Drawing inspiration from the title of his show, Jens Radda certainly succeeds in show business and manages to make it look mostly effortless. Performing as his drag alter-ego Skank Sinatra, the multi-lingual Radda delivers a masterclass in show business. The lessons are simple – be the director, diversify your portfolio, and always read the script before making any commitments.
This is a new show from Radda, meaning that there are a few rough edges, however he more than makes up for this with his stage presence. Mixing crowd work with comedy and song, the show tells his story as a boy growing up in South Africa who had one very important ambition – to play Eva Peron. The songs are a clever mix of original music and arrangements of familiar musical classics, with the edited lyrics covering everything from political commentary to career defining decisions. The style is reminiscent of Reuben Kaye, dramatic yet filthy in equal measure, with a penchant for a batted lash. Radda sings in both Danish and Afrikaans and switches costumes several times in the hour-long show, covering any awkward pauses by having a quick pep talk with Liza Minelli.
He is clearly an experienced performer, working as an actor, writer and producer outside drag. While this show needs just a little more polish in places, an evening with Skank Sinatra is definitely worth your time.
Skank Sinatra: How to Succeed in Show Business Without Really Trying runs until 30th August (not 18th or 24th) at Underground at Assembly George Square Studios, with tickets available at www.assemblyfestival.com
Reviewer: Torya Hughes
Reviewed: 9th August 2026
North West End UK / Theatre Muse UK Rating: 4