Evocative and beautifully choreographed, Knee Deep is an exquisite demonstration of stripped-back, contemporary circus. The show is absent of any dialogue, with the focus being entirely on the astonishing capabilities of the body and the relationships between the four performers. Incredible feats are performed in an understated, graceful manner.
Casus is a Brisbane-based circus troop formed in 2011 and consisting of Emma Serjeant, Lachlan MacAulay, Jesse Scott and Natano Fa’anana, who between them have worked with Circa, Flying Fruit Fly Circus, Polytoxic and the Australian Opera. Knee Deep is such a refined, developed piece of work that is that it’s surprising to learn that this is their debut production.
Knee Deep promises the thrill of circus in a gentle and emotive setting. While toying with perceived ideas of the boundaries of human strength and flexibility, each performer executes a stunning display of skill and teamwork. The show focuses on the potential of the body as the performers create human chains and balancing beams to support one another. The show uses only a few props such as hula-hoops, straps and a trapeze, set to a beautiful and often eerie soundtrack. The motif of an egg is used throughout the show, and can be seen as a symbol of the fragility and delicacy of their work.
Though not entirely suited to the intimacy of The Famous Spiegeltent – some of the smaller acts were difficult to see from a few rows back –most of the troupe’s performances filled the space well and added to the majesty of the venue. One act in particular saw three of the performers reach the top of the tent as they stand – not sit – on one another’s shoulders.
In keeping with the emerging and refreshing change in modern circus, Knee Deep challenges gender role expectations. It’s empowering to see Serjeant bearing her male counterparts on many parts of her body and for the men to take part in acts such as hula hooping. The depth of emotion expressed by all performers creates a sense of equality and respect between the members of the group, making this show a unique piece of circus theatre.
Raw, modest and utterly astounding, Knee Deep is an exquisite example of accomplished Australian circus talent.
Rating: 4 ½ stars out of 5
Casus – Knee Deep
Created and performed by Emma Serjeant, Jesse Scott, Lachlan McAulay and Natano Fa’anana
The Famous Spiegeltent, Arts Centre Melbourne
5 – 17 March
