What does it take to become a world-class, world-travelling, highly-sought-after acrobat? Ten Thousand Hours gives you a peek behind the scenes. Gravity & Other Myths’ (GOM) new work explores the physically sweaty push and challenging emotional pull that the pursuit of mastery entails. The audience bears witness to the trials and tribulations of nine elite professional acrobats refining and perfecting their incredible physical talents, with some fun and light-hearted humour thrown in. It’s fascinatingly impressive to witness these performers pushing their bodies to extremes in the pursuit of physical artistic perfection. Get ready for human jump-ropes, aerial leaps across human pillars, helicoptered bodies, perfected flips and spins and more, interspersed with elements of contemporary dance and breakdancing – and all while strictly regulated on a giant red digital countdown timer which looms over the performers from the back of the stage. It’s incredible to witness moves the body simply shouldn’t be able to make, and yet, there they are, happening right before your eyes. This production is another example of GOM blending lines between circus ‘performances’ and circus as a deeper art form, pushing for more depth and provoking deeper conversations, though Ten Thousand Hours feels lighter than most of their previous productions. Elements of light-hearted humour are entwined throughout the show, with friendly interactions between the performers and smiles all round, and a very whimsical live game that blends elements of both Pictionary and Charades. This feels like a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes fun the cast would have in training sessions and between shows while touring both Australia and the world. The set is stripped to the basics, and theatrics are limited, with the focus squarely on the performers and the dedication, focus, strength, and skill it takes to master the mind-blowing acrobatic moves they can do. A low bench at the back of the stage and multiple large road cases reinforce the more casual aspect of the show, and the idea of witnessing the behind-the-scenes repetitive and dedicated practice. A live drummer is an entertaining addition to the performance, creating a more diverse experience for the audience, while still allowing the performers to be the stars of the show. Productions by GOM should always be on your Adelaide Fringe wish-list as they’ll always have your jaw dropping in awe, and never leave you feeling disappointed. South Australia is lucky to have such a talented group of performers and choreographers based in the state, with GOM sitting prominently as one of Australia’s most acclaimed arts companies of the last decade, having premiered 8 acclaimed works that have been presented in over 38 countries around the world. GOM’s Ten Thousand Hours is a visually-satisfying reminder of the potential that mortal flesh can have when honed, trained, toned and truly dedicated. Book your tickets and enjoy these performers’ glistening mastery before they head off to tour France – you’ll leave inspired by what the human body can achieve.