British comedy legend Julian Clary has returned to his cabaret roots at ‘Cabaret All Stars’ with his unique blend of comedy, music, and all things fabulous this summer as he leads a cast of world-class cabaret, circus, and burlesque superstars, writes Michael Holland.
Cabaret All Stars brings the sass of Vegas to the sultry steaminess of traditional Parisian burlesque in this nightclub beneath Waterloo Bridge. From our VIP vantage point it was difficult to work out where the high-risk acrobatics and circus acts would actually take place, but the tiny stage space had TARDIS-like qualities and found itself home to fire-eaters, dancers, songsters, sword-swallowers and burlesque acts that had everyone aquiver.
Audiences are promised an exclusive night of laughter and luxury as Julian performs a mix of fan favourites and new sketches, as well as hosting this hi-energy show, giving audiences a well-deserved opportunity to enjoy an evening of pure indulgence and glamour. With artists from the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil, every moment is designed to impress, scare, wow and captivate the audience.
Proud aims to ensure guests leave unable to stop talking about the spectacle they have witnessed, the food they have tasted, and the service they have received. And Proud achieved all that from our happy quartet who loved the show and were gushing over the exquisite food. One gripe from our candlelit table was being unable to see the full beauty of the food and its presentation, but the taste of every dish told us all we really needed to know. One surprise was when the chef was called onto the stage to be ‘assaulted’ by a fire-eater, which he was obviously very pleased about. It was his wife.
Julian says: “I am thrilled to be taking to the most glamorous cabaret stage in London for some summer fun and frolics. Cabaret All Stars is the most spectacular show and I shall do my very best to lower the tone.”
And his tone-lowering was exactly what we wanted. Plus, he brought TV stars out too, with Paul Whitehouse, Denise Van Outen and a Real Housewife of Cheshire in the audience.
Each evening, Julian will take to the stage to perform and introduce the audience to the many acts, so many I couldn’t keep count. Drinks on offer throughout the night include a prohibition-era inspired cocktail menu to match the glamorous Gatsbyesque venue, and with the show of scantily-clad men and women lasting almost five hours it is thirsty work.
Proud Embankment,8 Victoria Embankment (Under Waterloo Bridge – North Bank), London, WC2R 2AB until 29th July.
- Standard tickets include entry, Standard seating, a welcome cocktail and a 3-course meal £35
- Premium tickets include entry, premium seating, a welcome cocktail and a 3-course meal £45
- VIP tickets include entry, VIP seating, a welcome cocktail, a 3-course meal and half a bottle of prosecco £55
- Drinks tickets include entry to the show and a welcome house cocktail on arrival (not available on Saturdays) £15
Booking: www.proudcabaret.com,