A mash-up of cabaret, circus, burlesque and contemporary vaudeville, there’s no doubt as to why The Trip is this year’s headliner at the Famous Spiegeltent.
Direct from Berlin, it features exceptional performances by seven performers sourced from all corners of the world. Between them they can sing, dance, juggle, contort and seduce, making excellent use of the cosy Spiegeltent’s limited space. Jack Woodhead is the evening’s MC and does a fabulous job of capturing the audience with nothing but a piano and his vibrant personality. Dressed in sequins, a corset and a feather boa while singing hilarious songs about sexuality, Woodhead is the essence of what makes The Trip so extraordinary.
The show gets off to a not-so-spectacular start with Ethiopian performer Girma Tsehai’s Chinese Pole routine. Despite the excellent choice of upbeat, modern music, his performance was a bit shaky and less than outstanding to a frequent circus-goer. He is quickly redeemed, however, when he returns to what he is known for — his juggling routine is one that won’t be forgotten quickly.
The real star of the night is David Pereira, a boylesque artist and contortionist from Spain who is responsible for assembling the show. Graceful, flexible, cheeky, and oozing sex appeal, each of his acts were absolute standouts. The originality behind his performances make them exceptional, using props such as a disposable razor, shopping trolley and a giant half-disco ball to contort in. Pereira demonstrates world-class skills in ballet and acrobatics, and it’s exciting to think what the future holds for this 23-year old sensation.
The Caesar Twins, Polish brothers and former stars of La Clique, do an impressive acrobatic act, intertwining and balancing together while creating a wonderful visual display of strength and flexibility. Their world-famous water-bowl act is both dangerous and remarkable, and it’s clear that these twins are at an advantage, having been together since the womb — the synchronicity of their act seems effortless.
New York drag act Baby Jane is a confusing but colourful addition to the show, alongside a female acrobatic clown and a hula-hoop artist. Though I could happily have watched an entire show consisting of Woodhead’s antics and Pereira’s mesmerising acrobatics, the variety and spice between all performers makes this a solid, innovative take on circus cabaret that pushes the boundaries of its genre.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
The Trip
The Famous Spiegeltent, Arts Centre Melbourne
12 February – 3 March
