OBSERVER: Circus Showcase
One of the funniest, most endearing/clever MCs Dandyman (Daniel Oldaker)- a physical comedian, opened the Circus Showcase at Gasworks.
This show featured a variety of finalists in this development competition, all receiving awards/prizes.
Oldaker set the scene for a fun evening with his physical comedy, plus sharp wit. He was funny, engaging, very professional, quite unique, though did remind me of the film character ‘Pee-Wee Herman’ (Paul Reubens).
Oldaker’s role was to introduce the three acts, plus encourage audience questions between them. A good device to keep things moving as the stage was reset.
First performer was Ryan Darwin, who used various apparatus with smooth, interesting transitions. It was mesmerising to watch him on the rope or swing with no safety net. Along with music his show flowed well. It was a poetic piece moving from the rope to juggling to the swing. Keeping audience interest throughout. This skilful piece was my favourite of the night.
Following Darwin was the very experienced Michael Connell. His show was classed as ‘edutainment’ as he combined maths with juggling – very impressive with a terrific rapport with the audience.
The third act was a trio of gnomes – known as Blitzen, Butts and Bonkers. They were the ‘clowns’ of the circus with a mixture of large prop, ‘knockabout’ comedy with some technical, clever acrobatic work from contortionist Kelsea.
There was a lot going with this group from the company LAKKlustre with clown trained Karly and fitball tumbling performer Ashley, sometimes too much at one time making it difficult to know who to watch.
Overall, this Gasworks Circus Showcase was a terrific way to watch a variety of circus performances with some very talented people sure to impress for many years.
Review by Elizabeth Semmel