Heated Rivalry: The Musical Parody! continues at the Other Yin at Gilded Balloon Patter House until 30 August 2026.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This year’s Fringe boasts several shows themed on the hit TV series Heated Rivalry. For followers of the queer romance, Heated Rivalry: The Musical Parody! from Quick and Funny Musicals is not to be missed.
Slick, energetic and stuffed full of in-jokes for all levels of fans, this show is a veritable feast. For those intimately acquainted with the fandom there are unexpected treats and titbits to enjoy. If you are new to the ‘hockey’ show you will not be left behind, for the story is clear and the comedy evident.
Catchy songs are composed by different members of the team yet remain cohesive to the overall vibe, occasionally including stylistic nods to other musicals. From absolute bangers such as ‘F*** Him in the Butt’ to the inspired ‘Didn’t Get the Rights’, each song is cleverly written and performed with flair.
The physicality is brilliant. The show neither has nor needs a set: the space is utilised fully and the use of performers as set-pieces is hilariously imaginative. The choice to cast actors of contrasting statures in the lead roles allows Ilya to ‘base’ for Shane to great effect, creating some striking physical moments. Movement from all the performers, including dynamic acrobalance, is interesting and well executed.
Lead lovers Ilya (Rob Warner) and Shane (Jamie Ary) have a clear onstage connection. This can be seen in how comfortably the pair works in physical scenes and in how they sing together. The moving song ‘Cottage Made of Glass’, still punctuated with well-timed jokes, is sweet and tender. Both actors shine in their roles. Warner’s accent as the Russian heartthrob is consistent and his monologue downright impressive.
The whole cast is skilled and riotously fun. Side-quest lovers, ‘small bear’ Scott (Andrew Young) and ‘tall twink’ Kip (Sean Meagher) encapsulate the whirlwind romance with joy, absurdity and seriously cute matching banana pjs.
Outrageous gags are in full flow throughout and are varied in style. The parody plays on small details from the original show. The inclusion of the spirited intimacy coordinator (Marnina Schon), and songs such as ‘LGBTQ-Ally’, show a deeper familiarity with the fanbase. At times some of the jokes graze the line of being offensive, but the show never quite pushes it over the edge.
For a fast-paced hour of punchy, raunchy, unpredictable comedy, go and see Heated Rivalry: The Musical Parody! at the Gilded Balloon. It is a sold-out show but if you’re keen, give the box office a call an hour before curtain up and the outstandingly helpful team will do their best to squeeze you in.
Molly Glenn
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