Q&A with Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody’s Sylvie Stenson and Andrew Berlin

Bringing some much-needed heat to a decidedly chillier capital is Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody. The smash-hit Off Broadway musical made its UK debut this summer at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and has now made the trip south to Underbelly Soho. Expect all the steam, longing glances and fan-favourite moments from the hit series, recreated with plenty of song, silliness and a healthy dose of affectionate mockery. Whether you’ve watched every episode twice or are simply curious what all the fuss is about, this is a show that knows exactly what its audience came for. We caught up with Sylvie Stenson and Andrew Berlin, who play a whole host of roles between them to find out more

Sylvie Stenson

Shane's Mom is a memorable presence in Heated Rivalry. What was your first reaction when you found out you'd be playing her, and what did you want to capture most?

My first reaction was sheer surprise, I’ve reached the point in my career of playing a mother far earlier than I expected lol. I wanted to capture this Kris Jenner- momager energy but combine it with warmth to show how supportive and loving she is when it comes to her son’s personal life.

Which moment from the series was the most fun to recreate for the stage?

The best moment to recreate is the smoothie shop by far! Dylan’s version is hilarious and so much fun to be a part of!

Why do you think the Heated Rivalry fandom has connected so strongly with the show, and what's it like performing for such a passionate audience?

I think the show is so popular because it’s queer representation at a difficult time for many minorities. With the political shifts that seems to be taking over the world, having heart warming representation is beyond important and reminds us that our communities are still going strong. Love always wins!!

Andrew Berlin

Ilya's Dad has a very different energy from the rest of the cast. How did you approach turning him into a parody character while keeping him recognisable to fans?

With Ilya’s dad, I found that the more believably angry he is, the funnier it is. Ilya is an incredible athlete who achieves such amazing things, and ilya’s dad is the only character that isn’t full of support for his amazing son, so to really lean into his hatred and disgust of all things Ilya really differentiates him.

If you could add one more scene from Heated Rivalry to the show, which would it be and why?

If I could add one more scene to the show from, it would be when Kip and Scott spend time at Scott’s apartment. Not only do I think those scenes are really special in the television show, but with the way our Scott Hunter is handled in our show, I think it would be really fun and funny. Maybe a tap dance?

What's been your favourite audience reaction so far, and do you have a favourite moment in the show that always gets the biggest response?

I think my favourite audience reaction so far has been when Shane and Ilya finally kiss. At the show the other night, when that moment happened, an older gentleman who was on his own in the front row, threw his hands in the air and let out a joyous cheer. With a parody musical like this, the laughs feel wonderful, but it also feels euphoric to be reminded that we are adding a little more queer joy into the world. It was very special and very moving

Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody is at Underbelly Soho until Sunday 1st November. For more go to https://underbellyboulevard.com/