London offers a variety of cabaret experiences, from circus-inspired spectacles with dazzling stage acts to traditional revues in the style of Moulin Rouge, filled with dance routines, singing, and simple magic tricks. Yet Sabrage takes a different route—one that leans into provocation, all while keeping the audience laughing.
From the very first moments, it’s clear that this is a high-value production with striking staging, lavish costumes, dramatic lighting, and special effects. But at its core, Sabrage relies on the oldest trick in the book: using sex to entertain, blending risqué humour with playful, often exaggerated physical comedy.
If you’re heading to Sabrage, expect plenty of nudity (particularly male), bursts of confetti, and tightly choreographed acts interspersed with playful lip-sync interludes. The structure of the two-hour show doesn’t rely on many standalone acts but instead fills the gaps with interactive moments between the cast and the audience. From catching grapes and pillow fights to an aerial champagne pour and an over-the-top imitation of an orgasm set to classical music, the show isn’t afraid to be dirty, and it certainly embraces its own sex appeal.
The overarching theme—the art of sabrage, with a more generic nod to champagne culture—serves as a loose framework for the performances, though it doesn’t feel essential. In many ways, this aligns with the cabaret tradition, where shows often feel like a medley of contrasting elements. Visually, Sabrage leans into a modern yet exaggerated aesthetic, featuring oversized bows, latex stiletto boots, and an abundance of glitter.
Some of the strongest moments include impressive foot-juggling by Emma Phillips in the first half and breathtaking aerial acrobatics by Flynn Miller and Kimberley Bargenquast that close the second act. From a comedic perspective, the audience responded most enthusiastically to the fully nude opening of Act Two and a hilarious physical theatre performance by Spencer Novich. However, I felt that some acts lost their impact the longer they went on. The grape-catching game, for instance, was amusing at first but wore thin after a few attempts.
While not every moment landed perfectly, the sheer energy and production quality make Sabrage a show experience worth seeing. If you like your cabaret bold, uninhibited, and packed with cheeky humour, Sabrage will be right up your alley. It was fun, it was unexpected, and it’s definitely something I’ll be telling my friends about. And with Lafayette providing the perfect setting—an intimate cabaret space with bar service, small plates, and a stylish cocktail lounge for pre- or post-show drinks—it makes for a great night out from start to finish.
