Deep-Heat Rivalry
The Other Palace
Playing until 11th October 2026
Photo credit: Mark Senior
{PR Gifted ticket}
Locked into the roles of fated rivals in opposing ice hockey teams, Shane Hollandaise (Sario Solomon) and Ilya Stroganoff (Jason Leigh Winter) who represent Canada and Russia, respectively, they must keep up the façade and their secret romantic relationship from prying eyes. In this parody narrated by Puck (Ross Chisari) and supported by a Diva (Diana Vickers) lay bare the scorching romance and intimacy between the lovers.
Taking the course over many years, this show written by Trevor Ashley and Phil Scott showcase the evolution of the couple’s relationship, from a casual hook up to that of something far my romantic. Along the way, side plots emerge as we Hollandaise engage in a relationship with a woman to hide his true sexuality from the public, and at the same time, Stroganoff must contend with the pressure from his country to become a spy. However, none of these are really of any consequence and is often downplayed, trivialised and turned into absurd comedy. Alas, this is a comedy parody and basically a non-traditional panto that came early.
This production includes a range of references and adapted lyrics to many well-known pop songs and musical numbers. These are instantaneously recognisable, with raunchier and adult themed lyrics to fit the story presented.
Although not a main character, Puck, the equivalent of a pantomime dame, absolutely steals the show. Under the direction of Trevor Ashley, Chisari with his timely and exaggerated costumes, make up and absurd narration brings about howls of laughter with his every delivery. Frankly, it is not the love story between the two men that draw the audience in, it is how they are being presented by Puck and the journey he takes us. Complementing Chisari, Vickers dons many roles within this show, including the likes of Celine Dion and Rose from Titanic…ops…I meant Titanique! The myriads of characters keep the audience on the edge of their seats as they not so quietly anticipate what character might appear next.
In the role of the main characters, Solomon and Winter show incredible sexual chemistry and are explicit in their delivery. While Solomon’s Hollandaise is shy and reserved, Winter’s Stroganoff is rigid and more serious (worry not, there is a limit on how serious you can be in a show like this!). The two actors play along with the ridiculous scenarios in which they find themselves in, fully embracing these roles to make the show fantastic success.
Raunchy and fully of smut, this is indeed a fantastic panto that arrives into London two months early. A well lubricated show with a climatic finish.
Creatives
Writer and Director: Trevor Ashley
Writer: Phil Scott
Costume Design: Angie White
Set Design: Reuben Speed
LX Design: Matt Hockley
Sound Design: Josh Robins
Produced by Trevor Ashley
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