Diva Dive | Finucane and Smith
Diva Dive is an intoxicating, witty, and dangerously sexy round-the-world journey that packs a real sequin-spangled punch.
This is a variety show with a travelling circus feel to it, its numerous stunning acts from around the world sewn together by MC Moira, some kind of vampiric love goddess. She carried us through a host of dazzling dances, spine-tinglingly beautiful singing, trapeze, burlesque, boylesque, physical comedy and all manner of gender-defying feats. The show gave off some strong Rocky Horror Picture Show vibes - equal parts tantalising and downright hilarious. The performers were all incredibly charismatic and virtuosic in their crafts - it’s easy to see how Diva Dive has sold out venues the world over.
The night had a nice flow to it and each artist had multiple acts, giving them all a chance to show off their diverse and very impressive talents. The space was well used, with the audience never quite knowing where the next performer would come from, or which of us they would single out next. The element of surprise was well used throughout. Standout parts for me were the masterfully executed Dad-lesque act that had me and most of the audience in stitches, and the similarly amusing La Vie En Rose strip tease that inspired a mix of admiration, discomfort, intrigue, and nervous laughter from all corners of the room.
And oh my, the costume design was incredible. Amongst spangly bodysuits with sequins up to their eyeballs, flowing gowns, billowing sleeves, sheer numbers, frills, pleats and fishnets, the cast were dressed (and undressed) to the nines.
This show really struck me as a celebration of the body in all its beauty and seductiveness, in all its queerness and versatility; The body as a musical instrument, the body as a vessel of expression, connection, love, art, sequins, and freedom.
Diva Dive carries all the chaos and joy of any good circus show, and left me feeling like I’d stumbled down a dark alleyway late at night and been whisked away by the local travelling circus to a place I could never have imagined was real.
