King’s Head Theatre – 9 May touring until 11 July 2025
Reviewed by Claire Roderick
4****
Bet’n Lev Theatre’s charming and celebratory show is a masterclass in storytelling. This witty and surprisingly moving show is a real treat.
From the moment you step in the auditorium, greeted with smiles and jokes by the cast, it’s obvious that this is a welcoming and safe space. Conceived by Joel Samuels and Roann Hassani McCloskey, Remythed reclaims myths and legends from around the world and recentres them around queer characters. Tales from Scheherazade’s dreams and stories to Lilith rejecting Adam are shared with a sense of wonder and mischievous joy. A banished arrogant prince travels to a mysterious community where he discovers humility and fellowship, the tale of Lady Godiva becomes her big romantic gesture towards spinster tailor Tom, while Anansi helps a contemporary black gay man to remember his own strength and power.
The cast – Emile Clarke, Ishmael Kirby, Roann Hassani McCloskey, Joel Samuels and Lucy Roslyn – are warm and engaging, making each other laugh and working together with fantastic chemistry. Joel Samuels is full of energy and when jokes land, often breaks character to announce his delight. Roann Hassani McCloskey charms as various characters, and one VERY strange beast. Lucy Roslyn is effortlessly moving as Lilith and Tommy, and hilariously absurd with Emile Clarke as they gesture ridiculously as the prince’s parents. Clarke is brilliantly brattish as the entitled Adam, unable to understand Lilith’s rejection of his ownership of her. Ishmael Kirby moves regally and seductively. As they portray different characters, their movement shifts from spiritual to funny to frankly bizarre in this captivating queer show with a huge heart.
Tour dates
2 – 3 May Shakespeare North, Prescot
9 May Kings Head Theatre, London
15 – 16 May Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath
24 – 25 June Live Theatre, Newcastle
6 July Tobacco Factory Theatre, Bristol
11 July Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham