Male ballet dancers often find themselves cast in a supporting role in classical ballet. Philippe Lafeuille’s all male ballet show Tutu turns tradition on its head inviting six talented men to don extravagant costumes and take centre stage in a global hit that’s been delighting audiences since 2014.

“Tutu” is far more than a ballet parody; it’s a genre-defying, gender-bending romp through the conventions of dance and, cheekily, human relationships. Six robust dancers; Marc Behra, David Guasgua, Julien Mercier, Kamil Pawel Jasinski, Vincent Simon, and Vincenzo Veneruso swirl through a succession of outlandish outfits: tights, frills, tutus, stockings, and everything in between. These performers aren’t just playing for laughs; they’re honouring the art form through satire, all the while showcasing remarkable balletic skill.

The show unfolds through a collection of short scenes, each featuring different dance styles such as ballet, ballroom, Latin, disco, hip hop, and more. Among its memorable moments are humorous takes on Swan Lake, transformed into “Duck Lake” and “Flamingo Lake,” as well as a slapstick rendition of the Rose Adagio from The Sleeping Beauty. All six dancers don pointe shoes, starting off a bit unsteady but quickly exhibiting great skill. There is even a stripped-down version of “Dying Swan”, performed where only the are arms highlighted on a black stage.

The show is packed with cultural references: gravity-defying lifts, pirouettes worthy of Nureyev, synchronised cygnet antics, and nods to rhythmic gymnastics and even Strictly Come Dancing. There’s a Māori rugby player executing a haka while tackling Bach, a high-heeled tango, and long-limbed Pina Bausch tributes. Stravinsky’s “Rite of Spring” gets a hilarious chicken-themed makeover.

Despite its burlesque promise, “Tutu” remains firmly family-friendly, its cheeky undertones tucked within slapstick and juvenile jokes. The children in the audience could be heard laughing all the way though. The most poignant moments come when the dancers mock the questions most male ballet artists must to endure. “Isn’t ballet for girls?” “Do you know Darcey Bussell?” “Are you gay?” shining a light on stereotypes.

Choreographer Philippe Lafeuille closes the show by joining the cast onstage, quickly drawing the audience into a collective celebration of silliness and joy. “Tutu” is a testament to the power of dance to entertain, challenge, and unite us in laughter.

Tutu is a riotous celebration of ballet, gender and comedy.

Four Stars.

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

Photo credit Sandro Oliveira

Tutu” by Chicos Mambo company runs at Sadler’s Wells East,
11-15 February 2026.

The tour continues onto Europe
Dancers:           Adele Borde,

Julien Mercier,

David Guasgua,

Kamil Jasinski,

Vincent Simon,

                                Marc Behra,

Vincenzo Veneruso.

Director and choreographer:               Philippe Lafeuille.
Costumes:       Corinne Petitpierre.
Lighting:            Dominique Mabileau.
Sound:               Antisten.