It’s 2026 and King Herod is leading a self-development pyramid scheme. Join award-winning clown, Riss Obolensky, for an hour of frivolity, shock and redemption. In a post-truth world punctuated by conspiracy, division and collapse, it’s time to forgive… yourself.
It’s 2026 and King Herod is leading a self-development pyramid scheme. You remember Herod, the biblical despot and enemy of Jesus? That’s right: he’s done the work, he’s reached inside and by God, he’s got a wellness program to show for it. Expect frivolity, shock and redemption in a process which asks the big questions: Who can we really trust? What are eggs? Why are you crying? In a post-truth world punctuated by conspiracy, division and collapse, it’s time to forgive… yourself.
Healing King Herod reached critical acclaim at its Edinburgh run, following its preview at Soho Theatre and sell out run at VAULT Festival 2023. It went on to have sellout runs at The Wardrobe Theatre, Bristol, and Soho Theatre in 2025. It was nominated Show of the Week and the recipient of Phoebe Waller Bridge’s Keep it Fringe fund. The world has changed a lot since then. Join Herod in a revamped hour of transformation.
“Unmissable.”
★★★★ The Skinny
“Magnetic.”
★★★★1⁄2 The Reviews Hub
“Brilliantly weird.”
★★★★ Fringe Biscuit
“Ridiculous.”
★★★★ Three Weeks
Brought to you by Riss Obolensky and co-creator and director, Eloise Poulton.
Riss Obolensky (they/them) is an award-winning theatre-maker, clown and drag artist based in London and Bristol. They were one of the founders of Bristol’s Lost Cabaret and their work has been supported by Comedy Central, Arts Council England and Phoebe Waller Bridge. Their second show, Avrilganger, was programmed at Shoreditch Town Hall 2025. Their latest WIP Stinky Little Pilgrim has come to Jackson’s Lane, London Clown Festival and Shoreditch Town Hall. People are liking it so far.
