Méli Mélo II

Comic dance sketch show

To parody something, you have to know it inside out, which is why The Chicos Mambo are so good at what they do. All four members of the Parisian dance group have been trained in ballet, jazz or contemporary. So when they poke fun at the dance world, they do so not only with affection, but full insider knowledge.

‘To give credibility to the parody, technical rigour is of utmost importance,’ says choreographer, Philippe Lafeuille. ‘You need to be well trained in these diverse techniques to give the best rendition possible.’

Making their UK debut with Méli Mélo II, the Chicos Mambo mix ballet, ice dance, ballroom, gymnastics, contemporary and Bollywood dancing with a healthy dollop of comedy. But it’s not just dance aficionados who enjoy the Chicos style – Lafeuille makes sure everyone gets the joke.

‘Whenever I create a show it is with a view to it being seen by the broadest audience possible,’ he says. ‘People who have never seen dance will get the jokes, and connoisseurs can acknowledge the wink in their direction – there’s something for everybody.’

Assembly Universal Arts, Freemason’s Hall, 623 3030, 5–27 Aug (not 13, 20), 10.15pm, £12–£13 (£10–£11). Previews 2–4 Aug, £5.

More: Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Méli Mélo II, Fringe (Edinburgh Festivals), Dance

Last updated: 25 Jul 2008 17:14 BST

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