one4review | On 07, Aug 2022

This show has been described by others as next level contemporary circus. Expectations were high as the music began to pulse and the performers appeared. However, if you’re expecting traditional circus and acrobatics – this ain’t it. If it’s a kid’s show you’re after Humans 2.0 is a decidedly grown up offering.

Those familiar with movements associated with contemporary dance will be at more of an advantage than me in working out what the key themes were. While I may not always be the sharpest tool in the shed I’m struggling to realise if there is a message contained in this performance? Maybe something about time? I don’t know. Everyone around me seems to be enjoying it…

The show runs through several segments showcasing both group and individual performances. The part with the rope I found mesmerising – a real display of skill and strength. There’s so much going on in the group performances that it’s hard to pick out an individual pair to focus on, but perhaps that is what the whole point is?

What absolutely can’t be denied is the precision with which this show is put together. What might appear to be a random tumble or movement continues to flow and is picked up effortlessly by the other performers and bleeds into the next part of the show. The strength, flexibility and agility of this troupe is evident with every movement or controlled hold. The sinuous movement of the group seems to point towards something – they are moving almost as though they are telepathic. I can feel myself holding my breath as human towers are created from the performers bodies and gravity defying leaps take place – one of the acrobats appears to fly as she glides through the air between human pylons.

If contemporary dance is your thing then I absolutely think you should check this out. A standing ovation was offered at the end of the show while I sat clapping, ultimately still a bit puzzled over what I’d just seen. In summary, not for me and my simple tastes but I’m sure others would thoroughly enjoy.

***

Reviewed by Lyndsey

Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows (The Lafayette)

18.35 (1hr)

Until 27 Aug (not 10, 15 or 22)