Reviewed by: Fringefeed
Review by Margaret Styles |
24 January 2026
Jessie Gordon and Mark Turner are well known on the Perth jazz and blues scene, and Risqué Cabaret beautifully showcases their talent. Blending original songwriting and inventive lyric twists on familiar songs, their intimate duo performance delivers a show that is both refined and playfully mischievous.
Jessie’s performance is outstanding, effortlessly shifting from sassy jazz to gentle songbird before diving into spicy Southern blues, with accent and attitude perfectly matched. Mark is a remarkably talented musician, and the way he handles a saxophone feels hypnotic. There is something undeniably seductive in his playing, owning the room from the very first note to the last.
Comedy weaves seamlessly throughout the performance, with clever innuendo and subtle adult themes. The suggestive lyric lines leave plenty to the imagination, allowing the audience to connect the dots, often earning bigger laughs than saying it outright. A standout moment of the evening is the slow tempo “Pastry Song”, performed intimately and deliberately unhurried, leaving the room hanging on every breath.
This is a slow-burn show that builds a genuine connection with the audience, leaving them wanting more. Risqué Cabaret is a must see for lovers of creative music, particularly jazz and blues enthusiasts. Make sure you catch Jessie Gordon and Mark Turner for a unique and memorable performance at FRINGE WORLD this season.