Slick, Cirque Bon Bon is a lively and most entertaining showcase of the circus arts. Its very funny front man is an ardent fan of Queen and Freddie Mercury. In fact, the music (and spot lighting) in this production are among its many highlights, led by a gifted cast of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, contortionists and dancers.
Rhythmic drumming and a stirring beat bring to a darkened stage the latter – four agile dancers – who provide a rousing start. I speak of Jayden Grogan, Holly Soper, Hunter-Jai Clist and Tiara Locke. Thereafter, Mario – known as Queen of the Circus – appears in biker gear with a twist, complete with moustache and a quick wit. The cheeky and cheery comic timing is spot on.
But lest you think that is all he is good for, he quickly proves otherwise, whether juggling, riding a unicycle with a passenger or in a fruit duel (I kid you not). In fact, his ability to engage the crowd so completely is an art form in and of itself. Two “volunteers” brought onto the stage to play along with Mario have the enthusiastic audience roaring with delight.
With her mind-numbing contortion act (surely the body can’t be bent like that!), Shannen Michaela leaves us squirming. Mind you, her piece de resistance is to follow, as the Guinness world record holder shoots an arrow with her feet while upside down on a platform, popping a balloon. Truly something to behold.
Against an exotic music backdrop, aerial hoop and hula hoop artist Ashleigh Roper wows us with her prowess. Is there anything in the juggling realm that Cody Harrington can’t do? He does so with as many as six batons, seven balls and countless more rings. His hand to eye coordination is mighty special.
If mastering aerial straps isn’t difficult enough, Liam Dummer ups the ante when hanging by his mouth. Oh my! Scott Lazarevich towers over Emma Goh and yet both hold each other up while horizontal and very near the ground. Their return sees them roller skating around and around a small platform at speed with Lazarevich all but rag dolling Goh. How she doesn’t lose her composure (she maintains a smile on her face) is remarkable.
Cirque Bon Bon is a very well paced show, in which the extraordinary feats and theatrics just keep rolling out. It is the brainchild of a former assistant creative director of Cirque du Soleil, Ash Jacks and choreographer Julieann Nugent. They have done a magnificent job pulling together such a power packed production that is meaty, mirthful and, altogether, mesmerising. It is on at Athenaeum Theatre until 13th July, 2024.
Alex First
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- Cirque du Soleil’s Crystal (touring) – circus review
- Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA (under the Big Top at Flemington Racecourse) – circus review
- The Great Moscow Circus Extreme (Melbourne and touring) – circus review
Alex First is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.