La Ronde is the latest cabaret to take to the stage of the Grand Electric. Audiences were promised “a sensory overload, a decadent collision of glittering bodies, pulsing beats, and surreal moments of suspended disbelief” and this was certainly the feeling as the crowd was ushered into the tightly packed venue, with a grand disco ball centred in the middle of the room. 

The performance featured singers, dancers and acrobats, all combining for a daring spectacle for the eyes and ears. Geniris Mena was the vocalist for the show, kicking things off with a group number that introduced the audience to most of the performers for the night. An early highlight was Zoe Marshall who was lifted up by her hair to perform some jaw-dropping stunts. 

Danik Abishev also impressed, dealing with a fire-laced ladder while Sergiy Mishchurenko showed off some crazy pole skills. Adam Malone’s hula hoop routine and Diana Bondarenko’s trapeze work kept the night going while Sam Goodburn acted as the comic relief, adding a little nudity and a little naughtiness to the night with some gasp-inducing moments (especially when he lifted a terrified audience member onto his shoulders). 

The show was fantastic in parts, especially at the start, but began to drag in the second act as the points of differentiation and the thematic arcs started to feel lost. Additionally, the comic gags started to lose their shine quite quickly as they became very repetitive (one biscuit act was repeated so many times that it felt rather disappointing when it ultimately led to nothing). With that said, it was a fun atmosphere and many of the acts were enjoyable for their novelty and incredible skill even if the performance did not always feel cohesive. 

Overall, this was an enjoyable night out, with something for all to enjoy. The level of skill on display was high and the performance craft exceptional for all involved. The framing of the performance was not always perfect and the programming did not always support the talent on stage but this is still a fun watch for those looking for something a little different on a night out. 

Rating: ★★★1/2

La Ronde plays at the Grand Electric until 21^st December. For more information, click here.