Cab Suave Review – By Jake Freeman
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has returned and is in full swing. Each year more than 300 shows are held, ranging from newcomers in their debut gig to international acts like Arj Barker.
A glance at the website’s comedy guide and you will find something for everyone.
Take Cab Suave by Sparkle Society for example. Now showing for a limited time under the Big Top at Reunion Park, this part cabaret, part calisthenics, part circus show in a film noir style, is worth the watch. The show stars four femme fatales played by Latonya Wigginton, Abby Kelso, Laney Mejias, Winter Chapman and an undercover PI and narrator, Dick Johnson played by Jack Wilde who’s trying to uncover dirt on their establishment through song and dance and burlesque.
From beginning to end, this was a flawless showstopper of a performance. Never was there a dull moment throughout the 50-minute performance that went by quickly. It was fun and high energy, filled with dazzling circus stunts and acrobatics to mesmerizing hula hoops tricks, aerial manoeuvres, juggling, fire eating, fancy costumes, and amazing singing by the cast. Throughout the night, audiences watched with excitement with their phones in the air, filming and live streaming the show as it unfolded. What made the show also look great was the timing and deadly precision for every move that was perfected by the group and scene change, complemented with the lighting setup, reminiscent of that of a David Copperfield magic show. Each cast member was very talented and multiskilled and could easily be the star of their own solo show. The group received a standing ovation from the crowd who had braved the cold and windy Melbourne night to attend.
The Sparkle Society was founded in 2019 by circus performers and long-time friends Latonya Wigginton and Abby Kelso with the goal of not only entertaining but to having a stronger representation of LGBTQIA+ performers in mainstream settings and helping create opportunities for queer artists.
Cab Suave began touring in January 2022. The show has been already a hit, travelling to various other festivals around Australia, receiving high praise and sold-out shows.
Cab Suave is made for adults but fun for all ages 12 and up and will have you on the edge of your seat under the Big Top at Reunion Park.
This show contains: haze, some mild language and adult humour.
For more information please visit https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/2022/shows/cab-suave
