The Gentleman's Club
The basement space of the Soho Theatre makes the perfect home for the fictional Mumbai club that gives this show its title.
Originally premiering in Mumbai, this show marks the UK debut for Patchworks Ensemble, telling the story of the eponymous Gentlemen’s Club – home to an array of local Drag Kings (in case you’re unfamiliar with the concept, as the name suggests these are predominantly female artists dressed and performing as hyper-masculine alter egos).
Part cabaret, part sketch show, the performances never fail to entertain whilst reminding us of the oppression and challenges faced by their community. There are songs in English, songs in Hindi, dances and more. Whilst there are references to Bollywood (not least in Puja Sarup’s ‘Rocky’ channelling their inner Shammi Kapoor to the delight of the audience).
Whilst there may be some references that a London audience may miss, don’t mistake this for a show squarely targeted at an Indian audience, it’s very much more than that – even during the parts in Hindi it was easy to follow the story and understand. Instead this is show is the perfect antidote to a quiet night in - the show is brash, butch and Bollywood-esque – anything but a drag!
The 90 minutes or so of the show fly by quickly - no sooner do we learn about the club and the characters than it’s time to leave but leaving wanting more. Whilst this may be the first show in London from Patchworks, I’m sure it won’t be their last!
This show was reviewed on the 3rd October 2024 at the Soho Theatre, London where the show runs until the 12th October 2024. Tickets available here: The Gentlemen’s Club - Soho Theatre
Review written by Mike Stocks
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