Bonython Park. Spiegel Big Tent. 18 Aug 2017

 

Infamous is a breath of fresh air to regular circus fare.

 

Described as a cross between Cirque de Soleil and fringe show, La Soiree, Infamous attempts to strike a balance between cabaret performance - singing, dancing, burlesque, and comedy – and circus – acrobatics, death-defying stunts, aerialists, and strongmen.

 

The troupe is comprised of a famous family of circus performers, a team of dancing girls, a singer, a clown, jugglers, and contortionists. They are all highly talented performers in their own right, but it would be fair to say that some shine brighter than others.

 

As an overall production, Infamous is highly entertaining, but the ‘balance’ is not always there (no pun intended). A series of heart-stopping tricks on the wheel of death would be a tough act for anyone to follow!

 

In the circus elements, this show really hits its straps. The performers are clearly world class, and the audience are perched on the edge of their seats. It is exactly what the circus intended.

 

During the cabaret numbers, however, one’s attention drifts, production elements are lacking, and the buzz created by the preceding circus number slowly dies away. This is the result of a lack of pace, poorly focussed lighting, and generally low sound quality (especially for musical numbers).

 

The cabaret seating is a stroke of genius and gets much of the audience up close and personal to the action. Serving drinks throughout the show is a distraction however, constantly breaking our focus on the action as attendants come and go taking orders and delivering goods.

 

It is a show that needs the heavy editing of a director; but one with loads of potential to soar. The production elements of its big brothers in Cirque de Soleil and La Soiree are what make these shows so engrossing and memorable.

 

Infamous is an entertaining evening of spectacular circus with some enjoyable cabaret and gorgeous bodies on display – with a few tweaks it could be truly infamous.

 

Paul Rodda

 

When: 18 Aug to 10 Sep

Where: Bonython Park, Adelaide

Bookings: events.ticketbooth.com.au