What an electrifying showcase of talent up close and personal. That is what is in store when you set foot inside Fairfax Studio at Arts Centre Melbourne to witness Zerial. It is a slick, enticing and highly entertaining program of fluid movement, breathtaking aerial acrobatics, dance par excellence and ear pleasing music and song.
Eight artistes – four aerialists, two dancers and two singers – work through 15 acts in a little more than an hour, displaying exemplary skills and prowess. I speak of Aussie highflyers Olivia Baker, Natalie Bond and Lauren Bird, and French Cirque du Soleil artist Arnaud Caizergues. The latter’s core strength on a hoop, an open cube and straps is something mighty special. He lays down in the hoop, toys with the cube, whether held up by four guy ropes, two or just one, and doubles over on the straps. He, like the polished and poised ladies, is in total control of the art form.
Individually, as a pair and as a trio, the women mesmerise with their dexterity and precision on a succession of apparatus, some built especially for the show. From a carousel, hourglass and rope web to double slings, a net and silks, Olivia, Natalie and Lauren balance, rotate, swing, entwine, climb, drop and plank.
Often, they are accompanied by vocalists Mark Oates, an acclaimed opera singer, and musical theatre star Teagan Wouters, who operate individually and collectively. They are melodic, in turn up tempo and soulful in performing a series of mood setting tunes. I speak of Fly to Paradise, Ordinary, Unsteady, Mad World and Come Fly with me Ruelle. Other songs covered include Rise Up, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Grande Amore and Everybody Wants to Rule the World.
Superlatives don’t do justice as to how Dancing with the Stars’ Sriana Argaet and Craig Monley appear to glide so effortlessly across the stage, dancing up a storm. They make such a regal and energetic couple – wardrobe choices adding extra zing. In fact, elegant and bedazzling costuming is another noteworthy feature of Zerial.
So it is that the combination of aerial and floor artistry, whether acrobatic or sashayed, with lyrical melodies works a treat. Transitions are seamless, while direction from Craig Hryhorec is creative and confident. It is a sizzling and dynamic show of rare quality and conviction that deserves a large audience.
Zerial is on at Arts Centre Melbourne until 20th September, 2026. For tickets, go to https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/whats-on/2026/theatre/zerial
Alex First
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- Cirque Bon Bon (Athenaeum Theatre) – theatre review
- The Choir of Man (Arts Centre Melbourne) – music theatre review
- Gapu Ŋupan (Arts Centre Melbourne) – theatre review
Alex First is the editor of The Blurb. Alex is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He also contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.