When you combine a sparkly mermaid, pink pirate and a variety of tambourine and banjo music all on the deck of a historic ship, it’s no wonder the skies opened up to christen the moment, several times. Although this wasn’t the first Naughty Nautical Nite, it was the first aboard the Gazela, which at roughly 110 years old is arguably one of the oldest working sailboats in Philadelphia’s Penn’s Landing. Not only was this a fitting venue for a nautical themed production, but it matched the originality of many of the evenings’ performances.
Naughty Nautical Nite originated as a cabaret show in New York City starring witty songstress Jessica Delfino, and the elegant mermaidesque Dame Darcy. The night was filled with folk songs, many with a seafaring theme, some a little more original. Especially when Delfino crooned about what can happen to a grand piano during a raging party. Delfino was the self-proclaimed naughty part of the evening, while Dame Darcy injected more of the nautical with her flowing fin and golden hair over a collection of strategically placed shells.
More originality came from the featured band, Wes Mattheu and the New Way Down. Their songs about I95 and Fishtown resonated with the locals, all while rounding out the folk feel to the evening.
All performances are worthy of larger audiences, so be sure to check local listings to see when they may sail into a port near you.
Naughty Nautical Nite
Thursday, July 28
Friday, July 29
Penn’s Landing
aboard the Tall Ship Gazela
Philadelphia, PA
