Pop Off, Michelangelo! is the messy, sexy, high-drama musical comedy where Renaissance Italy meets RuPaul-level ridiculousness. This art-history show is a gloriously chaotic, laugh-out-loud, and unapologetically queer deep dive into the marble-chiseled world of Michelangelo, the ultimate tortured artist.
Michelangelo is trying to survive 16th-century Florence, dodging shady patrons, Vatican drama, and the ever-looming pressure to create art that will slap for centuries. But between chiseling abs into statues and battling the church’s pearl-clutching, he’s got bigger problems like keeping his artistic integrity. This Renaissance-era show is full of chaotic queer energy, campy satire, and some truly scandalous artistic debates. With gut-busting comedy, high-drama electro pop ballads, and a touch of divine inspiration, this show serves up art history with a side of theological tension.
Whether you’re a history nerd, an art snob, a theater queen, or just here for the sheer spectacle of Michelangelo belting out existential crises in full Renaissance drag, Pop Off, Michelangelo! is the must-see riot of the season.
Michelangelo and Leonardo, childhood best friends and adoptive brothers, embark on an exciting journey as they enroll in art school together. But as they chase their dreams and seek fame, drama unfolds, testing the bonds of their friendship. These childhood pals, now fierce competitors, are on a quest to craft the most iconic religious masterpiece ever! Upon discovering their shared truth, they embark on a whimsical journey to seek divine forgiveness by striving to become the most extraordinary religious artists the world has ever seen. Can Michelangelo charm, challenge, and conquer his way to the Vatican? Can we get Leonardo to take a break from his helicopter chatter? Book your tickets to find out.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2000 at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Underbelly Boulevard, a vibrant entertainment powerhouse in the UK, has been transforming the world of theater. Underbelly is the mastermind behind some of the UK’s most beloved festivals and cultural events, including the iconic Underbelly Festival in London, which transforms the city into a hub of spectacular live entertainment each summer. Their signature purple cow tent, a quirky and instantly recognizable venue, has become a symbol of their Fringe legacy, hosting some of the most exciting and innovative acts year after year. The venue was established by the dynamic duo Ed Bartlam and Charlie Wood. Among its standout productions are the Olivier award-winning Cabaret, a collaboration with ATG Productions, the imaginative La Clique cabaret, and the eagerly awaited Macbeth, featuring Ralph Fiennes and Indira Varma.
Available facilities: Merchandise, on-site box office, Wi-Fi access, restrooms
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible spaces, accessible toilets, induction loop systems available upon request at the box office, assistance dogs are welcome, step-free access, reserved seats.
The cost of the tickets will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The musical does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 14 years and above.
The show is playing at Underbelly Boulevard in Soho, London.
The musical explores the lives of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci as they compete to create the most legendary religious masterpiece, delving into themes of artistic rivalry, personal identity, and the quest for greatness.
The running time is 1 hour 15 minutes with no intermission.