The Aussies are in town with their saucy take on all things festive, as A Very Naughty Christmas brings puns, songs, partial nudity, burlesque, and an Ann Summers partnership to Southwark Playhouse.
Their Elephant venue is blasting Christmas songs as we head to our seats, drinks in hand (“we’re funnier when you’re drinking”). At the front are a group of cabaret tables, then the regular tiered seating.
Eight performers do their thing, occasionally heading near to the audience, often interacting with the table seats. There are songs that start clean and festive, but head into the naughty corner.
Bums are flashed, and a fan dance brings back the spirit of Sally Rand, Santa is accused of all types of things, from political incorrectness to spreading STDs. Santa in person (Stephen Hirst) is foul-mouthed, cheeky and in charge.
There’s a sexy dance bit that ends up on the floor where many people can’t see it, but the top level of the set is well used to ensure sequences set up there are visible to all. Beware obscrutive pillars, too.
You can expect audience interaction at storytime, as characters are plucked out of the audience. But this show isn’t as naughty or as original, as it thinks. Dildos as microphones, and even the promise of a flash in a group routine, feel as if they have been done before.
Perhaps more risqué/risky was the inclusion of a song by a rather infamous Australian. Think wobbleboards. Otherwise, we get mummy more than kissing Santa Claus and a Santa getting stuck in the chimney with a big load (ho ho ho).
The performers alongside Hirst are all great. Kirby Burgess has a big personality, calling out audience members nipping out and smothering one with her assets. Chris O’Mara, a blond cutie, is a fab mover and a cheeky boy. Rachel MacDougall is the frisky fan dancer.
Jack Lark is a lounge lizard in a glittery suit with a secret to share about what’s underneath. Alexia Brinsley is full of salt, sugar, and spice, while Rebecca Rolle demonstrates a lithe movement and sharp tongue. Shay Debney is the sweet little elf who is on the sharp end of a little petting.
With Jo King and Lisa Martin providing the music, this is a lively and entertaining cabaret night, with an appreciative crowd. It just doesn’t quite reach the mucky heights it promises – think seaside postcards more than sex comedies.
Not every joke lands – a song about Santa depriving the poor is too long, and a PR brand pep talk about cancelled words fell a bit flat.
Creators Alex Woodward and Daniel Venz, plus contributor Alister Smith, keep things moving, and if you aren’t laughing at one bit, another skit, song or skin flash will be along shortly.
A Very Naughty Christmas continues at Southwark Playhouse Elephant until 11 Jan 2025 – tickets here.
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Photo credit: supplied by PR.