Proteus review

The circus show Proteus follows a diverse group of characters living together in a strange city, capturing the blend of public spaces and private moments. Co-directed by Sage Bachtler Cushman and Hugo Oliveira, this production offers a thoughtful exploration of human connection through acrobatics, aerials, movement, and physical storytelling performed by NICA's third-year students.

The ensemble is impressive, with each performer given room to shine. Sammy George's contribution stands out as especially hypnotic. His flips and landings are executed with such silent precision that it looks like he's landing on a cloud. He moves with composed grace and calm, maintaining a mesmerising presence throughout the show. Similarly, Immy Turecek's acrobatics and lyra act commands our attention with her skills and charisma. Even during transitions, when she's momentarily isolated among Barrie Michael Baxter's imposing set pieces, her fluidity holds our gaze.

The group trapeze act is an entertaining showcase of coordination and considered direction, with Saskia Gallasch, Paige Dorrity and Imogen Drury moving in perfect harmony as they present a collective unity with instances of individual flair. This mindful choreography recurs in other duets and ensemble pieces, creating a rhythmic ebb and flow.

Ian Moorhead’s pulsing score brings new life into each act, mirroring the performers’ routines and emotions. Alanah Lewis’ hula hooping benefits from this, with her commanding energy magnified as she performs surrounded by various tableaux of topless men posed like Grecian statues. Bethany White’s cyr wheel performance provides another highlight, her long hair and white coat billowing around her, as if lifted by the music and momentum of her actions.

Lisa Mibus’ lighting design adds depth and shadow at key moments, sharpening the drama, particularly with Jam Travers’ aerial rope act. As with the score, her work contributes to an intricate design that elevates the show's emotional and visual impact. Baxter's set also builds on this, with the performers’ interactions among doors, windows, and gaps in the pieces contributing to a surprising, architectural dimension to the production.

Proteus is a captivating fusion of physical artistry and storytelling, offering a snapshot of togetherness, tension, and curiosity. Sometimes familiar, sometimes strange, scenes come together to build a world rich with feeling, delivered with precise technique, inspiring strength, and a touch of humour by NICA's graduating class of 2025. This is a must for anyone interested in the next generation of circus artists, and seeing what they’re capable of.

Show Details

Venue: NICA National Circus Centre, 39-59 Green Street, Prahran.
Season: Until 28 June | Tues - Sat 7:30pm, Sat 2:00pm
Duration: 80 minutes
Tickets: $40 Full | $32 Conc
Bookings: NICA

Image credit: Cameron Grant