Scandal at Viva Melbourne is the rare late-night cabaret show that’s worth leaving the house for. By 10pm I’m usually in my pyjamas wondering whether one more episode of Netflix is a better idea, not heading out in heels. But for this North Melbourne spectacle, I’d happily stay up all night to see it again.
Walking in, I’ll admit I’m sceptical. The lobby bar feels surprisingly subdued and I’m quietly wondering whether we’ve booked the wrong show. Then it’s time to head into the main event.
Showtime
Within seconds, the room explodes with music, powerhouse vocals, incredible choreography and enough charisma to make it impossible to know where to look. My friend and I keep glancing at each other, almost pinching ourselves to make sure what we’re watching is actually real. One minute performers are dropping from the ceiling, the next they’re bending into positions more flexible than my daughters’ Barbie dolls. It’s jaw-dropping and impossible to look away. Every time I think I’ve seen the best act, another somehow tops it.
I glance around expecting at least one distracted face. Nothing. Not even someone secretly checking the World Cup score. Every pair of eyes is completely captivated.
The cocktail list is almost as entertaining as the show itself. With names like Wig Snatch, Pale Moon and Scandal, choosing what to order is half the fun. I settle on a spicy margarita, although in hindsight I probably could have done with a Rich Girl… or perhaps a Candyman.
More Than Just Cabaret
If you’re expecting nothing more than a risqué cabaret, think again. Yes, it’s bold. Yes, there’s plenty of skin. But what stays with you isn’t the nudity. It’s the extraordinary talent.
These performers sing, tumble and soar through the air with breathtaking precision. The flexibility alone makes every Pilates class I’ve ever proudly attended feel completely amateur. The entire spectacle is like Great Gatsby meets Moulin Rouge meets Fifty Shades of Grey. Glamorous, theatrical, seductive and outrageously entertaining. And before long, my spicy marg sits untouched because I genuinely don’t want to miss a second.
One Last Dance
Just when you think the night couldn’t get any better, the performers invite the audience onto the stage. Within minutes, complete strangers are dancing together like old friends. Nobody cares whether they’ve got rhythm. Everyone is laughing, clapping and completely caught up in the moment.
It’s rare to find a show that brings an entire room together like this. By the end of the night, strangers are laughing hysterically together as though they’ve known each other for years. I arrived wondering whether a 10pm show was really worth the effort. I left vowing to stay up past my bedtime more often.
What We’re Addicted To Laughing until your cheeks hurt, forgetting what time it is and dancing with complete strangers.
What We Need to Be More Addicted To Midnight snacks without the calories.
VIVA Melbourne – Level 2, 64-90 Sutton Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
- Lobby Bar: From 6.00pm
- Society: Doors 7.00pm. Show 7.30pm
- Scandal (18+): Doors 10.00pm. Show 10.30pm
Food & Drinks: Creative cocktails, champagne, wine, beer and an à la carte dining menu are available before and during the show.
Bookings: https://vivamelbourne.com.au