one4review | On 18, Aug 2024

Wes Peden seamlessly merges his passion for juggling and roller coasters in an exhilarating performance of contemporary juggling. Voted “the world’s most popular juggler” for 10 consecutive years, Peden’s extraordinary skill set on full display in this show clearly justifies that title.

The performance, much like a roller coaster ride, starts slowly, gradually building up to the excitement and thrill of remarkable acrobatic juggling. The stage is dominated by three massive inflatable objects, skilfully shaped to mimic the twists and turns of a roller coaster track, while the subtle sound of a roller coaster speeding along in the background sets the tone perfectly.

A recorded narrative about the history and experiences of roller coasters introduces each high-energy segment, featuring jaw-dropping feats like plate spinning and hoop juggling. Peden’s physical agility is on full display as he twists and contorts his body, performing incredible acts with finesse. He starts the show by manipulating a giant plastic tube around his arms whilst skilfully running a juggling ball through it to simulate a roller coaster ride. During an incredible juggling performance, he appears to drop batons but this is only a clever segue to retrieve various objects from a stage basket to use for another stunning trick. The speed and precision with which he performs are nothing short of astonishing.

I highly recommend this immensely entertaining and unique performance. The audience was thoroughly captivated, rewarding Peden with a well-deserved standing ovation.

****
Reviewed by Lynn
Assembly Roxy (Central)
17:00 (1hr)
Until 26th August (except 20th)