Step right up, folks!
Opening night of 'LIMBO – The Return' was an electrifying experience and I'm not just talking about the hair-raising stunts! It not only marked the triumphant return of the renowned circus-cabaret but also the debut of Brisbane’s exciting new venue, West End Electric. This chic, speakeasy-style theatre oozes elegance with its vintage decor, plush velvet accents, and not one, but two bars serving up complimentary bubbly on opening night—a perfect prelude to the thrilling spectacle that awaited us!
The atmosphere is electric from the moment you step inside. You could feel the promise of a wild, unforgettable evening hanging in the air. The crowd was a sight to behold, dressed to the nines and ready to welcome back LIMBO to the Brisbane stage for the first time since 2019 (thanks a lot, COVID). A magnificent soundscape fills the air as you eagerly await the show from your seat; arranged arena-style around a catwalk stage.
And what a show it was! From breathtaking aerial acts to sultry burlesque performances, every moment was a feast for the senses. Every performer in this ensemble is a force to be reckoned with. To simply call them "triple threats" would be an understatement — they’re a tornado of talent. From high-flying acrobats to the smooth dancers, musical maestros to tightrope daredevils, each cast member brings something unique to the stage. The show’s opening aerial act by Ben Loader is both daring and graceful, as he fearlessly twirls and flips above us in nothing but denim shorts; setting the bar sky-high for the rest of the evening (pun intended). His mastery of the aerial rope is breathtaking, eliciting gasps from the audience with each death-defying drop. And when he's back on solid ground, watch out for his whip-cracking skills that will make the whole theatre shake!
Clara Fable's vocals are as mesmerising as her ethereal stage presence. She wields her voice like an instrument, sending entrancing melodies echoing through the venue. And she is not afraid to play with fire! Watch her twirl flaming batons, exhale fiery breath, and set objects - including herself - ablaze! And then there was Hilton Denis — what a star! He completely stole the show for me (Sorry, everyone else!). His combo of mime and tap-dancing had the audience eating out of the palm of his hand, thanks to his cheeky charisma and mind-blowing dance moves.
And the surprises kept coming! David Marco takes his act to new heights—literally—by walking over the audience, balancing precariously on a wire strung across the stage. The intensity of his performance is matched only by the sheer elegance with which he pulls it off, making it look far easier than it actually is. Just when you think it can’t get any more daring, Maria Moncheva takes to the sky—this time, using chains instead of the usual aerial silks or ropes. The rawness and power of this act, combined with the dangerous unpredictability of the chains, create a visceral experience that’s impossible to look away from.
Meanwhile, the burlesque acts are fierce, bold, and unapologetically sensual, bringing a powerful energy to the stage. The female members of the ensemble exude an undeniable strength, each one commanding the audience’s attention with a presence that’s both alluring and empowering. As for the striptease, it was anything but the usual slow, sensual routine — instead, it was playful, energetic, and downright entertaining, with layers (and more layers) of garments and undies flying into the crowd. Blink, and you might miss the split-second of nudity!
The musical score is integral to the show’s immersive atmosphere, and LIMBO’s musicians are exceptionally talented. The legendary Sxip Shirey, the mastermind behind the music, fills the venue with a dynamic blend of sounds—from harmonicas, sirens, bells, guitars, and synths. His unique compositions pair well with the acts, pulling you in with tension and then letting you go with a bang! The band, featuring Mick Stuart on drums, bass, and beatboxing, and Grant Arthur on sousaphone and banjo, add layers of texture to the acts as they weave through genres like blues, funk, jazz, and cabaret. Their live accompaniment serves up a musical buffet to make every move on stage pop with energy. Although, I have to admit, the pure overpowering noise of the harmonica through the microphone did become a bit overwhelming for my ears.
In true LIMBO fashion, there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping moments. Every act is more outrageous than the last, yet is always executed with artistry and control. The show’s finale takes the spectacle to new heights, quite literally. Moncheva, Marco, and Loader secure themselves to tall flexible poles, with each movement they make causing the poles to arc and bend as they sway perilously over the audience. Meanwhile, they release feathers all over us like a fluffy storm. And when I say that feathers are everywhere, I mean EVERYWHERE! It was a whimsical spectacle of pure, unbridled childlike joy that wrapped up the night in a flurry of laughter. I couldn't help but wish I was up there joining in on the feathered fun!
As I glanced around the crowd, I could see audience members with their jaws practically hitting the floor, shaking their heads in utter amazement at the sheer strength, skill, and elegance on display. This show takes risks, pushes boundaries, and delivers entertainment that's as thrilling as it is artful.
If you haven’t yet experienced LIMBO – The Return, you’re in luck—it’s running until 21st September 2024 for the Brisbane Festival. Do yourself a favour and grab your tickets here: LIMBO – The Return Tickets. Whether you’re a fan of circus, cabaret, or just someone who craves heart-pounding entertainment, this show guarantees to leave you breathless and begging for more. Whatever your expectations are, leave them at the door — this show is wild, unpredictable, and utterly unforgettable.
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