It’s hard to dislike Menno. Yes, he might sometimes be over the top, camp and irritating, but that’s what makes him who he is. So when he tries to change just because he has a new boy (an army stud, no less), Menno becomes this other self, who isn’t real to himself, and who turns out not to be too likeable either.
Butch – A Queen’s struggle to become a King is a cross between stand-up an monologue, detailing the trials and tribulations of a young skinny gay man in London. We follow him through a series of dates with the new boy he fancies, and in between this, he discuses all things gay: lifestyle, fashion sense, stereotypes, love, homophobia, self-help books. Though the material might not be groundbreaking new, the way it is delivered by Menno makes it feel fresh and interesting. His discussions about our pre-conceived ideas regarding masculinity or gender roles do hit the spot amongst the audience, who laughs and feels for the character, and they can relate to some of what Menno is saying.
With some witty songs inter-cut in between his monologues, the audience follows Menno’s journey from love to heart break, and they enjoy every minute of it. A scene where he plays with two dolls feels a bit on the over-long side, and some of the songs might become a bit annoying for their own good, but this nevertheless deters from the overall well presented package. Funny, touching and honest, Menno seems ready to take over the world.
3/5
Adrian G. Velazquez
