From flamboyant ducks to high-heeled divas, the all-male dance sensation TUTU is back in London for few days only. This gender-norm-defying extravaganza that proves high-art ballet is ripe for a hilarious makeover.
What happens when you take six world-class male dancers, a wardrobe of neon-pink tulle, and a wicked sense of humour? You get TUTU, the global smash-hit from the inventive mind of Philippe Lafeuille and his company, Chicos Mambo.
Returning to Saddlers Wells East after a sell-out run in 2024, TUTU is more than just a dance show—it is a multi-sensory parody that lovingly pokes fun at the “sacred” traditions of the dance world while showcasing breathtaking technical skills.
40 characters, 6 dancers, zero boundaries
The show is a whirlwind of costumed chaos. In just over an hour, the all-male cast skims through more than 40 different characters. Audiences can expect:
- Hip-Hop Swan Lake: But less tiptoeing and more street-style energy in a tutu.
- Clumsy “Dirty Dancing”: A tribute to the cinematic classic sprinkled with comedic gold.
- From Ducks to Divas: Flamboyant costumes that defy gender norms and traditional theater expectations.
“Utterly mesmerising… a routine that says right from the start – you’re here to have a good time.” — ★★★★ The Scotsman
The Chicos Mambo legacy
Founded in Barcelona in 1994, Chicos Mambo has spent three decades blurring the lines between technical brilliance and theatrical flair. TUTU was originally created as a 20th-anniversary celebration for the company, but its success was so explosive that it has since entertained over 400,000 spectators with nearly 600 performances worldwide.
From winning the “Audience Choice” award at the Avignon Festival to becoming a must-see staple at the Edinburgh Fringe, the show’s appeal lies in its inclusivity. It’s a “rare show that the whole family can enjoy together,” says David Fry, Peacock Programmer at Sadler’s Wells.
Why London?
For Artistic Director Philippe Lafeuille, bringing the show back to the West End feels like a homecoming. “This city overflows with energy, humour, and a love for the stage,” says Lafeuille. “Returning to the Peacock means reuniting with the prestigious artistic family of the West End and sharing once again this joyous celebration of dance in all its forms.”
High art, low stress
The beauty of TUTU is that you don’t need to be a ballet aficionado to “get it.” While it mocks the classical outfit, it does so with immense respect for the craft. The dancers aren’t just comedians; they are elite athletes who maintain the highest level of performance even while executing a “clumsy” pratfall or a hip-hop spin.
In a world that can often feel heavy, TUTU offers a colourful, vibrant, and unapologetically fun “antidote.” Perfect for fans of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, The Trocks, or anyone who loves a good laugh, this show is an invitation to rediscover the beautiful world of dance from an alternative, and hilarious angle.
Chicos Mambo TUTU is at Saddlers Wells East 11 – 15 February 2026 with shows at various times. Tickets from £18.
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