Circus Klezmer (Theatre Royal Brighton)

As we enter the auditorium at the Theatre Royal Brighton is obvious that we are not here for just an ordinary night of theatre as the company are already engaging with the audience before anyone actually get as far as taking to the stage. We watch with great amusement as the characters in this vibrant Jewish tale weave their way in and out of the rows of seats, “assisting” anyone who appears to be having trouble finding their theatre, usually by putting them in a fireman’s lift and carrying them directly there!

Although the dialogue is not in English, as the piece is set in a non-specific eastern-European country, the meaning is very clear. The supremely talented, and incredibly energetic, company are able to convey the meaning through the use of many and varied facial expressions and physical gestures – so much so that there is no point at which the audience is left in any doubt as to exactly what is happening.

The plot is not a complicated one, with its relative simplicity allowing us to concentrate on the circus skills that are being readily displayed by the entire company.  The story is based upon the love lives of three male characters who, with their individual nuances and idiosyncrasies, present the capacity crowd with a range of fiery tempestuous dramas, some sexy stripteases but also, throughout the performance, the circus clown traditions of high spirits and cheeriness.

The performance is so enthralling that the audience remain captivated throughout and, as we see some of the more complex circus skills performed on, and high above, the stage there is a tangible buzz in the atmosphere and a real sense of excitement.

The musicians, who appear on stage as an integral part of the show, also contribute to the joyous mood of the piece, and accompany the action with a mixture of Jewish Klezmer and contemporary tunes. Their rousing performance and the simple but engaging storyline, combined with the amazing circus skills of the troupe, really results in a wonderful, dynamic performance and a great family night out.