by Zahid Fayyaz

Viral hit Jazz Emu (real name – Archie Henderson) has launched his new show and forthcoming tour after garnering millions of views of his music videos on social media platforms. Down in the theatre’s lively cabaret space, the conceit of the show is that the character Jazz Emu is warming up just before he gets on stage at the Royal Albert Hall for the Royal Variety Performance. However, Jazz has a secondary objective: he wants to be the one knighted by the King that evening, as apparently that’s how all Royal Variety performances end. The only person in his way is his arch nemesis, Kelly Clarkson, as well as his own failure to comply with various laws and financial guidelines.

This is probably Jazz Emu’s biggest live show to date, with a full band and a big set. It is a far cry away from his usual solo musicianship. As a performance it is hilarious, with jokes and perspective crowd work throughout. The songs are a particular highlight, with both new songs and old hits landing well with the audience. The comedic lyrics blended well with the excellent musicianship. The plot goes through multiple twists and turns throughout the hour, with Jazz’s faux arrogance being the a characteristic that acts as a through-line for the show. The callbacks are excellent with wonderful use of video inserts between the onstage antics.

This run opens his summer festival circuit tour and a spell at the Fringe. He will then be on a nationwide tour for the winter. This is an amazingly entertaining show, and is well worth catching as he traverses the country.

Jazz Emu: Knight Fever runs through 22 June, then tours.

The Play’s the Thing UK is committed to covering fringe and progressive theatre in London and beyond. It is run entirely voluntarily and needs regular support to ensure its survival. For more information and to help The Play’s the Thing UK provide coverage of the theatre that needs reviews the most, visit its patreon.