There’s an undeniable magic when a space is created for those who have been so often silenced or marginalised to step forward, embrace their identities, and share their truths. Sapphic Aura, produced by Lylah Bloom Productions in collaboration with The Bloom Luna Collective, is a strikingly immersive burlesque cabaret that does just that. A celebration of sapphic identity in all its diversity – rich, tender, playful, and unapologetically sexy – the show uplifts queer femmes, allowing them to express every corner of their desire, joy, and liberation. Hosted by Salentina Dawn, who should be commended for her exceptional public speaking skills, the night is woven together seamlessly, drawing the audience into a space of affirmation and joy. No matter if you’re there to celebrate as a proud member of the sapphic community, or an ally standing in solidarity, Sapphic Aura promises to envelop you in its embrace, offering a visceral, exciting, and empowering journey into the heart of the sapphic experience.
From the moment the lights go up, the stage erupts with sapphic power as the cast of emerging artists perform an electrifying opening number. The track Guess by Charli XCX & Billie Eilish sets the tone for the night, offering a playful yet empowering anthem of female sexuality and confidence. Charli Chase, Davina La Vixen, Sakura Sparkles, Daisy Douceur, Sammy Nyx, Serafina Fae, Rumour, and Honey B Mine (and Salentina Dawn for a cheeky little cameo) work seamlessly together, moving as a cohesive unit while each performer is given their moment to shine. Costumed in sheer black flare pants, mini skirts, crop tops, and rhinestone-studded bodysuits that shimmer under the purple stage lights, the opening act is a sparkling invitation into a world of unapologetic sensuality. It’s a perfect start to a show that promises to deliver nothing less than fierce, celebratory energy.
Girls Girls Girls by FLETCHER introduces the next chapter in this celebration of sapphic connection, with Honey B Mine, Serafina Fae, and Charli Chase taking the stage in a seamless performance. Honey B Mine steals the show in an elegantly draped chocolate brown gown, layered over a rhinestone waspie, matching two-piece set, and a billowing silk skirt that flows like melted chocolate under stage lights. She holds the stage with a presence that belies her status as an emerging performer, as if she’s been wowing audiences for years. Serafina and Charli complement her perfectly, with their golden one-shoulder silk gowns offering a shimmering contrast. The trio creates a dynamic performance full of passion, connection, and unshakable confidence, a showcase of what it means to truly own your space on stage.
As First, Best, Hottest… by Beth McCarthy fades into the opening beats of Slumber Party by Ashnikko ft. Princess Nokia, a decadent shift in energy occurs as we’re led into the dreamy world of a sapphic sleepover. Rumour, Davina La Vixen, and Sakura Sparkles strut onto the stage, dressed in pastel sugary-soft pyjama sets and fluffy ears perched atop their heads, equal parts darling and dangerous. But as the song ramps up, so does the energy, with the ‘slumber party’ descending into raunchy, playful chaos. What begins as flirtatious banter between the performers becomes a delightful exploration of sensuality that’s equal parts playful and provocative. They slink and roll across the stage, blurring the lines between innocence and indulgence. It’s camp, it’s cutesy meets chaotic in the best way possible, and it’s absolutely delicious.
In a departure from the primarily burlesque numbers, Salentina Dawn and Sammy Nyx showcase their impressive vocal talents in a duet to God Is A Freak by Adelaide’s very own lesbian pop princess Peach PRC. The song, an anthem of liberation for anyone who has felt shamed by religious or societal norms, stirs a shared sense of catharsis. Both performers command the stage, dressed in buttery yellow silky gowns that swirl as they move. The backup dancers Daisy Douceur, Honey B Mine, and Charli Chase add depth and richness to the performance with their sultry movements, making this act a visual and auditory celebration of reclaiming power. Salentina and Sammy’s voices blend beautifully, adding layers of raw emotion and defiance to this already potent performance.
Serafina Fae takes centre stage in a stunning solo performance to Naked In Manhattan by lesbian drag queen icon Chappell Roan, a song that is just as much about self-expression as it is about embracing one’s sexual power. Serafina’s voice is nothing short of extraordinary – powerful, clear, and full of emotion – as she belts out this fierce anthem of freedom. Dressed in a sheer pink robe with ostrich feather boa and a rhinestone-encrusted corset, Serafina captivates the audience not just with her voice, but with her effortless stage presence. The backup vocalists, Viola Verve and Sammy Nyx, provide beautiful harmonies, enhancing the depth of Serafina’s performance. This act is a testament to Serafina’s talent, her range as both a burlesque artist and vocalist, and her ability to command the stage in ways few can
Not My Fault by Renee Rapp & Megan Thee Stallion transitions into Padam Padam by Kylie Minogue in a sensational act that combines fierce sensuality and skillful choreography. Sakura Sparkles, Daisy Douceur, and Charli Chase wield golden-orange silk fans, creating fluid movements that ripple through the air with stunning precision. The trio have audiences enthralled, their fluid movements slicing through the air in flawless synchrony. As Salentina Dawn takes to the stage for a sultry solo performance, the atmosphere intensifies, with stocking peels and a mesmerising blend of burlesque charm and sensuality. This dynamic act showcases the beauty of collective performance and solo artistry in one seamless transition.
To the powerful tones of She Calls Me Daddy by KiNG MALA, Serafina Fae, Honey B Mine, and Sammy Nyx are next to take the stage, their black rhinestone-encrusted two-piece sets and emerald skirts swishing around them as they interact with the audience. The trio brings the audience into their world with an impressive panel skirt routine, their chemistry palpable. As the song transitions into Two Weeks by FKA twigs, the act turns into a breathtaking display of empowerment, sensuality, and raw emotion. Charli Chase and Daisy Douceur join them, adding a powerful layer to the routine. Together, they explore every inch of the stage, stripping away layers of clothing and inhibitions, leaving nothing but pure confidence in their wake.
Charli Chase and Daisy Douceur take the spotlight in a dynamic duo act set to Boyfriend by Dove Cameron, dressed in vibrant violet mini dresses and matching magenta three-piece sets. The pair moves together with such fluidity and sensuality that it’s impossible to look away. The chemistry between them is undeniable, as they dive into stunning floor work and a beautiful, messy finale involving silver glitter. The glittering liquid pours over their bodies in a symbol of liberation, highlighting their raw, seductive energy as they become completely immersed in the moment. This is a celebration of sapphic joy, passion, and playful rebellion.
GOOD PUSS by COBRAH sets the scene for Lylah Bloom’s magnetic solo performance. Lylah takes full command of the stage, exuding confidence and raw power in a striking leopard-print circle skirt paired with a matching crop top and bold black PVC thigh-high lace-up stiletto boots. Her performance is magnetic and unapologetic, as she effortlessly executes jaw-dropping floor work ranging from splits to somersaults that showcase her athleticism and grace. The moment she opens her skirt to reveal the coloured stripes of the Lesbian Pride Flag beneath is a powerful act of visibility and celebration. Lylah’s performance is a triumphant moment that transforms the stage into a sanctuary of pride and power.
The finale brings together the entire emerging cast in a celebratory group number, set to LUNCH by Billie Eilish. Dressed in matching pastel silk pyjama sets in hues of dusty rose, soft pinks, and baby blues layered over nude rhinestone ensembles, the performers (Sakura Sparkles, Salentina Dawn, Rumour, Serafina Fae, Honey B Mine, Charli Chase, Sammy Nyx, Daisy Douceur, and Davina La Vixen) bask in the shared high of the night. Their movements glide between classic burlesque tease and sultry, synchronised floor work, a visual testament to the unity and mutual support that defines this collective. As they move together, shimmering under the lights and fuelled by pure passion, they embody the ethos of The Bloom Luna Collective: a community-led space committed to inclusivity, accessibility, and queer empowerment. It’s a joyous, unapologetic closing act that brings the night full circle: sensuality as celebration, movement as liberation, and community as the beating heart of it all.
Sapphic Aura arrives at Nexus Arts just in time for Pride Month and sets a new bar for queer femme performances. With an all-emerging ensemble cast, for many, it’s their first time performing in a production of this scale, yet they shine with a rare combination of vulnerability, strength, and sensuality. Under the visionary direction of Lylah Bloom, this production carves out a safe, inclusive space where sapphics and allies alike can come together to express themselves, explore their identities, and celebrate the beauty of sapphic connection. With shimmering costumes, powerful vocals, unapologetic movement, and fierce storytelling, Sapphic Aura makes it clear that the future of queer performance is bold, brilliant, and deeply affirming. Keep an eye on Lylah Bloom Productions’ and The Bloom Luna Collective’s social channels for details on their upcoming show at Feast Festival later this year; this is only the beginning of what promises to be an exciting, empowering journey for queer performers and audiences alike.
Sapphic Aura
Dates: Friday 27 June 2025
Location: Nexus Arts, Lion Arts Centre, 68 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
Rating: ★★★★½
The Adelaide Insider 