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Sinsuality is a cult classic. This is undeniable, judging by the throngs of people waiting to enter the Lotterywest De Parel Spiegeltent.
This Fringe staple by powerhouses Barbie Q and Kinetica Circus sells out without any help from reviewers like us. It’s in its eleven season and has cemented itself as the big kahunas of spicy cabaret, drag and acrobatic prowess.
With this year’s theme being “The Original Sin”, the audience knew that the crew were going to go wild, ramping up the spiciness.
And ramp it up they did.
There were references to Adam and Eve (and Steve and Dolores) galore thanks to the impeccable MCing by Barbie Q. There’s a reason why she’s the best in the business, and why she’s been in business for so long.
It was a night of debauchery entertwined with outrageous acrobatics, slick choreography and sensory simulation.
The audience was also introduced to three new aerial props – a net, a martini glass shaped steel frame and a spiral pole.
I had seen the net used in a children’s show but not to its full potential as it was used as a comedic vehicle rather than an acrobatic apparatus. So when I first saw the net, I was indifferent. However, Sarah from Kinetica quickly dispelled that with the splits, tricks and drops that were up her sleeves.
If I had to name an iconic act for this show, it would have to be Polekadot Ruby’s aerial spiral. Adorned with twisty vines, it was the perfect fit for a garden of Eden inspired routine.
I was mesmerised by the sultry Ruby, as she slinked her way up the spiral. Add the magnetic effect of the coil spinning and you’ve got an act you can’t tear your eyes away from.
This was my first time seeing Ruby live and I immediately understood why she is so revered in the pole community.
It’s not uncommon for masters of their craft to bask in their comfort zones. They know their followers will love them, regardless, because they are THAT good.
However, for a master artist to continue adding to their repertoire even at their peak… that’s an artist worth worshipping.
Sinsuality was also a masterclass in floorcraft. The artists made full use of the space, even invading the audience which made the experience feel even more immersive.
This was especially effective for Sugar Du Joure’s heist routine.
When I first watched Sugar years ago, I have admit, I wasn’t particularly drawn to her. This had nothing to do with her ability, it was just personal preference, for want of a better term. However, after more exposure to 2025’s Mx Burlesque Masters Champion, I can say that she’s someone I look forward to watching when I see her in a cast list.
Her act in Sinsuality reminded me why she’s managed to pull me in. It was bold, loud and funny. The audience alternated between cat calls and unbridled laughter as she raced around the spiegeltent.
Between her act and cheering on all the other acts in the show, I left the spiegeltent sounding a little hoarse and husky.
If you have yet to pop your Sinsuality cherry, this is certainly a good year to do so. Just bring the lozenges for post-show recovery.