There’s always room for a circus show at the Edinburgh Fringe, and Belgian company Circumstances contributes to the list with EXIT at Zoo Southside.Choreographer Piet Van Dycke blends circus with dance in this hour-long physical performance where movement, partner acrobatics and balance form one shared language. With backgrounds in bascule, aerial belts, trapeze and acro-dance, the four performers create an intimate interplay of trust, risk and transformation.
EXIT brings us a shifting world of revolving walls and floating doors, which the four artists creatively navigate. The piece begins with the artists entering the space through the audience entrances and seating areas before moving onto the stage, where they repeatedly step through the same door in what might be confusion, exploration, uncertainty or something else. The searching continues as the piece develops, with the performers navigating, exploring, and eventually finding their own path by propelling, catching, climbing, and balancing.
Right from the off, the four artists demonstrate a sense of togetherness that’s vital in this kind of circus and acrobatic work. This togetherness is not only evident in the physical feats, which would undoubtedly be impossible without trust, but also in the human connection they have with each other and with us, the audience. Eye contact, a passing smile, and the occasional mischievous glint in the eye before executing a particularly daring skill put us at ease and keep us engaged.
All elements of this show are delivered in a fluid, unpretentious way. The performers execute impressive feats that become more daring as the piece goes on, including leaping on and off a revolving door that draws gasps from the audience. Quick costume changes happen so subtly that they might go unnoticed, and smooth lighting changes support the transitions from one section to the next.
With so many circus shows on offer at the Fringe, it can be difficult for a company to stand out. Whilst this one may not have the buoyant, loud energy of some shows, instead being more subtle in nature, the skill is undeniable. EXIT brings an understated, visually striking exploration of independence, connection and fragile balance.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
