Ro Dahl's Drag Race presents a highly original concept: what if RuPaul’s Drag Race took part in the Roald Dahl universe? These are your favourite childhood characters all grown up, yet just as iconic as you remember. Lip syncing for their lives in front of the ‘live studio audience’, Charlie Bucket, Veruca Salt, The Grand High Witch, Matilda, Roly Poly Bird and Willy Wonka go head to head for the never-ending gobstopper crown. 

The cast of local talent wonderfully portrayed their characters, and the show stayed true to its premise throughout. The acts skilfully chose songs and movie soundbites to create canonically accurate performances. For example, guest judge Danny the Champion of the World performed to Queen’s We Are the Champions, an impressively fitting choice. 

There were two rounds of competition, judge performances and audience involvement in crowning a winner. It was all very fun, silly and camp. 

While parts of Ro Dahl’s Drag Race really shone, the interludes between performances often felt unpolished. It was disappointing to see such a promising concept let down by minor missteps. However, with some finessing, I’m confident that if it returns to FRINGE WORLD in 2027, Ro Dahl's Drag Race could easily become a must-see. 

Part drag, part reality TV parody, Ro Dahl’s Drag Race hilariously combines two iconic universes into one memorable show. For all the Roald Dahl kids that grew up to be RuPaul adults, Ro Dahl’s Drag Race provides nostalgia with a twist.