Review: Saltimbanco by Cirque Du Soleil

The current version of Saltimbanco, the oldest show from the Cirque Du Soleil stable, is currently touring Australia. This show is everything that you expect from Cirque Du Soleil’s shows. Acrobats, colors, drama, comedy, and of course, a sense of flight from normal.

Nearing 30 years in existence, Cirque Du Soleil has redefined, and reinvented, the art of the circus performer. Thanks to it, the once dying art of the circus has a new lease on life. Saltimbanco is every bit a manifestation of this art as much as an extension of it.

What is gripping about the show itself is that it grabs you from the start, even before everyone is seated. The comedy acts (calling them jokers in the traditional sense of the word would be a disservice) play with the audience while most of us are still groping about matching seat numbers on our tickets. The official show starts with an introduction and a welcome and then Chinese pole performers perform stunts that leave your jaw hanging.

An artistic cyclist, a juggler, a mime performer (whose act seems to drag unfortunately), and a duo of bola (kind of drums) performers round up act 1. A brief 20 minute interval is followed by more death defying acts, more comedy and more performances that can only be described as .. well impossible for normal human beings.

For locals, Brisbane born performer, 24 year old NATHAN DENNIS, is part of this talented cast. Look out for him in Chinese Poles, Swings and Bungee.

If you have little ones, try attending the shows that are in the afternoon. The night show that starts at 8 doesn’t finish till 10:30. It means you won’t get home till late.

If you are a family of four, it can cost you a bit. The cheapest tickets are $55.00 for a child and $69.00 for an adult (in Brisbane – more in other cities). But what you get is far more than a circus – it is an experience.

What: Saltimbanco by Cirque Du Soleil

When: In Brisbane: Till 17th July, then Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong.

Where: Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Pay $10 for parking.

TICKETS: Ticketek on 132 849 or the website: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/Shows/Show.aspx?sh=CIRQUEDU11. From $55.

CraftGossip attended the show courtesy of Cirque Du Soleil.

Michaela McMillan is a UK-based mixed media artist known for her unique, narrative-driven sculptures made from recycled and found materials. Her work is deeply inspired by a childhood filled with parables and a strong ‘Good Life’ philosophy, which emphasizes sustainability and resourcefulness—values that continue to shape her artistic practice.

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Michaela’s work has been featured in various exhibitions, including a notable show called “Our Journey” at Hub Sleaford in 2022. Her pieces are praised for their intricate details and the way they breathe new life into discarded objects, turning them into treasured works of art.

For those who are interested in discovering more about Michaela McMillan’s artistic journey and her eco-conscious approach to sculpture, her portfolio offers a fascinating glimpse into her ongoing commitment to sustainable, meaningful art.

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