Heated Rivalry : The Unauthorized Musical Parody
The tone of this musical is set from the very first song, What We Want, and the tone definitely gives parody musical! Based on the hit TV show, Heated Rivalry, this one act show is laugh-out-loud comedy from start to finish. Fans of the TV show will lap up the cult references to the original.
The story follows two young male ice hockey players, one Canadian and one Russian, who find themselves attracted to each other. Of course, in their respective worlds, this is problematic. Both are supposed to be straight, masculine role models. Will they risk their celebrity status and perceived heteronormativity for what their hearts really want.
The cast of five (three of whom play multiple roles) are a talented bunch. It’s easy to gloss over this in the hilarity, but the vocal dexterity, the characterisation, and the comic timing are perfect.
Without diminishing the contribution of the other players (which were great), I’d want to highlight the contributions of Joseph Dann, who plays the Russian ice hockey player, Ilya, and May Tether who plays Susan/Narrator. Dann is making his professional stage debut and does it with ease. His vocals are on point. Tether brings all the comedy and draws us in by breaking the fourth wall.
The piece is written by Dylan MarcAurele. His score is boppy, and the lyrics are genius. Most of the references can’t be repeated here, but all the intricacies of what two men might get up to in the bedroom are definitely explored!
I appreciated the simplicity of the set, with simple cloths being hung on boards by the cast. It gave us enough in the small space, and no more was needed since it’s the comedy that drives the performance.
If you’re looking for a Les Mis experience, then this probably isn’t for you. But if you’re looking for a night of Unrivalled Hilarity that makes your cheeks ache from laughing, then check out this bonkers production!
This show was reviewed on the 13th October 2026 at Underbelly Soho, London where it runs until the 1st November 2026. Tickets available here: Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody | Underbelly Boulevard Soho
Review written by Ian Worsfold
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Photo credit : Matt Crockett
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