Six Little Hearts: Circus Oz But Wait...There's More! Review

Tuesday, 7 July 2015

Melbourners are a privileged lot to have the locally-based and internationally recognised, iconic Circus Oz currently playing at Birrarung Marr these school holidays and I am happy to report that it's a circus that's suited to all ages.

I fully realise that the 'all ages' statement may sound a little odd where a circus is concerned, but believe me, we've seen a few similar shows over the last few months that have been aimed at specific demographics and it's not always possible to say 'family friendly' here.

Circus Oz has certainly made a name for itself worldwide in its 37 year existence - they're an entirely Australian grown company of performers, musicians, acrobats and artists who have continuously produced intelligent and energetic shows that are uniquely... Australian.

There's simply no better way to describe it.

But Wait... There's More is the title of the Circus Oz return season performance and you can catch it until the 12th of July.

Make sure you do.

This show is exciting, colourful, vibrant, zany and impressive with a distinct flavour of Melbourne 'local' that is bound to leave an impression, laced with a good tinge of Aussie pride. Circus Oz is quite distinctly, like no other circus and it's this grass-roots individual flair that sets it apart within the genre.

Image credit: Rob Blackburn.

There are poetically beautiful moments during the show, where grace expressed through the elegance of the human form merge to imply effortless acts of balance and magic. There are strong women - capable of holding the weight of men much larger than themselves on the trapeze (truly impressive!) and there are amazing feats of physicality and lightness with a good deal of humour sprinkled throughout. Costumes too, are striking - colourful and traditional with a touch of quirky, not unlike Circus Oz itself.

Image credit: Rob Blackburn

As indicated by the title, there is a theme to this show. But Wait... There's More explores (in its own words), 'the idea of consumerism and 'infobesity.' The show is an expression of the commercialism and the 'soulessness' of a world that seeks to commodify everything within it. Adults will be prompted to understand this thought-provoking message as it is played-out creatively while the kids will enjoy the simplicity and humour with which the subject unfolds.

The cast of Circus Oz (Image credit: Rob Blackburn.)

"For us, moments of great circus are gifts from a performer to an audience (and the audible response of the audience is a gift in return!). However, moments of circus are also a commercial unit that performers sell to make a living. Circus Oz is a not-for-profit company, dedicated to sustaining itself as a group of artists and circus-makers,

while pursuing 'social justice and a good time for all.'

Image credit: Rob Blackburn.

We were lucky enough to be invited to attend the opening night of Circus Oz here in Melbourne and our entire family was thrilled with the show. We can't recommend it highly enough! This is one piece of Australian culture you should experience.

Circus Oz But Wait... There's More plays in Melbourne

until July 12th.

For full details about Circus Oz, visit their website. For session times and ticket info, visit here.

For additional Australian Tour dates visit here.