Crybabies: The Scaring – Soho Theatre, Soho

Writers: Michael Clarke, James Gault, Ed Jones  
Director: Jon Brittain

Reviewer: Christine Stanton

“Clever, Creative, Chaos“

5 / 5

Barrett and Holland were a priestly force to be reckoned with – but an exorcism went wrong many years ago, and now Holland is left all on his own, hanging up his collar and instead doing immersive stag do’s to pay the bills.

A mysterious invite to host an an experience at a remote hotel couldn’t have come at a better time, the cost of living has soared and he’s in desperate need for some money. But the Lyle Away has a dark atmosphere – strange guests, an overbearing owner and a creepy child that would give the twins in The Shining a run for their money. Will he be able to banish the demons haunting the hotel, or is he destined to stay there forever?

Award winning sketch comedy trio – Crybabies (Michael Clarke, James Gault, Ed Jones) have crafted a fantastically clever, creative and chaotic show that does both the horror and comedy elements extremely well. The few seemingly random sketches away from the main plot are very funny, and impeccably worked into the latter half of the show, ensuring every gag is actually not random or chaotic at all, but woven into the narrative with brilliantly impressive skill. The constant comedy, with great pacing from director Jon Brittain, creates some real belly laugh moments, and is so consistent that there is never a dull moment. The hilarious gags are ridiculous in nature and silly tone, while still keeping a high level of wit included. The horror aspects are just as enjoyable – with jump-scare inducing blackouts (Bethany Gupwell – Lighting Designer) and creepy sound effects (Ed Lewis), adding a good amount of scare to the otherwise comedic production.

Cecilia Carey’s set and costumes ensure the smooth transitions between each scene, as they unearth a new prop or scene with just a quick removal of a sheet. Whether it’s the possessed old lady (hilariously done), a floating Alexa, or the ridiculously genius emergence of a spirit from a grave, it all helps the comedy be executed without a hitch and the gags to land perfectly. Jones, Gault and Clarke and all wonderfully talented, packing the show with energy and commitment to each character. The three work great together, lining up punchlines and excelling at physical comedy, parody, puns, perfected call-backs and running gags. A spooktacularly funny show that is well worth a watch!

Runs until 23rd September 2026