PR/Gifted
“I’m coming to the cottage.” Five words that sent everyone on the internet into meltdown – and now, it has made its way to the stage. Fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe (one of three separate theatrical parodies of the hockey romance phenomenon to emerge), Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody arrives at Underbelly Soho. Clearly, Shane and Ilya’s grip on the internet shows no signs of loosening – and this production is certainly not playing it cool.
A puckin’ good time
Riotous and sexy, this show gives the internet’s favourite hockey romance the gloriously unhinged musical treatment it deserves. Dylan MarcAurele’s songs are absolutely brilliant, adding an extra layer of comedy, camp and romantic drama to the already over-the-top premise. Catchy, cheeky and packed with laughs, they are a real highlight, scoring goal after goal with their playful take on Shane and Ilya’s relationship.
The story is ‘narrated’ by Susan (May Tether), a viewer of the show whose commentary adds another wonderfully meta layer to proceedings. This provides plenty of opportunities to poke fun at the fandom itself, making the parody just as entertaining for those who have watched Heated Rivalry obsessively as for those who are still wondering what all the fuss is about.
These players bring the heat
Under the direction of Alan Kliffer, the physical comedy is hilarious, and adds a wonderfully ridiculous dimension to the romantic tension and takes full advantage of the absurdity of the situations Shane and Ilya find themselves in. Combined with the sharp jokes and gloriously over-the-top musical numbers, it keeps the laughs coming throughout. The comedy is anything but a cheap shot, and the performers clearly know how to work the ice.
Joseph Dann brings Ilya to life with all the attitude and cheekiness you could hope for, while Zhang Xi Yong makes a charming Shane, capturing the character’s appeal and the chemistry that makes this pairing so compelling. Together, they bring bags of energy to a parody that understands exactly what its audience has come for – and is more than happy to deliver.
Final thoughts
Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody is riotous, sexy and an absolute blast from beginning to end. With absolutely brilliant songs, hilarious physical comedy, knowing in-jokes and plenty of cottage-worthy moments, it is 75 minutes of pure joy.
Whether you are a devoted fan or a newcomer to the rivalry, this production scores a winner. It is a love story worth cheering for, a comedy that never drops the puck and, frankly, an invitation to the cottage that would be rude to refuse.
Written by Helena Featherstone
Get your tickets here: https://underbellyboulevard.com/tickets/heated-rivalry-the-unauthorized-musical-parody/
Photos by Matt Crockett
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