“Afrique en Cirque,” hailing from Guinea and making its debut in London, is a jaw-dropping riot of flexibility, tradition, and fun. With Guinean culture as a vibrant tapestry, the evening is a lively mix of thrilling circus acts, music, dance, and scenes from rural life.
If you’ve ever thought your yoga class was tough, think again. For 90 minutes straight, the performers’ flexibility and athleticism are on full display, making even the most dedicated yogis in the audience flinch at their spine-bending, gravity-defying feats. The acts flow one after another—high-flying gymnastics, balancing, juggling, and mind-boggling contortion—peppered with clowning bits and audience participation that are quickly to melt any hardened London little heart.
The whole crew deserves a mention—from the Afro-jazz band setting the evening’s groove, the lighting designer who plunges the hall into an atmospheric celebration of African beauty along with an abundance of colourful costumes, to the energetic performers led by storyteller and show creator Yamoussa Bangoura.
A special shout-out though is reserved to the playfully amazing “Elastiboy.” His “Incredible” contortions will make you recoil, cover your eyes, and audibly protest the seemingly impossible ways he twists and bends his limbs, as if it were mere child’s play. Another pulse-racing number can be summed up in two words: Village People. Trust me, and thank them…
Structurally, the show starts a bit slow and uneven, but once it hits its stride, it reaches heights of awe-inspiring and breath-holding spectacle. You’ll watch in wide-eyed wonder, your inner child enraptured, as these superhumans push the boundaries of what bodies can do.
However, the best part of “Afrique en Cirque” is the sheer amount of palpable joy both on and off stage. The performers’ genuine enjoyment and pride are infectious. Their personalities shine through out, and by the end of the show, you will find yourself breathing in unison along with the rest of the audience, as they approach their most daring stunts yet.
There is plenty of brawn on show in “Afrique en Cirque”, but there is also a whole lot of heart.
Reviewer: Klervi Gavet
Reviewed: 25th July 2024
North West End UK Rating: