Sold as a ‘new queer punk-gig musical’, Tit Swingers revives the stories of Anne Bonney and Mary Read, two female pirates from the 16th century, whose lives became intertwined on Calico Jack’s ship. While little factual information about these pirates is actually known, Le Gasp! Productions has identified a treasure trove of semi-fictional possibilities with these revolutionary individuals. Tit Swingers portrays Anne and Mary as polyamorous pirates who sing sea shanties about their rebellious ways with the help of Calico Jack (on drums). Despite the bold and promising premise, the show is let down by haphazard execution. 

While there are strong vocals and a shared passion on stage, as the musical progresses its storyline becomes difficult to keep up with. There is a captivating song about pregnancy which chronicles how Bonney and Read, upon capture, ‘pleaded with their bellies’ to defer the execution until after giving birth. Otherwise, the songs blur into one rather than progressing the narrative (even if ‘Hot Girl Pirate Shit’ is rather catchy).

Yet, while the pirate-themed jokes and sexual innuendos are only worthy of eye rolls and a smattering of awkward laughter, the trio are better at improvising in the face of unplanned events. There is a certain undeniable charm about the creators behind Tit Swingers, but the show itself needs refining to do justice to the wayward lives of Bonney and Read. 
Tit Swingers, Pleasance Courtyard, until 26 August, 1.40pm; main picture: Shay Rowan.