La Soirée, Aldwych Theatre review ★★★★★

La Soirée has moved from strength to strength. After success at the fringe and a series of Speigeltents all around the world, along with two Olivier Awards for Best Enertainment, the motley crew of acrobats and cabaret acts have made it to the West End's Aldwych Theatre.

The harum-scarum circus atmosphere for which La Soirée is celebrated feels a lot like juxtaposition in the formality of a theatre. We're told we can get up and go to the bar whenever we want, but, practically, climbing out of a row of seats feels awkward. And the whoops that feels so right in a big tent are tempered down to politer applause.

But, though the surroundings may feel tamer, the acts themselves are just as raucous. For every jaw-dropping feat of acrobatics, there's a moment gasp-inducing cheek. And sometimes it's literally just bare bottom cheeks.

The delight is in the surprise, so we won't ruin things for you. But this year's highlights include whip-smart comedy and a rather unusual musical talent from cabaret queen Amy G, sensual gymnastics from lithe twosome Leon and Klondi, plus the mesmerising hulahoop spectacle by Michelle Clark.

If you prefer your performers clothed and your humour above the belt then either book for the toned down family friendly version of the show, or prepare to be scandalised. And do not even think about booking the Posh Seats on stage or sitting near the front unless you're sanguine about the prospect of audience participation and mild groping.

But the bare-cheeked, tongue-in-cheek bawdiness will certainly kick-start party season.