There was a time when shows that used a dying planet Earth as the background for the story meant that the tale would be firmly science fiction. These days it’s just topical. Acid’s Reign is a musical about a drag show act that carries a message about climate change, and the struggles and temptations that fame can bring.

Our main character is the titular Alex Acid, who finds themselves sharing a cell with a fellow drag queen, Ria Listic, following a disastrous climate change protest. As the story unfolds, our heroic band becomes Acid’s Reign, and they gather other drag artists to their slightly complicated cause: Dina Mite, Micky Steele and eventually Olive Branch. The names are part of the story and not-so-subtle hints to their character types.

It’s a pretty standard yarn of sacrifices made on the way to the top, with a heavy dose of ‘be careful who you trust’ and ‘fame isn’t worth friendship’. Cliches all the way down, but that’s sort of the point. The story is simply a vessel for the songs, the costume and choreography, all of which are simply marvellous. In a world where every musical at the fringe is trying to be the next Six, Acid’s Reign does its own thing, presenting banger after banger all the way through.

Of particular note is Micky Steele’s story; Micky is a drag king, and their story is one of the struggle to be seen. And to make a living. Acid’s Reign is set in a world of outrageous fashion and dystopian values, and this aesthetic serves to make the cast feel larger than life. They are some rather fabulous costume changes and the message is strong and loud.

This is a show of big feelings, big lungs and big shoulder pads. Loud and strong, punching the message through with joy and hope in its heart, whilst also being realistic enough to fight dirty. A fantastic night out. Go see.

Book tickets here and find out about future shows here.