At several points in this show we’re reminded that back when its protagonist was alive, gay meant happy. And in that sense, it’s a perfect epithet.
While the production blurb is constantly reaching for “fabulous” and “sparkly”, it’s happy that best summarises the show.
The 90-minute run tells the story of Henry Cyril Paget, born in 1875 and destined to be the fifth Marquis of Anglesey and one of the world’s wealthiest men – at least until he spent all his money on diamond frocks, lilac-dyed poodles, and putting on plays that he stared in.
Surprisingly little is known about Paget thanks to his remaining family destroying all the records they could, which gives writer and star Seiriol Davies considerable licence to have fun – which, he, the cast, and most of the audience certainly do.
Paget’s historic tale is mixed with a dense barrage of musical theatre jokes, political asides, and double entendres. This is not a musical that just washes over you, despite the protestations of early number Mainstream Entertainment; you really have to listen hard, but it’s rewarding if you do.
Davies has created a stunningly-executed singular vision, with fantastic backup from Matthew Blake as ‘supporting performer’ Alexander Keith, and Dylan Townley as maestro to a four-piece band. Costume designer Ryan Dawson Laight has also put in the hours, recreating some of Paget’s most elaborate outfits.
This is ultimately a sad tale – Paget died in exile at just 29, leaving behind a long-failed marriage and (not mentioned in the musical) an adopted child – but in Davies’ hands it still feels happy. A newspaper interview in which Paget, apparently, pretended to prefer tweed to twinkling outfits is somehow presented as a success. A deathbed reconciliation with his wife feels somehow more magical than tragic.
Paget’s tale is certainly extraordinary, and so too is Davies retelling of it, now with a substantial glow up from its 2016 Edinburgh Fringe run. We don’t know whether Paget was gay, trans, or one of the many rainbow categorisations that have emerged from the chrysalis of the sexual revolutio. But I hope that, like this show, he was happy.
- How to Win Against History continues at Norwich Theatre Playhouse until Saturday 26 July 2025.
