An authentically French Cabaret show with a contemporary urban flair is now playing in Toronto.
The city was not starved of the style before Triangle d’Or Cabaret arrived on the scene in May, rather, like most art forms, it had forged its own iteration of the classic entertainment style, however some may argue that unless it’s French it’s not the real thing.
Enter Parisian dancer, Creative Director and Founder of Triangle d’Or Cabaret, Meydge Anguile, who is bringing a touch of her home city to Toronto with her own show.
Its title, which translates to Golden Triangle in English, borrows its name from an enclave of Paris encircled by the Champs-Élysées, Avenue Montaigne, and Avenue George V.
Triangle d’Or is famed for its rich cultural tapestry, and has Cabaret venues aplenty, if you know where to find them.
But, the style often carries a reputation that precedes it, one defined by underground eroticism reserved for gawkers and sexual thrill seekers, but Anguiley turns that outdated and inaccurate perception on its head.
Although her show deviates from the norm in almost every other aspect, it stays true to its French origins with sultry serenades and its staging as the entire theatre set up like a Cabaret bar with tables, leather chairs and a singing M.C.
She wants audience members to see themselves in the performance, consequently the show is busy with body types, sexes, and races. Sometimes partially clothed, sometimes not, perhaps the only thing each performer has in common, much to Anguiley’s credit, is their agility, strength, skill and their moment in the spotlight.
The 90-minute show strikes a fine balance between sexy and playful. Vigorous group dances choreographed to depict Paris’ grungy underbelly are offset by alluring recitals bounded by flirtatious and frolicsome movements.
Triangle d’Or Cabaret offers a form of alternative entertainment that deserves mainstream attention. Anchored by a discerning blend of suggestiveness and class, and made exhilarating
by an emphasis on representation over seedy sexuality, the show promises an hour and half well spent.
Catch a show at The Don on Danforth, located at 15 Chisholm Avenue, until Aug. 3. Tickets are available here.
