Margaret Thatcher: Queen of Soho makes a triumphant return to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with direction from Jon Brittain and a barnstorming leading turn from Matt Tedford. Delving into a satirical Maggie’s battle with the Section 28 ruling — infamous legislation that prohibited the promotion of homosexuality in schools. This show is the ultimate in high camp, reimagining Thatcher’s legacy with a mix of sharp political satire and dazzling musical numbers, all brought to life by Tedford’s pitch-perfect performance as The Iron Lady herself.
The plot kicks off with a worried Thatcher backing Section 28, but a serendipitous misadventure in Soho leads to a profound change of heart. Her journey through Soho not only prompts a reconsideration of her political career but also ignites a newfound passion for cabaret.
The tone is immediately set when Thatcher, in her trademark handbag, sensible shoes, and signature dress suit, bursts onto the stage performing YMCA alongside two moustachioed dancers. These dancers become Thatcher’s co-stars as she recounts her transformation from Prime Minister to cabaret star, with a generous helping of musical numbers and a barrel of jokes—ranging from sharp critiques of Thatcher’s policies (an early “milk snatcher” gag is particularly delightful) to witty takes on contemporary politics. Tedford’s Thatcher even shares her thoughts on Jeremy Corbyn, Liz Truss and Keir Starmer, adding a fresh twist for audiences who have followed the show throughout its well-earned lengthy run.
While Tedford may not be a spitting image of Thatcher, he captures her essence with remarkable precision in his speech and mannerisms. His portrayal offers a revisionist take on the former Prime Minister, turning an intensely divisive historical figure into a roguishly endearing heroine. This version of Thatcher is one who not only confronts her questionable political decisions but also emerges with a newfound sense of empathy, compassion, and a repertoire of infectious disco anthems. Tedford’s Thatcher is, in many ways, the first female Prime Minister the UK deserved.
It’s impossible not to be swept up in the pantomime exuberance of Queen of Soho, from the infectious disco numbers (Last Dance, It’s Raining Men, YMCA) to the gleeful booing of Jill Knight, the show’s designated villain. Tedford and his co-stars deliver over-the-top performances that are both hilarious and heartfelt. Although most of the humour is sharp and well-placed, a few jokes—such as one involving a portrait of Winston Churchill—drag on a bit too long and miss the mark. However, these moments are rare, and the show quickly recovers with some sharp improvisation, especially when two audience members attempted to leave early, prompting Maggie to quip that the entire Theresa May fanclub had taken offence.
Margaret Thatcher: Queen of Soho is a joyous riot, brimming with fabulous glitz and razor-sharp political satire. It’s a must-see for anyone looking for a night of laughter, nostalgia, and a bit of history reimagined with a glittering twist.
Photo: Mihaela Bodlovic