Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Sunday 16 March 2025, Gluttony, Adelaide, South Australia
A Cabaret of Wit and Wonder
Jens Radda’s Skank Sinatra is a dazzling and debaucherous ride through music, comedy, and storytelling, delivering an electrifying blend of charisma, camp, and sheer vocal prowess. This show, which has made waves in the cabaret circuit, offers a fresh and fabulous take on the art of storytelling through song, with Radda proving to be an unstoppable force of entertainment.
A Theatrical Cocktail of Elegance and Chaos
The minute Radda steps onto the stage with over the top blonde hairs and immaculate beaten face, there is an undeniable presence in a large pussy bow – equal parts sultry, sassy, and sophisticated. Channeling the timeless charm of Frank Sinatra, and a nod to Nancy, while injecting a modern, delightfully irreverent twist, Skank Sinatra is both a homage and a rebellious reimagining. And I personally couldn’t get enough, due to be raised on the Sinatra songbook thanks to my father.
Dressed to impress and armed with a voice that oscillates between silky smooth crooning and powerhouse belting, Radda effortlessly guides the audience through a night of jazz-infused storytelling. Whether cracking jokes about love and heartbreak or diving deep into personal anecdotes of triumph and disaster, the performance is a seamless mix of laughter and reflection.
Vocals That Mesmerize, Comedy That Hits
At the heart of Skank Sinatra is Radda’s remarkable vocal ability. Whether belting out a show-stopping number or delivering a more intimate, emotive performance, the vocals never falter. The setlist is a clever mix of jazz, blues, and cabaret standards, with arrangements that allow Radda to truly shine.
But this isn’t just a music performance – it’s a comedic tour de force. Radda’s humour is razor-sharp, winking, unapologetically cheeky, and delightfully self-aware. From wry observations about modern romance to playful jabs at societal expectations, the audience is in stitches one moment and swooning the next.
One of the highlights of the show is the way Radda weaves personal experiences into the performance. The storytelling is raw, honest, and tinged with just the right amount of camp to keep things from ever feeling too heavy. It’s this balance that makes Skank Sinatra so captivating – it’s a show that feels both deeply personal and wildly entertaining.
My Way, New York New York, I’ve Got The World On A String, they all got a good solid look in. And they hit the mark – EVERY.SINGLE.TIME. Credit to you my dear Jens.
Critics and Audiences Are Raving
The response to Skank Sinatra has been overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising Radda’s ability to connect with the audience and command the stage. Some have said… “a show-stopper that will leave your sides aching and your heart content,” emphasizing the perfect blend of humor, vocal talent, and personal storytelling. While others described Radda as someone who “won the hearts of the audience with not only their quick-witted dialogue and sultry voice but their radiant presence,” solidifying the show’s reputation as a must-see in the cabaret scene.
Audiences have been just as enamoured, with many describing Skank Sinatra as a “fever dream of fabulousness” and “a cabaret experience that lingers long after the final bow.”
The performance I experienced was NO exception. Radda is radiant, inside and out.
Final Verdict: A Must-See Cabaret Experience
Jens Radda’s Skank Sinatra is cabaret at its finest – bold, brilliant, and brimming with personality. With a voice that captivates, a wit that stings in the best way, and a stage presence that demands attention, Radda delivers an unforgettable performance. A cabaret aficionado or just someone looking for a wildly entertaining night out, Skank Sinatra is a show not to be missed next time it’s in town.
If you get the chance to see Skank Sinatra, grab a ticket, dress to impress, and prepare for a night of glamour, giggles, and gorgeously good music. Jens Radda is a star, and this show proves why. Jump on board.
