A Very Naughty Christmas
Get ready for an unapologetically festive Christmas show, although ‘A Very Naughty Christmas’ is not your average holiday Christmas show. This cabaret extravaganza makes its debut here in the UK celebrating its eighth year in Australia. It takes everything you think you know about Christmas and turns it on its head with a playful, seductive twist. Believe me, this show is not to be missed.
From the moment the lights dim, the crude chaos starts. You are greeted by a cast of sparkling performers who deliver everything from sultry dances to comedic acts. Stephen Hurst (Bad Santa) is 'F’ing' and 'Blinding' from the beginning in a hilarious opening and Bad Santa makes multiple appearances throughout the production. Hurst is amazing at this role, although younger and dare I say hotter than the image of Santa we have been conditioned to, he is quick-witted and fun with a bad boy edge. You can tell he is comfortable in the limelight and comes to his own with the ad-libs and audience participation.
Fresh-faced and playful Shay Debney and cheeky sex-crazed Alexia Brinsley make the perfect Elves. They have great chemistry and are the perfect assistants to Santa. Kirby Burgess gives attitude as she sashays around the stage; drink in one hand and microphone in the other, vocals for days! Rebecca Rolle looks incredible in the perfect sparkly two piece with suspenders giving us a fun version of the popular classic ‘I touch my.. Elf.’ Jack Lark serenades us with a strip tease but no one is ready for the twist, with dancers and general all-rounders Rachel Macdougall and Christ O’Mara bringing to life the upbeat and saucy choreography. Honestly, the show is well-cast and so strong.
The show’s tone is perfect for those looking for a bit of risqué fun, think Santa’s sleigh, but with more sarcasm and sass. The dancers shimmy in glittering outfits that leave little to the imagination, before being removed altogether, while the singers belt out holiday classics with alternate dirty lyrics with an added edge. You’ll hear “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” and “Jingle Bells” like you’ve never heard before, sexy, daring, and full of wink-and-nod humor. The vocals are insane and the harmonies are tighter than the costumes, which I didn’t think was possible.
What sets this show apart is its clever blend of camp and talent. The witty dialogue keeps the audience on their toes, with plenty of light-hearted jokes that poke fun at the more traditional festive sentiments. Alex Woodward and Dan Venz have created an absolute masterpiece. There are so many standout moments, I just don’t want to give anything away. Wherever you are sitting you will feel involved in the evening’s mischief, absolutely no one is safe. The balance between naughty and nice is struck perfectly, there’s a sense of fun and as the action tips into vulgarity, it’s funny to see other audience member’s reactions as they pick their jaws up off the floor. More is more and I am here for it!.
The stage is decked out in shimmering holiday décor, with just enough sparkle to make it feel magical, without overshadowing the edgy performances. The lighting and music are also spot on, setting the mood for each act and seamlessly transitioning between sultry numbers and slapstick comedy.
That said, this isn’t a show for kids. It’s an adults-only affair, brimming with innuendo and risqué jokes, making it the perfect option for a night out with friends, work's Christmas party or a cheeky date, if you're looking to add some spice to your holiday season.
In short, ‘A Very Naughty Christmas’ delivers on its promise of mischief and mirth, giving the season’s usual sparkle a whole new layer of excitement. It’s cheeky, it’s fun, and it’s exactly the kind of grown-up entertainment that’s bound to become a yearly tradition for many.
Dress up, drink up, and get those tickets before it is all booked up!
This show was reviewed on the 3rd December 2024 at Southwark Playhouse Elephant, London where it runs until the 11th January 2025. Tickets available here: A Very Naughty Christmas - Southwark Playhouse
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