The Machine the Fool and Us – Featuring Steve Robinson
Appearing at The Servo Port Kembla
February 14, 2022
Heidi Hillier is not just an accomplished circus performer, an engaging illusionist, and a smouldering Burlesque artist, she is a dame determined to have fun!
Heidi has performed in the Big Tops, Tiny Tops, Sydney’s Variety circuit and on the high sea. You may have seen Heidi perform locally at the legendary Vault Cabaret or at the She’ll Be Right comedy night. You can spot her in the ABC’s Australian comedy documentary “Stop Laughing This is Serious: Too Much Variety is Barely Enough.” She “trod the boards” with glamorous burlesque performer’s at Sydney original burlesque den, 34B. Her curious claim to fame is that she was the only 2 headed hula hooper in Australia.
In 2020 Heidi received a Create NSW and MerrigongX Reboot grant to work with acclaimed magician Adam Mada (NIDA/Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Melbourne) to develop a number of magic based variety acts and incorporate costume magic into her ever growing circus and quirky comedy repertoire. He loved the work so much, he invited her to be a guest performer in his livestream show, Mada’s Marvels at the Sydney Opera House in 2020. But the opportunities to perform work are few and far between.
“Steppn’ Out” came out of the idea that it was not only performers missing their audiences, but audiences missing live performances and their community connections. With the help of a Wollongong City Council Quick response grant, Heidi and local musician Steve Robinson put her heads together to come up with an event that would be safe and sociable during this unusually anxious time. They found the ideal outdoor venue in Port Kembla – The Servo Food Truck Bar which is quirky and totally unique! Perched on top of the Hill in Wentworth Street Port Kembla, there is plenty of fresh air.
The evening is inspired by the Stepping Out” photos of the 40’s and 50’s, where photographers clicked pics of people heading out, dressing up or down, and looking carefree and happy. They are inviting you to put on your favourite threads (even if that’s hot pink velour tracky dacks), step out, catch up with friends, share some yummy food, laughs and great music. You can expect to see crazy vaudeville variety acts including whips, Hula Hoops, quirky illusions, hilarious escapes, and more.
You will also be seduced by the sounds of Steve Robinson’s newest musical creation, the Machine the Fool and Us. Steve is renowned for his midnight piano bar and edgy indie rock. His music is an adventure through genre bending mood and musical eclecticism. Steve’s considered one of the best observational poets around. His song lyrics are so well crafted, the songs could be delivered as slam poetry.
● Heidi Hoops Hillier presents new vaudevillian comedy acts.
● Support Act Steve Robinson will be performing new and original songs.
● Nina Cantina will be providing delicious meals at the feature food truck on the night.
● VanYello Vintage will have a rolling rack of vintage clothes.
● Surprise guest acts, competitions and other frivolities.
This project received funding through Wollongong Quick Response Grants from Wollongong City Council. Wollongong City Council receives the first online release option.
Date: Friday 25th February
Time: Doors 6.30pm
Venue Details: Servo Food Truck Bar, 6-8 Wentworth St, Port Kembla, NSW
Get tickets HERE
