Luster: Circus Skills At Royal Croquet Club’s Ukiyo – Adelaide Fringe Review

Royal Croquet Club’s Ukiyo, Fri Mar 6 The separate skills of each individual of Luster can be applauded. They have obviously worked hard on these skills of physical theatre, dance and/or circus, and each bring these skills to the group, however as a complete show, it is still a little clunky. While I understand the premise of this show was to be inspired by the underworld of the carnival, I did not see or feel anything ‘carnival’ or ‘underworld’ to prove this. Without any kind of narrative linking each performance - and in some cases explaining what was really going on - we as an audience were kind of left wondering. Ordinarily the base, or strength brought to a two person act of balance is male, so it was refreshing and empowering to see that this role was given to the females of the group. Each performer was supported and each trusted the other and with more experience and performances, I’m sure the strength required won’t show as fear on their faces. The last segment of the show was a fluid and beautiful ribbon and rope showcase of teamwork and ability. Two members of the troupe executing the ‘tricks’ while the rest of the group had to assist in the movement of the two sides, each in turn being raised from the ground to complete the twisting, turning and tangling required to hang in the air and fall gracefully to earth once more. Charissa McCluskey-Garcia Luster continues at Royal Croquet Club's Ukiyo until Sun Mar 15. Book at FringeTIX on 1300 621 255 or adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix. Click HERE to purchase your tickets.