Monstering the Rocketman sees Henry Naylor’s return to the Fringe with a dynamic story. It has everything: prostitutes, recording devices, Rupert Murdoch, and a car chase. But is it true? It does not matter; it is about what sounds true.
Monstering the Rocketman is a one-man show from Henry Naylor, based on the true story of the 1980s, when Elton John won £1 million in a libel case against The Sun, which had falsely accused him of having sex with male prostitutes. It is a riveting account of media sensationalism.
Set in the archetypal newsroom of the 1980s, with all the masculine bravado you would expect, Naylor brings the editors, journalists, and celebrities involved in the story to life. The desperation to find a great story – “a f***ing ferret!” – is palpable, and the villainous, caricature-like character of The Sun editor Kelvin MacKenzie was a particular highlight.
Naylor’s characterisation is fantastic, and his physical and vocal flips between characters are both hilarious and brilliantly executed. He reels you into his story with an engaging wit; I was engrossed from the start.
Furthermore, Naylor is a true talent in satirical writing, having been head writer for Spitting Image. It is easy to see why he has won three Fringe First prizes in the past: there is an ease to his wit, and a sense that he is in complete control of the audience’s attention.
The energy of the show was intense, fast-paced, and exciting, mirroring the adrenaline of the newsroom. Every twist and turn of the story held me captivated. A perfectly balanced mix of compelling storytelling, satire, and lampooning The Sun’s headlines (“Zip me up before you go go?”), makes for a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable hour.
On a more thoughtful level, the show investigates integrity, sensationalism, and journalistic values, asking how far we can trust the news in an era of increasing misinformation on social media. Despite focusing on a specific case, Monstering the Rocketman is a pertinent piece, and Naylor’s nuanced approach to the subject feels strikingly thoughtful.
Monstering the Rocketman is a thoroughly engaging and hilarious show, and a highlight of this year’s Fringe.
Monstering the Rocketman is running until 24 August at Ace Dome at Pleasance Dome.
Buy tickets here.
Image courtesy of Rosaling Furlong, provided to The Student as press material.