Margaret Thatcher - Queen of Soho: Review

Thatcher’s fabulous fantasy return to Soho sees the Iron Lady get a disco makeover. Sound bizarre? Well, it’s even more of a spectacle than you might imagine.

This cabaret-style extravaganza, brought to life by the formidable duo of Jon Brittain and Matt Tedford, truly dazzles with its flamboyant mix of humour, political satire, and 80s-inspired glitz.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this show has cemented itself as a drag sensation. The plot is as audacious as its execution: it reimagines Thatcher (played by Matt Tedford) lost in Soho on the eve of the infamous Section 28 vote. Rather than focus on draconian laws, this version of the Iron Lady takes a wildly different route—accidentally becoming a cabaret superstar, questioning her stance on LGBT rights along the way.

Tedford’s portrayal of Thatcher is nothing short of spectacular. From her poised accent to her iconic mannerisms, Tedford flawlessly brings to life an alternate, fabulously campy version of the divisive Prime Minister. His Thatcher is biting, quick-witted, and yet somehow endearing. The audience interaction was a highlight, as Tedford’s Thatcher directly addressed some audience members and toyed with the crowd, injecting the evening with unscripted hilarity.

Supporting Thatcher on this rollercoaster ride are two moustachioed performers in denim shorts and vests, deftly switching between multiple characters, including political figures like Winston Churchill and Section 28 champion Jill Knight. The show’s energy levels never dip as the cast bounce between musical numbers, comedic sketches, and poignant political commentary. The water-spitting handbag scene and their dynamic choreography had the audience roaring with laughter.

One of the show’s greatest strengths is its ability to meld humour with commentary. The sharp, satirical digs at British politics—both past and present—resonate deeply, without ever feeling preachy. The portrayal of Section 28, the era’s anti-gay legislation, adds emotional weight to the otherwise light-hearted production. While rooted in Thatcher-era politics, the show refreshingly stays relevant, drawing parallels to modern political climates. It balances the ridiculous and the serious with great finesse, making its political punchlines land that much harder.

Tedford’s Thatcher is a force to be reckoned with, and his fast-paced delivery, perfectly in sync with Alex Fernandes’ lighting and the sound design by Ed Lewis and Jon Brittain, makes for a truly slick performance. The iconic YMCA number had the entire audience up and moving, with Tedford skilfully involving everyone in the choreography.
The show delivered a truly electrifying performance. Tedford’s Thatcher ultimately triumphs in a final, jaw-dropping tribute to disco queen Donna Summer, complete with miniskirts, feather boas, and all the camp one could hope for.

Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho is not just a drag show; it’s a daring, clever, and thoroughly entertaining piece of theatre that successfully critiques politics through laughter and satire. Whether you’re a fan of camp, political satire, or simply a lover of great theatre, this is a show that will leave you beaming long after the curtain falls.