‘Ménage à Trois‘ was my first experience of vaudeville cabaret in Melbourne and it will not be my last. Performed at the extravagant yet intimate Speakeasy HQ on Flinders Street, I felt like I was becoming part of the set for the movie Cabaret.
The Friday night shows have 22 acts in total spread out with lots of breaks to stock up on the beer bare necessities: food and drinks. The breaks gave my friend and I the chance to start planning our future careers as cabaret dancers. On Saturday nights, there are about 30 acts!
Roy Maloy is the quirky off-colour host and venue owner. He was outrageously funny and excellent at introducing the performers.
The highlight of the evening was the main act, produced by Isabella Octigan. The theme was ‘Ménage à Trois’ featuring Ira Luxuria, Izzy Bellissima, Aurora Flair, and Shamita Sivabalan. Fetish, form and flames were the topics du jour and these ladies provided the goods! They entertained us with fire hooping (yes fire balls on hoops!), Egyptian strip teases, seductive solo singing, and chair dances.
From my seats, I was witness to all the burlesque charms of Speakeasy HQ. From the staircase to the showcase in front of me everything was lavish. However, VIP tables at the front are available for purchase at an extra cost if you want to get closer to the action.
Speakeasy HQ is best enjoyed with drinks and the sweet treats that the candy girls provide, so do not drive to this performance.
‘Ménage à Trois’ is the date night that everyone should experience, with the possibility of you or your partner being brought on stage to assist with the burlesque strip tease.
– Amber
Amber B. is a freelance stage manager who is excited to keep you up to date with Melbourne’s best theatre.
‘Ménage à Trois’ ran Friday nights from 14–28 April at Speakeasy HQ, Flinders Street, Melbourne.
Lucky for you, ‘Ménage à Trois’ is heading to The Vault Melbourne on Fridays from 5–26 May 2017, 8pm for an extended season! Purchase tickets now. This is an over 18 event.
The venue is not accessible.
