Director: Scott Maidment
Expanding its reputation from hit music venue to a multi-disciplined arts space, Lafayette’s first venture into theatre is a worthwhile one with Sabrage. Taking its name from the tradition of opening a champagne bottle with a sabre, the production is aptly extravagant and fantastically entertaining.
Combining circus, burlesque and cabaret, Sabrage is a spectacle with a single motive – to give its audience a good time. A raised thrust stage allows for great viewing from any angle and the company makes full use of the auditorium, so nobody is left out of the action. Thumping music fuels much of the show, from high-energy dance beats to remixed popular hits, which pairs with a busy lighting design to provide a consistent feast for the senses.
The variety of talent is superb, yet each act also shares a similar ethos of glamorous queer stupidity. From powerful vocals to slick choreography and nimble acrobatics, the cast execute their skills with joyful flair. Everyone gets a moment in the spotlight, particularly as the second act rolls around, and Christian Nimri’s magnificent rollerskating routine is one of the evening’s genuinely jaw-dropping sequences.
Hosting the evening are a fantastic duo, Remi Martin and Spencer Novich, who foster a light-hearted, camp and inclusive atmosphere. Before seeing Sabrage, audiences may wonder how two people could construct an extended routine out of the simple party trick of catching grapes in their mouths. This pair operates with such endearing charisma, however, that there isn’t a dull moment. Martin and Novich play off of each other brilliantly, hitting every comedy beat and milking every moment of homoerotic tension they can muster. Their crowd work, in particular, is delightful and – unlike other spaces where being picked on can feel daunting – being recognised feels like a privilege.
Extravagant outfits provide the cherry on top of this production. In the unfathomable situation that an act fails to impress, audiences could easily lose themselves in the detailed costume designs. Of course, the performers themselves are very beautiful and Sabrage capitalises upon this with a number of crowd-pleasing sequences featuring minimal clothing. Martin and Novich joke early on, in fact, that this is (not) a show for all the family – and if the alcoholic influences don’t make this clear, the constant tease of nudity certainly will.
Sabrage is every bit the flashy extravaganza you hope it might be, yet also delivers personality and an endearing feeling of shared experience. Fresh, fun and freeing, this lavish celebration is a truly wonderful way to forget your troubles, escape from reality and let loose.
Runs until 6 July 2025
