Rebecca Capener discusses the wonder, connection and joy at the heart of CIRQUE NOUVELLE
From cruise ship spotlights to a touring theatre stage, the duo behind CIRQUE NOUVELLE are redefining what modern circus can be., blending acrobatics, dance, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling into a show that speaks to all generations. At the heart of this transformation is a dynamic partnership, both onstage and off. One half of that duo is a classically trained dancer whose childhood love for performance evolved into a fearless embrace of circus artistry. The other, a second-generation circus performer, brings deep roots in tradition. Together, they’ve created a show that not only stuns audiences with world-class skills but also invites them into an emotional, intergenerational story of change and belonging.
In this exclusive interview, we speak with Rebecca Capener, CIRQUE NOUVELLE’S co-creator about her journey from ballerina to acrobat, the unique bond of performing alongside her husband, and the importance of preserving circus tradition while boldly innovating for today’s audiences. With a cast of multi-skilled artists and a narrative that celebrates both the past and future, CIRQUE NOUVELLE is captivating crowds across Queensland. More than spectacle, it’s a celebration of trust, resilience, and connection, and a powerful reminder that circus is, at its heart, about humanity.
1. CIRQUE NOUVELLE explores the evolution of circus—how has your own journey as a performer evolved from your early dance background to co-leading such a dynamic, multi-disciplinary show?
I started dancing from the age of 3 and ever since have had a strong passion for being on stage and performing. If some one ever told me that I would end up in an acrobatic juggling act with my future husband I would not of believed them, but it goes to show life definitely takes you on an unexpected journey and I am so grateful that I said yes to the opportunity to do so. James is a second generation circus performer and has been on stage since the age of 4, so I believe our experience and different backgrounds put together has made our multi skilled show very successful. It has been nice trading skills, James teaching me how to juggle and myself teaching James some dance, making the show a true partnership.
2. As a key performer and creative in CIRQUE NOUVELLE, how do you balance the athletic demands of circus with storytelling and emotion on stage?
Being a headlining show on international cruise ships for 10 years we have seen many, many shows. We have learnt over the years that watching a show that draws emotion and takes you on a journey is far more impactful as an audience member and ever since have made it our mission to not only ‘wow’ the audience with world class skills but also make them feel something through story telling and themes that are impactful to everyone.
3. You and James bring a unique energy as a duo, how has working together as both partners in life and performance shaped the way you approach your craft?
It is truly special being able to share the stage and have the same passion as your life partner and believe that the chemistry on stage is very unique because of this. Due to the dangerous nature of the acrobatics and balancing that we perform I think being partners in life has elevated the level of trust that I have for James in allowing us to try and execute harder tricks without doubting him for a second that he will ever let me fall. This has created a great foundation for us to be able to keep achieving our performance goals and elevating our skill set year by year.
4. CIRQUE NOUVELLE blends classic circus charm with modern theatre elements. What excites you most about this fusion, and how do you personally embody that transition on stage?
What excites me most is the way the show has reinvented tradition by honouring the roots of classic circus whilst weaving in the emotion, narrative and modern theatre effects. When creating the show we have represented the old through our quirky ringmaster Edwardo who plays an integral role by connecting with the audience through his personal struggle with change. Myself and the 7 other cast members represent the new circus by showcasing traditional skills such as juggling, acrobatics, rola bola, aerials and fire performing to a current soundtrack, lighting and other special effects. Instead of just displaying skills, we become a part of the larger story and emotion of the show and allowing the audience to leave feeling impacted.
5. With such a physically demanding performance schedule, especially while touring, how do you maintain your energy and presence for each show?
Good food and good coffee! We are blessed to have such a wonderful cast and crew who are a beautiful bunch of positive, encouraging and motivated individuals who make each day and show very exciting to be apart of.
6. Audiences are responding so enthusiastically to CIRQUE NOUVELLE what moment in the show do you feel creates the strongest emotional connection with the crowd, and why?
Towards the end of the show Edwardo has a moment with James where he expresses his defeat in trying to keep up with all the changes and new elements of the show. At this point James has a heart felt conversation explaining to Edwardo that there is still a place for everyone in the circus and without him (Edwardo) laying the foundations of traditional circus then we wouldn’t be able to do what we are doing today. I think this hits home for a lot of the older generation in the audience as it acknowledges their feelings of being overwhelmed with the rapid pace of today’s society. At the same time it reassures theme that there is still a meaningful place for them to express themselves and contribute authentically.
7. Cameo Rascale Entertainment has captivated international audiences for years. What’s uniquely special to you about bringing this new show to communities across Queensland?
This will be the first time for us to bring our own touring show interstate. To start with Queensland is very exciting as we have heard wonderful things about Queensland audiences being so receptive of touring shows, especially in the regional areas. We are thrilled to be debuting our first interstate tour and will be hopefully the first of many tours as we plan to return to Queensland in 2026 if everything goes well!
8. Your performances span acrobatics, comedy, and high-level dance. Is there one discipline that feels most like ‘home’ to you, or do you enjoy constantly shifting gears?
I think dance will always feel most like home to me as it is what I have been doing the longest and makes me the happiest. Being in such a multi skilled show definitely keeps things interesting and is handy when it comes to working professionally in the industry as it creates much more work opportunity.
9. From cruise ships to resort stages and now a touring theatrical show, what have been some of the most memorable or unexpected moments during this creative journey?
Being able to produce our own work and perform it in front of a sold out home crowd in Mandurah, Western Australia has to be our most memorable experience. James and I have poured our heart and soul into this show and after many years travelling the world it is such a wonderful and fulfilling feeling to see our creativity and hard work so well received. It energises us and fills us with excitement to see what the future will hold as it is our dream to take CIRQUE NOUVELLE around the whole of Australia and beyond.
10. What message or feeling do you hope families take away from experiencing CIRQUE NOUVELLE, especially younger audience members who may be seeing circus theatre for the first time?
Our aim and hope is for everyone to walk away feeling a deep sense of wonder, connection and shared joy. CIRQUE NOUVELLE is a family show and more than just a performance – it’s an emotional journey that blends story telling, artistry and innovation to remind people about the importance of connection across generations. To the younger audience who are seeing circus for the first time – we hope to inspire you to try something new and follow your dreams as anything is possible!
Tour Dates & Locations
Ipswich Civic Centre – Saturday 5 July
Logan Entertainment Centre – Sunday 6th July
Redland Performing Arts Centre – Monday 7th July
Gladstone Entertainment & Entertainment Centre – Wednesday 9th July
Moncrieff Entertainment Centre (Bundaberg) – Thursday 10th July
Brolga Theatre & Convention Centre (Maryborough) – Friday 11th July
The Empire (Toowoomba) – Sunday 13th July
For Tickets CLICK HERE
