge has that unique ability in making you feel it is only you and them in the room through their masterful storytelling. What is perhaps the most simultaneously heart-breaking/heart-warming moment is where their father’s character shines through (despite only being on stage via video footage), when he responded beautifully to an online story of a young trans child. I don’t think there was a dry tear in the house!
I caught up with Rob earlier this year where they told me that music was never originally intended to be part of ‘My Son’s A Queer’. Luckily composer Pippa Cleary (The Great British Bake Off Musical) jumped on board to work with Madge to create music for the show. It is weaved into the show beautifully like a glitter filled rollercoaster of emotions in the best possible way. The poignant final number ‘We Will Be Loved Anyway’ in particular is an anthem for acceptance and love that will soften even the stoniest of hearts. You will go from belly laughing to wiping away tears and back again throughout the performance.
With a long promised fabulous finale that doesn’t disappoint, ‘My Son’s A Queer’ is truly unmissable. With buckets of heart and bursting with pride (just in time to coincide with Manchester Pride this weekend), you can catch it until Sunday 25th August 2024 at HOME Manchester.
Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a show is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone.
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