Cirque Nouvelle

Cirque Nouvelle somersaulted into Mandurah Performing Arts Centre for a sold-out single performance as part of a four-city regional tour. Somewhat of a homecoming, co-producer James Capener hails from Mandurah, the capacity crowd were rapt from start to finish during this action filled show.

Acrobatic jugglers, husband and wife duo James and Rebecca Capener, known as Cameo Rascale, are joined by Sydney based Cyr wheel and hand balancer Simon Crawley, Katelyn Aperios - aerialist and fire performer, aerialist/dancers Elysha Atwell and Michelle Screaigh as well as ringmaster and performer Steve Capener.

The show begins with ringmaster Edwardo singing an impressive version of “Wilkommen” from Cabaret, part ringmaster and part clown (and absolutely adored by the children in the audience). Edwardo, revealed to be Steve Capener, keeps the show moving swiftly, is funny and entertaining throughout, while managing to explore the serious theme of change.

Elysha Atwell and Michelle Screaigh perform a fabulous aerial duet that is both beautiful and impressive, with Elysha also responsible for the dynamic choreography that links the whole show. Katelyn Aperios performs both aerials and a daring fire routine, both provoking audible gasps from the audience.

Simon Crawley’s Cyr wheel (also referred to as Wheel of Death), is a unique act that’s amazing to watch both for its beauty and balance, while his hand balancing on a stack of chairs simply defies gravity.

I was excited to see Cameo Rascale, having recently watched two of their performances aboard a cruise ship. While their extreme balancing no longer has to take in the extra movement of a ship, they are incredibly impressive, with outstanding team juggling and excellent use of dance.

This is a visually stunning show that held both adults and children in awe. A very enjoyable production. 

Kimberley Shaw

Images: Rift Photography.