A WILD (e) Ride at Oscar at the Crown
You’re in for a WILD (e) ride at Oscar at the Crown.
Set in an immersive, dystopian underground bunker, this musical tells the story of a group of misfits hiding from the fascist regime above. As they bide their time, they find solace in reality TV and the work of the legendary Oscar Wilde. They stage a musical about his life until a newcomer arrives and begins to question their way of life and the blind devotion they give to their enigmatic leader, Oscar (Mark Mauriello).
If you know me, you know I love anything immersive, and from the moment you’re trying to find the venue, you’re already in it. Blink and you’ll miss it. With minimal signage, a few security guards, and a crown logo as your only clue, you’re stepping into the world before the show even begins.
Once inside, it’s pure dystopian fantasy. Andrew Exeter is the one to thank for the dynamic and mesmerising set, venue, and lighting design. Everywhere you look is a photo opportunity: wall art of pop icons alongside Oscar Wilde’s De Profundis, cameras, TV screens, a mirror wall, even a makeshift tube carriage. Oh, and I don’t think I’ve ever said this in a review, but… go to the bathroom. Yes, really. The design even extends to the loos. Another brilliant touch: don’t put your phone away just yet. Photos and videos during the show are encouraged, and trust me, you’ll want to take a few. Just be mindful of your surroundings, as performers and fellow audience members will be on the move too. The show is deeply immersive, with characters wandering and weaving through the audience and moving between multiple stages, including mobile ones. You’ll be ushered around the bunker by the cast, giving you a chance to get up close and personal.
The storyline can be a little hard to follow, especially after the song "Julie," when you're left wondering who this goddess-like figure is (unless you're a diehard The O.C. fan). But as Erika (Kelis Alleyne) tells newcomer Candace, aka Kim (Elizabeth Chalmers), the meaning doesn’t really matter, as long as you’re having fun.
Mark Mauriello gives the standout performance as Oscar. He is truly magnetic, formidable, and impossible to look away from. A star and a cult leader all at once. And honestly, even though I consider myself to have a good head on my shoulders, I think I too would probably lose my mind and blindly follow whatever Oscar was telling me. That’s how powerful and convincing Mark’s performance is. As the writer of the book, it’s no surprise, every second on stage you can see the passion and love Mark has for this story.
The choreography (Andrew Barret Cox) is magnetic, the dancing slays, and the vocals will leave your jaw on the floor. I could not stop smiling.
And that’s the vibe in a nutshell. You’ll have the absolute best time if you let go and dance along. It’s giving modern Rocky Horror in all the best ways. The story might confuse you, but you won’t care. There’s glitter, rebellion, and a charismatic leader who oozes swagger that you can’t stop watching. Add in some RuPaul’s Drag Race energy, with characters serving face, sass, and proud queerness. Put it all in a bunker with a fully functioning bar, and honestly… what more could you want? It’s an absolute fever dream!
★★★★★
