Cirkus Cirkör: Limits at Royal Festival Hall

The high concept, semi-lighthearted circus performance Limits by Cirkus Cirkör is not the kind of show one might expect. Impressive acrobatic feats abound, but the melancholy of the underlying theme of refugee displacement is quite at odds with the jubilation of most of the presentation. This makes for a jumbled tone, which is not entirely fixed by the charm that the ensemble has in spades. 

The show gets off to a slow start, with some measured and relatively unimpressive acrobatics. The pace soon picks up, however, and the troupe’s dynamism becomes part of what makes the event enjoyable. Often, there are multiple pairs performing numerous tricks until, even on such a small stage, it’s hard to know where to look.

Periodically the pace slows again, but to varying effect, as not all of the tricks or routines offer sufficient payoffs. For example, there is an odd sequence during which a tableau of a bedroom is arranged on a raised platform, while the testimonial of a displaced refugee plays in the background. This is a common feature of the night, and while it often serves to be emotionally stirring, it contrasts jarringly with the troupe’s cheery attitude and energy. While in this instance the mood is reflected well in the tableau, is it ultimately a piece of anticlimactic performance art rather than a full blown circus trick.

Unfortunately, there were also a noticeable amount of stumbles, fumbles, trips and reattempts during a few of the routines. Equally, and fumbles aside, the juggling and trampolining tricks were very entertaining, and Sarah Lett’s turn on the cyr wheel was second to none. The overall effect was that of a unpolished, but enjoyable show with its heart firmly in the right place.

Aidan Milan
Photo: Einar Kling Odencrants

Cirkus Cirkör: Limits is at Royal Festival Hall on 15^th and 16^th August 2017. For further information or to book visit here.

Watch the trailer for Cirkus Cirkör: Limits here: