There’s definitely something in the water in Brisbane, but it’s far from the wholesome sunset cruise onlookers might expect.
Anyone familiar with Brisbane’s Briefs Factory will know that this award-winning collective of creatives isn’t afraid to have fun while getting flirty (and a little bit dirty). Their latest venture takes it up a notch with a bold blend of circus, drag, burlesque and theatrical mischief – all set aboard a 400-person boat.
Warning: wear your dancing shoes because when I boarded ten minutes before departure, there wasn’t a spare seat in sight. And while seating was scarce, the vibe was anything but, with fellow guests sprawled across all three levels of the reimagined Art Boat.
Docked at Clem Jones Promenade in South Bank, the vessel has been decked out with fluoro, patterned tentacles, dreamt up by multi-award-winning designer Josh McIntosh. A shimmering gold backdrop behind the DJ gave me major flashbacks to year six school discos and the unmistakable pink Brisbane Festival logo slapped on top reminded me exactly why I was there.
So, onto the show – or the “immersive experience,” as our dazzling host, Samoan drag artist Fez Faanana described it. It's showtime from the moment our boat departs the pontoon, with a sequin-splashed runway number setting the vibe for the night. Each glittery, neon outfit has been designed by resident burlesque queen, Diesel Darling, using upcycled clothing. The result? Sequins, sparkles and absolute slay – plus, some rather random starfish suits about 60 minutes in.
Between DJ sets – courtesy of First Nations DJ Candy Suite – the stage is ignited with a cheeky hula hoop number by Mark ‘Captain Kidd’ Winmill, a risque Cyr wheel performance by Brett Rosengreen, and a showstopping acrobatic dance number by this weekend's superstar guest Enter Serenity. The maritime madness is dialled up with a Macarena dance-off (note: guest participation is encouraged) and a conga line down the catwalk. It’s all a bit much for a pre-dinner cruise, but getting to watch the sunset over the city skyline and the mighty Brisbane River made the earlier session worth it. The 7pm and 9pm cruises are a good shout for those looking to get a little more loose.
The Art Boat sets sail from Clem Jones Promenade in South Bank, with multiple voyages available from Thursday and Sunday between August 30 and September 21. You can kickstart the weekend on a Friday knock-off cruise, get all glam with a late-night Saturday sail, or enjoy a balmy weekend matinee cruise with the little ones.
Beyond the DJ sets, drinks and drag, this wonderfully queer experience unites people from all walks of life in a dazzling celebration of happiness and humanity. You can find out more on the Brisbane Festival website here.