It’s their third consecutive summer residency on the West end Stage but what is it that makes this full length gruesome historical skit so popular with families? I took my three school aged sons to the Apollo Shaftesbury Avenue to see what all the fuss is about for this Horrible Histories Terrible Tudors review.
I’m no pushy parent but nothing helps me part with my money quicker than a theatre show that it is both entertaining and might actually teach the kids something. But I’ll admit I did have some reservations about Terrible Tudors. Firstly do my kids aged 8,7 and 5 even know who the Tudors are? (They didn’t) The Tudors are not a compulsory component on the National curriculum in the UK although they are often introduced around Key Stage 2 (ages 7+) by teachers who can’t resist the drama.
And who can blame them? A King so abhorrent he barges and butchers his way through six wives in an attempt to source a male heir. A Queen who imprisons her cousin in the tower for nineteen years before sentencing her to a messy execution. An uncle who murders his two adoring child nephews for fear they get too attached to his crown. And you thought ‘Succession’ was bad…
It sounds horrendous and Horrible Histories, despite the gags and pantomime, do not sugar coat the facts. It may be a simple set – two coat hangers swamped with costumes and just two performers but there is nothing simplistic about this history lesson on steroids. Neal Foster and Emma Swan skilfully bounce between characters with speedy changes of costume, accent and delivery. There is singing and dancing as well as plenty of audience participation peppered with modern day references. Tragic Lady Jane Grey’s nine day reign is likened to that of Liz Truss and of course who can forget Henry VIII twerking to Gangnam style.
Some of the humour undoubtedly surpassed the show’s target audience, but these knowing nods to grown-ups are the secret sauce that makes Horrible Histories such a delicious treat. Whether the children understood the nuance of the reformation or the slave trade that was subtly alluded to didn’t really matter – the constant rumble of children’s chuckles said it all. Children LOVE this show. It speaks to them in a way that is funny, non condescending and most importantly it makes History cool. In turn it also dusts off parents’ rusty memory and allows them to bask in the glow of finding such an enriching activity.
What is the Age recommendation for Terrible Tudor?
The only grumble I have with the show is the age recommendation of 5-105. Whilst my older boys were chomping at the bit for more misery and macabre, it was all too dark for my 5 year old who 10 minutes in had to be distracted with an iphone and earphones. The opening scenes of Tudor crime and punishment – thieves getting their ears and hands chopped off – was already a step too far for him and I’m grateful he didn’t get to see the executioners three attempts and eventual sawing of the head of Bloody Mary.
That said, I was surrounded by other seemingly unflappable toddlers, so I’ll leave it to your parental instincts to navigate that one.
If your children are of an age where they are yet to learn about the Tudors I would also suggest having a quick look on youtube for this Horrible Histories video. This really peaked my boys’ interest and readiness when it came to seeing the stage show.
The show lasts 70 mins and the setting is relaxed and informal.
Overall I am so glad we went to see Horrible Histories Terrible Tudors and to have my boys’ interest in History captured…although I will wait another year or so before taking the youngest. Now day trips like the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and even Six the Musical have context. I am also excited to try Horrible Histories’ Terrible Thames – which takes a look at Historical London from the river.
Save money on Terrible Tudors with Kids Week
Terrible Tudors is just one of the shows currently offering family discounts as part of the Kids Week Initiative by London Theatre. This enables one child (17 or under) to go free per paying adult along with two additional children at half price. The promotion is available over the Summer until 6th August and features shows such as ‘Zog and the Flying doctors‘ as well as many of the big West End Musicals for Kids. More Info Here
Terrible Tudors will be at the Apollo Shaftesbury Avenue 25th July – 1st September
