For years, Gluttony has played host to many standout international circus acts. It’s no secret that the festival attracts acrobats of the highest pedigree, and audiences are always on the lookout for fresh opportunities to be wowed. So with an exceptionally packed 2024 guide, it would be impressive for a show to stand out from such a large crowd.
Director Yamoussa Bangoura brings a fiery and unforgettable cast of characters and a gloriously bombastic show in Afrique en Cirque. A tribute to the vibrant culture of Guinea, West Africa, The show is a wonderful combination of live music, physical theater, comedy and death-defying circus stunts, anchored by a crew of talented and charismatic performers.
The production values are very impressive. A makeshift village erected on stage gives us the impression we’re being welcomed into the world of our performers. Boats, huts, and traditional instruments give us an insight into the regular day-to-day life in Guinea. The music starts with an unusual calmness before we’re treated to a rousing chorus of drums and chanting.
From there, the pace never slows as the Cirque acrobats treat us to death-defying balancing acts, high-energy dances, pulsing drums, and somersaults galore, all accompanied by a playful, effervescent jazz band. The physical prowess of the performers is undeniable, and they appeared weightless with how precise their movements were executed. A huge standout was an impressive contortion act that seemed to defy the laws of physics (and the laws of flexibility for that matter!)
The show is brimming with undeniable talent, the hallmark of a talented director with an impressive vision for his team. Between the incredible acrobatics, the show provides us an intimate insight into the heart of Guinea culture; vibrant colours, loud and playful African drums and jazzy beats, and infectious effortless carry across the whole show.
A heck of a way to start the party for Gluttony 2024, an impressive and unique display of strength, power and showmanship from some of the freshest talent in the international circus scene
FIVE STARS *****
Reviewed by Justine Hall