If you thought Titanic couldn't get any more dramatic, emotional… or downright ridiculous, think again. Titanique, now playing at the Criterion Theatre, is a gloriously unhinged, Céline Dion-fuelled fever dream—and I mean that in the best possible way.
This jukebox parody takes the iconic 1997 film and reimagines it through the fabulous lens of pop legend Céline Dion, who "narrates" what really happened aboard the doomed ship. Lauren Drew is phenomenal as Céline—part diva, part drag queen energy, and 100% in on the joke. She belts, banters, and owns the stage with comic flair and vocal power that could launch an iceberg.
Luke Bayer is fantastic and brings earnest charm and powerhouse vocals to Jack, while Hiba Elchikhe is a sweet and grounded Rose—anchoring some of the madness with real emotional weight. Their chemistry is sweet, even amid the chaos. Richard Carson gives Cal just the right amount of cartoonish villainy, and Carl Mullaney is a scene-stealing delight as Ruth, delivering sass with a killer sense of timing.
But perhaps the most unexpected star is Tosh Wanogho-Maud as the Iceberg. Yes, the iceberg has a musical number—and it's an absolute highlight. Darren Bennett (Victor Garber/Luigi) and the ever-versatile ensemble keep the pace electric and the laughs rolling, even if some jokes don't reach all audience participants.
The show is fast (no interval), packed with Céline's greatest hits (My Heart Will Go On, I Surrender, All by Myself), and knowingly absurd. The humour is broad, queer, camp, and often feels like Rocky Horror meets Drag Race on the high seas. And yet, it all holds together thanks to sharp direction, tightly choreographed silliness, and vocal performances that are genuinely excellent.
Is it silly? Absolutely. Is it self-indulgent? Frequently. But that's the point. It's theatre that doesn't take itself seriously but delivers with serious talent.
If you're looking for something fun, smartly stupid, and bursting with sequins, Titanique is a wave of joy in a sea of West End offerings.
If you're looking for something fun, smartly stupid, and bursting with sequins, Titanique is a wave of joy in a sea of West End offerings.
It runs until 4 January. Tickets: here.
Photos: Mark Senior