The Glamification of Loki | Southwark Playhouse Elephant

Loki (the Norse God of mischief) and Thor (the God of lightning) are getting old…but they’re immortals and this isn’t supposed to happen. What they need to restore themselves to their former glory are Iõunn’s apples of youth, and she seems to have hidden them somewhere on earth.

This show, which is written by Eden Tredwell, has previously won British Youth Music Theatre’s New Musical Theatre Award. The current production at the Southwark Playhouse Elephant marks the show’s official world premiere.

The show (designed by Cory Shipp) has a simple and effective design concept. It harks back to the days of school productions with its painted, moveable backdrops and homemade costumes, all of which are high quality. In this sense, the clearly crafted quality of these design elements juxtaposes the story in some ways, and in other ways, aids the overarching message of the show.

So what is the show actually about? On the surface it's about a misunderstood God and an underestimated photographer finding their places in the world and defying expectations. On a deeper level, it’s about how beauty can come from anywhere and take many forms. That you don’t need to follow trends or buy into a consumer culture that pressures you to buy things you don’t need. It encourages us to look beyond the surface level and embrace people for who they are, beautiful in their imperfection.

Tredwell showcases her skills as a triple threat: book writer, composer and lyricist. She’s clearly done her research and skillfully uses it as a jumping off point through which to make timeless characters relevant for the now. Her book is both age appropriate for the performers and doesn’t underestimate their skills nor their intellect. Her comedy writing is sharp and witty and her songs are memorable and, at times, moving. The book and the lyrics are in perfect harmony with each other, meaning that we, as the audience, are drawn in by the characters and care what happens to them in this very believable world that Tredwell has set up.

This young cast are all exceptionally talented musical theatre performers. They all fully commit to the roles, regardless of how big or small their parts may seem, and give the show their everything. We particularly love the varied interpretations of the many pre-established characters in this show. From Millie Whale’s interpretation of Thor as a goofball who really loves his hammer to Patrick Gill’s portrayal of Loki as a mischievous trickster who has a secret soft side and cares more about people than he lets on. It’s worth mentioning that Jayden Kaye’s hilarious french caricature of the role of Jean Pierre John Paul had us in stitches. 

A pacey comedy with a magical spice that will leave you feeling brighter than when you walked in, The Glamification of Loki plays at Southwark Playhouse Elephant until 30th August 2025.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Leanne Dixon