“I watched everything from the coyly suggestive to the debaucherous and deviant”
Menagerie could not be described as your average classical production; it is a theatrical extravaganza. The evening began with a mysterious search for the venue. Beneath the well-hidden facade of a closed down pub, the pumping music led us to a secret entrance, upon entrance bringing the vibe from creepy-back-alley to high-class-members-club. The entire evening is an event, with the series of shows bringing atmosphere and sensuality to an exclusive nightclub feel.
The performances are not narrative driven, more rather based around the sensual and fantastical. Audience members are given a programme of events and invited to explore the venue, choosing their own shows and creating their own narrative through a series of theatrical erotic adventures. During my three hours at the venue, I watched everything from the coyly suggestive to the debaucherous and deviant; pieces are rated by their eroticism in order to allow you to choose the depth of your own adventure. My only real criticism would be that the acts featured seemed largely geared towards a straight male audience, I would love to see a more open approach moving forwards, appealing to a broader range of sexualities and tastes.
The costumes, lighting and makeup are truly phenomenal, with much of the class of the event coming from the hosts of the piece, who are located in the main bar for much of the evening. Although these hosts are not the main theatrical features, they perform throughout the night as themselves, with witty conversation and astounding glamour which truly brings a feel of immersement to the audience.
The site-specific nature of the piece lends an exclusive feel to the evening, both glamorous and debonaire, dress code is Hollywood and attitude is byronic. We were advised that following midnight, the party takes on a more adventurous turn for those who feel the urge, though it seems this is not something for the faint-hearted!
In terms of the pieces themselves, they seemed to average between 5-25 minutes in length. I would advise checking the programme in advance and, certainly after 10pm, turning up 20 minutes early to each room to ensure a seat. The issues with crowding and availability certainly demonstrate the success of the piece, but perhaps infer a need for a larger venue to accommodate such in-demand ventures.
Menagerie is truly an incredible experience for anyone interested in burlesque, sexuality, site-specific theatre or erotic theatre. Much of the audience appeared to come in couples, so if you’re a little more shy, I’d advise bringing a friend for comfortability, but the friendliness and openness of the atmosphere as a whole also leaves plenty of room for making friends. A warm evening of provocative and slick performances, House of Kittens, directed by founder Sophie Cohen, have done a fantastic job in creating an event that is both daring and honest, welcoming all those that tend towards a walk on the dark side; dress to impress, grab a cocktail and prepare to be dared.
Reviewed by Tasmine Airey
Menagerie
was at a secret London location
Menagerie sold out quickly – House of Kittens next event is due to take place on 31st May and 1st June 2018 – Click here to order tickets now
