A glitter-soaked revolution is set to take over the Edinburgh Festival Fringe as ACID’S REIGN, an explosive new drag climate musical from Relish Theatre, storms into Pleasance Courtyard with urgency, attitude and unapologetic queer energy.
Blending powerhouse vocals with razor-sharp wit, the show follows a radical drag supergroup formed in 2019 to take on climate change. But as time passes, funding dries up and attention fades, leaving the group at a crossroads. When commercial success beckons, they are faced with a defining choice: stay true to their activist roots or adapt in order to survive.
At the heart of the production is a dazzling cast of drag performers, led by Victoria Scone (RuPaul’s Drag Race) as Alex Acid. She is joined by Scarlett Harlett as Dina Mite, Gigi Zahir as Ria Listic, Sé Carr (Jamie Fuxx) as Micky Steele and Offie-nominated Ash Weir as Olive Branch. Backed by a live band, the ensemble delivers a high-energy performance packed with charisma, heart and defiance.
ACID’S REIGN is both a camp spectacle and a pointed commentary on activism, community and the climate crisis, using humour and theatrical flair to explore urgent contemporary issues. With bold choreography, original music and dynamic staging, it promises to be as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
Co-writer and director Luke Howarth said, “I feel absurdly lucky to be bringing this biggest, brightest, brashest version of ACID’S REIGN to the Fringe this year. Our formidable cast have been joined by drag icon Victoria Scone, and the maddeningly talented Gabriel Chernick has written an entirely original score. I’m so excited for the audience to jump into the camp and chaotic world of our show.”
Producer Morag Davies added, “We’re thrilled to be bringing ACID’S REIGN to Edinburgh Fringe this year. We’ve spent a long time developing this show and seeing it come to fruition in bigger venues than ever before, with the most phenomenal cast, creative team and our incredible live band is a dream come true. Expect all new original songs, killer vocals and stunning production design. We can’t wait for audiences to come along and join the party!”
With its mix of glamour, grit and activism, ACID’S REIGN is a riotous call to action that invites audiences not just to watch the revolution, but to sing along with it.
ACID’S REIGN runs at Pleasance Courtyard (Forth) from 5 – 31 August (not 12 August) at 15:45. Tickets are on sale here
