Under the Influence at King’s Head Theatre, London Review
The Gilbert Twins and Shona Maule (Centre). Photo: Marina Solar Fernandez for Neon Eye.
Content Warnings: Strong language/swearing.
Carine and Frances Gilbert, aka The Gilbert Twins, shot to TikTok fame during the Covid pandemic, performing original comedy sketches together. Fast forward six years and they’ve brought their new musical comedy, ‘Under The Influence’, to the London stage, having enjoyed huge success with it at the Edinburgh Fringe over the summer. The show explores their relationship as they begin ‘couples therapy’, resulting in 60 minutes of hilarity and heartfelt moments, too.
The twins are joined by their therapist, Kate, played by Shona Maule, who is also the show’s Musical Director, Composer and Lyricist. Maule accompanies the twins on the keyboard as they sing original songs, and attempts to bring them back down to earth during the more dramatic moments. This is particularly funny during a song about social media and the chaos that can come with it.
In some musicals it feels as though songs are just thrown in for the sake of it, but that’s definitely not the case here. They are catchy and add a lot to the plot line, making us laugh out loud. The exception to this is a song Frances sings towards the end of the show. It provides a moving portrait of a twin who is coming to terms with the idea that both women need to start following their own paths, and that she may be holding her sister back. A very emotive, honest performance, beautifully sung.
The small space at the King’s Head Theatre is simply set with a sofa, keyboard and two microphones on stands. Everything else regarding the setting is left to our imagination. This works well, as the bold, captivating performances from the actors are enough to hold our attention.
This original musical is definitely one worth seeing. Whilst the drama and events of the story have been heightened for dramatic effect, there is clearly some truth in it. Amidst the chaos and drama is a story of identical twins who, although they have an unbreakable bond, are struggling with tension in their relationship and finding their own voices as adults. Carine and Frances Gilbert have an undeniable chemistry which translates very well onto the stage. Both are very strong singers and bring excellent comedic and acting skills to a well thought out show.
★★★★
Written by Emily for Theatre and Tonic, September 2026.