A bump n’ grind bassline signals the start of a Britney Spears medley and everyone is unsure whether to laugh. The inaugural Keep Your Skirt On is a comedy night, but most of the crowd secretly loves a bit of Britney and no amount of ironic smiling could hide it. The tribute trio Toxic was the first of fourteen acts on a successful night brought to us by the Skirt Network and hosted by the devilish and dashing Celia Pacquola and Oliver Clark.

Remember the Andrews Sisters? No? The Curly Wurly ad girls? Doesn’t matter – the World War Wonderful sisters’ songs stand alone. With snappy writing and crisp choreography, Karin Muiznieks has taken the confusing contradiction of being anti-war while still supporting our soldiers and sent it straight to the frontline with this twist on ‘entertainin’ the troops’.

It was a strong start and soon stand up acts Claire Hooper, Deborah Frances White and two local Jeez Louise graduates, Maz & Bonnie, had all the crowd laughing except for one fellow who – during White’s spruik for her show – couldn’t quite understand what the British woman wanted out of him – or any woman, from the gauge of the audience’s groans. The show did run a little flat with Wendy Little and Emily O’Loughlin, whose yelled material is aimed at more of a middle aged crowd, but they certainly proved they could dance. Lou Sanz used music as a bluesy background to her deft storytelling and her guitaist accompaniment added a fun dynamic as she talked about him like he was a handsome handbag as he remained blissfully unaware.

With everyone excited by the promised international special guest, Alison Bice put a stop to any impatience with a delightfully direct style that stood her out on this eclectic night. The night was perfectly concluded by the cheek and charm of Nina Conti, who provided the only male voice other than Oliver’s, and seemingly cannot put a hand wrong.

It cost $20. Bargain.

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