THE MOSCOW State Circus captured the audience with jaw-dropping acrobatics, mesmerising jugglers and enchanting aerial acts at Worcester’s Pitchcroft Racecourse.
Based on the Russian city’s historic Park Gorkogo, which became an instant success in 1928 with fun fair rides and artists painting in full view of onlookers, the circus troupe dazzled and entertained with their mystical interpretation.
Acts such as vertical juggling from lampposts and stunning acrobatics provided what was often a breathtaking performance, which captured the heart and inner child in us all.
The heart-pounding White Birds amazed with their elegance and ease on the flying trapeze, leaving the crowd holding their breath at every jump and grab while the Kozaks brought a taste of traditional Russia with classic dancing and dangerous whip tricks.
Like synchronised swimmers, the Bathing Beauties’ simultaneous aerial moves showcased pure elegance and poise, while the Russian Swing ended the show with a bang as the troupe catapulted into the air with vaults and somersaults.
But what stole the show for me was how the classic circus launched itself into the modern era.
Gone were the silly wigs and squeaky noses and in their place an up-to-date, believable comedy couple – clowns Pavlik and Klava- who bounced off each other like the sound of laughter hitting the sides of the big top tent.
Football skills by Zhora Organisyan, who balanced on a giant football while juggling five more, added a young and unique twist while the soundtrack of the show brought classics from the past into the now with powerful renditions and chart-topping hits which complimented performances perfectly.
Even the traditional disappearing acts and a person being sawn in half managed to prompt a ‘how did they do that?’ – especially when the bottom half was dancing around the stage.
And the show stopper of the night was the extremely ‘real’ Mannequin performance. Glued to her fingers and toes I watched her waiting for her to twitch or move, but she held the lifeless pose like a statue until her split-second timing created comedy gold.
Despite being based on the historic and traditional park, the acts for this circus were perfectly choreographed to fit the bill for what was undoubtedly a modern, exciting and entertaining visit to the circus, which left me giddy and amazed.
Like the acrobatic troupe proved that night – time really does fly when you’re having fun.
The Moscow State Circus will continue to run at Birmingham’s Star City from December 18 to January 5.
Connie Osborne
