Review: La Soiree

Building plenty of suspense and excitement for their official opening night, the cast of La Soirée kicked off their Fringe season to a packed-out crowd at the Ice Cream Factory on Wednesday night. The crowd nervously clapped along not knowing what to expect as the lights went down, then hushed as out came the spectacular Cabaret Décadanse. The puppeteering duo melted into the background as their puppets came to life throughout the night, showing a true mastery of their craft.

Each act that followed was met with more and more enthusiasm, as the often death-defying circus stunts left punters slack-jawed and squealing, not sure whether to look or look away. The guys from Mallakhamb India showcased their unique Indian style of pole acrobatics unlike anything else, and Perth’s own sword swallower Lucky Hell had everyone cringing in sick delight. From phenomenal aerial straps and stripteases to inordinately flexible acrobats, this show has something for everyone. The immense skill and control displayed is incredible – who’d have thought a giant Cyr wheel could be spun on a tiny 2.4-metre stage?

The whole cast worked together like a well-oiled machine; it’s clear why this show has won so many awards and continues to tour the world over. Do yourself a favour and treat yo’self this Fringe with a night among the stars at La Soirée.