Feminist Trash review (Melbourne International Comedy Festival)

Nicola Pohl, Tessa Luminati, and Stephanie Beza are highly trained thespians. Artists who take their craft VERY seriously. That is, until they unleash Feminist Trash, their latest show of epic proportions. Is it a musical? Circus? A magic show? Who cares! Just sit back and let these Sugar Bits take you on a hilariously wild ride through feminism in all its messy, marvellous glory.

What truly sets this trio apart is their undeniable chemistry. They don’t just perform together but they revel in each other’s presence. Their comedic timing is razor-sharp, matched only by their instinct for what makes an audience erupt with laughter. That playfulness extends beyond the stage, with quick, effortless interactions that pull the crowd into their world without ever making anyone feel on the spot.

Through a series of absurd, high-energy sketches, they dissect different facets of feminism and womanhood. From a witch trial that is so ridiculous they’d make Monty Python proud, to a scene where children quite literally suck the soul out of their mother, Feminist Trash isn’t afraid to get weird and that’s exactly why it works.

There’s a strong focus on catchy musical numbers, and count yourself lucky (or maybe unlucky) if you don’t get an earworm after hearing the song about the moment feminism left their body. These sketches make pointed remarks on how women and their bodies are viewed, with none more hilarious and powerful than a song on abortion, performed by a podcaster, a politician, a pastor's daughter, and special guest, a brick. Did I mention this is a weird show?

And then there’s the musical number in a urinal, an inspired takedown of masculinity and bro culture. A re-visit from their previous show, Hit n Hope: A Character Cabaret, this golden sketch is just as hilarious the second time around. Some jokes don’t need to be flushed away.

Sugar Bits may call themselves feminist trash, but the old saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” rings 100% true here. The irony of that expression is definitely not lost. If you’re smart, you’ll go experience the treasure of Feminist Trash for yourself.

SHOW DETAILS

Venue: The Motley Bauhaus, 118 Elgin St, Carlton
Season: until Sunday 6 April | 8.20pm (except Monday 1 April)
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $29 Full | $25 Conc
Bookings: Melbourne International Comedy Festival