Part cabaret, part self-help seminar and a whole lot of hilarious, Yana Alana’s latest show is sure to put her back on the map as one of Australia’s best cabaret stars. Having presented this show previously for the Midsumma Festival, this is somewhat of a return season, yet still feels as fresh as it did six months ago.
This hour and a half of joy is the creation of the warped mind of Sarah Ward. Resplendent in nothing but blue body paint, Yana certainly gets the attention of the crowd from the very beginning. Obviously comfortable in her own skin, Ward’s character is bawdy, politically incorrect, dirty and downright fun. Yana allows Ward and her audience the opportunity to feel that it’s ok to open oneself up to complete self-expression.
Yana’s latest book, entitled Go Fuck Yourself by Yana Alana, forms the basis of the self help send ups. With songs as broad as the humour, there is a palpable energy between performer and audience, sustained throughout the evening. Ward’s ability to command attention with just a gesture or a facial expression is a rare gift. Her dance moves draw many giggles from the crowd.
Not only is Ward a writer of great jokes, but she also is a talented musician, and responsible for the variety of songs heard throughout the night. With music ranging from the hilarious to the heart-wrenching, she lacks no opportunity to display her musical talents and powerhouse vocals.
All of her former backing band, the Paranas, have left, bar one – who is her accompanist. It provides a great excuse for some Yana-style abusive banter, all of which is hilarious, and which also leads to some (un)welcome audience participation.
If you’ve never seen Yana Alana in the flesh (pardon the pun) or even if you are a return punter, the show is best enjoyed with an extremely open mind. It is not for the faint of heart and could potentially cause offence – but Yana doesn’t care. As the disclaimer at the entrance to the performance space reads: ‘If swearing offends you, go fuck yourself’.
Rating: 4 ½ stars out of 5
Yana Alana presents Between the Cracks
Directed by Anni Davey
fortyfivedownstairs, Melbourne
3 – 7 July
Melbourne Cabaret Festival
www.melbournecabaret.com
26 June – 7 July
