After a four year hiatus, Kate McLennan and her team decided to bring back their fortnightly room The Wrong Night. Just like it’s previous incarnation, this is room in which comedians and other artistic types can indulge in edgy material that often pushes the boundaries of taste albeit now in a monthly format. These kinds of nights had only been staged as one-off events in the distant past so these regular nights are still a treat for both performers and audience alike.
This season is held on the third Tuesday of each month at The Order of Melbourne (Level 2, 401 Swanston St, Melbourne). Getting to the venue involves ascending several flights of stairs so make sure that you have had your Wheaties before you set out for a night of laughs. As the name of this venue suggests, this bar has a sophisticated private gentleman’s club décor with plenty of woodwork, exquisite pressed metal paneling and a sample of taxidermy above the bar. It is a rather large, cavernous room that gives it a grandiose atmosphere. Cabaret seating is laid out before the stage using an assortment of chairs (including some curious backless bench seating along the wall) while there is a ring of cozy booths behind the mixing desk in which to hide.
Located along the side of the room is a large bar that boasts a selection of boutique beers, a wide array of wines and spirits, and a fancy cocktail menu. Some gourmet finger food is also available for those who are peckish as well as thirsty.
Each show features a line up of about diverse six acts, as well an MC to act as comedy glue, with everything wrapping up before 11pm. All the performers relish in presenting routines of dubious taste. Disturbing dance, filthy ditties, disgusting stunts, offensive characters and various other sick ideas are some of the treats in store for those who attend. Even though the show is advertised as a night embracing and celebrating questionable taste, there is always the chance that there will be someone in the audience who can’t quite handle it all. The performers on stage, as well as the people around that punter, can take perverse delight in the reaction of these sensitive souls.
Kate and her team have once again given the Melbourne comedy scene a kick in the pants by presenting a different and challenging night. Those not wanting to run the risk of being offended need not apply. If you’re fearless comedy connoisseur, or jaded by regular stand-up rooms, The Wrong Night is worth checking out.
The next Wrong Night will be held on Tuesday 23rd of November. This month’s line up includes Randy (Heath McIvor) as MC, Wes Snelling and Cara Mitchell, Harley Breen, Justin Kennedy, Dash and D’Bree and more. The show starts at 8pm and entry is $10. Join their Facebook group to keep up to date with future line ups.