Flipside Hits.

Appearing for the very first time at the Judith Wright Centre, Flipside Circus is showcasing Brisbane’s next generation of circus stars in Flipside Circus: Identite which opened last Wednesday night.

Having already run away and joined the circus, fourteen performers aged from just nine years old to eighteen arrived on stage with baggage in tow – suitcases that is.

‘Arriving’ on stage of course means: tumble, somersault, cartwheel or fly and for the entire duration of the sixty minute show not one of these performers stood still let alone was on the ground for any extended period of time.

Mention must be made of Chelsea McGuffin (Artistic-Director) and Davey Sampford (Director); Naturally, the show is all about the performers but a wonderful soundtrack including reggaed-up classical music, whimsical costumes and vintage suitcases along with choreography that was kept with-in the strengths of the young troupe (no-one attempted anything that was beyond their ability) ensured a fast, flowing and professional show. The wow factor did not come from outlandish risk (I’m sure the parents would disagree) but from witnessing such great skill coming from these young performers.

A couple of minor slips with the hula-hoops were inconsequential and the performers easily moved on with the act. The younger of the troupe were a delightful surprise (more than just cute ring-ins); Riley Colquist had our jaws dropping with his contortion act and the youngest of the troupe, Oliver Foley and Arlo Mcguffin were an entertaining duo.

Identite is about exploring the innocence of youth and the journey to search for ones ‘self’ and the fresh-faced charm of these energetic youngsters is a grand display of this. Flipside’s Identite is a family show and many children were in attendance but it must be said that even those not-so-parental types will absolutely enjoy this show – youth is infectious.

Flat rate parking ($6) is available just across from the Judith Wright Centre and there is a string of popular restaurants along Brunswick Street (Harajuku Gyoza, Glass Bar, Grill’d to name a few). The show is well priced at $22 for a full ticket with a discounted family ticket available at $70. But be warned; if you do take your children, they are likely to want to join Flipside – which of course they can.

For more information, check out their website: www.flipsidecircus.org.au