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Now taking this theatrical gem across the country, Rob Madge's critically acclaimed My Son's A Queer (But What Can You Do?) is giving new audiences a chance to experience the celebration of love, support, and acceptance that the world undoubtedly needs. The biographical show incorporates nostalgic aspects of Rob's upbringing that have shaped them and enabled the passion the born performer exuberates.
Across 7 steps, Rob leads audiences through a journey of discovery, seeking their true self, while offering wisdom along the way. In a bid to reprise the flawed living room Disney parade from their childhood, now is the perfect opportunity to bring it to fruition - young Rob would be so proud of where they are now. Featuring some utterly brilliant VHS clips of little ebullient Rob adoring the limelight of the camera, without knowing at the time, these capture such wholesome interactions that provide exemplary attitude for advocating the interests of their child - and that Rob was always bound to be on stage!
Plenty of props assist with translating the tape into theatre and help to create a consistent piece as a whole. A wonderful lighting composition by Jai Morjaria complements Ryan Dawson Laight's homely set and exuberant costumes. In just 95 minutes, you will definitely be left wanting more.
Quite frankly, Rob Madge could read terms and conditions and make them engaging. Having written their script to perform solo, and alongside Luke Sheppard's direction, Rob has played to their strengths - their natural ability to draw in the audience with an infectiously joyous personality goes unmatched, yet they still embrace the meaning behind the piece to allow room for deeper emotions to be woven in. Although this is Rob's personal story, the notion of finding our identity and belonging is one of commonality. Nestled amongst the humour and flamboyancy, an essence of tenderness conveys heartfelt and bittersweet messages of hope for both current and future generations to welcome their community. This therefore adds relatability as every single audience member has some degree of understanding: a powerful acquisition for making the world a better place.
Beautifully accompanying, Pippa Cleary's songs help to illustrate the narrative and offer another dynamic to the piece, increasing its fluidity. Opening with 'Anything Is Possible', you will be certainly caught humming the inspiring track for days to come. 'Yellow Dress' explores the breaking of binary barriers in a bid to relabel gender expression: a thought-provoking tune, and one of many moments throughout the show that proves the deep-rooted meaning for Rob being able to put this work out there. 'Pied Piper' provides an amusing tale of queer awakening, followed by 'Pieces of My Heart' as a contrasting act of poignancy. With 'We Will Be Loved Anyway' to close - a stunning composition reflecting the parental support that is so necessary to flourish - the winning formula of the show thoroughly deserves every ounce of success and recognition heading its way. It was lovely to see Rob’s face beam even more when the audience responded with lyrics in one of their songs - you are so rightfully adored Rob!
If that shining light of life-affirming guidance we all need was a person, Rob embodies it perfectly. My Son's a Queer is a show that will stick with you long beyond the finale with its impact. So, drumroll, please...
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