Little Death Club - An Entertaining and Shocking Night Out

The words “Punk Rock Cabaret” never really sounded like they belonged together in a sentence, in my opinion. But sure enough Bernie Dieter has created just that, and it’s stranger and more intriguing than you could possibly even imagine.

Little Death Club is the Weimar-inspired cabaret event which features an evening of music, alcohol and sexual fantasy. It is comprised of circus and comedy acts accompanied by Bernie’s own music.

When the show first started, I really questioned what I had let myself in for. Audience participation was required within the first couple of minutes and I began to wonder if it was too late to sneak out. However, Bernie has an amusing way of putting people at ease, and it’s safe to say I’m very glad I didn’t run away so early.

One of my my favourite parts of the evening had to be Myra DuBois, who gave a thoroughly hilarious performance of “I Know Him So Well” from Chess. Her comedic timing was spot on and she created a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere - which was much needed after all of the other shocking parts of the show.

Its safe to say that Little Death Club is entirely unique. The use of punk-rock music combined with suggestive and explicit lyrics whilst performers both stun and scare you is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

One element which I found a little frustrating was that I felt like the show required a bit more of a narrative. There was no overall plot to the evening, although Bernie did mention towards the end of the show how her Oma’s story had inspired her to create the show. I would have loved for this to have featured more heavily, and to have learned more about Oma within the show. However, the show is marketed as a cabaret evening and so, an overall plot isn’t seen as entirely necessary, although it would have allowed the whole experience to feel more cohesive.

It should be noted that this show is not for the faint of heart. Audience participation is used throughout, as well as terrifying tricks and sights that leave little to the imagination. If you are able to stomach all of these things, then Little Death Club can be an excellent night out. However if you’re a nervous audience member, it might be worth reconsidering your visit.

One act which really stole the show for me was Beau Sargent, who performed a beautiful aerial piece whilst accompanied by Bernie’s vocals. It was an emotive and powerful moment in amongst all of the laughter and gasps and was easily my favourite part of the whole evening.

My only other issue with this production is that, being an hour long, the time flies by way too fast. At the start of the event, it was clear that the majority of the audience had felt very uncomfortable, and it took a while for everyone to settle down and actually be able to enjoy the sho properley. By the time this had happened, the show was coming to an end and no one wanted to leave! Little Death Club could easily extend its time for another hour and the audience would remain very content throughout.

Overall, Little Death Club is an unusual and remarkable experience. If you like thrills and scares combined with a punk cabaret then this is certainly the show for you! However, even if only one of those things appeals to you, I’d suggest giving LDC a try. It’s a night you’ll never forget for certain.

Star Rating: **** 4 Stars

To See or Not To See? To See (For the brave)

Little Death Club continues it’s run at Southbank’s Underbelly Festival.