Death Drop: Back in the Habit at The Curve

Written by Rob Evans, Death Drop: Back in the Habit is the sequel to Death Drop, which was so popular it’s up to three Westend runs and a UK tour.

This horror spoof follows Father Alfie Romeo, played by DragKing LoUis CYfer, as he investigates mysterious spooky goings on at the Convent of St Babs, helped and hindered by the all drag cast of Mother Superior (Victoria Scone) and nuns Sister Mary Berry (Cheryl Hole), Sister Maria Julie Andrews (River Medway), and Sis Titis (Kitty Scott-Claus).

The plot, centred around Romeo’s quest to find the ring of Saint Babs wouldn’t hold up to much scrutiny, but does contain innumerous references to cult horrors – spot The Ring and IT, all alongside a predictable Sound of Music tribute by ditsy sister Mary Julia Andrews.

A timely confession – I have never seen Drag Race, and given that’s where most of these stars started this show is definitely more appreciated by an audience familiar with Ru Paul and co, at least judging from the reception to Kitty Scott-Claus’ performance of Oopsie Woopsie.

However the combination of a cheekily charming cast alongwith innumerous witty (and crude) one-liners and farce has the ability to make even the most prudish of audience members giggle. It is not a show that takes itself too seriously, with the cast constantly destroying the fourth wall, barely able to make it through their lines without sniggering and constantly self-referencing the art form and that’s where the delight lies.

Designed by Peter McKintosh, the set is a traditionally atmospheric looking convent featuring a stunning stained glass centrepiece, and in complete opposition to some of the costumes which would look much less out of place in a strip club. The set provides much to mock with non-existent staircases and props to be manually manouvered to much amusement.

As brilliant as the individual queens are, their strength is as an ensemble, riffing off each other with ease and expert sense of comedic timing. Despite the overall daft tone, there are moments of genuine suspense which are rapidly shattered with more quick fire innuendo.

It’s not just the speech that’s rapid, director Jesse Jones keeps the pace quick making a tight two hour romp.

Death Drop: Back in the Habit continues its tour until March 2023, find out more here https://deathdropplay.com/
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