Music, Laughter, and Community: The Travelling Musical Cult Collective That’s Changing Lives
In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected, RAVErend Ben Welch and his trusty sidekick Trev are on a mission to bring people together through their unique cabaret theatre show, ‘House of Life’. Described as a “travelling musical cult collective with one mission, to get you happy at any cost,” the show is heading on a London and international tour, kicking off at the Soho Theatre on May 26th.
What is House of Life?
“It’s about coming together while the world falls apart, and celebrating each other, and singing together, and having a laugh,” explains Welch, who dons a glittery dog collar, silver high-heeled boots, and a glitter beard to transform into his RAVErend alter ego.
The show promises an eight-step guide to happiness and pure enlightenment, creating what Welch describes as a “soundtrack to ascension.” While maintaining a tongue-in-cheek energy throughout, the performance has resonated deeply with audiences.
“We’re amazed by the response people have had, feeling really healing for them, and lifting them out of darkness,” Welch shares.
Creating Community Through Performance
Perhaps the most touching testament to House of Life’s impact came after a show in Edinburgh, where Welch encountered three individuals who had attended the performance alone.
“Later on, when me and Trevor finished the show, we’d gone to do another little spot, and it’s about one in the morning, and we stumbled across these three individuals who, since the show, had made friends, had gone out for dinner together, had gone to see a show, and now were really connected,” Welch recalls with pride.
Memorable Audience Encounters
The show thrives on audience interaction, creating unique experiences at every performance. One standout moment featured a 92-year-old woman named Wilma who, after enjoying gin and tonics throughout the show, made an unforgettable request.
“She said, I would like to pour champagne all over you, and lick it off, and then you’d be upside down,” Welch laughs. “I couldn’t be upside down, but we did the rest, and we got Prosecco instead of champagne.”
London Tour Across Diverse Venues
House of Life will be performing at various venues across London, including Soho Theatre, Wilton’s Music Hall, Park Theatre, and Brixton House.
“They’re different parts of London with different cultural energies, which brings different energies to the show,” Welch explains. “We have to kind of go with that.”
For those hesitant about audience participation, Welch offers reassurance: “It’s never about punching down. It’s never about making anyone look like an idiot. It genuinely is an attempt for us all to kind of celebrate and come together and play some banging songs.”
Listen to the Full Interview
To hear more about the RAVErend’s mission, his creative partnership with Trev, and what to expect from this joyful theatrical experience, listen to the full interview on Queerly’s Stage and Screen Podcast with Harvey Morton