Cabaret Fringe

Cabaret Fringe Review: Gay Bingo!

It’s a win-win night because even those who don’t shout BINGO! get the prize of simply being there

It’s a win-win night because even those who don’t shout BINGO! get the prize of simply being there
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Presented by: GayBingoSA

Reviewed: 26 May, 2024

Make no mistake – I’d go straight for Lori Bell. Unfortunately, it’s not reciprocated. Adelaide’s funniest comedian (in my opinion) is an out and proud dyke whose wicked tongue wins me over every time. 

When you add Lori Bell’s sharp comedy to the snappy wit of Margie Fischer, matriarch of Adelaide’s LGBTQI+ community, you have a winning combination of hosts.

This marvellous duo sets the scene for Gay Bingo, held every Sunday evening at Mylk Bar in the city. They’re joined by the dubiously named Bingo Daddy Ben whose slide show takes button pushing to new and entertaining heights.

For the Cabaret Fringe, they’re performing two special editions of Gay Bingo, although it’s not so obvious what makes these nights different. There’s no cabaret slant to the wit or the games, other than some sweet lip syncing by bearded drag queen Crème De Peche, who also spins the fab wheel of fortune. Presumably, that’s part of the event each week though.

The casual evening comprises five rounds of bingo, separated by rounds of trivia and other games. Money raised goes to the Queer Youth Drop-in that provides vital services and support to LGBTIQ+ identifying young people, who are five times more likely to attempt suicide according to Suicide Prevention Australia.

For regular punters, the night is filled with call outs and dance moves triggered by certain numbers, while for newcomers, it can be hysterically funny getting lost amongst the sudden burst of motion or shouting until you find yourself cottoning on and joining in. With all the banter, the numbers aren’t called out too fast either, so bingo virgins won’t feel the sting of going at it too hard.

But what makes Gay Bingo gay? It’s not the crowd, because there’s a few straight allies (or Bingo junkies) there too. It’s the Caller’s callouts, the raunchy repartee, the sometimes-pornographic prizes, and the comfy crowd that feels more like a welcoming community of friends, especially to newcomers.

The entire, crazy night is enveloped by the warm vibe of the Mylk Bar, a popular café on Flinders Street that offers quality meals, a bar, and staff who have always been top-notch with their service. Try the nachos!

As a weekly event, Gay Bingo is open to everyone throughout most of the year. So long as you’re over 18 and open to a bit of oral titillation, this crew has your number.

Reviewed by Rod Lewis

Venue: Mylk Bar, 57 Flinders Street, Adelaide
Season: Every Sunday at 6pm
Duration: 3 hours
Tickets: $10/$15, plus additional games and draws available
Bookings: GayBingoSA

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