Titanique

A true story dramatised to a beautiful film parodied to a crazy musical, Titanique has been on the West End for a year making people laugh 8 times a week.

It was especially exciting to see because we accidentally attended the exact anniversary of the show opening on the west end! SO along with a hilarious show, we got to sing happy birthday with the whole cast (including backstage swings, which I thought was very nice). 

Titanique follows the story of the Titanic film (1997), which of course draws from the real life tragedy, but takes a further step away from historical facts and focuses more on parodying the film. Celine Dion instead hijacks a tour of the Titanic museum to retell the story from her point of view, because obviously she was there and remembers most of it. The show has many improvised moments filled with topical pop culture references chosen and changed by the case for every show.

What I Liked 

Astrid Harris, who played Celine Dion, was absolutely incredible. I had seen some of the advertising for Titanique since it opened, which usually had the Celine Dion caricature in it, but it was only recently that I saw an actual video of Dion speaking (it was a ‘what’s in my bad’ video) and I did not realise how legitimate many of her mannerisms are! Harris absolutely nailed the impression, and as a thread for the show it was a very smart way to embed jokes throughout. 

Though it’s not a central character, Michael Vinsen who played the Captain Victor Garber, along with Luigi, had some absolutely incredible songs and moments throughout the show, and you could tell he was giving it his absolute all. 

And of course the role of Ruth can’t go unmentioned, as I’m sure everyone in the theatre would agree that Carl Mullaney was one of the best parts of the show. 

What wasn’t my favourite 

Titanique throws out so many jokes that you’re certain to laugh at something, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s always funny. There are definitely moments where the jokes weren’t my style. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the mini-joke choices made by Luke Bayer as Jack - the mannerisms of a shy fuck-boy can get a bit old. 

Overall

I enjoyed this show far more than I expected. It had the energy that I recognised from doing sketch comedy shows in university, which is to say it’s clear everyone on stage was having fun and making fun with improvised moments that bring the audience into the joke as well. I do recommend seeing the show for some fun, easy viewing, and I would happily take a spare ticket from a friend.