Ad disclosure: We were provided with press tickets for the purpose of this post.
Yesterday evening, James and I headed into Birmingham city centre with Lydia and one of her best friends to see Horrible Histories – The Concert at the Alexandra Theatre.
Perfect for fans of any age who love the Horrible Histories books or TV series, this “Live (and Dead)!” concert brings together a huge range of historical figures, each performing their most popular songs from the show’s 17-year history.
The band featured original composer Richie Webb, who often stepped out from behind his keyboard to interact with William Shakespeare, played by Horrible Histories’ Richard David-Caine. Lydia was especially happy to see him, having loved his role as Line in the CBeebies comedy show Swashbuckle, and he proved to be an excellent host for the evening.
The stage design was simple but effective: a live band set beneath a large framed screen displaying animations and sing-along lyrics, plus an open performance space where historical characters sang, danced, and generally caused chaos. Colourful lighting, spotlights, and generous bursts from the smoke machine added energy and fun throughout. I liked the fact that they attached screens to the gantries near the ceiling so those in the Grand Circle seats could see the lyrics and sing along.
I was particularly impressed by the cast’s lightning-fast costume changes. Nearly all of them played multiple roles and barely seemed to leave the stage long enough to switch outfits. There was one (unintentional) wardrobe mishap that the performer handled brilliantly without missing a beat – though I must admit we were highly amused as the problem gradually worsened before bits finally dropped onto the stage floor.
The cast also included several familiar faces from the TV series: Harrie Hayes as Queen Elizabeth I, Ethan Lawrence as Henry VIII, and Ines Tomlinson as Mansa Musa. Alison Fitzjohn was outstanding as Queen Victoria, bringing huge presence to the role; she has been involved with Horrible Histories stage productions for more than 20 years. The entire cast delivered strong vocals and great comic timing.
Between songs, short sketches and interactions between Shakespeare and the historical characters created a running joke that tied the whole show together. These moments – including a game-show-style segment in each half – kept the pace lively and ensured it never felt like a simple run-through of songs.
Audience participation was a big part of the experience. We were encouraged to sing, shout, clap, cheer, and fully embrace the silliness. Even the two teens with us (technically minus one week, in Lydia’s case) happily joined in rather than pretending to be too cool for the mayhem that ensued.
Horrible Histories has always been a brilliant way to spark children’s interest in history – I remember reading the books when I was young, and we have a set at home – and both girls with us had watched episodes at school. They recognised several songs and clearly had a fantastic time seeing them performed live.
Packed with the catchy, hilarious parody songs the franchise is famous for, along with plenty of genuine historical facts and laugh-out-loud moments, this concert is ideal for fans who enjoy their history with a heavy dose of humour. It would make an especially great first concert experience for younger audiences. If they want to extend the fun, the souvenir programme even includes history-themed games and puzzles alongside the usual show information.
The performance runs for around two hours including the interval and is suitable for all ages. With more shows scheduled at the Alexandra and tickets starting from £18 before the tour continues across the UK, there are plenty of chances to catch it.
Overall, this was a lively, clever, and joyfully chaotic production that entertained kids and adults alike from start to finish. With fantastic performances, brilliant songs, and nonstop laughs, it earns a well-deserved 5 stars.
Lydia says: I think it was extremely fun, and there were lot’s of hilarious jokes! I had a fun time trying to figure out what all the sings were based on as well. Said songs were very catchy and there were some hilarious lyrics; I liked the sing along aspect of most the songs as well. Overall, I think it was a highly enjoyable, funny experience appropriate for all ages.
