Le Aerial: Flamboyantly Mesmerising Aerial Feats ~ Adelaide Fringe 2019 Review

[CIRCUS & PHYSICAL THEATRE/CABARET ~ SA] Adelaide Convention Centre – Apollo Theatre, Fri 22 Feb. This troupe of aerial artists really are quite mesmerising; what they can do with a straight piece of metal, a bell like cage, a set of chains or the softest of silks high in the air truly is amazing. The line up outside the Apollo Theatre was the longest I have seen the Fringe so far and the family friendly crowd were all buzzing with anticipation waiting to see the high flying performers defy gravity and expectations. As soon as the doors opened, it was obvious that there would also be a visual light show to accompany the performers, adding dramatic blood red ambience for the ‘fight’ scene, glorious white light for the more angelic, and blue lights adding tension to the sound of chains being dragged across the stage. Costume extras were appropriately flamboyant at the beginning of routines, adding to the creation of what we were about to see, but were quickly removed to allow for the skill to shine through. We watched on at feats that required such strength and discipline to accomplish and pure courage to perform as all of the performances tonight included the ability to be metres off the ground, sometimes still with only an ankle or ever heel strength to keep them above us, and at other times wildly swinging from side to side or around and round with each performer using their own momentum to create this whirlwind. Our MC for the evening literally moved things along by assisting the performers when a little more ‘spin’ or momentum was required and his vocals soared right along with the performers. While all of the skill and artistry is obvious, individual numbers did seem a little clunky at times as most visual performances finished with aerial artists walking off stage before the song and singer were finished. I understand this was to help mask the changing of equipment but I personally would have preferred for this change to happen through the applause and beginning of songs, allowing for the performances to finish with the song. 3.5 stars Charissa McCluskey-Garcia Le Aerial continues at Adelaide Convention Centre – Apollo Theatre, at various times, until Sat 24 Feb. Book at FringeTIX on 1300 621 255 or adelaidefringe.com.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets. #ADLfringe