Last night I had the privilege of seeing Tomás Ford’s Electric Cabaret show as part of Perth’s International Fringe Festival.

I can only describe the entire experience from the point of arriving at the Noodle Palace as sexy. Sometimes I was comfortable and somewhat aroused, other times I was scared for my bubble being invaded.

The night started with the smiling booth operator handing me my free tickets. She assured me “this one’s on house” with only the vague authenticity a stripper can deliver. Next I ventured upstairs for a drink at the bar whilst I waited to be called in to the show. I couldn’t help but notice all of the ridiculously good looking hipsters that filled the room. I bought some overpriced water to drink while I waited for my girlfriend to change in the bathroom. Then we waited together drinking our water all touchy feely like - I should mention that I have seen Tomás Ford’s Electric Cabaret before so the sexual tension was entirely due to my own anticipation for the show. We were then called in, “oh boy” I said to myself. I wondered down the stairs, half bar, ready to be made to feel uncomfortable.

The show opened with Tomás operating as a fake usher armed with torches directing the late comers into their seats. Tomás’ jittery, unhinged character set the mood for the rest of the night. We were then subjected to his signature electronic music (with incredibly solid production) and crazy sultry vocals woven together with Tomás’ droll, unpredictable and at times revealing comedy.

There was a large amount of crowd participation, Tomás with darting through the audience, up and down the cinema, singing people down and unashamedly invading their personal space. Piccadilly Cinemas was the perfect venue for this kind of creepy, uncomfortable, sexy cabaret performance. Credit must go to Jump Climb for procuring the space.

Towards the end of the show Tomás went through a complete mental breakdown leading to a hilarious stripped-back performance, which for me was perfect.

I’m still not sure if I’m relieved or feel left out on account of Tomás not singling me out for an up-close-and-personal moment. The one minor criticism is that although there have been some tweaks and improvements, Tomás’ show has not evolved a large amount over the last 2 years. However, he is attracting new audiences who will no doubt find Tomás Ford’s Electric Cabaret enthralling on the first viewing.

Thoroughly recommended. Very fringe.

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