If Shirley Bassey and Liza Minnelli had a love child, Will Skarpona might well be the result. With a flair for theatricality and an appreciation for the larger-than-life personalities who have shaped popular music, Skarpona brings a distinctly camp sensibility to Big Diva Energy, a musical cabaret exploring identity, self-expression and the enduring appeal of the diva.
Created and performed by Skarpona, with direction by Melbourne Fringe Living Legend Maude Davey and musical direction by James Frampton, the show draws on a repertoire spanning several generations of pop and musical theatre. From Madonna and Diana Ross to Lady Gaga, Chappell Roan and Cher, the selections celebrate performers who have made individuality, reinvention and commanding the spotlight central to their appeal.
Pink’s Get the Party Started establishes the tone, with Skarpona moving between familiar hits, theatrical showstoppers and contemporary pop selections. Liza Minnelli’s Sara Lee, Shirley Bassey’s Nobody Does It Like Me and Barbra Streisand’s I’m the Greatest Star provide opportunities to explore the art of the diva, while Madonna’s Material Girl and Lady Gaga’s Applause offer a knowing nod to the artifice and ambition of pop stardom.
The repertoire has its surprises, too. The Joker, from Kath & Kim, introduces a distinctly Australian note of humour, while Raye’s Where Is My Husband and Chappell Roan’s Good Luck, Babe! bring a contemporary perspective. Diana Ross’s I’m Coming Out resonates particularly well with the show’s broader themes of authenticity and the freedom to define oneself.
Between the musical numbers, Skarpona shares personal reflections and confessions that offer insight into the person behind the performance. These moments add depth, balancing the camp humour and theatrical flourishes with questions about conformity, acceptance and the sometimes difficult process of finding one’s place.
Davey’s direction gives Skarpona room to develop his performance, while Frampton’s musical direction supports the varied repertoire. Skarpona is at ease with the material, bringing personality and an evident enthusiasm to a collection of songs that rewards both vocal ambition and a willingness to embrace the theatrical.
Cher’s Believe, delivered as an encore, brings the evening to a fitting conclusion, reinforcing the show’s themes of resilience and self-belief. With its playful celebration of diva culture and a performer increasingly comfortable in the spotlight, Big Diva Energy captures the spirit of fringe cabaret. Skarpona has an engaging stage presence and a distinctive style, making him a performer worth watching.
Big Diva Energy
Victorian Pride centre, Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
Performance: Saturday 17 October 2026
Season: 14 – 17 October 2026
Information: www.melbournefringe.com.au
Image: Will Skarpona (supplied)
Review: Rohan Shearn