The Three Lions

• Amy Taylor
• 21 August 2013

This article is from 2013.

credit: Steve Ullathorne

A satirical stab at the power of politics, celebrity and notoriety

Set in a hotel in Zurich in December 2010, William Gaminara’s The Three Lions presents an imagined account of what happened during England’s failed bid for the 2018 World Cup. However, the focus of this piece isn’t on the politics of the bid but on the clashing personalities and egos of the three men at the heart of it: David Cameron (Dugald Bruce-Lockhart), David Beckham (Sean Browne) and Prince William (Tom Davey). Put simply, place these three characters in a hotel room, add a bit of awkward banter and one-upmanship, and anything is truly possible.

Directed by Philip Wilson, The Three Lions is a riotous send-up of three of the most iconic men in the UK today. Gaminara’s satirical wit, combined with the efforts of a strong cast and Wilson’s precise direction, elevate this play from the realm of simple spoof to laugh-a-minute Fringe gem.

Fun, engrossing and utterly merry, The Three Lions is a welcome pastiche on the power of politics, celebrity and notoriety, and the omni-shambles that ensues when all three are brought together.

Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550, until 26 Aug, 4.30pm, £11.50–£15 (£10–£13.50).