This is circus for serious people. It’s not about glitz and glamour, with grinning teeth as sparkly as the leotards. It’s serious. And seriously good. Circa perform death-defying stunts to the highest possible level in a beautiful, yet surprisingly dark piece of theatre.
The show contains jaw-dropping solo aerial rope act as well as poignant ensemble work.
Closer is a contemporary circus performance by acclaimed group Circa. Set in the impressive Udderbelly stage, the intensity of the performance juxtaposes the joviality of the giant purple cow it’s nestled inside. The show contains jaw-dropping solo aerial rope act as well as poignant ensemble work. Moments of high excitement and mirrored with lyrical section bringing the gap between contemporary dance and circus skills. All this is accompanied by a haunting soundtrack that would seem more at home in the likes of American Horror Story that a traditional circus tent.
The skill and dedication of the performers is what makes this show such a success. Each one of the small group of artist brings their own individual skill-set and charm to the stage. They make tricks that seem impossible look effortless. The atmosphere created by the performance feels very heavy and dark, certainly at the beginning, keeping the audience’s attention transfixed on their every movement. Later on, however, there are some lighter moments, providing the much needed relief and a bit of comfort. This includes a routine centred on hugging and a hilarious section of audience interaction where each performer brings someone onstage in what appears to be an attempt to woo them.
Closer is a slick, exciting performance that has truly earned its place on the top of any contemporary circus fan wishlist. The captivating performance makes an hour feel very short and will leave you begging it not to end.
