FIJI FLIES TO BRISBANE FESTIVAL

Fijian Flying Circus starts with amazingly high energy before the show has even begun. As the audience enters the big top, the cast greets everyone with warm and enthusiastic cries of “Bula!” It is a simple welcome, but one that immediately establishes the generous, joyful spirit of the performance.

Created by internationally renowned Fijian dance company VOU, Fijian Flying Circus is Fiji’s first professional circus. Making its Australian premiere at Brisbane Festival, the production combines circus, contemporary dance, comedy, music, and Fijian storytelling into one energetic island adventure.

The story follows Loma, a curious young girl who is gifted a pair of enchanted shoes. When one is stolen by a mischievous veli, or forest spirit, she sets out to retrieve it. Along the way, she encounters a magical world of spirits, towering giants, and elemental forces.

The circus routines require tremendous strength, flexibility, balance, and trust. The aerial artists soar above the stage, performers balance in positions that appear almost impossible, and gravity-defying stunts frequently have the audience gasping. The company makes much of it look effortless, despite the considerable discipline and precision required.

However, it is the dancing and the cultural celebration that really distinguishes Fijian Flying Circus from many other circus productions. The choreography is excellent, and the dancers perform with power, precision, and an abundance of personality. Dance is not merely used to fill the space between the major circus acts. It is an integral part of the production and helps create its distinctive Fijian identity.

Every member of the company brings an extraordinary amount of energy to the stage. Even when performers are not the focus of a scene, they remain completely engaged in the action. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and there is a palpable sense of community within the ensemble.

There is also plenty of comedy throughout the performance. The humour is broad, physical, and easy for children to understand, but it never alienates the adults in the audience. The cast’s warmth and playfulness make the audience feel included in the experience, rather than simply positioned as spectators.

The production is an excellent example of a genuinely all-ages show. Children are captivated by the colour, characters, comedy, and spectacle, while adults can appreciate the artistry, athleticism, and cultural storytelling.

The variety of acts and the cast’s seemingly endless energy keep the audience engaged.

Most importantly, Fijian Flying Circus is enormously good fun. There is something wonderfully uplifting about watching performers who appear to take as much joy in presenting the show as the audience does in watching it. When you are not smiling, you are gasping.

Full of warmth, humour, excellent dancing, and breathtaking circus, Fijian Flying Circus is a joyful celebration of Fijian culture and an excellent Brisbane Festival experience for all ages.

Fijian Flying Circus plays at South Bank Piazza as part of Brisbane Festival until 4 October.