We round up the reviews Iman Qureshi’s comedy, playing at the theatre until the 12th July.
The Guardian: **** “Story takes primacy and like best “heart warming” narratives, it wriggles its way in your heart to take residency there, weaving its delicate balance between the silly, sweet and serious. Having had a first run at Soho theatre in 2022, this is a second incarnation. Let’s hope for a third. Genuinely heart warming, and utterly winning with it.”
Theatre Weekly: **** “Despite The Ministry of Lesbian Affairs having some brilliant laugh-out-loud one-liners, overall the comedy isn’t exactly nuanced. It follows very much in the cheeky vein of amiable classic British upbeat comedies and feels like a queer equivalent of The Full Monty.”
Theatre & Tonic: **** “This is an incredibly powerful and dynamic show that shines a spotlight on lesbians and their place in the LGBTQIA community. This show is filled with humour, heartbreak, and moments of joy that will stay with you long after the curtain falls. This production is a beautiful celebration of Pride in theatre. The acting is truly stellar, and the performances are profound enough that they will linger in your mind for a long time. If you enjoy lesbian romances, choir drama, powerful writing, and an unforgettable night at the theatre that will move and inspire you, this is the show for you.”
The Reviews Hub: *** 1/2″The second half of The Ministry of Lesbian Affairs airs issues of transphobia, racism, and ableism in extended dialogue that is impeccably even-handed. The debate is worth airing, but it has the effect of darkening the comic tone of the piece and interrupting the storytelling. Although an ensemble work, the emotional crux comes in the visibly decaying relationship between Lori, who is conflicted between family and her relationship, and the cat-loving “Wokey kokey, killjoy” Ana. Dina’s family subplot remains woefully unexplored.”
Musical Theatre Review: ***** “Director Hannah Hauer-King ensures that even the play’s darkest moments work because we are wholly, completely invested in each of the women. And despite the play’s darker moments, this is a profoundly optimistic piece – the romantic notion that friendship and companionship will ultimately triumph over all is never far away.”
All That Dazzles: ***** “Hannah Hayer-King’s direction matches the high quality seen in the writing, heightening both the comedy in the lighter moments and ensuring the more heavy-hitting moments are played out with all the gravitas they deserve in scenes so intricately directed, you could hear a pin drop during them.”
London Theatre.co.uk: **** “It isn’t perfect but it is the theatrical equivalent of a favourite cosy jumper and follows in the tradition of great British ensemble comedy dramas such as Pride, Made in Dagenham and Calendar Girls, in which seemingly “ordinary” people discover how much more they’re capable of when they work together. I wouldn’t be surprised if this sweet tale becomes the basis of a film or TV series.”
West End Best Friend ***** “Gripping, interesting and complex without causing alienation. This show is a bold show that is well balanced, passionate and vitally needed.”
The Upcoming: **** “Every conversation, whether about Ana and Lori’s relationship or broader political struggles, tackles timely and urgent themes, particularly transphobia and the rejection of trans identities. The writing’s greatest strength lies in how humour and individual quirks are woven through even the most serious moments. The result is storytelling that pulses with vitality, honesty, and the beautifully imperfect complexity of real life.”
London Theatre 1: **** “One need not be a lesbian, or identify as one, in order to follow what’s happening – the show is relatable and accessible. The harsh realities of life creep in to practically ensure there is little space to properly heal, making for an inconclusive ending. The performances of the choristers are very believable too, with any number of internal and external factors affecting how well or how badly they sing at any given rehearsal. An engaging experience demonstrating how far things have come – and how far modern society still needs to go.”
Broadway World: **** “The Ministry of Lesbian Affairs at Kiln Theatre is a bold, ambitious work. It shines brightest when it sparkles with a quick‑witted, ensemble energy and exuberance. The older cast is reason enough to see it—stellar performers who carry both the humour and the gravity with precision. The abundance of quality writing is held back by the pacing issues and tonal dislocations; it suggests that, rather than having two distinct halves, this play would work better as two distinct works allowing each to breathe.”
Unmissable Theatre: ***** “It’s a joy (and unfortunately all too rare) to see lesbian stories on stage, especially ones as well-crafted as this. The Ministry of Lesbian Affairs is a strong contender for my show of the year, and I hope it has a further life after its run at the Kiln Theatre so it can reach more audiences: I, for one, have already booked to see it again during this short run.”
To book tickets visit: https://kilntheatre.com/whats-on/the-ministry-of-lesbian-affairs/