A new dance production is bringing to life the story of Le Monocle, a famed lesbian club that operated in 1920s Paris. Opened by Lulu de Montparnasse, the club became a rare haven for lesbians and attracted notable visitors including Marlene Dietrich, while Edith Piaf's mother performed in its cabaret. The venue was forced to close in 1941 during the Nazi occupation.
Rendez-Vous Dance's latest show, The Monocle, explores this secret Sapphic society through movement and music. Choreographer Mathieu Geffré has created an atmospheric world with a score by James Keane and vocals from jazz singer Imogen Banks, who also performs as part of the ensemble. British Sign Language interpreter Caroline Ryan is seamlessly integrated into the cast.
The production captures the club's clientele arriving 'in sequins or suits', with scenes including a woman in a sailor suit performing a characterful solo, another binding her breasts to the song 'Mon Homme', and dancers donning moustaches to mimic chivalrous gestures. The fluidity of identity is central to the piece, which ranges from louche and sultry to meticulous and playful.
However, the show is not without its weaknesses. The review notes that characters are not as deeply drawn as in Geffré's previous work, What Songs May Do…, which was a hit at the 2024 Edinburgh fringe. Some moments lack conviction, including a romantic duet that fails to fully convince. The narrative momentum occasionally stalls.
Despite these criticisms, the originality and historical significance of the piece are praised. The uncovering of a lesser-known story, the exploration of female partnering, and the celebratory sense of community are highlighted as strengths, with the production described as 'a moment in time well worth bringing back to life'.
