Written by Kirsty for Theatre and Tonic.

Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are our own

Horrible Histories has been a staple in children’s lives since the original books written by Terry Deary were published way back in 1993, with the BAFTA award-winning TV series hitting screens in 2009. Horrible Histories - The Concert is the perfect mix of the original books (the book illustrations were used perfectly on the screens) and the madcap hilarity of the TV show.

Richard David-Caine as William Shakespeare was our host, and he was hilarious, especially when he was trying to keep all the Kings and Queens happy and save his own skin. Richie Webb was part Musical Director and part foil to Shakespeare. It was lovely to see him play an active part in the show rather than fading into the background.

Alison Fitzjohn was a standout as Queen Victoria, and she brought the house down with Mambo No. 10. Ethan Lawrence as King Henry VIII was hilarious, and Divorced, Beheaded & Died was one of the highlights. Harrie Hayes as Queen Elizabeth I was definitely the Monarch in charge, constantly threatening Shakespeare to get the big number at the end. The entire company was brilliant, and the sheer number of quick changes was breathtaking.

So many classic Horrible Histories songs were featured such as Stupid Deaths, Charles the Second, Dick Turpin, and of course the Monarch’s Song, which was the perfect show closer. The production felt fresh and new, yet very familiar. I couldn’t help but notice that the children in the audience were totally engrossed throughout.

For fans of the TV show and the books, Horrible Histories - The Concert is the perfect show for all the family, and acts as the perfect introduction to theatre for children which is always something that is brilliant to see.

I left the theatre humming the Monarch’s Song and has left me with the urge to rewatch the TV show. Even though I was not the target audience, I would definitely return to watch another Horrible Histories stage show.

Horrible Histories: The Concert is touring the UK until April 2026.
★★★★

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