Celebrating 20 years since its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe, La Clique is back – brasher, bolder, and more brilliant than ever. Currently touring Australia, the Olivier Award-winning circus cabaret is a whirlwind of comedy, burlesque, and sheer chaos. It’s vaudeville for the 21st century, and it doesn’t care about playing nice.
This season’s Gold Coast leg, hosted at HOTA (Home of the Arts), faced a delayed start thanks to Cyclone Alfred. But the team rallied. The outdoor stage theatre has been transformed into a full, enclosed tent-like venue, recreating the iconic Spiegeltent vibe. Just note: lockouts apply. (There are two acts with a 15-minute intermission.)
David Bates, La Clique’s director, also takes the mic as MC. He’s sharp, commanding, and knows exactly how to set the tone for what’s to come.
The show opens with a splash – literally. Straps aerialist Tuedon Ariri takes to the air over a water-filled tub, paying tribute to the original ‘Bath Boy’ act from La Clique’s first run. She’s all grace and strength, sending water into the front rows as she flies. Plastic shields are handed out, but if you’re not ready to get wet (or covered in popcorn, biscuit crumbs, or shaving cream), steer clear of the front row.
From there, the energy never dips. LJ Marles stuns with his self-invented Tension Straps act. It’s a bit like a pole act, but with slack straps that move with him. He’s raw, powerful, and jaw-droppingly stylish. He performs in thigh high stiletto heeled boots to Lady Gaga’s ‘Applause,’ and it’s every bit the showstopper.
Tara Boom brings a moment of quiet magic with her Umbrella foot juggling act. To a moody cover of Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella,’ she balances up to four traditional Chinese umbrellas on her feet. It’s hypnotic and impossibly elegant.
Then there’s David Pereira, Spain’s gift to aerial silk. He’s all muscle, mood, and flexibility. His act blends physical prowess with a raw, artistic energy that feels part sculpture, part dream.
A surprise favourite? Sam Goodburn. Last seen in La Ronde at Adelaide Fringe, Sam brings comic genius to the stage with his hilarious Trouser Trouble act. Set to The White Stripes’ ‘Seven Nation Army,’ it’s a unique fusion of biscuits, unicycles, and mankinis.
And let’s not forget the puppets.
Cabaret Décadanse’s foam-and-fabric divas are back. These aren’t your typical puppets. They lip-sync, grind, flirt, and bring down the house. Created by Serge Deslauriers, and performed by André-Anne LeBlanc and LJ Marles, the duo behind the puppets are as captivating as their creations. It’s cheeky, camp, and completely mesmerising.
Be warned: this is not a show for the prudish. Full nudity – both male and female – features in several acts. It’s confronting. It’s bold. It’s absolutely part of the artistic vision. But if you’re bringing your Mum, maybe give her a heads-up.
La Clique is a sweaty, saucy, splashy night out. It’s everything great circus cabaret should be – wild, weird, and a little bit wicked. Grab a drink, leave your inhibitions at the door, and dive in.
La Clique is running until 19 April at HOTA on the Gold Coast, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217.
Tickets: https://hota.com.au/whats-on/live/circus/la-clique
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/lacliquetheshow/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/hotagc/
Photo credits: Novasoma Photography
La Clique is an over 18s event – featuring adult themes and nudity. Photography and filming is prohibited.
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