Cirque Stratosphere
The visionary minds that produced Circus 1903 and The Illusionists are bringing a new spectacular show to the Sydney Opera House. Cirque Stratosphere represents an evolution of traditional circus, catapulting it into the future. In an immersive, cosmic universe, a selection of the world’s greatest acrobats and gymnasts will defy gravity and challenge notions of physics and possibility.
Audiences can expect a rollercoaster ride of thrills as they witness the barely believable: The Columbian Wheel Of Death, rollerskates stunts, acrobatics on a Russian Bar, The Aerial Sphere, the Russian Swing To Swing and much more.
Among the performers is a unique artist who combines physical skill with artistic beauty. German performer Felice Aquilar is a former rhythmic gymnast whose Spinning Art act has won her international plaudits.
“When I was younger I performed an act in which I played the ballerina on the music box,” says Aguilar, describing how she created her concept. “I developed the idea more and more and after several prototypes I decided for the small turning plate which I turn myself in both directions with help of a ball bearing.”
Her act is simultaneously thrilling and poignant. It’s a combination she considers important in modern circus.
“Today it is very hard to develop something so new that no-one has ever seen before. So that’s why artists try do something that already exists and make it unique by doing it in their own kind of way or combining it with something that never has been combined before.”
Aquilar feels that an audience response will reflect how much they understand and connect with an act.
“There are very silent and serious or emotional acts and it is nice when the audience is also more silent. It is not only about the volume of the applause. You can feel different energies of the spectators, they can be thoughtful and considerate or out of their mind, the most important is that they pay attention and feel entertained.”
According to Aguilar, this is a show not to be missed.
”Cirque Stratosphere is a highly professional show with extremely talented, skilled and unique artists and acts from all over the world. You will find everything to be entertained in this contemporary show, the thrill, surprises, originality and big feelings!”
Dec 24-29 & Jan 14-19. Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $39-$119+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
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By Rita Bratovich
