After proving a hit in both live and digital formats over the festive break at the end of 2023, A They In A Manger returns to on-demand streaming for the remainder of January.
From experimental fringe venue Camden People’s Theatre with producer Beth Sitek and Frankie Thompson’s Wardrobe and Sons, the show is an alternative queer cabaret.
Approach it like the old variety shows you used to watch after the Queen’s Speech and you’ll get the idea. Four performers share their own stories and treats for Christmas.
Hosted by Len Blanco aka Len Gwyn (who does the voice of the Wardrobe and original music from the CPT loo), this is a fabulous frolic of festive, fearless, fantastical and far-out fun.
Blanco is a drag king with the back story of being in a boyband, M4, in 1998. He’s a sparkling chap – literally, by the moustache – with bleached barnet and winning affability.
These comedy chops are followed by Danielle James, framed in the closet or confessional before her doors open, and we hear her monologue of finding a place of peace in music.
An0maly, a Black trans artist, does a pole dance burlesque routine in a teeny Santa thong, at one point mixing family favourites with mature twerking in a Grinch mask. Their routine is to songs and snatches of an interview with a sex worker.
Finally, Vijay Patel sets up a projector, and we’re in Xanadu, capped by a luscious piece of lip synching to the title number of that film.
Each performer connects on their own terms and in their own way – challenging identity perceptions, festive perceptions, even family perceptions.
Blanco’s genderqueer expression is different to An0maly’s but they both address the issue of difference and gender in provocative ways.
For Patel, the issue of belonging as a neurodivergent as well as queer artist is explored through his installations, and leaves you thinking with a smile.
James is the artist I know least – Irish, playwright, trans, she has a powerful presence and her work is both thoughtful and transgressive.
A They In A Manger, directed by Moll Beth Morossa, with lighting by Lily Woodford-Lewis, is beautifully captured and captioned for the digital format by Claire Nolan, with crystal clear sound and sharp visuals.
A late treat for this time of year when you still step on the odd pine needle and find glitter in your pants.
A They In A Manger is available until 31 Jan with tickets here on a Pay What You Can Basis from £3.
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