Remythed | King's Head Theatre

Remythed, the debut touring production from Bet’n Lev Theatre, is an ambitious and heartfelt retelling of myths and historical tales through a queer lens. With over 30 characters played by just five actors and stories spanning centuries and cultures, the show sets out to reclaim space for queer joy in histories from which LGBTQIA+ people have long been excluded. It’s a noble mission, and one that is frequently compelling - even if the execution doesn’t always match the energy of its ideas.

With its conception by Joel Samuels and Roann Hassani McCloskey (who also star in the show alongside Emile Clarke, Ishmael Kirby and Lucy Roslyn), Remythed proudly wears its heart on its sleeve. It opens with an infectious sense of welcome - two performers already seated among the audience, as though inviting us into a community, not just a performance.

There’s a bounding energy from the cast that is evident from the first moment, and that momentum largely carries the piece through its 60-minute runtime. The chemistry between performers is undeniable and helps ease the frequent transitions between stories and characters.

But for all its enthusiasm, the show can feel overly busy. With stories crammed tightly back-to-back - from Scheherazade, to the book of Genesis, to Lady Godiva, to lesser- known historical figures - there’s little breathing room in between each tale. As a result, it’s sometimes unclear when one ends and another begins. The rapid pacing leaves the audience playing catch-up, and though the storytelling is often visceral and imaginative, there are moments when clarity gives way to confusion.

There are genuine high points: inventive physicality, sharp ensemble work, and some clever, culturally infused storytelling that challenges the audience to consider how historical tales have been shaped, reshaped, and often whitewashed. The interwoven theme of fluidity - in identity, in narrative, in history - is effective and resonates throughout the piece. However, some creative choices and gags feel underdeveloped and at times, a tad self-indulgent.

Despite this, Remythed has a sincere soul. It refuses to frame queer history purely in terms of trauma, instead opting to centre love, community, and playfulness. The image we’re left with just before lights down - the cast embracing after sharing the positive influences in their own life - is one of pure celebration, a real feel-good moment to take with you into your own story of the present. That in itself is a powerful act. The show is at its best when it leans into this joy, offering glimpses of what queer storytelling can look like when it is unafraid to be both silly and sincere.

Ultimately, Remythed is a lively and well-intentioned piece that just needs a little more polish. It’s full of promise and passion, but sometimes sacrifices coherence for easy laughs and content-cramming. With some structural tightening and clearer direction, it has the potential to truly sing. For now, it’s a warm and imaginative - if uneven - celebration of queer identity, powered by a cast clearly enjoying every minute of it.

Remythed is currently embarking on a UK tour.

Tickets and More Information

★★★☆☆ (3*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Ali Wright