Grindr: The Opera at Union Theatre, London Review
Written by Philip for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review. All views are our own
“The course of true love never did run smooth"—especially when a maniacal gay hook-up app has something to do with it. Grindr the Opera, by Erik Ransom, returns to the Union Theatre in time for Pride following its previous run in 2023.
Finding love has never been easy, and modern dating apps have only made the search more complicated. While they offer confidence and convenience, they also encourage snap judgements and fleeting connections. Grindr the Opera dives headfirst into that world, following four very different men navigating hook-ups, lust and, in one case, the hope of finding something real.
Newcomer Devon joins Grindr looking for genuine connection and unexpectedly falls for Tom, whose intentions initially extend no further than a casual encounter. Their blossoming romance enrages the show's titular character, Grindr itself, reimagined here as a mischievous, god-like force determined to keep humanity chasing lust rather than love. Throw in Jack, an exuberant twink, and Don, a closeted Tory councillor, and the result is a riotously chaotic comedy that gleefully embraces every outrageous twist.
It is camp as tits and completely over the top. A rude, naughty romp that never shies away from the realities of gay dating or the colourful personalities you might encounter along the way. Ransom's script and lyrics are knowingly outrageous; some will find them crude, but they're delivered with such wit and self-awareness that the humour rarely misses its mark. This is bold, brassy comedy that revels in its own absurdity. While it is completely sung through - it is a piece of musical theatre paying homage to true opera and it is very silly and very funny.
David Shields' set and costume design are a particular delight. The towering classical columns subtly reinforce the idea of Grindr as a deity worthy of worship, whilst Grindr's costume itself evolves throughout the show with clever little details that reward close attention. The mythical aesthetic adds an unexpected layer of grandeur to an otherwise delightfully filthy musical.
Christian Lunn is superb as Grindr. Ethereal, charismatic and delightfully manipulative, he dominates every scene he appears in. Never entirely villainous nor heroic, he plays the role with infectious mischief, while his soaring vocals are nothing short of stunning.
Patrick Barrett brings warmth and sincerity to Devon, giving the audience an emotional anchor amid the show's relentless chaos. His vocals are consistently beautiful, and it's impossible not to root for him. Kane Verrall is equally charming as Tom, with the pair sharing a believable chemistry that makes their relationship genuinely sweet despite the ridiculous circumstances surrounding it.
Elsewhere, Derreck Walker is wonderfully skin-crawling as the closeted Don, fully embracing the character's hypocrisy and internal conflict. Will Joel is also very sweet as Jack. The supporting cast commit wholeheartedly to the show's heightened style, helping to maintain the production's infectious energy throughout.
Whilst Grindr the Opera is consistently entertaining, it doesn't quite reach the emotional depth it hints at. Devon and Tom's relationship could have benefited from greater development, making its emotional beats land with more impact, while the health scares affecting both Jack and Don feel introduced without receiving the attention they deserve. At times, the production seems so focused on delivering laughs that it misses opportunities for more meaningful character exploration.
Even so, Grindr the Opera remains a wildly entertaining celebration of queer culture. It's unapologetically camp, gloriously outrageous and packed with sharp humour, memorable performances and plenty of heart. It may not dig quite as deep emotionally as it could, but it's still an enjoyable night at the theatre that wears its rainbow-coloured heart firmly on its sleeve.
Grindr the Opera is playing at Union Theatre until 19th July before heading on tour.
★★★★