The world renowned steampunk sensation that is the Circus Of Horrors has stormed its way back to Leeds in its 24th year, bringing with it a smorgasbord of show-stopping, edge-of-your-seat entertainment in their latest show, Asylum 2.
Featuring a cabaret of horror, comedy and rock 'n' roll, there really is nothing like this on the market and that’s what makes it so appealing. Following the structure of a classic Victorian freak show and drawing on it’s gothic roots, ringmaster Doktor Haze takes his audiences through the depths of ‘The Asylum’ – the dark and twisted home of cringe-inducing acts, reminiscent of ancient torture chambers and referred to throughout as ‘the depths of hell’ – and they’re certainly not far wrong. While the asylum theme could be seen as a little on the off side in terms of political correctness, each acts' in-depth back-stories create a well rounded storyline followed throughout and brought to life in a gory, gothic fashion that keeps you on the edge of your seat and leaves you cringing, but desperate for more.
As the circus states, their show is not for the faint-hearted; featuring blood, nudity and a whole heap of debauchery, it bases itself on the twisted side of human nature and the limits of the body and psyche, from the sword-swallowing Hannibal Hermento to the Mongolian Laughing Boy shoving 8-inch spikes through his skin, the majority of the circus’ acts feed on the audience’s morbid curiosity; it’s so hard to watch, but absolutely impossible to look away. It’s not every night you take a trip to the theatre and wind up seeing a dwarf attaching a Henry hoover to his appendages, but Captain Dan’s comedy relief is anything but conventional. They’re also right on the mark when they say that the production isn’t suitable for those of a nervous disposition – asylum inmates and killer-clowns clambering through the crowd in the most terrifying audience participation I’ve ever witnessed definitely amps up the scare factor.
Although they are certainly the most tame aspects of the production the dance numbers were something to be marvelled at. The ‘Sinister Sisters’ created an eerie sense of awe with a stunning aerial acrobatics routine; a long, stunning dance-and-acrobatics piece between a nurse and a patient – I have been an avid theatregoer for many years and it is almost unheard of to see an amputee on the stage, let alone without a wheelchair so it was remarkable to see someone with a visible disability as such an integral part of the show and performing what was arguably the most beautiful scene in the production.
Overall the production was a complete assault on the senses – the flashing light and extremely loud and extremely talented live rock band and musical numbers, paired with the constant smoke and the visual spectacle unfolding on the stage in front of you really is something that will stick with you. If you’re looking for a quiet night out then this most certainly isn’t for you – but if you’re looking for blood, horror and gothic gore then look no further. Circus of Horrors is a remarkable example of modern day Variety, and I can’t wait to head back for their 25th anniversary shows.
Reviewer - Hazel Kaye
on - 24/3/19
No comments:
Post a Comment