Theatre Review - Edinburgh Fringe Queen – A Night at the Cabaret Opera, by Dr H

This unique, cabaret-opera performance titled Queen – A Night at the Cabaret Opera, was written and performed by Dr H, fresh from the Adelaide Fringe Festival. The venue was St Mark’s Church in Edinburgh an unusual and yet atmospheric setting in a Unitarian church for such a show, with the audience seated in the pews, adding a sense of intimacy and novelty to the evening whilst Dr H paid homage to Queen’s music with a biopic narration and lots of audience participation. (Air guitars included).

Most of the audience seemed to be devoted Queen fans, drawn to the Fringe and to this performance to relive the music of their favourite band. Dr H wasn’t attempting to impersonate Freddie Mercury — instead, he invited us into Queen’s world, celebrating their songs in a way that was both personal and theatrical, engaging and refreshingly energetic. Dr H is an accomplished musician and performer but with a self depreciating style which endeared us, immediately.

From start to finish, it was a rollercoaster concert–cabaret of Queen’s greatest hits, with inventive arrangements, masterful piano work, and a commanding vocal performance that honoured the originals while adding his own distinctive touch. His energy and charisma filled the church, turning the space into a shared celebration.

Dr H is a captivating, engaging, entertaining, and magnetic presence on stage. It was hard to resist his charm as he drew us into the evening and the music of Queen. He actively encouraged us to become part of what he called “the finest Queen choir” — with as much effort as possible and a few audience members rose to the challenge, stepping forward to join in the fun. The altar, crowned with a piano, became the focal point for this joyful exchange between performer and his audience.

It was an evening of music, creativity, and community — an unusual and memorable Fringe piece. Catch Dr H or one of his other guises including ABBA, Meatloaf, Billy Joel, Frank Sinatra and Elton John across the festival. It was great fun and highly recommended.

Reviewer - Kathryn Gorton 

Review date 12th August 2025