Cirque Bon Bon
A Spellbinding Fusion of Acrobatics, Dance, and Comedy
Reviewed by Brendan Daynes
Cirque Bon Bon, conceived by Creative Director Ash Jacks and choreographer Julieann Nugent, delivers a dazzling spectacle that masterfully combines light, acrobatics, dance, and comedy, leaving its audience utterly spellbound. Following its sell-out run in Brisbane, the production transformed the Athenaeum Theatre on Thursday, 10th July, into a vibrant cauldron of excitement and artistry, featuring an all-star cast of contortionists, acrobats, and dancers.
Mario, Queen of the Circus, serves as the engaging emcee, effortlessly commanding the stage with a mix of physical comedy, audience interaction, and witty banter. His infectious energy and humour add a delightful layer to the show.
Ensuring a seamless flow between acts, the dance ensemble—including talented performers like Tiara Locke, Jayden Grogan, Holly Soper, and Hunter-Jai Clist—showcases remarkable skill across contemporary, jazz, and tap styles, keeping the audience thoroughly entertained and enhancing the overall experience with their artistry and dedication.
The extraordinary circus acts elicited a mix of gasps, squeals of joy, and moments of stunned silence from the audience, demonstrating their deep engagement with the performance. Shannen Michaela, the foot archery artist, astounds with her precision, shooting arrows while demonstrating incredible flexibility and control. The aerial hoop contortionist Ashleigh Roper mesmerises the crowd, twisting and turning while suspended in mid-air, creating a visual feast that seems almost otherworldly. 
The hand-to-hand skating duo of Emma Goh and Scott Lazarevich defies gravity with their astonishing balance and strength, leaving spectators in awe of their physical prowess. Their chemistry and coordination are impressive, showcasing their deep understanding of each other’s movements. The Cyr Wheel artist Alexandre Lane captivates with agility and precision, executing intricate tricks that highlight his exceptional skill and artistry.
The juggling act by Cody Harrington is nothing short of mesmerising, as he juggles an impressive array of items with remarkable control—not just with his hands but also with his head, pushing the boundaries of traditional juggling. Meanwhile, the aerial straps and mouth hang artist Liam Dummer displays sheer strength and incredible control, further captivating the audience and earning collective gasps of admiration.
Lighting and staging significantly enhance the experience, with every element thoughtfully designed to complement the artists’ skills. The production creates moods that shift from whimsical to breathtakingly dramatic, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the performance.
In just 80 minutes, Cirque Bon Bon delivers an unforgettable experience that brilliantly intertwines astonishing skill with artistic dance, captivating audiences from start to finish. This production showcases the exceptional talents of its cast and crew, crafting a distinctive theatrical experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.
Cirque Bon Bon runs for a strictly limited season from 11 to 13 July at the Athenaeum Theatre, for more information or to purchase tickets please visit https://www.athenaeumtheatre.com.au/shows/cirque-bon-bon. Don’t miss the chance to experience this exceptional show that promises to enchant audiences of all ages.
