Born in Sawdust

The Russian phrase to describe someone born into the circus is wholly illustrated in this production. The show ties all the segments together around the life of a circus performer who faces heartbreaking choices to further his career.

The narrative structure allows for both traditional and contemporary approaches to be applied to the varying, and often death-defying, acts. The story goes out of its way to pay homage to both the physical and psychological demands of circus arts and the performance showcases an abundance of acrobatics, tumbling, handstands, manipulations and juggling. This is combined with special effects which cast intriguing shadows across the stage. These shadowy figures often have a life of their own; sometimes mirroring the performers and at other times subverting them.  This clever technique accentuates the movement and energy of the show so that they reverberate throughout the entire auditorium.

The highwire act by Adam O’Conner-McMahon and Steph Mouat is breathtaking and the multicorde performance by Alex Jean is equally mesmerising. The Group Ensemble provides dynamic settings and a plethora of action that is a feast for the eyes. It is not uncommon for stunning acts such as Erin Murphy’s Chinese Pole and Corrie Hurry’s Crates Stack to be performed simultaneously.  Simone Sallé’s fat clown is wonderfully alluring and just one of the many highlights that makes this production simply spectacular.

Patricia Di Risio

Image: Aaron Walker Photography