In a small space with cooling fans that are louder than is acceptable Richard Stirling (as Peter Mandelson) is only just audible. He’s a doppelgänger for the Dark Prince who was fired, or who resigned, from positions of considerable authority more times than any other British political figure.

Stirling has clearly put in the hours to forensically research a script that is rich in detail but a little light on purpose. If Wikipedia were to put on a Fringe show (and they are) it might look a little like this, as we more or less chronologically follow the highs and lows of Mandelson’s machiavellian machinations. It really is remarkable just how much influence one man has had over Kinnock, Blair, Brown, and Starmer. (Corbyn is glossed over, despite the fact that he claims to be a socialist, maybe even a communist, in his formative years.)

But those extreme left wing sensibilities have long gone as Mandelson first fashioned new Labour (somewhat adrift of the left) and then forged relationships with wealthy friends like Jeffery Epstein. – ‘I’m drawn to rich people for their big personalities, not their money,’ claims Stirling, unconvincingly.

This was, of course, to lead to his final downfall when his Epstein relationships (no use trying to convince us now that, ‘Epstein was like the dog muck on our shoes’) and the cover up failed to impress Starmer.

He describes himself as, ‘Loyal, disloyal, arrogant, insecure, cutting, vain, narcissistic, collusive, a small time gossiper, dull, a fool, a door-slamming oracle.’ That should keep his therapist busy for the next few years, and Stirling attempts to bring these contrary qualities out in his 50 minute show.

To some extent he succeeds but in cramming in so many facts, figures, and events the show falls short of a real narrative purpose. Instead, we are in danger of ‘Death by PowerPoint’ rather than gain real insights into the man behind that Machiavellian mask.

It’s an interesting production but it needs more emotional heft to really cut through.

Mandy: Prince of Darkness is at Ivy Studio at Greenside @ George Street until Sat 29 Aug 2026