Confessions of a Drama Queen out-struts, out-shimmies and out-sings well beyond any other burlesque show.
Beneath the rhinestones, huge feathered fans and glamour is a hilarious, smart, autobiographical comedy that reveals what life as a performer is really like.
Confessions of a Drama Queen opens with a vibrant Britney Spears number, where two unassuming supporting performers (Alexis Hutchinson, Carla Field) introduce the Drama Queen herself, Megan Walshe, sharing her Catholic confessions. With live piano accompaniment (Zara Stanton), the show launches into a cheeky parody cover of a Britney Spears classic, establishing an irresistible and upbeat tone. The audience is immediately entranced.
The show is anchored by an absolutely incredible performance by Walshe, also known as Songbird Siren. Her stage name is no exaggeration – she commands the stage with her captivating presence, undeniable talent and impeccable professional training. Walshe is a true triple threat; effortlessly demonstrating her vocal prowess across a variety of genres, all while hitting both dynamic choreography and sharp comedic timing perfectly. The story is expertly structured, with moments of sincerity and authenticity cleverly interlaced with uniquely comedic situations drawn from Walshe’s own life. Classic burlesque moves are repeated and reimagined, giving the show both familiarity and freshness, without the bore of repetition.
Alongside Walshe’s fabulous performance are her fantastic ensemble of Hutchinson, Field and Jared Jekyll. Each bring unique – and particularly hilarious – supporting characters to life. Hutchinson and Field portray former strip club regulars with a whole lot of ‘character’. Their exaggerated but extremely believable portrayal of the two bald, bumbling patrons ensues comedic gold. A highlight was their parody of Agony from Into the Woods which had the audience bawling with laughter. Jekyll played a shy stagehand tasked with picking up the scattered remnants and props from striptease acts, adding a dose of situational comedy. All three performers were superb, adding another level of vibrancy and comic energy to the show.
While the sheer volume of musical numbers occasionally risks leading to lulls in the show’s pacing, Walshe and her cast’s charisma ensure the show’s pacing remains engaging. Whether it is the electric pop performances, slinky and sultry burlesque, or everything in between, the show continually delights audiences with unexpected joy. This show chronicles the sheer resilience and grit it takes to make it in the ‘biz, with generous doses of comedy leaving the audience in stitches and rooting for the star.
Confessions of a Drama Queen is a heartfelt, high-heeled celebration of Walshe’s rich experience in the performing arts. With her powerhouse performance at the centre and a stellar supporting cast alongside her, the show is both hilarious and unexpectedly moving. Unapologetic and uncompromising, Walshe shares her story of resilience and self-expression in a production bursting with wit, warmth and theatrical flair. This gem is highly recommended for all audiences seeking something unique, fun and fabulously bold.
