Big Day Out Burlesque

In a nostalgic fusion of music and movement, Big Day Out Burlesque transports audiences back to the electrifying era of Australian music festivals when Big Day Out reigned supreme from 1992 to 2014. Held at Woodshed in Royal Park, the venue’s walls are covered with posters from legendary gigs past, setting the stage for a strip tease journey down memory lane. The production is masterminded by the esteemed Curvella, a stalwart of the burlesque scene and self-professed music aficionado. Comedian extraordinaire Lori Bell takes the reins as host for the night, sending audience into fits of cackling laughter with their quick wit and wicked sense of humour, setting the tone for a night that promises to blend the tantalising art of burlesque with the the bold spirit of Big Day Out that still lives on to this day.

Amidst the sultry serenades and seductive routines, Keith Skip Mitton commands attention with his mastery of the yo-yo, effortlessly synchronizing his tricks to the beats of Grinspoon’s Just Ace. Award-winning national champion skilltoy player Skip demonstrates hand-eye coordination that is pure sorcery, his performance offering a refreshing interlude that adds a touch of variety to the eclectic lineup, proving that skill and showmanship know no bounds in this captivating showcase. With each flick of the yo-yo, he mesmerises the audience, showcasing a blend of precision and playfulness that embodies the essence of his craft.

Clad in a shimmering little black dress and fishnets, burlesque babe and heavy-hitter Remi Reign exudes flirtatious charm as she captivates with a chair routine to Nirvana’s In Bloom that blends grunge with grace. As she pulls a flower from her bosom in homage to Nirvana’s anthem, her eyes tease and tantalise, embodying the spirit of 90s alternative rock with every deliberate move. Her performance transcends mere choreography, evoking a narrative of revelry and rebellion, drawing the audience into a world where music and movement intertwine.

Draped in a Metallica band tee and combat boots, Athena Darling embodies the rebellious essence of grunge. Aptly named after the powerful Greek goddess, Athena’s confident stride and magnetic presence hint at a promising future on the stage, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating what they will conquer next in the realms of burlesque and beyond. Their performance set to Silverchair’s Tomorrow not only pays homage to the music that defined a generation but also asserts Athena as a formidable presence in the burlesque world, blending defiance with cheekiness in a tantalising display.

In a fusion of sensuality and passion, Kalikah enthralls audiences with her bellydance fusion act set to the erratic rhythms of System Of A Down’s Chop Suey! Her gothic-meets-metal attire, adorned with chains, studs and sequins galore, accentuates every shimmy and sway, forging a unique path through the night’s eclectic tapestry. With each cascading and undulating movement, she embodies the spirit of rebellion and rhythmic mastery, showcasing a fusion of dance styles that defy convention and captivate the senses.

Known as the Queen of Sin in the City of (burning) Churches, Vivienne Von Coffin commands the stage in a sequined corset and billowing gown, embodying the gothic aesthetic and oozing seductive sophistication. The EDM beats of Spitfire by The Prodigy setting the soundscape, she sheds the layers to reveal a shimmering lingerie set. However, it is her fan routine that truly leaves audiences enraptured, each effortless movement akin to undulating waves of the ocean tides. Vivienne’s performance is a testament to her command of the stage, blending elegance with a hint of danger in a hypnotic portrayal of seduction and strength.

With curves that command attention and looks that kill, Curvella graces the stage in a cascade of fiery red sequins and latex. Her signature angle grinder act, a spectacle of sparks and metal set to the sounds of Fuel by Metallica, culminates in a fiery crescendo that epitomises her dual roles as producer and performer, leaving an indelible mark on the night’s festivities. Her presence exudes confidence and creativity, showcasing not only her artistic vision but also her fearless approach to pushing boundaries in the world of burlesque.

Emerging from the audience and appearing like an unholy vision draped in white robes and a Pope’s headdress, Sebastian Wolf defies convention with an irreverent act involving holy water and sacrilegious antics complete with a giant gold crucifix on stage. As the fitting song Praise You by Fatboy Slim plays its chorus in the background, Sebastian transforms from celestial entity to provocative incubus, draped in chains and white tassels all whilst performing ungodly acts upon the cross. Sebastian’s performance is a daring exploration of contrasts, blending religious imagery with provocative sensuality in a display that challenges norms and captivates the imagination.

Draped in sequins and wielding a staple gun with audacious flair, Saskia epitomises hardcore with their fearless demeanor and kick ass routine with the raw intensity of Blink-182’s Feeling This setting the soundtrack to their daring display. Encouraging audience participation in a truly risqué performance, they defy expectations by inviting an audience member on stage to use a staple gun to affix a pastie onto Saskia’s bosom, ensuring their place as a daring highlight of the evening. Saskia’s performance is a bold statement of empowerment and audacity, pushing boundaries with a fearless display that combines sensuality with an unapologetic embrace of punk ethos.

In a tongue-in-cheek homage, Mac Galleon performs an energy-filled srip show to the catchy beat of Pretty Fly (For a White Guy) by The Offspring, embodying the irreverent spirit of his chosen track. His infectious energy and unabashed enjoyment of the limelight mirror the festival’s vibrant history, bringing a smile to the faces of both old and new fans alike. Mac’s performance is a celebration of humor and self-expression, injecting a playful energy into the evening that resonates with the audience’s collective memories of festival fun and youthful exuberance. Adding a personal touch to his act, it’s revealed that Mac’s mum, who never allowed him to attend Big Day Out festival as a kid, is in the audience tonight, witnessing his triumphant performance firsthand.

Looking as elegant and sexy as ever in burgundy silk and sequinned fiery corsetry, Winchester Angel bewitches audiences with a sensational fire baton act where she traces flames along her limbs with breathtaking precision. The cherry on top of her devilishly delicious outfit is a devil horn headdress, each tip set ablaze, enhancing her fiery persona and commanding the stage with an aura of mesmerising danger. Set to the rebellious rap metal anthem Killing In The Name by Rage Against the Machine, Winchester’s performance captivates with its daring elegance, merging technical skill with a bold theatricality that leaves an indelible impression on all who witness her fiery performance.

Led on stage in a bedazzled muzzle and leather jacket that on its back reads in rhinestones “beware of the dog”, Gigi Love unleashes her inner freak with acrobatic prowess and a fearless attitude. Her performance to Korn’s Freak on a Leash is a testament to her agility and showmanship, captivating the audience with every daring flip, headstand and somersault. Gigi’s fearless embrace of the unconventional rings a riotous spirit to the stage, embodying the festival’s legacy of pushing boundaries and celebrating individuality.

Under the visionary stewardship of Curvella, Big Day Out Burlesque emerges as a triumph of nostalgia and innovation. This celebration of music and movement not only pays homage to a cherished era of Australian festivals but also propels the art of burlesque into daring new territory. With sold-out shows and electrifying performances, Curvella’s production promises to be just the beginning of a spectacular journey. Stay tuned to her social channels for what promises to be an exciting future of bold and boundary-pushing productions.

Big Day Out Burlesque
Date: Saturday 6 July | 7pm
Location: Woodshed, 13/2 Brandwood Street, Royal Park SA 5014
Rating: ★★★★★