MELBOURNE, VIC. — Something is exciting about a production that combines cabaret, burlesque and circus, with dazzling physical feats, risqué humour, elaborate costumes and a touch of mischief.
Making its first visit to Melbourne at the Melbourne Spiegel Haus, La Ronde features an international cast whose talents span aerials, acrobatics, comedy and music, promising plenty of surprises to keep audiences entertained and titillated.
It’s an absolute joy to watch Swedish comedian David Eriksson work his way through his bag of tricks. Dressed in a punk top, sparkling pink skirt and gumboots, he brings a rock ’n’ rollness to his routine, with a cheeky irreverence that makes him instantly likeable. His oral dexterity has to be seen to be believed, adding a deliciously suggestive edge to his performance.
Sergiy Mishchurenko’s flying-pole routine is a standout. He moves with remarkable ease, his body winding and unfurling like a serpent as he swings through the air, at times supporting himself with just one hand. His fluid movements belie the physical demands of this extraordinary display.
In her Australian debut, Ukrainian aerialist Diana Bondarenko leaves a memorable first impression with a pyramid trapeze number that explores the apparatus in unexpected ways.
Set to Kiss’ “I Was Made For Lovin’ You”, she moves through a series of positions and shapes that demonstrate both technical mastery and a keen sense of performance. Zoe Kelly’s hair-hanging sequence is mesmerising, as she performs acrobatic poses while suspended by her hair. Her act pairs sensuality with a defiant statement about women claiming their place, she commands attention throughout.
Danik Abishev’s hand-balancing is sexy and light-hearted, with lively jazz accompanying a wonderful choreography of strength and control. His ladder-balancing adds further variety to his impressive circus skills.
Local talent Adam Malone brings cheekiness and flair to a swinging head-balancing routine on a Washington trapeze, combining precision with a playful presence as they make the most demanding manoeuvres look deceptively easy.
La Ronde also features several songs by Dorival Junco, including a brilliant cover of Norah Jones’ “Turn Me On”, offering a perfect change of pace from the physically intense numbers. While still captivating, his performances allow us to catch our breath and prepare for what’s coming next.
Venue: Melbourne Spiegel House, 217 Lonsdale St, Melbourne.
Season: Until 31 January | Wed – Thur 7pm, Fri 6:30pm & 8:30pm, Sat 5pm and 7:30pm, Sun 6pm.
Duration: 90 minutes.
Tickets: $69 – $149.
Bookings: Melbourne Spiegel House.
