CAMP, brash and extremely colourful - the Boy George Musical Taboo takes a lot of inspiration from the man himself.

It's full of wacky and wonderful costumes, plenty of outrageous antics and more than a little attitude - but, sadly, that's where the similarities end. For while Boy George entertained millions with a string of hits in the 1980s, the score and lyrics in this production are not in the same league. And if you're expecting a compilation of Boy George and other 80s classics, you'll be disappointed. This is not the story of Boy George. The character plays a strong role, and it is set in the New Romantic era, but the plot follows the fortunes of a character called Billy, who leaves home to follow his dreams of becoming a photographer in the city. The songs, written by Boy George, depict Billy's experiences and those of the characters around him. There are a few snippets of classics such as Do You Really Want To Hurt Me? and Karma Chameleon, but these are few and far between. The other songs, particularly Touched By the Hand of Cool, I See Through You and Il Adore were lyrically painful. There were some strong comic performances from Julian Clary's character, the outrageous designer Leigh Bowery, and from Steven Osborne's alarming transvestite drug dealer Petal. Drew Jaymson also gives a very strong performance as club organiser Philip Sallon. While the audience was on its feet and cheering to the final number, it was a high point in an otherwise disappointing show.

* Runs until Saturday. Box Office: 0870 905 5060.

Published: 24/06/2004