Two thousand years of British history at speed, with the gruesome details kept in. The show gathers the best material from the Horrible Histories stage series, taking in Boudicca's rebellion, the Gunpowder Plot, the plague, Dick Turpin, Burke and Hare, and a party-loving Queen Victoria. A small cast plays dozens of characters, with songs, quick changes and plenty of audience participation, and the facts stay accurate even when the treatment does not.
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain - The Best Bits is based on the books by Terry Deary, illustrated by Martin Brown, and adapted for the stage by Neal Foster, artistic director of Birmingham Stage Company. It runs 70 minutes without an interval and is recommended for ages 5 and up, at the Apollo Theatre.
Audience Latest Reviews
Reviews Summary based on 18 reviews
General:
What to expect Acting: Music: Costumes: Story: Lighting:
Recommendations Anyone:
Families:
Teenagers:
Young Couples:
Theatregoers:
Horrible, but Wonderful and Happy, too
This holiday show would suit parents, grand parents and also (nearly forgot) kids, too. The 2 performers show great connection with their audience - kids and oldies - the historical content is hugely enjoyable and at the same time accurately informative. Their costume and character changes were slick and unfailingly funny. Looking forward to next year.
Nicholas, 17 Aug 2026
Fun and informative!
The actors really make the show! Lots of laughs!
Neha, 15 Aug 2026
Great show
Both actors were brilliant and gave a very engaging and informative show that had lots of laughs from adults and children alike. Definitely recommend!
Gavin, 14 Aug 2026
Fast paced and full of humour
Show for families . Interactive, fast paced full of jokes and toilet humour.
Rushed through parts of history with fun and gruesome facts.
Both clever and witty.
Denise, 30 Jul 2026
Educational and super funny
I loved the show, it was so entertaining that I couldn’t stop laughing! The actress and actor are amazing, the songs are so funny and educational at the same time. I cannot recommend it enough!
Maria, 24 Aug 2025
Fun for kids and adults
This is a show aimed at children but with Easter eggs for the slightly older audience (parents/adults old enough to remember the Fast Show and Postman Pat). I think I enjoyed the show more than my 9 and 7 year old kids.
