Nov 134 min read

Review: La Clique (Leicester Square Spiegeltent)

Review by Daz Gale

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It’s been 20 years since the International smash hit sensation La Clique was born. They have spent the two decades since touring around the world, blowing audiences away and reinventing what a variety show looks like in the 21st Century, even picking up an Olivier award for their trouble. Now it is back in its London home of Leicester Square Spiegeltent for the 5th season in a row, forming the heart of the West End’s Christmas festivities (definitely worth a look around Leicester Square if you’re in the area) but would this show click with me? And what would happen when I unexpectedly found myself as the star of the show?

Born at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2004, La Clique is widely regarded as the original Spiegletent cabaret show, responsible for creating its own genre. Its variety programme features a mix of circus and cabaret performers alongside comedy acts and music performers (though there were none of the latter present at this press night performance). Highlighting talented performers from all over the world, it is the ultimate celebration of the weird and wonderful talents many can possess, all coming together to create a jaw dropping and always exhilarating 90 minute show.

In the incredibly intimate setting of Leicester Square Spiegeltent, surrounded by a variety of market stalls immersing you in the Christmas spirit (even at the start of November), several rows of seats surround a small circular stage, ensuring not only an intimate experience but an interactive one too (as I would soon find out). Just a warning – front row, you will be wet, though if you do sit in the front row, who knows what will happen to you? Guess where I chose to sit…

The variety acts at this performance included Cornelius Atkinson demonstrating incredible acrobats with Nathan price and Isis Clegg-Vinell who demonstrated the best routine on skates since Starlight Express. Together, they joined forces to create Trio Vortex and deliver a breath-taking act stretching to the very highest part of the tent. Katharine Arnold and Miranda Menzies also impressed with their performances, fusing aerial stunts, contortion and generally impressive acts.

Asher Treleaven provided a completely different element to the show as his sex-crazed comedian with performances focusing predominantly on humour, though it may not be for the faint-hearted. Florian Brooks also provided a comic highlight of the night, showcasing his juggling skills and forming a surprising double act with his fish. One of the more impressive performances of the evening came from Bayley Graham who delivered a masterclass in tap-dancing skills, demonstrating an eye-popping ability that impressed and excited at every step.

The cast are completed by charismatic performer Danik Abishev who showcased his enormous strength and balancing skills in two standout performances which saw him setting a ladder on fire and jumping from one pole to another, all the while gradually undressing. His personality shone through the performance with a touch of comedy and an unrivalled connection to the audience, as I was about to find out.

When I chose to sit in the front row, I didn’t expect to be dragged up on that stage, but all of a sudden Danik had grabbed my hand and pulled me up there. The next thing I knew he was standing upside down on my shoulders while I shook my pom poms (not a euphemism, I swear). You don’t get that at Les Miserables, I tell you! If I was to be critical, I don’t think my performance was as strong as the rest of the cast, but seeing as I was just a guest at this performance, it wouldn’t be fair to taint them all based on that. 2 stars for me, more for the rest of the cast! Let this be a warning to you though – don’t sit in the front row unless you want a near-naked man standing on your shoulders. Though, of course, that may encourage some people to sit there now.

My one night only appearance on stage.

The great thing about La Clique is how consistent it is throughout. Though the acts vary in style drastically, the overall quality never falters. Its unique and extremely intimate setup creates a world that continually thrills and never falls short of complete entertainment. Expertly directed and compered by David Bates, great care has been taken to ensure a versatile but always enjoyable and sometimes spicy experience.

With the spiegeltent acting as a hidden jewel nestled away in the heart of Leicester Square, if you find yourself with a free evening in Central London, get yourself a cup of mulled wine and enjoy some of the best performers the world has to offer. Just maybe don’t sit in the front row. If variety is the spice of life, La Clique could be the spiciest show there is. It’s clear to see why this show has been such a resounding success over the next 20 years – here’s to the next 20!