Wonderland Spiegeltent Festival Hub, Sat 27 Feb.

The Circus Wonderland experience starts while in line with some silly klutsy entertainment on stage as we enter. Given that circuses these days tend to not feature animals, it seems the job of the Ringmaster has gone by the way. However, in Circus Wonderland – A Mermaid’s Tale the show has a narrative and the Ringmaster helps as sometime narrator, performer, spruiker and Master of Ceremonies. There is a story to tell and the writing and choreography keep things moving along –  villains become heroes, love that was lost is found and, as you’d expect, there is a fairy tale ending.

Along the way there is juggling, acrobatics, aerial silks and many other routines, often set up as part of the story and the developing interactions between characters. There is plenty of humour and the character Barry in particular crosses seamlessly between circus stunts, melodrama and slapstick, between skilful routine and clowning with hilarity! Slapstick is often attempted, but not often performed with this level of expertise. The balloon routine is unusual and amusing and comes with a twist.

Each performer has their part to play and they all do it to a tee. They all engage with the crowd and perform flawlessly. Children are encouraged to take part and at times are very vocal – showing just how well the show had them engaged and involved!

The audience was a sea of smiles throughout, and young and older alike felt uplifted by a fun and positive experience.

Zoe, 7, reckons ‘It’s great!’ and I tend to agree.