Cabaret and Variety

Words: Elodie Marriott
Image: Fudz Qazi

4 stars

Skank Sinatra is both naughty and nice. She plucks one lucky audience member out of their seat, taking him into her arms and caressing his bald head (he’s chosen specifically because of his hairlessness). To another, she looks her up and down, quickly declaring: “You look like you’d be fun… until 8pm.”

How to Succeed in Show Business Without Really Trying is a dazzling comedy drag cabaret about a performer’s desire for fame. The show is filled with glamour, backstage advice from Liza Minnelli, and as many pop culture references as flecks of glitter on her stunning costumes.

The songs — featuring original lyrics set to iconic musical theatre scores from shows including Hamilton and Little Shop of Horrors — are witty and showcase Skank Sinatra’s powerful vocals. Her Danish rendition of ‘Don’t Cry For Me Argentina’ is transfixing, and a fitting finale. Between lines, she inserts cheeky quips (“Such a beautiful language” and “I could be singing anything”) that show how well she can incorporate humour without diluting the impressiveness of her musical talent. 

Bravo, a fabulous cabaret.

Skank Sinatra: How to Succeed in Show Business Without Really Trying
Underground at Assembly George Square Studios
18.30
6-30 Aug