AD | Tickets gifted in exchange of an honest review
CW: Audience participation, simulated violence, strong language, sexually explicit content and discussions of murder and death.
The Simple Life and Death, created by Shane ShayShay Konno and Fizz Sinclair, is a camp, drag-filled extravaganza inspired by the reality TV sensation The Simple Life (2003–2005). It’s a celebration of absurdity, vanity, and nostalgia, played out on a minimalist set featuring just two labelled chairs (“Paris” and “Nicole”) and a fake haystack. The show invites the audience to immerse themselves in the exaggerated world of Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie, while skewering the superficial hilarity of fame and celebrity culture.
The premise is simple: Paris Hilton (Shane ShayShay Konno) and Nicole Richie (Fizz Sinclair) are on set, filming an episode of their show. Product placements—such as the hilariously named perfume "Nepotism" — interrupt the action, and a feud between the two divas escalates into chaos. After a storm causes a blackout, Nicole is killed off in a ridiculous twist: her skeleton is all that remains. The murder mystery unfolds as Paris interrogates guest stars Jennifer Coolidge, Cheryl Cole, and Caitlyn Jenner — all played with tremendous versatility and humour by Sinclair. While Sinclair dazzles in their multi-rolled characters, Shane’s Paris anchors the show with unapologetic confidence and high-heeled glamour.
However, the two-hour running time feels indulgent. The first act is overlong, with sketches and gags that outstay their welcome. The pacing improves in the second act, with the murder mystery injecting much-needed energy. That said, the show leans heavily on predictable humour and nostalgic references, which at times feel repetitive rather than innovative.
Still, there are flashes of brilliance. Sinclair’s embodiment of Jennifer Coolidge is pure comedic gold, and the satire shines brightest when the show hints at a deeper critique of Paris Hilton’s carefully constructed persona. How funny would it have been if Paris, behind her baby-voiced façade, revealed moments of almost inhuman intelligence? Moments like this could elevate the show beyond parody, giving the audience something—and someone—to root for.
Despite its shortcomings, The Simple Life and Death is an entertaining drag spectacle: silly, unapologetically camp, and bursting with fun performances. It’s a joyous homage to an era, but with sharper editing and braver creative decisions, it could become something truly unforgettable.
★★★.5
Book tickets to see The Simple Life & Death here. Playing at the Pleasance Theatre, London until 7th December.
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