Review: A Very Naughty Christmas (Southwark Playhouse Elephant)

Review by Izzy Tierney

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The arrival of December brings good tidings to many people: Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé can start their yearly defrosting, Die Hard fans can yell “Die Hard is a Christmas film!” at strangers in the street, and anyone exasperated with politicians (so literally everybody) can switch on Love Actually and spend two hours blissfully pretending that Hugh Grant is the Prime Minister. The downside to December though, is that no matter how much mulled wine you chug, it's still bloody freezing and miserable outside. Luckily for you, I've found something that will get you hotter than any fireplace or heated argument with an unliked relative ever could, and it's coming to satisfy you from down under...

That's right, Australia's searing hot, strictly adult-only A Very Naughty Christmas is sleigh riding into London! Alex Woodward and Daniel Venz’ scandalous Christmas creation has cemented itself as a festive favourite in Australia over the last eight years, and this year, London gets the pleasure of experiencing their sexy, laugh-out-loud Christmas extravaganza.

This ninety-minute compelling mix of comedy skits, song parodies, dance routines, storytelling and burlesque is faultlessly written, choreographed and performed in what I can only describe as a scintillating success. Emily Kristopher, Matt Semple and Stephen Hirst's writing is incredibly well paced, brilliantly funny and full of wit; perfectly combining Christmas with sexual innuendos, nudity puns and political commentary into cleverly comedic scripts and song lyrics. A personal favourite is the song ‘Santa loves you less because you're poor’ in which the hilarious lyrics paired with the exaggerated sincerity of the performers and Joseph Edward Thomas’ poignant deep blue lighting had the audience belly laughing.

Every part of the show is complemented by Daniel Venz’ expert direction and riveting choreography that ensures all eyes remain transfixed on the stage and the stunning cast who are gracing it. Each person flaunts some gorgeous looks thanks to Ceci Calf's striking costumes. Full of different colours, textures and shapes, they make for a consistent visual treat whether the performers are fully clothed or scantily clad. I can confidently say that unless you're painfully adverse to audience participation, this show should definitely have something (or someone...) to your fancy.

The cast consists of Alexia Brinsley, Chris O’Mara, Jack Lark, Kirby Burgess, Rachel MacDougall, Rebecca Rolle, Shay Debney and Stephen Hirst, with the synopsis describing them as ‘eight above average performers’ which might just be the biggest understatement of the century. The talent amongst them is extraordinary - effortless dancing, breathtaking vocals and impeccable comedic timing to name but a few. The chemistry and trust between the cast is integral to the show and never falters, extending to the audience where the interactions and moments of improvisations never feel forced. Stephen Hirst is a fantastic host as Bad Santa who immediately engages the audience with his outrageous, sweary self, before rudely introducing each actor and the fantastic band, Jo King and Lisa Martin (my favourite introduction being “HE abused the Priest!”). The stand out performance of the night though is Kirby Burgess, who with her exceptionally beautiful voice and electrifying charisma, is simply enchanting every time she steps foot on the stage.

I loved every minute of my Aussie Christmas experience and would be more than happy to go again before it closes - I'm already hoping that we get more of A Very Naughty Christmas in London next year! If you're looking for a Christmas show with variety, more spice than your favourite mulled wine and that exists purely to be some frivolous, fun escapism, I guarantee this will jingle your bells, stuff your stockings and leave your jaw aching from laughter.

A Very Naughty Christmas plays at Southwark Playhouse Elephant until January 11th 2025

For tickets and information visit https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/a-very-naughty-christmas/