With winter upon us the urge to stay rugged up inside is VERY tempting- I mean what other options do we have? Well, what if I told you that instead of sitting by the heater bored at home you could be drinking wine in the Royal Botanic Gardens, surrounded by warmth, watching death-defying acrobats?
Sounds like your kind of night? Then Circus Oz has you covered! Celebrating its 40th anniversary with a brand new show, Precarious is the perfect unique night out. Set up in a heated big top tent, Circus Oz makes its way to the Royal Botanic Gardens for the first time, bringing an intimate 70 minute non-stop spectacle of acrobatic mayhem.
Think juggling, aerial rope, Chinese pole and crazy hula hooping! Kicking off it’s July season, Precarious made its grand premiere on Saturday June 30, and was everything Artistic Director Rob Tanion promised- a fun performance that echoed its surroundings and left audience members thinking about what they can do to help our eco-system.
A tribute to the original owners of the land welcomed the show, before the ensemble came out from every corner of the audience, opening with a dazzling acrobatic act. Tara Silcock and Lachlan Sukroo then took centre stage with a daring sky hight walk the plank.
The ensemble then came back to the stage and brought the Ministry of Seeds alive- a fictional company that protects seeds. Each preceding act is based off the processes that go on at the Ministry. Theres the ‘switchboard’ which sees Emily Gare excel at the Ariel tip ring, the ‘conveyor belt’ sort with juggling, the ‘archive room’ featuring block handstands by some of the ensemble and the ‘seed delivery,’ showcasing Dylan Singh’s crazy bungee trapeze. But don’t worry, there is also some traditional clowning around, a highlight being Tara Silcock’s poopy Hula Hoop routine.
The show is designed to ask strong questions about social justice and to deliver an important environmental message. What can humanity do to restore natural balance to our eco-system before its too late? Paired together with story telling in a recognisable world and circus innovation, Precarious delivers a relaxed performance that everyone can enjoy. Whilst the political messages are strong, it’s not all doom and gloom. Just like any circus, it’s silly, absurd and a lot fun! So if you’re looking for something different to do this July, check Precarious.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Precarious will be running at the Royal Botanic Gardens from June 26- July 15. For tickets and more info click here.
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