CHAMPAGNE CABARET SPARKLES IN BRISBANE

Blanc de Blanc Encore is an indulgent champagne cabaret. For the duration of the production’s residency at the West End Electric, Brisbane has a modern Moulin Rouge in its midst, ripe to be enjoyed by all those feeling indulgent or in need of hedonistic escape brought to Brisbane by Strut & Fret.

The ensemble of seven fill the room with the energy of a packed variety show cast, showing extreme flexibility in delivering gags one minute, shocked and excited gasps the next. The performers — distinctly talented individuals rather than a homogenous chorus line — showcased genuine chemistry. Our hosts, Felix Pouliot and Remy Martin, show comfort and trust in each other, and patience and warmth with those plucked from the audience to assist. Sasha-Lee Saunders, a featured vocalist, performs with such charm and vitality that I felt very lucky to be in the audience.

I genuinely think this production was more dynamic than the Parisian Moulin Rouge itself. Blanc de Blanc Encore excels in modernising the genre, with far broader crossover between clowning and other forms of artistry. Rather than starkly alternating between Silly Clown and Sexy Lady (I’m afraid that was my assessment of the Moulin Rouge), in Blanc de Blanc Encore all performers are firing on all cylinders. You're watching an extremely charming person blend seduction with slapstick, and it's just so joyful.

The production value absolutely reflects the premium price of the ticket - think creative lighting design that delivers instant transformations, polished spotlight sequences, intricately rhinestoned costuming and glitchless AV. The beauty, glitz and joyful atmosphere threaten to distract you from the sheer skill on display — aerial and acrobatic feats of strength and artistry that require great levels of comfort with, and trust in, each other — and for featured solo pieces, extreme amounts of training and preparation.

Take note: Attending Blanc de Blanc Encore is so much more than the 120-minute production. It is a perfect reason to adorn yourself with maximalist glam pieces, ideally in the white (with a touch of sparkle) dress code. So many fellow guests at the West End Electric were bringing their A-game. I wanted to compliment them all like a fawning drunk lady in a women's bathroom telling friends and strangers that they're so pretty—but everybody was pretty. I’d see this again in a heartbeat.

Blanc de Blanc Encore is currently playing at The West End Electric, 125 Boundary St, West End. Showtimes and ticket information can be found at thewestendelectric.com.