CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S SALTIMBANCO

Inspired by ‘the urban fabric of the metropolis, from the hustle and bustle of streets to the towering heights of skyscrapers’, Saltimbanco is the long-running marquee act of the acclaimed French-Canadian entertainment troupe, Cirque du Soleil. Combining street performance and circus theatricality with hyper-real cosmopolitan aesthetics, Saltimbanco will have audience members alternating between laughter and appreciative gasps with reckless abandon. Whereas as many circus acts feel ‘by-the-numbers’, Saltimbanco is distinguishable because of its numerous contradictions – it’s traditional, yet avant-garde; frivolous yet resonant; wonderfully chaotic yet meticulously choreographed; a trifle sleazy yet brimming with child-like wonder. Some of the many highlights include the jaw-dropping physical feats of the acrobats, the graceful contortions of the gravity-defying trapeze duo, the hypnotic percussion of the boleadoras wielders, and the absurdist antics of ‘Eddie’ the clown, who employs mime to conjure up unbelievably vivid scenarios, whilst finding time to bring audience members in on his playful routines. A special mention must go to the live band, whose incidental music – an eclectic mix of baroque, jazz, funk and glam rock – propels and energises the performances of the show’s international cast. After nearly two decades on the world circuit, Saltimbanco remains a tough act to follow. (JH)

Until Aug 7, Acer Arena, $55-159, 132 849, cirquedusoleil.com/saltimbanco