La Clique at The Hippodrome

La Clique at The Hippodrome

06 March, 2009
by: Longboy

La Clique takes place in what is probably known to most of us as a West End nightclub that is best avoided like the nearby kebab shops. La Clique harnesses the frayed and slightly seedy vibe of the space to create a show that has a simultaneously glamorous and earthy atmosphere. The smell of the popcorn and the extravagence of lights flashing in the mirrored room immediately transport you to a world far removed from the West End street you are still only a few yards away from.

Every act in this show was worthy of praise. Each one showed a strong degree of stagecraft in their shows. The proximity of the seating to the small, circular stage meant that all the acts retained a feeling of street theatre. The humour and personality of the acts meant that I would have happily seen most of them extend their sets beyond the allotted 8 minutes.

The show is sexy but not sexual with oodles of glamour and titilation but no burlesque to speak of. It would be considered risqé in parts in comparison to mainstream entertainment - but is really humourous about the sort of everyday things we all laugh about under wraps. Everyone was comfortable enough to find it funny.

To the perfomers: Captain Frodo the Incredible Rubber Man did things you'd never have seen from Bjorn Borg and, as well as being revolting, was funny in the way that silent comedies are funny. Amy G demonstrated her support for Obama by playing 'America' with a kazoo in an unusual fashion. The Skating Willers performed an acid house pumping, roller-skating acrobatic act that was near death defying. We saw a crowd surfing, uni-cycling, juggling Freddy Mercury look-alike that led a chorus of 'We Are The Champions' and a couple of city gents who performed feats of balance whilst displaying their patriotism to Land of Hope and Glory in Union Jack boxers.

This show made me laugh, gasp and applaud throughout its 2 hour span. I could not recommend it enough and with £15 being the maximum price of a standing ticket no-one has an excuse to miss it. A brilliant night out.

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