Walking through the doors of The Grand Electric was like stepping back into a 1920s speakeasy. A circular stage dominates the centre of the room, with chairs and tables scattered around it. Above the stage, like the crowning jewel, sits an enormous disco ball, that showers the room in dancing bursts of light. The mood is dark, opulent, edgy, with just a hint of BDSM. Welcome to La Ronde.
An intoxicating blend of circus, live music, feats of strength and comedy, La Ronde brings together some of the world’s most talented performers. From the vocal talents of Geniris, to the aerial artistry of Sergiy Mishchurenko and Diana Bondarenko, each act was unique and overflowing with passion and skill. Having the comedic talents of Sam Goodburn serve as a pallet cleanser was very effective. The UK native brought a levity and playfulness to the show as he handed out biscuits and pulled volunteers onto the stage to aid in the revelry.
There was something incredibly voyeuristic (consensually, of course) about La Ronde. The stunning costumes, the fluid artistry, the way the light emphasised ever muscle and movement – these performers are not simply skilled, they are strong. One can’t help but admire the physical dedication such a career must entail. When Zoe Marshall gracefully moved around the stage, suspended by her hair, I felt my entire scalp tingle, and, not for the first time that night, wondered – how the hell do they do that?! Watching Felipe Reyes balance on top of a ladder that was on fire had me holding my breath and questioning where the smoke alarms were. And the amazing things Adam Malone can do with hula hoops had my inner child green with envy.
The staging was simple but effective, allowing each performer to circumvent the space freely and unencumbered. Props to the behind the scenes staff who could be seen running around in the shadows, ensuring the entire production kept moving along and no one caught on fire or was flattened by a disco ball.
A night of decadence, glamour and seduction, La Ronde at The Grand Electric is a fun and frivolous night out. And just like your favourite guilty pleasure, it will leave you feeling sated and perhaps a little bit naughty.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
La Ronde will perform at The Grand Electric until 21 December 2025.
For more information and to purchase tickets head to the shows website.
Reviewer attended on Thursday 23 October 2025.
Photo by author.
