There is a lot of excitability and liveliness from this emerging group of circus artists. Of note is Cona, who not only performs her routines with a brazen attitude but actively draws us into them from the (relative) safety of our own seats. Wilde has an incredible charm to him and the way he interacts with the audience lets our inhibitions down, willing to go along with whatever he has planned. Mejias sings several songs that provide moments to gather ourselves with enough pizzazz to simultaneously keep us hyped up.
The acts themselves might not be mind blowing but the way they are executed makes them feel more evolved. We’ve seen juggling before but Wilde’s choice of juggling items, the lead up to their reveal and what he does with them creates something quite unique. Similarly, Cona’s hula hopping brings with it amazing visual effects that are completely mesmerising and you're almost disappointed when it's over.
There is a small amount of audience participation, which works well but there is a need for more structure with this. In one instance, two people are brought up to fight to the death for Mejias' love using pool noodles. We then watch as they smack each other with them and despite no issues with this on the evening attended, it's not hard to picture something going wrong. The act also ends awkwardly and a new approach with it could help tighten the show.
There are plenty of costume changes throughout, some off stage and some saucily done on stage. The detail on these, along with their loudness and shine work wonders with the title of the show and the energy that the performers bring. The music further supports this with its mixture of genres seamlessly blending in with the rest of the production.
Click here for my interview with Jack Wilde and Shona Cona.
SHOW DETAILS
Venue: Gasworks Arts Park, 21 Graham St, Albert Park
Season: until 8 February | 9:30pm
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $30 Full | $28 Conc
Bookings: Midsumma Festival
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