REVIEW: Horrible Histories Live (and Dead)! The Concert at Mayflower

Not only does it captivate my eight‑year‑old son, but it also helps me learn random facts that are almost certainly going to pop up in a pub quiz at some point in the future.

We also rattled through the monarchs of England in one gloriously catchy tune, encouraged to join in by host William Shakespeare (yes, you read that right). I may need to listen a few more times before I’ve fully nailed the correct order, although the final stretch is definitely lodged firmly in my brain: George, George, George, George, Will, Victoria, Edward, George, Edward, George Six, Liz Two and Charles III complete the mix — and surely winning me some points somewhere down the line. Or helping my son pass his history GCSE when that time finally comes.

Shakespeare and Queen Victoria in Horrible Histories - The Concert (Image: Matt Crockett)

That infectious blend of education and entertainment sits at the heart of CBBC hit TV show Horrible Histories, so it was a joy to see its stage show adaptation Live (and Dead)! The Concert, which arrived at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre on Thursday night and instantly proved itself a near‑perfect first concert experience for children — while delivering plenty of laugh‑out‑loud moments for the adults too.

This is a concert rather than a traditional stage show, showcasing the much‑loved songs from the BAFTA Award‑winning series.

A loose storyline sees Shakespeare attempting to create “the greatest show on earth”, only to be constantly derailed by a parade of monstrous monarchs and historical icons.

Top laughs came courtesy of the swaggering, party‑loving King Charles II, and there was also a perfectly timed costume‑change mishap involving Barnum, played by Inel Tomlinson, who reappears moments later as Mansa Musa after a lightning‑fast transformation that only added to the chaos — and the comedy.

Musically, the show rarely puts a foot wrong. Charles II, Dick Turpin and the ever‑brilliant Monarchs Song are greeted with enthusiastic singing from the audience.

Inel Tomlinson as Mansa Musa in Horrible Histories - The Concert (Image: Matt Crockett)

It was also a genuine joy to see Horrible Histories song supremo Richie Webb centre stage. After all, it’s his music that has helped generations of children — and more than a few adults — remember an astonishing number of random historical facts without ever realising they’re learning.

The performances are pitched perfectly for a family audience: energetic without being exhausting, cheeky without crossing any lines. A slightly earlier start time (6.30pm) for the evening show makes the next morning not quite so painful too.

What really sets this show apart, though, is the atmosphere. It's a great show to make the Easter holidays even more memorable.

Educational, yes — but above all, Horrible Histories Live (and Dead)! The Concert is enormous fun.

(One small, boring but essential note: leave plenty of time to get into Southampton as the council seems to be using the Easter holiday traffic lull to complete lots of essential roadworks).

Horrible Histories The Concert is on April 3 and April 4 at 2pm and 6.30pm both days. Tickets start at £24.50 and can be booked at www.mayflower.org.uk.