Barbaroi is a dystopian underworld-themed circus show, presented by Melbourne troupe After Dark Theatre.
Alrighty. First Fringe show of 2024, and we were apprehensive. Full disclosure, we haven’t seen practically any circus shows since we were children.
Now, first thoughts? Atmospheric. Fun. Big bassy, deep music welcoming you to the space, Amanda was bopping in beat before the show began.
Each performer had their own specialised skills: two aerialists (our favourites), a juggler, a hula hoopist, a cyr wheelist, and a juggernaut. We loved these moments, where the individuals got to really highlight their abilities. The group work, Sarria found less enthralling particularly when they worked in pairs to throw each other about a bit.
The storyline played a low-supporting role to the actual performance. It’s there, but we were more engaged by their impressive physical artistry.
Sound and lighting were incredible. As working performers, we know how difficult co-ordinating skills to tech is, but the cast were in time and lit beautifully.
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Favourite moments? Amanda was obsessed with the shadows cast by the aerialists on the Big Top’s roof – look for it when they go up high! Also for a staircase-like dismount from the single rope arealist, that magical-realism moment is burned into Amanda’s brain.
Sarria loved the two-rope aerialist, she sat, mouth agape, as he spun down from the ceiling in a pike position. And earlier, the cast were supports for gymnastic parallel bars – that was just cool.
We thought this was an awesome introduction to FringeWorld. Fun and high-energy. Be aware, tall people, that the raked seating has your knees close to the person in front of you.
Photography is encouraged during this show!
Should we have watched that? Yeah! It was a good time.
3 words: Atmospheric. Visceral. Energetic.
Amanda⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sarria ⭐⭐⭐