Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Saucy stuff on this year’s programme as comedy takes centre stage
The very best variety and burlesque talent in the UK combine for a two-night Spiegeltent spectacular, courtesy of the fabulous Abigail Collins (who is, as she says herself, ‘best experienced in the flesh’). Marlene’s Cocktail Cabaret (November 2-3, 9.30pm at the Spiegeltent) includes musical accompaniment from Neil Kelso – aka Hans Fritz Fritzenburger, the sublime aerial artistry of Alexandra Hoffgartner, sizzling burlesque from Miss Demi-noire and the spine-tingling tones of jazz soulvirtuosa Coco Malone. Part drag act, part opera, the outrageous and superbly talented Le Gateau Chocolat comes to the festival with Icons (October 27, 7pm, Spiegeltent), bringing with it a mix of pop, personal revelations and extravagant dress. Le Gateau was voted by Time Out London as one of its Top 10 Cabaret Stars. Here he walks the tightrope between his public and private personas, exploring relationships with our icons and the ideals we aspire to. A Lycra-clad force to be reckoned with.