La Clique, currently playing at the Sydney Opera House, is an adult’s only sparkling fusion of daring circus, cheeky cabaret, and old-world vaudeville brought together with impeccable flair. This 20th-anniversary celebration offers an exclusive Australian season, elevating live entertainment with world-class acts that shimmer with both nostalgia and fresh energy.
From the moment you enter the intimate venue, the magic of La Clique envelopes you. The cast is a dizzying array of international stars who each deliver show-stopping performances that dazzle, shock, and make you laugh until your cheeks ache.
Lj Marles’ stunning debut on tension straps creates a gravity-defying spectacle. His performance, fluid and fierce, leaves you breathless. Not to be outdone, Tara Boom brings delightful chaos to the stage, throwing hula hoops with impeccable timing and charm. Her foot juggling is simultaneously mesmerising and hilarious—how can one person make such precision seem so playful?
David Pereira’s aerial silks act is an unmissable highlight. His incredible flexibility and sensual movements captivate the audience, adding an almost poetic touch to the chaos of the show. Not to mention, he then completely flips the mood with his shaving schtick. Heather Holliday takes the danger factor up several notches with her jaw-dropping sword-swallowing and fire-breathing, sending pulses racing throughout the venue.
The seamless blend of quirky characters and extraordinary talents is what makes La Clique so unforgettable. Mario, Queen of the Circus, with his rock star energy and playful juggling, brings the house down in laughter, while the legendary Ursula Martinez returns with her signature act, Hanky Panky, bringing a touch of cheeky nostalgia that fans of the show will adore.
This anniversary season is also a nod to the history of La Clique. Fresh performances like Mirko Köckenberger’s champagne hand-balancing routine and Tuedon Ariri’s homage to the iconic Bath Boy act perfectly balance fan favourites with the excitement of the new. The show feels like a living, breathing, ever-evolving entity.
The intimacy of The Studio, combined with Jamie Heseltine’s atmospheric lighting, draws you even closer to the performers. The laughs, gasps, and cheers from the audience create an electric atmosphere that can only be achieved in live theatre.
La Clique continues to lead the sexy circus art form, and this anniversary season truly celebrates its evolution. The show’s irreverent charm, high-octane acts, and undeniable sense of fun make it a must-see for anyone who craves entertainment that pushes the boundaries of circus and cabaret. It’s sexy, it’s dangerous, it’s funny—it’s everything live theatre should be and more.
Run, don’t walk, to catch this sensational production before it leaves town.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
La Clique runs for 70 minutes (no interval) and plays at The Studio, Sydney Opera House, through 17 November 2024. Tickets are available through the Sydney Opera House.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Sydney Opera House.
Image credit: Daniel Boud