By Kevin Heward

In the heart of Las Vegas, where the glitz and glamour of the Strip meets the avant-garde, a peculiar and daring spectacle called “Abandon” has found its home at the Las Vegas Theatre. This immersive experience takes theatergoers on a journey into the realms of sadism, inspired by the notorious Marquis de Sade and his controversial work, “120 Days of Sodom.”

As we entered the lobby of the theater, we were immediately thrust into a world of provocative attire and eclectic characters. Cast members adorned in a mishmash of lingerie, steampunk accessories, and priestly garb engaged with the audience, setting the tone for the unconventional evening that lay ahead. Some performers were confined within small boxes, while others were bound to a Saint Andrew’s cross, inviting the audience to interact and blur the lines between spectator and performer.

The pre-show set the stage for the provocative nature of “Abandon.” A cast member, bound and suspended, was subjected to a series of intense scenes involving intricate rope work, clothespins, and an exploration of the limits of the human body. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, leaving us on the edge of our seats as we awaited the main event.

Once the curtain rose, the audience was plunged into darkness, only to be startled by the sudden emergence of scenes that seemed to materialize out of nowhere. The mastery of lighting and set design created an immersive experience, allowing us to witness a barrage of sadistic tableaus inspired by the infamous Marquis de Sade.

The scenes, drawn from the pages of “120 Days of Sodom,” delved deep into the origins of sadism and the twisted imagination of de Sade himself. Each vignette was a visceral exploration of taboo subjects, including the birth of demons, electroshock therapy, engorged penis fantasies, fisting, and homoerotic themes. The rapid succession of these intense and provocative scenes left little time for the audience to catch their breath, adding to the enthralling nature of the performance.

One of the remarkable aspects of “Abandon” was the seamless transition between scenes. In the blink of an eye, the stage transformed from one macabre tableau to another, showcasing the technical prowess and precision of the production team. The ability to reset the scenes in complete darkness added an element of surprise and anticipation, keeping the audience engaged and captivated throughout the performance.

As the show hurtled toward its conclusion, the audience was left in a state of disbelief and excitement. The intensity of the experience, coupled with the avant-garde exploration of taboo subjects, left a lasting impression. The final act, however, took an unexpected turn, concluding with a fan favorite song, “Don’t Leave Me this Way” by Thelma Huston that served as a surprising juxtaposition to the preceding scenes. This unexpected twist added a touch of humor and left the audience in a positive and euphoric state of mind.

“Abandon” at the Las Vegas Theatre is undoubtedly not for the faint of heart. It challenges societal norms, pushes boundaries, and invites the audience to confront their own perceptions of taboo subjects. The immersive and daring nature of the production, coupled with the stellar performances of the cast, creates an unforgettable experience that lingers in the minds of those brave enough to witness it. In a city known for its extravagant entertainment, “Abandon” stands out as a bold and audacious exploration of the darker corners of human desire.

This article was originally published in the fourth issue of PROUD & Kinky Magazine. You may read it in its original format here.

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