Pre-World War II Germany had the Weimar cabaret. Post-crash England has La Clique. This cool circus and burlesque hybrid has been a festival hit around the world and as it finally debuts in London at this iconic venue, it clicks perfectly into place. With the economy gurgling down the plughole, this is the ideal escape for two hours.
The acts range from the seriously sexy to the stupendously silly. The English Gents aptly resembled two pin-striped brokers reduced to performing amazing acrobatics.
David O’Mer was another muscular athlete, swooping partly in the air, partly in a full bath. Stripping magician Ursula Martinez offered further unhinged eroticism, doing unmentionable things with a red hankie. With no conventional compere, Mario Queen of the Circus and Miss Behave linked proceedings with juggling and sword-swallowing. Sublime puppetry and graceful hula hoop added to the decadence.
The undisputed highlight, however, was Captain Frodo, a Norwegian contortionist who eyewateringly threaded his entire body through two stringless tennis racquets. At a time when we may all have to bend over backwards to make a living, Frodo brings a whole new meaning to making ends meet.
Until 1 February (020 7907 7097, www.lacliquelondon.com)
La Clique
The London Hippodrome Theatre
Cranbourn Street, WC2H 7JH
