Skank Sinatra delivers a delightful musical evening of some of Sinatra’s best with a twist! A camp interpretation of famous lyrics makes for an enticing illustration of Jens Radda’s life, the difficulties of being queer, and, of course, sexual promiscuity. Radda delivers this cabaret in a refined and classy manner, embodying true classical drag. Draped in divine garments, she takes to the stage to serenade and entrance the audience with sultry, warming vocals.
Whilst her lyrics are entertaining and clever, further complex lyrics could be written to enhance the parody element of the performance. A clear distinction must be made that Skank Sinatra is Radda’s drag persona, and therefore the show is not a role play of a camp Frank Sinatra, but instead a hilarious presentation of Radda’s adventures and life experiences from across the globe.
Radda also executes some crowd work, though many did not take the bait fast enough for a solid repore to build. Nevertheless, Radda sails through, singing her hilarious renditions of ‘Come Fly with me’ and ‘Bang Bang’, and even incorporating a quick outfit change that shocks and dazzles.
Skank Sinatra is the perfect introduction to Jens Radda’s whimsical and witty nature, and is a classy evening of classical drag that leaves the audience and herself no longer strangers in the night.
Skank Sinatra is at Assembly George Square, Studio 4 Aug 13-18, 20-22.
Buy tickets here.
Image provided by Assembly Press Office.
