Jean Paul Gaultier’s Fashion Freak Show: An Unforgettable Extravaganza!

It’s sassy, sexy, provocative, tongue-in-cheek, hilarious and hugely entertaining! Depicting the multitalented French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier’s life in a revue-like show format, you’ll be living through a staged fashion extravaganza of the highest order. The music is infectious, it’s the 80s and that’s when it all kicked off for JPG. And who can forget Madonna’s coned corset and all the other fashion-history making designs and collections penned by a man, who went to London’s Camden Market for inspiration?

If you haven’t had the chance to see it, Claudia Peifer went and sampled what’s in store! So watch the vid to get hooked by this incredible energy of an outstanding ensemble of dancers in costumes that are to die for. And even Anna Wintour, of The Devil Wears Prada fame, has a spoof role in a show, which at times, is not for the faint-hearted. Running a world tour, it has visited and is still visiting lots of countries, so watch the video to see where it will

Come with us as we take you on a magical mystery tour of one of the most talked-about fashion events in recent memory – the Jean Paul Gaultier Fashion Freak Show!

This larger-than-life extravaganza is touring Europe, leaving a trail of dazzled audiences in its wake. And TA-DAH.TV was in the audience at the London Roundhouse to witness it all!

Now our heads have stopped spinning we’re back to tell you all about it!

If you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply looking for a unique night out, this is one show you won’t want to miss. Get ready for a front-row experience as I give you the inside scoop on all the sauce, sass and, of course, eccentric fashion!

What is the Jean Paul Gaultier Fashion Freakshow?

The brainchild of fashion’s legendary enfant terrible, Jean Paul Gaultier – the Fashion Freak Show is a touring event that combines fashion, theater, and cabaret into a spectacular showcase.

After opening in the iconic Folies Bergère in October 2018 this barnstorming scene of sauciness goes bouncing merrily across the continent.

Designed as a celebration of Gaultier’s iconic career, the show features some of his most famous designs, as well as a few surprises along the way.

It’s an immersive experience, with the audience becoming part of the show, celebrating diversity, creativity, and, most importantly, fashion! But there’s also an incredible soundtrack to consider and, if you’ve checked out our dedicated Music Channel,  you’ll know we love a good boogie!

A Visual Spectacle

As the lights dim and the music starts, you’re immediately transported into Gaultier’s world.

The show is a feast for the eyes, with a constant stream of stunning visuals, set against the arresting backdrop of a huge video wall.

From the moment the models strut their stuff, you’re immersed in a whirlwind of colour, texture, and, of course, those iconic cone bras!
The show is a celebration of Gaultier’s most famous creations, with a modern twist. You’ll see his signature nautical stripes, corsets, and suits with a unique Freak Show edge.

Plus, in true Gaultier style, the models are a diverse bunch. Showcasing different ages, sizes, and ethnicities which only adds to the show’s electric energy.

Cabaret and Circus Fun

But it’s not just a fashion parade. The Fashion Freak Show lives up to its name with a healthy dose of cabaret and circus fun!

Think burlesque dancers, acrobats, jugglers and even a contortionist or two. It’s a true variety show, with something to surprise and delight everyone.

While models showcase the stunning garments – which range from the iconic to the exclusive, performers attempt to rag focus in a show that keeps you guessing throughout.

Dripping with Iconic Moments

Of course, no Gaultier show would be complete without some iconic moments. And the Fashion Freak Show delivers them and more!

You’ll see hat tips to and recreations of some of his most famous collaborations, his long-term collaborator and friend Rossy de Palma appears as Gaultier’s stern old schoolteacher, while Catherine Devenue serenades us with some mad cap monikers the enfant terrible gave to some of his 90s men’s pieces.

The pace then switches again as Jean Paul takes us inside some of the raucous nights he spent in the Le Palace club alongside some of the biggest stars from music, fashion and film.

These moments are a wonderful tribute to Gaultier’s career and the impact he has had on the fashion industry.

A Must-See Event

As the show draws to a close, you’re left with a sense of wonder and a serious case of outfit envy! The Jean Paul Gaultier Fashion Freak Show is a truly unique experience, offering a fresh and exciting take on the traditional fashion show.

If you’re looking for a night of sexiness, stunning ensembles and fashion-forward thinking, this is the show for you. But when can you catch this riotous renegade performance?

Where & When Can You Catch the Fabulous Fashion Freak Show?

The Freak Show is coming to some remarkable and avant-garde fashion strongholds across Europe throughout the summer. The venues and dates to have marked in your diary are:

• Milan: Teatro Arcimboldi – 7 – 24 March
• Barcelona: Teatro Coliseum – 2 – 21 April
• Vienna: Wiener Stadthalle – 10 – 14 July
• Cologne: Lanxess Arena – 17 – 21 July
• Amsterdam: Koninklijk Theatre Carre – 24 – 28 July

Imagine catching the show as part of a gorgeously cosmopolitan summer weekend in Amsterdam. You could spend your days on the canals and an evening attending the crazy catwalk around.

Discover More European Fashion Shows on Our Dedicated Fashion Channel

So, there you have it, my inside look at the incredible Jean Paul Gaultier Fashion Freak Show. I hope you’re feeling inspired to don your most outrageous outfit and step into the weird wonderful world of this fashion touring event.

Remember to check our Fashion Channel for more industry events across the continent that does fabulous fashion best!

There you can discover all sorts of avant-garde action. From Daniel Lismore’s Fashion in Motion show to touring the YSL Museum in Marrakesh to John Galliano’s new Maison Margiela Artisanal Collection 2024. We cover it all!