This flamboyant and chaotic take on the classic Christmas film is impressive in its ambitiousness but it feels in places trying too hard.
Taking a beloved classic Christmas film such as Home Alone and transforming it into a parody is always a risk – and with Homo Alone it almost works with exception of a few elements that just feel lacking.
Written by Bobby Delaney and Jodie Prenger, Homo Alone is set around the basic premise of the film in which eight year old Kevin is unexpectedly left home alone when the rest of the family head off to Paris. Here though there are a few twists in the story that focus on sexuality that don’t quite fit in with the story as a whole – but does give it a different way to see Kate and Pete’s behaviour in regards to leaving Kevin behind to offer a fresh perspective and plenty of opportunity for a naughty sense of humour.
While perhaps certain aspects as to how the story is presented and humour come across as too much in places, it is clear that Delaney and Prenger have thoroughly embraced the over the top silliness version of their story – but still with an affectionate tribute to the original material including the iconic sequence in which Kevin outsmarts two burglars.
Directed by Alex Jackson, the production is really pacy and energetic that really sweeps the audience effectively into the show that unfolds – although given this it doesn’t always give enough room for the jokes to breathe or for the audience to recover. But it has to be said it is extremely impressive of just how ambitious this production is given the size of The Other Palace studio, highlighted through Dale White’s lively choreography and Louie Whitemore’s bold and homely set design that navigates the various locations in humorous and inventive ways. To say any more would be spoilers!
The cast work hard to ensure that audience has a good time and really do a good job of bringing the characters to life. At the centre of it all Elliott Evans does a fantastic job of bringing the cheeky Kevin to life – although an incident involving his character from an adult point of view feel a little inappropriate. His sparky performance really grounds the show as the other cast switch several roles between them.
Allie Dart as Kate is wonderfully vibrant and exaggerated that brings a smile the audience’s face no matter what she says and is thoroughly committed to ensuring that her performance is one to watch. Meanwhile, Steph Asamoah is clearly enjoying herself in both roles of Buzz and Francois – two very contrasting characters that she manages to bring to life beautifully. Jack North is wonderfully flamboyant as Peter while really embracing Marv’s less than clued up Marv.
While overall Homo Alone is a bit of a mixed bag in the way in which the story has been interpreted, there is still much to enjoy if you are looking for a grown up way to experience Home Alone this will be right up your street – bags full of nostalgia with a bit of a naughty twist.
By Emma Clarendon
Homo Alone continues to play at The Other Palace until the 5th January 2025.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐