Celebrate Henry Cyril Paget's colorful legacy in "How To Win Against History"
How To Win Against History isn't your run-of-the-mill historical play. It's a spirited musical that throws a spotlight on Henry Cyril Paget, otherwise known as history's 5th Marquess (or Marquess when discussing titles in a British context)of Anglesey, with dazzling flair. You might think a show about an Edwardian aristocrat who kicked it back in 1905 would be a snooze, but this vibrant gem, expertly brought alive by Seiriol Davies, highlights a fascinating queer figure most have never even heard about.
Paget was a man who lived large. He broke society's rules with his cross-dressing and lavish stage productions. His time was brief, but boy, did he shatter norms! His family wasn't thrilled with his lifestyle or his spending, and they tried hard—burning his personal effects—to wipe away his legacy. But his daring spirit lives on.
A musical revival that sparkles with camp
With a masterful touch, Seiriol Davies revives Paget's tale with a musical brimming with camp and energy. Picture a show bedazzled with glitter, like an Elton John concert, where every number invites you onto an imaginary dance floor.
Davies's catchy compositions, packed with queer anthems, make it hard not just sway along, even if you're crammed in a Fringe Festival venue. The buzz runs through you, undeniable and infectious.
The show's packed with sharp humor, guaranteed laughs from start. You'll catch Paget's Eton years in comedic flashbacks while touching on heavier themes like erasure and belonging—a narrative that strikes a chord with anyone familiar with feeling like an outsider.
The courage in authenticity
How do you stay true in a conforming society? This musical digs deep. It tackles Paget's struggle against a preset mold with grace and gusto. He's a man turning a family chapel upside down, molding it his grand stage, giving a master class on living authentically.
In this piece, Seiriol Davies gives us a Paget who embraces himself wholly, come hell or high water. When his marriage crumbles, Paget dives headfirst back on stage, egged on by Matthew Blake's delightfully enthusiastic Alexander Keith.
A whirlwind journey you can't miss
They pack Paget's rollercoaster life—short as it was—into a 90-minute dash, capturing that exhilarating rush akin nights out where time zooms by and surprises are around every corner.
With its lightning-fast pace, you might miss a joke or two. The cure? Go again! Every viewing brings a fresh perspective and newfound giggles.
How To Win Against History isn't just a show; it's an unforgettable five-star experience, a heartfelt tribute that refuses history's attempts at erasure. With laughter and love, it revives a slice LGBTQ+ history with vibrant brilliance.
If you're hitting up Edinburgh Fringe, this one's a must. Peek through this window and meet a man who broke boxes and paid dearly, but whose joy-filled story sings a testament on living true.
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