Whoop Dee Doo! Life’s rough out there and sometimes we all need a treat – like immersing ourselves in a fantasy world of music, glitter, and nipple tassels.
The Whoop Dee Doo revue takes over the North Melbourne VIVA cabaret stage once a month to stage a double-bill of burlesque. The 7pm show whisks audiences away to a bygone era, with a live jazz band performing onstage alongside the burlesque dancers. Whilst the 10pm performance showcases wild, weird, and wonderful routines.
My plus one and I had such a good time reviewing the Whoop Dee Doo Revue late show, we returned the following month to check out the early 7pm session. Sparkling greeters set the scene, welcoming us at the door and the warm audience was full of friendly faces.
The curated line-up of performers channel the golden age of burlesque with big hair, long lashes, rhinestones, costume jewelry, and a whole lotta bump n grind. The early show showcases the performers’ mastery of classic burlesque craft. Think fan dances and theatrically peeling off elbow-length gloves. To top it off, every dance number was accompanied by a live jazz band, and some featured a bedazzled songstress as well. 
It’s a tantalizing visual feast, in a purpose-built theatre. Audiences are seated around the stage in red fabric booths and scantily clad wait staff deliver martinis directly to the tables.
The show is thoroughly enjoyable. Though tickets are pricey. It’s the sort of night suited to a special celebration (there were no fewer than three birthdays in the audience on the night we attended.)
I’m all about gift-giving experiences. So the next time you’re looking to create new memories with a loved one, why not bond with them over cocktails and the art of striptease.
– Jenny
Jenny S. is an event adventurer. When she’s not attending live shows, you can find her sampling the latest craft beer or sipping a creative cocktail.
Whoop Dee Doo Revue runs 27 March and 26 April, with additional dates to be announced.
VIVA Melbourne, 64-90 Sutton St, North Melbourne. Book tickets now for the early show, late show, or make it a double feature!
