Future. Joy. Club.

This is a sizzling burlesque show with a somewhat eclectic collection of various talents that orbit around the exuberant sphere of renowned burlesque performer and artist, Moira Finucane. The show is much less about Finucane’s social, political, or environmental musings and much more about practicing inclusivity and tolerance.

Future. Joy. Club. is emphatic about its cultural diversity and Finucane goes out of her way to highlight diverse performers. Each artist showcases their own particular style and talents but the influence of Finucane on their work is always evident. The performers are intensely energetic, daring and frequently impish. Their approach, much like Finucane’s work, is unapologetic and deliberately provocative.

Finucane spends a great deal of time lamenting the traumas of the pandemic but by bringing these artists together she aims to deliver a shot of joy and optimism to the return of the Arts (after its criminal neglect during COVID lockdowns). The vibrancy of the performers outweighs any pessimism and produces some absolutely knock out acts.

Indie pop star, Sophie Koh, and Ngarluma jazz blues legend, Lois Olney, mesmerise the audience with their incredible vocal talents. Indian dancer, Gonna Pillai, delights with his boylesque performance. Burlesque artist Jazida astonishes the audience with magic and fire eating feats. Club kitten, Iva Budrose (Lachlan Bartlett), charms the audience with flair and flamboyance. Gender transcendent singer and diva, Mama Alto, belts out some great tunes and literally captivates the audience with the power of their voice. All of this is wonderfully supported by composer and pianist Rachel Lewindon.

The strong sense of camaraderie and solidarity among the performers is one of the most notable features of the show and this creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The result is a night of rollicking good fun, that is often titillating, tantalising, seductive and much, much more...

Patricia Di Risio 

Photographer: Jodie Hutchinson.