Imagine stand-up comedy, but with music, glamour, and a powerhouse voice – that’s Skank Sinatra. Performed by the strikingly beautiful Jens Radda, this drag cabaret show is a witty, melodic, and delightfully cheeky celebration of song and storytelling.
Radda is radiant as Skank Sinatra – her skin flawless, makeup impeccable, and smile utterly disarming. The audience was clearly captivated, not just by her looks, but by her nuanced, hilariously expressive facial gestures and effortless stage presence. She moves with grace and confidence, her costume choices both bold and elegant. A sleek white ensemble showed off her svelte figure, and a clever costume change added to the theatrical flair.
But what truly sets Skank Sinatra apart is her voice. A rich contralto (with flashes of tenor range), Radda reimagines classic Sinatra tunes with clever lyrics that kept the audience highly amused. Her musicality is matched by strong storytelling – tales that span smoky jazz clubs in New York, the underground cabarets of Berlin, the flamboyant streets of Sydney, and even the wild savannas of South Africa – all delivered with charm, humour, and often while accompanying herself skillfully on the keyboard.
At times, the backing music could have been slightly louder, but that’s a small note in an otherwise polished, confident performance. She sings on key and with style – an absolute pleasure to listen to.
The intimate Loading Dock at Qtopia adds charm and closeness, though one couldn’t help but imagine how spectacular this act would be in a “Cotton Club”-style venue – a cabaret setting where the audience could dine, sip cocktails, and soak in the ambience. Still, the energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable. Many in the crowd were return fans; others curious to see if the buzz was justified. It was – and then some.
Skank Sinatra has won Best Cabaret at the Adelaide Fringe two years running. It is excellent entertainment, blending glamour, satire, and musical talent in equal measure. Radda doesn’t miss a beat! Highly recommended.
Qtopia: The venue itself is worth a visit. Located in the heritage-listed former Darlinghurst Police Station, Qtopia is the largest museum and cultural centre dedicated to queer history and culture in the world. With four buildings on site, it’s worth arriving early or staying after the show to explore. A bar onsite offers refreshments, and the audience – an even mix of ages and genders – added to the warm, community feel.
To book tickets to Skank Sinatra, please visit https://www.skank-sinatra.com/.
Photographer: Joel Devereux, MJ Bently
