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Familiar staples of traditional circus will collide with the futuristic, technology-driven advancements of modern theatre at the Burdekin Theatre next Thursday. Photo supplied.
The staples of traditional circus will collide with futuristic theatre in Ayr next Thursday 9th July, when the internationally acclaimed Cirque Nouvelle visits the Burdekin Theatre.
Dubbed a “celebration of everything circus,” the production will bring flames, lasers, and world-class physical artistry to the region following sell-out shows across Australia.
The brainchild of husband-and-wife acrobat duo Rebecca and James Capener, the show is an amalgamation of inspiration gleaned throughout their 10-year stint as cruise ship performers.
“The dream was always to produce a show that we could tour nationally,” Rebecca said.
“I think a lot of typical circus shows mostly just have incredible acts, one after the other—but we have that plus the storyline, which kind of blends and intertwines the acts.
“It takes the audience on a journey and makes them feel something—something they can talk about around the dinner table. It's nice to give the show a little bit more substance than the wow factor.”
The show follows the journey of a charismatic ringmaster forced to grapple with the shift from the traditional Big Top to modernised, tech-driven circus by fusing humour, heart, and professional acrobatics.
“Circus has come a long way from its traditional roots. Everything’s a bit more fast-paced and high energy,” said Ms Capener.
“[The show] is kind of like a battle of the two ... before coming full circle to touch on how we still have a place for both.”
She said the underlying theme of change was intentionally chosen to evoke resonance within the crowd.
“Change is a common thing that we all struggle with at different seasons in life,” said Ms Capener.
“We wanted it to be relatable to our audiences of all ages—being a family show—and it's definitely had a great response so far … with a lot of emotions from the crowd.”
Cirque Nouvelle is the first joint production for the pair, which Ms Capener credits to a shared vision and around-the-clock passion.
“[James and I] make a great team. Whatever time of the day, even if it’s 10 at night in bed, we're still talking about the show and ideas. We don't really know when to clock off, but we don't mind that at all. It's our life,” Ms Capener said.
“We are both just so passionate, and we’re going to do whatever it takes for it to be a success.”
The show is part of a 12-show tour spanning from Brisbane to Cairns, stopping at the Burdekin Theatre next Thursday at 6pm.
Tickets for the show are available for purchase at https://www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/Cirque-Nouvelle
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