Carnival of the Animals

Spot-lit on an empty stage is a stack of mismatched, old-fashioned, hard suitcases. The audience assembled in the Playhouse at QPAC is bubbling with anticipation. “Wow, that is one BIIIIIGGGG TV,” a little voice pipes up in the row behind.

“That’s no TV, Victoria,” says a slightly older sounding little voice.

What a wonderful thing for these children to be experiencing the magic and excitement of the theatre for the first time. They’re sure to be left with a love of live performance after experiencing Circa’s Carnival of the Animals. Victoria is about to have her little mind blown.

Circa’s collection of clown-faced entertainers combine acrobatics, physical comedy, acting, circus and dance skills to great effect. They’re putting the animals back into circus in the most humane way possible – by transforming themselves into an amazing array of creatures from all around the globe. Kangaroos, cats, dogs, elephants and fish, insects, zebras and even dinosaurs are whimsically brought to life before our eyes. The audience is dazzled by Circa’s skills, enamoured with their warmth and humour, our breath taken away by their gravity defying feats.

Costume Designer Libby McDonnell has them clad in marvellous monochrome costume that mixes eras ranging from Elizabethan ruffs to 80’s hammer pants. The astounding acrobatics are supported artfully by Video Designer Michaela French’s animated digital set. The players interact with the gorgeous animation in playful, magical and surprising ways. The video also serves to move the narrative elements along. Each narrative is short enough to keep those little attention spans engaged. The music from Sound Designer and Composer Quincy Grant is very well suited to each scenario.

There are some wonderfully fun moments of audience interaction throughout, especially toward the end of the show – perfectly timed to reengage restless audience members and energise the room with laughter. The entertainers display tight choreography, excellent clowning skills and impressive, trusting teamwork.

Carnival of the Animals is an absolute delight for all ages. If you’re looking for a good excuse to get the whole family back to the theatre, you couldn’t pick a better show.

Kitty Goodall

Photo Credit: Justin Nicholas Atmosphere Photography.