Circus Oz believes in diversity, social justice and a good time for all, and it shows! Born in Melbourne, the circus was founded on the idea of making a show to sustain community, and sustaining a community to make a show.
They’ve been from Wagga Wagga to New Delhi, and they’re in Perth now with their new show ‘Cranked Up’, which is version 2.0 of ‘From the Ground Up’ (FTGU), which premiered in Melbourne last June. With a colourful construction-site themed set, and the band on the stage, there’s plenty to keep you entertained at all times. The ensemble which is ‘flung together like a box of rubber bands’, is gathered from the far reaches of Australia, but gel together perfectly with an easy camaraderie.
Memorable acts include foot juggling, seesaw tumbling, and a suspended hoop trapeze that is very When-Night-Is-Falling-esque. The highlight for me, was an act in which the drummer, Bec, was suspended from the ceiling on a massive swinging pendulum, drum kit and all. Pretty impressive, both acrobatically and musically. The indigenous elements to the music and dance are another aspect of the performance that makes it unique.
Socially conscious, Circus Oz gives away around 1000 tickets a year to women’s refuges and other people who are doing it tough. They also perform and do workshops in Indigenous communities, from Arnhem Land to the Central desert. They’re a circus well worth supporting, so get down to His Majesty’s. Kids and adults alike will be tickled by the show.
Circus Oz is on today and tomorrow at His Majesty’s Theatre. Tickets at www.ticketec.com.au
Claire Alexander
