Another recession, another variety night with a twist. In 2008, La Clique opened as the economy nosedived. As a meltdown sequel looms, here comes Professor Vanessa’s Wondershow, combining circus with a subversive revival of the traditional sideshow (“no videos please, they haven’t been invented”). Gasp at Cleo, the five-inch goldfish woman. Be amazed as the headless lady removes an item of clothing. Calm down, gents, it’s a glove.
Instead of sitting passively, one wanders from intimate tent to tent, investigating whatever catches the eye. An Egyptian Mummy adds a dash of comic horror and visual trickery, while Kingdom of Shadows, ostensibly a screening of arcane vaudeville footage, is neatly enlivened by the bickering attendants. It feels slightly sanitised indoors rather than in a field but still boasts surprises. There was a genuine gasp when a trapeze act above the tents slipped and was saved by a safety rope.
The only real fault is that it is impossible to see everything. Afterwards I realised that I’d missed Electra, The 27,000-Volt Girl, which I was assured was shockingly good. Enjoy this lucky dip and forget about the double dip for two hours.
Until April 29 (0844 482 8008, roundhouse.org.uk)
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