LOS ANGELES- If you’ve lived in LA for awhile, you’ve most definitely heard of Lucha VaVoom. The outrageous show that mixes Mexican wrestling, burlesque, music and comedy has become a staple for Angelenos. In fact, my first time experiencing the show was about 15 years ago, when my co-workers, at the time, got a huge group together to go and to this day, it is such a fond memory. Originally an OC girl, I felt this was part of my LA initiation. And ever since then, not only was I a fan, but I’ve continually recommended the show to anyone who’s never gone before.
I was excited to return to the Mayan for more Lucha mayhem this year when I saw the show announced. Out of all the times I’ve attended, it was my first time going for their Valentines theme show. Lucha Vavoom comes to town a few times a year- their Halloween and Cinco De Mayo shows are the ones I’d attended in the past.
I was even more excited that I was going with three people who had never attended before- one being my wife who is from Mexico City and knows a thing or two about the Lucha Libre culture, so her expectations were a bit high, since I’d been hyping it up. Luckily, my hype did not disappoint and she loved the show every bit as much as I do, although one thing she pointed out that was missing: the crazy expletives that the Mexico crowds shouts out regularly at their matches. The LA crowd was indeed a bit tame from what I remember my past experiences being like, but this may due to the world getting back to normal and some folks still wearing masks and such…maybe shouting out obscenities will take a bit more time to return full force- ugh, damn you Covid, making people more reserved. (Shakes fist in the air) But what the audience lacked in rowdiness, the performers made up for with their talent and obscene antics.
Hosted by comedians Drew Carey and Andy Richter, the show got off the ground right away with a stunning burlesque performance by Elena Sanders, who’s strength and contortionist moves had the crowd in awe. She ended her set by hitting a target with an arrow using HER FEET- while doing a handstand. How? Why? How? I can barely make a wadded up paper land into a trash basket from three feet away. So yea, those upside down antics- they did impress me much.
The night continued with other burlesque performances including an intriguing pole routine by Brynn Route, and steamy sets by Ruby Champagne, Isabelle Marie, and Emma Vaudeville.
But of course, the most anticipated parts of the show were the choreographed, ridiculous showdowns between the luchadors. This is where the real craziness of the show hails from.
Take for example, wrestler Dirty Sanchez, and his signature move, “A Taste of the Awful.” First off, dude comes out in skin colored stretch pants with fake pubes attached at the crotch, talking trash to his opponents. But then halfway through the match, he slings poo all over his rivals AND the audience. Every time, even knowing it’s totally fake, my gag reflex starts to kicks in. Ew, ew, EW. The ringside spectators scream and leave their seats to avoid getting hit. It’s absolute chaos- aka, a filthy good time.
Los Crazy Chickens who cluck around the ring, flapping their feathers and scooting their booties on the floor are always a crowd pleaser. Who doesn’t love a crazy chicken? And Lil Cholo, who surprises the crowd with his ability to kick ass, was also a favorite of the night. He makes the foos proud.
Other wrestling acts included Jack Cartwheel, Pepe Le Pew, Peter Avalon, Dana Fima, and a finale match featuring Simone Williams & Johnny VaVoom vs Taya Valkyrie & Mango.
But hands down, our most favorite of all acts was none other than the little referee who could- Mr. Platanito as they call him, who you would never expect to take flight, but boy when he did, the crowd was howling. Props Platanito, mad props. You are a true inspiration.
In conclusion-If you haven’t been to a Lucha VaVoom event, don’t dare call yourself an Angeleno. Okay, maybe that’s extreme, but seriously, what are you waiting for? It’s a guaranteed good time, every time.
Follow Lucha Vavoom on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
*********************************
Comments
