REVIEW | La Clique, Leicester Square Spiegeltent

Reviews

17 Nov

Written by Cathie, Theatre&Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

General warnings: Full frontal nudity, Smoke, haze , danger Flashing lights, moments of darkness, adult themes, high risk stunts, body contortion, audience participation

Nestled insouciantly among the Bavarian-style huts and gaudy tourist attractions Leicester Square lies the legendary glittering jewel that is the cabaret show La Clique.

Set up as an intimate circus ring with a raised circular stage within the circle of stall chairs and a more traditional stage behind, this production’s atmosphere is cosy, indulgent and encourages visions of vintage cabaret from the 20s.

This show is very much a gleaming diamond, not just in the pull of its six mesmerising performers but in its variety and style of acts. From traditional cabaret, sultry singing, dancing puppetry, a filthy burlesque show, and an intimate acrobatics circus this show has something for everyone and left the audience constantly breathless with either anticipation or laughter.

Aaron Marshall was brilliant in a comedic strip tease and selection of headstands which contrasted well with the dancing joy of Cabaret Décadanse. Their inventive and slyly entertaining singing puppets made the audience roar with laughter on many an occasion. Chastity Belts’ array of comedic traditional cabaret songs and powerful modern ballads which teased, tantalised and enthralled us equally spellbound. Her stage presence is second to none and many audience members I chatted to afterwards said they could have listened to her sing for hours.

David Pereira’s initial aerial silk acrobatics held me absolutely spellbound and I genuinely forgot to breathe in some parts. It was beautiful to watch and incredible to see how much the human body can contort and change shape. This etherealness contrasted sharply with his second performance which comprised of a full frontal shaving routine. It was utterly bonkers, hilarious and definitely the strangest way I’ve ever seen anyone use a razor. I laughed so much my sides hurt and it was an utterly weird highlight of the amazing night.

Yulia Pykhtina was an ethereal grace using multiple hoops to move and twist in a beautiful dance that puts many of our childhood hoop games to shame. This contrasted neatly with Tara Booms very different hula hooping extravaganza.

Tara Boom had me genuinely fearing for her life with her boundary-breaking and general chaotic and very messy popcorn act. With a working popcorn machine on her head and feverishly strip teasing to lather herself with butter and salt, this act repulses and has you convulsing with laughter in equal measures. Yet she was also completely mesmerised, amazed and bedazzled with her umbrella act. She is definitely one of the most breathtaking and extreme performers that you’ll remember long after this show is over.

L.J. Marles’ acrobatic grace blew me away with their awe-inspiring act. I’ve never seen anyone appear so weightless and fluid in their routine. I’ve never felt so much joy and wonder, as well as side-splitting laughter in his more comedic routine. A definite highlight and worth seeing just for their performance alone

In terms of practicalities, the seats are unreserved in the different areas so you want to get there as early as you can to get the best seats. The front row does get covered in all manner of items, including popcorn and shaving cream, and members will be selected for audience participation so if you are an anxious soul I’d suggest row 3 and behind.

Overall this show is hilarious, feisty, empowering and just a great night of rocking fun. It is far from family friendly, but this sultry adult Christmas show is a perfect watch to keep you fired up on these cold winter nights. If you’re going to see a cabaret show in 2023 then I urge you to make it this one.

This show is on at Leicester Square Christmas market until 9th January 2024. 90 minute show with a 20 minute interval.