I recently attended a performance of “Eugenius!” at the Turbine Theatre, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with the show. The book and lyrics by Ben Adams and Chris Wilkins are fantastically written, with a witty and farcical tone that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The 80s pop culture references and jokes have the audience laughing throughout the performance.

The stage is set with a giant video wall at the back, flanked by two smaller screens on either side to create a forced perspective. While the comic book cell frames on the video wall add depth to the show, they occasionally obstruct the larger footage on the screens, which can be distracting.

Joseph Beach’s performance as the panto-esque villain Evel Lord Hector is exceptional and a highlight of the show.  He interacts with his robot companion on the video wall, however the robot could be more 80s-looking or a puppet/robot to enhance the production’s aesthetic.

James Hameed’s comic relief as Feris injects much-needed energy into the performance. Maddison Firth’s entrance as Carrie/Super Hot Lady after the interval is a high point, with an upbeat track that gets the audience back into the action. The costumes are somewhat budget-looking and could have been improved, with some parts appearing as though they might fall off. Super Hot Lady for example looks incredible in an off the rack She-Ra costume, however not all have the same appeal. There is also a missed opportunity to have different designs on each side of the stage blocks, which could have been utilised with choreography to help change locations e.g. lockers, film set, spaceship.

The sound and lighting cues are a bit slow, but the production’s theatrical skills and talent shines through. Despite these minor flaws, I would recommend “Eugenius!” at the Turbine Theatre. The show’s fantastic writing, reasonable ticket prices, and excellent venue make for a great night out. 

This show was reviewed on the 22nd March 2023.  Eugenius! runs at the Turbine Theatre, London until the 28th May 2023.  Tickets are available here: Eugenius | The Turbine Theatre

*** stars

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Photo credit: Pamela Raith

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Review – Eugenius! – The Turbine Theatre, London – Box Office Radio