SALŌN

Salōn eclipses Brisbane’s entertainment this month! You want different, debauched, amazing, mind-bending entertainment? This is your show!

Historically, the Salōn was a 17^th-19^thcentury gathering hosted by grand personages in spacious lounge rooms. It featured artists and writers on revolutionary fringes where delicate matters could be debated in privacy. Then came composers and instrumentalists.

Later, hostesses used ‘the Salōn’ to produce socially competitive entertainment. The Judy’s grand traverse stage with a large central performance space prepares us for surprises. Audience members at tables on each side need to stay alert – action happens all along this long stage.

Classical dancer, Alice (Iona Maques) in tutu and toe shoes, welcomes guests; The Oracle (Michelle Xen) with her band The Neon Wild sings while the guests arrive. Musos usually avoid the spotlight but these members throw themselves enthusiastically into the entertainment, and Xen’s vocal talent and stunning costumes connect the parade of talent.

Andrew Meadows’ subtle lighting captures every nuance of this complex production. Top marks to Director/Choreographer, Timothy Brown and Creative Producer, Lewis Jones for showcasing such talents as dancer and trapeze artist, Anthony Trojman (the Peacock); Alex Weckes-Huck (contortionist) and David Trappes (tumbler, juggler and pianist); Travis Scott (pole performer and erotic dancer); Nerida Matthael (interpretive dancer); and Elizabeth Whelan (dancer and the hostess, Marchesa), every one a star in their own right.

Take your drinks in with you and immerse yourself in this celebration of high art.

Jay McKee

Photographer: FenLan Chuang