‘The Ginger Snapped’ is Jinkx Monsoon’s newest tour following the total sell out tour of ‘The Vaudevillians’, and its not hard to see how Jinkx’s tours sell out. This cabaret showcases Jinkx’ and Major Scales’ second album (following the popular 2014 album ‘The Inevitable Album’) and is an absolute treat, from comedic genius, to serious attention to detail, before hitting you with a powerful and moving message that leaves you gasping for more.
Jinkx Monsoon is the alter ego of Portland-born Jericho Hoffer, who is infamous for being a winner of season 5 of Rupaul’s Drag Race (RPDR). A notoriously strong year where you need considerable charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent to get noticed, let alone win. And teaming up with Major Scale for ‘The Ginger Snapped’ oh do they prove they still ooze bucket loads of this. They dominate the stage like the true star they are with masterful comedic timing, bringing unpredictability whilst having the audience in the palm of their hand. One of the most memorable sections for me (being a RPDR fan) is their Bianca Del Rio section, leaving little time to recover between one laugh and the next, with the most memorable and deliciously shady quote of the evening with ‘Who’s Tyra?’
It’s also easy to forget that whilst being a phenomenal drag queen, Jinkx has a stunning voice that truly dazzles. ‘This Town’ shines as the ballad of the night, giving me chills with flawless vocals! The album gives a great variety of song styles too, from musical theatre, to pop, to ballads. Jinkx and Major Scales deliver it fantastically and with class.
That brings me to Major Scales (also known as Richard Andriessen). The musician, writer and performer from Seattle is a fantastic anchor for the show, serving as both the pianist and Jinkx’s therapist, fully complementing her fabulousness whilst having a couple of moments to shine, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with.
Overall it is an absolute must to see, especially if you already are a RPDR fan. Even if you’ve never watched an episode in your life though, Jinkx and Major Scales’ professionalism and natural chemistry shine through giving an evening full of delight that makes you fall in love with them over and over again.
Review by Adam Yorke
Rating: ★★★★★
Seat: E16 | Price of Ticket: £23.25
