Review of ‘Dumbledore Is So Gay’: “A fairy tale”

Magic wands take a new meaning in this uplifting new comedy dealing with gay teen issues. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show, to let us know if this stupefying production has left him petrificus totallus.

If I could turn back time… Funny how the same line can refer to either the Queen of Camp or the oldest queen in the castle. Don’t worry, no one will blame you if you can’t tell the difference…. I’m sorry, mon cher-ie. Moving on (at least, some of us), a new chapter has been written in the history of the boy-who-lived. And surprisingly enough, no trans controversy required! Maybe because this time it’s a different author. Or maybe because this time, it’s a different boy. Yes, you’ve read right. We’re not talking about Harry here, but another type of wizard. The kind who represents all those young lads who also had to work their magic to make it through school. Those who, most unfairly, stood before a much more terrifying version of the Dark Lord. And who too many times were called what they should have not been named.

The London scene continues to regale us with a much prolific summer season – all in all, resulting in probably the strongest of this year. With both fringe and the West End indulging us with a few not-to-miss pieces and a larger list of enjoyable options, the Southwark Playhouse has joined the team through the opening of its latest studio production. Penned by Robert Holton and directed by Tom Wright, Dumbledore Is So Gay actually sets the record straight with its honest depiction of queer struggles, exploring the process of coming to terms with one’s own sexuality in a place where your pursue for happiness means others’ desire to make you miserable.

It may sound serious. And to be honest, it really is. But that doesn’t make it any less amusing – or overall, incredibly funny. Featuring extremely relatable characters, the story manages to set a connection with impressive ease – proving the writer’s ability to speak (if not his) the sort of truth everyone can feel as his own. Moving the plot along with a fast, grasping rhythm, the text provides us with an inspiring, encouraging reflection not only on the strives of teenage bullying and family problems, but ultimately, the importance of not building a future by trying to fix your past.

Displaying well-executed dialogues and cleverly implemented blocking, the performances are the final (and probably, major) contributor to the play’s continuous sense of genuineness. With a cast consisting of just three actors for its varied range of characters, both Martin Sarreal and Charlotte Dowding give amazing renditions in their many supporting roles, stomping onstage with bewitching charisma and confidence. However, Alex Britt casts the strongest spell with his charming portrayal of Jack – delivering a completely different interpretation in comparison to his much versatile work (no pun intended) in Fucking Men, but equally (and once again) staggering.

In spite of some necessary tweaks (the set design lacking the dynamism the narrative requires), Dumbledore Is So Gay has proven to be a flamer – blasting like a fireball of good energy, and delighting us with a highly touching, entertaining tale that truly works like magic. Exuding depth, authenticity and some good doses of originality for a story we’ve heard (in different ways) at least a couple of times, the show has justly found (and made) its own shining spot – bringing up a few tears and a whole more lot of smiles by protesting against injustice, but eventually sending a message of kindness and friendship. “We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided.”

All pictures credit to David Jenson.

Dumbledore Is So Gay plays at London’s Southwark Playhouse Borough until 23 September. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara