Big venue, big lights, sound, crowd… but not enough Nina!
The clues in the title of course, a genuine cabaret featuring two guest artists, and not the Full C*nti. Though someone who did avail of an All-You-Can-Eat breakfast buffet was first interloper Susie McCabe, a bonus surprise to anyone who wasn’t aware of the show’s format. Sadly (well, not that sadly as here she is alive and happily kicking) it led to a heart attack in the Bristol Hilton. As someone once said; ‘never let a crisis go to waste’ and in Susie’s hands the life-threatening incident provides much mirth. Albeit tempered if you’re from Bristol or Fife.
Prior to this was Nina’s intro routine, her scratchy simian lowering whatever tone she thought she’d established, soiling every attempt at cordiality with the audience. And those masks, hanging on the rail as a deterrent to anyone not ‘in the spirit’ to locate a seat elsewhere. Those masks… from the moment they’re applied to the volunteer, we’re giggling. And once Nina gets into her stride all control over one’s laughter reflexes evaporates.
First up is Launderette Man and never has the procedure regarding clothes refreshment been funnier. The Lawyer and Art Gallery owner were simply superb, even appearing in matching apparel. It’s at this point an element of the magician manifests itself as we’re glued to the volunteers and – unless you’re one of the notorious ‘mouth-watchers’ – barely looking at Nina.
The last couple were an IT worker and a teacher, filmed for posterity by their children. No doubt the clips will be re-shown ninety years from now to future generations.
‘I Wanna Dance With Some Body’ was an apt title for a short musical conjured by second guests The Showstoppers. Set in a Salsa school adjacent to a funeral parlour it had its moments but at others was disturbingly slick for something that was supposed to be ‘improv’. Ten more minutes of Nina and that ill-mannered monkey would’ve been preferable.
Running August 17th – 24th (no 19th) https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/nina-s-c-nti-cabaret
Reviewer: Roger Jacobs
Reviewed: 22nd August 2026
North West End UK / Theatre Muse UK Rating:
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