Puddles Pity Party

ReviewsLondon
Written By Nathan Charles

Soho Theatre

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Soho Theatre -

As I climb the stairs of Soho Theatre, I’m a little unsure of what I’m in for over the next 90 minutes. I’ve heard great things about Puddles Pity Party but never seen a clip of his America's Got Talent stretch, or the viral videos bouncing around TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. 

As I reach the top of the 32 steps, I’m greeted by Puddles themselves; a dominating seven-foot clown, shaking each audience member's hands with gentility as they enter the auditorium. The person in-front of me audibly squealed with excitement, to which Puddles let out a wry smile. He knows he has cult-fans; and by the end of the show, he’s gained another. 

It’s not your typical alt-comedy clown show. Through 90 minutes of classic pop and rock songs, and a litany of audience interaction, we’re transported directly into the companionless psyche of Puddles. The most impressive feat of the show is the way in which Puddles guides us through each song; pouring his heart into the angelic, dulcet tones that emanate from him. A hilarious rendition of Bowie’s Major Tom leaves us in stitches, yet deeply impacted by the implication that Puddles feels alone in this universe; floating through space struggling to communicate to those around him. 

Throughout the show I did find myself in a state of frustration however, Puddles is so gifted as a multidisciplinary performer that whilst he is belting out tune after tune I want to see more sketches and skits with the audience, simultaneously though, when he is doing skits, I want more of the deeply impactful tunes. Whilst this might be a gripe, it’s a testament to Puddles’ strength as a performer, with both forms deployed so unequivocally beautifully you’re left always wanting more of the other.

Hilarious, sad and hopeful, Puddles’ height is only outweighed by his sheer talent. A gentle giant with an angelic yet pained voice. It’s safe to say I understand now why the person in front of me shrieked with excitement when they met him.

I’m firmly part of the Puddles party, and it’s a pity I’m only joining now. 

Puddles Pity Party is returning to London on the 21st July at the London Palladium. Grab your tickets here.

FOUR STARS

a photo of Puddles - a famous clown. He has white clown makeup on, a red nose. A little crown that has a P on it. He is sitting down with a suitcase that says Puddles Pity Party written on it.
Nathan Charles

Nathan is a working-class creative from Portsmouth who believes that accessibility and affordability should be at the forefront of all that we do as artists, producers and teachers.​ He is the author of No Dice: Gambling and Risk in Modern Culture, published by 404ink in 2022.

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