Circus review: Humans 2.0, Circa

An audience consisting of teens were a notable presence at this circus, giving an impression that many of them had a possible interest in following this career path. Nerves and emotions were on edge as they chatted eagerly among themselves. Being opening night, a sense of anticipation permeated the crowd before the doors opened. 

The Playhouse stands out as a comfortable venue with its lush chocolate brown carpet and matching cloth seats throughout. Set in a curved crescent-shaped layout, each seat boasts excellent viewing potential of the stage. 

Lights off and black drapes opened to a haunting symphony. An oversized white circular mat against the starkness of the plain black background took up most of the stage. But it was the 11 performers, four women and seven men, who by posing rigidly, had emotions heightened. Lights flickered on and then off repeatedly as performers rolled and tumbled. 

Read: Opera review: The Barber of Seville, State Opera SA

Brisbane-based troupe Circa have performed their contemporary circus productions since 2004, in 40 countries, to over 1.5 million people. 

From their initial choreographed and synchronised sequence, dressed in lycra shorts and black net matching shirts, the troupe’s connecting theme was to join as one, creating an array of acrobatics. Their silent feats of strength showed how impressive the human body can be with its ability to withstand more than its own weight. Changes of routines were accompanied by a stark variation of atmospheric music, suiting the onstage presentations. 

Aerial spinning on silks, rope and a swing showed extraordinary balance skills and no intermission meant the audience’s attention was maintained. Running liquid bodies leapt into each other’s arms with a great deal of trust and reliance. 

The amazing muscle control was exceptional as three women stretched and reclined their rigid bodies into still, individual poses while a part of the finale became a slow motion crescendo, raising bodies into the light. 

Some may complain of a lack of costumery; others would insist costumes could detract from the action. In this production, a casual tracksuit was worn for one routine while normal everyday sportswear or all black gear were the other outfits.

There were some weaknesses: colour, lighting, props and special effects were minimal and there was a reliance perhaps, on repetitive movements.

Humans 2.0
Circa
QPAC Playhouse, Brisbane

Director: Yaron Lifschitz 
Original Music: Ori Lichtik 
Lighting Designer: Paul Jackson 
Technical Director: Jason Organ

Prices: $59-$69

Humans 2.0 is running from 10-20 November 2021