The Bongo Cabaret always has a lot to live up to, being well regarded as one of the best cabarets at the Fringe. Once again this year’s opening performance did not disappoint. One of the best features of the night is that although you never know what you’re in for, you can guarantee that you’ll leave with another five shows added to your (never-ending) Fringe wish list.
Host, Dusty Limits, was as dry and witty as ever, winning over the audience with his slightly camp charm and devilishly handsome good looks. An added bonus is that he is genuinely funny and his distinctive look adds an air of mystery to the evening.
First up was drag act, Auntie Myra of Auntie Myra’s Fun Show. As a result of hard times, Auntie Myra has been pushed in to the world of children’s entertainment, meaning exciting magic tricks were coupled with a catty and vicious humour reminiscent of Lily Savage. Ria Lina also made an appearance with her ukulele, playing songs including Mail Order Bride, a tongue and cheek version of her parents meeting.
Other acts on the line up included mime artist Fabled, who managed to mouth along to a mash up of different versions of ‘Somewhere’ superbly, and a stripping, burlesque Femme Fatale. Even the controversial Frank Sinazzi made an appearance. However, the pièce de résistance, saved until the culminating moments of the show, came in the form of Mrs Barbara Nice. This mother-of-five character comedian observes brilliant everyday comedic occurrences, but delivers them with the familiarity of your nan. Thoroughly funny, she regaled the audience with tales of why you should never hide from people in a supermarket (they might carry your shopping home) and even got us all to toast the dead woman who owned the dress she bought in a charity shop.
Without a dull moment, this is definitely a must for all cabaret fans!