The naughtiest Christmas show in town continues to enthrall London audiences with it sumptuous display of stunts, music and, above all, fun. Guillermo Nazara chats with its new Emcee, cabaret singer Chastity Belt, to learn the most interesting facts about this annual montage where trouble is not left outside, but its very essence.
How does it feel to be part of one London’s most popular adult theatre Christmas traditions?
La Clique is a show I’ve been watching and in awe of since I began in cabaret a decade ago, so it feels incredibly special to be in the team. It sounds cheesy, but it’s genuinely a thrill to be part of people’s festive season. For them to choose this fabulous show and allow us to put a smile on their face feels brilliant. Our audiences never fail to surprise us with their reactions and how much they love the show. We can feel that love radiating at us up onstage!
This season also marks your Leicester Square debut. What challenges do you find in joining such an anticipated show?
This is my Leicester Square season debut, you’re right! It’s a palpable thing! It’s huge to be part of such a special show, right in the centre of the West End. I trained as an actress and dreamed of performing for big crowds, and I’ve somehow managed to sneak in the cabaret ‘side door’ by doing my own thing. CHUFFED!
What, would you say, makes this show different in comparison to others in the genre?
This particular season of La Clique has a gorgeous ‘old school’ variety slant to it. It’s paying homage to proper, good not-so-clean fun. Many shows of this nature have taken a super sexual slant in the last few years, which is awesome. However, La Clique doesn’t take itself quite so seriously! We’re naked. But we’re silly, too! Which is sexier in the end anyway! 😉
And what are you bringing to it that’s different to what we’ve seen in it before?
I fulfill the role of chanteuse. However, my roots are in MC’ing, so I can’t help but have a good natter whilst I’m doing it! I’ll be bringing the pipes as well as a good chat! I like to think I bring a certain sparkly silliness to the show, along with some banging songs too!
Tell us about the creative process for your numbers. How have they been designed and integrated into the montage?
It’s important for me to get to know the audience as I go along. It isn’t much fun just popping out and singing three numbers of the same style. So I like to get you from all angles and genres, and thereby telling a little story throughout the night.
I also have to sing music that I really love, so that I can connect to it, and in turn connect with the audience. In this season, I wanted to bring a touch of vintage music to the tent, so I went back to my inspiration playlist of music that I love and weaved it into an arc of songs that will have you humming along. And maybe throwing in a few moves as you go!
The show also serves as a showcase for international talent. Which values, would you say, represent your country through your performance?
The London cabaret scene is without doubt one of the richest in the world, but Clique’s international nature is the very thing that drew me to it in the first place. Spending time with and learning from worldwide artists is such a pleasure. We all work differently, with varied reference points, and it’s such a joy to see it come together.
As one of the Brits in the show, I love that I can bring (and then soften) our stiff upper lip. I think in an evening of glamorous, free spirited international artists, I’m a touch point of silliness and awkwardness that makes the London crowd feel like they can be free too!
Is there any other message you’ve tried to convey through your renditions?
Since the day I began cabaret, I’ve wanted to very quietly, but directly remind people that no matter who they are or what they look like, they belong in our world. They can escape with us, get silly with us and leave the world behind for a few hours, leaving energized and ready to fight another day.
Why come see La Clique?
I’m obviously biased, but it’s such a joyful night. There is something for everyone, served up by some of the most highly skilled people I’ve ever worked with. The world is tricky right now, and it’s an escapist reminder of how lucky we are to be able to share this shot of human dopamine together. What are you waiting for?!
Read our review on La Clique here!
All pictures credit to Jody Hartley.
La Clique plays at London’s Leicester Square until 6 January. Tickets are available on the following link.