By Sarah Skubala
Christmas is getting cheeky with the return of A Very Naughty Christmas, the outrageously funny risqué holiday cabaret that has become a beloved seasonal tradition. Now in its eighth year, this adults-only romp combines festive humour, hilarious antics and unexpected twists on classic holiday tunes, in an irreverent celebration that’s equal parts naughty and nice.
Created in 2017 by Alex Woodward and Daniel Venz, over 40,000 people have seen A Very Naughty Christmas, and this season, it’s playing in both Melbourne and Brisbane, followed by a limited, three-show season on the Gold Coast. For the first time, it’s also running over in the UK.
Stuffed with humour, A Very Naughty Christmas is the ultimate naughty stocking filler. The talented Queensland cast included three-time Matilda Award winner Steven Rooke as Santa, returning cast members Daniel Erbacher, Aurélie Roque, Taylah Ferguson and Emily Kristopher (who’s been part of the show for seven years!). Joining them was husband and wife Anthony Craig and Lauren Jimmieson, and Lachlan Greenland, who may or may not resemble a young George Michael – you decide!
This was not your average silent night at the theatre, and the opening night audience was raring to go as soon as the cast burst on stage singing, ‘Holy shit! It’s Christmas.’ The show’s energy didn’t let up for the full 85 minutes, and the live, three-piece band brought the magic of the season to life, perfectly accompanying the festive shenanigans with merry melodies that felt straight from Santa’s workshop.
One of my favourite numbers was ‘Bring Me A Man This Christmas’ – those babes can sing! And a tip of the hat to Isaac Lummis’ for his fabulously glittery costume designs. Another highlight was the all-male dance number ‘Jingle Bell Rock,’ complete with Santa-style miniskirts in the ultimate nod to that scene from Mean Girls. There was a fabulous segment parodying THAT scene from Love Actually, which transitioned into a full-cast dance routine involving very clever choreography with nothing but a couple of festive placards!
Each performer sleighed with their own brand of sass and silliness. Lachlan Greenland gave a highly entertaining performance of ‘Walking Round in Women’s Underwear,’ while Aurélie Roque’s drunk, angry solo number was incredibly funny. Emily Kristopher had excellent comedic timing and an amazing voice to match, while Lauren Jimmieson was a fabulous all-rounder who gave a completely committed performance as the Elf. There was a tap number, a kick line and a disgruntled Santa. What was not to love?
If you’re keen to be up close to the fun, grab one of the cabaret-style tables located on the actual stage. You may just find one of the performers sitting in your lap singing into your ear, or you might even get pulled on stage to assist in a retelling of: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.’
A Very Naughty Christmas is the perfect antidote to a traditional Christmas concert, delivering a bold, cheeky alternative to the usual festive fare. Packed with spicy festive favourites, it’s the ideal way to embrace the fun and feisty side of the season. Yule love it!
Image: Joel Devereux
