Cirque Kalabanté stages an energetic and thrilling performance of acrobatic acts in its latest show, Afrique en Cirque. A team of seven performers brings heartwarming passion and glee as well as their individual talents in juggling, acrobatics and contorting. The show is set in a town in Guinea whereby merchants, fishermen, and construction workers dance and perform incredible stunts to the beat of Afrojazz.
The overall sound design is excellent. The band features a saxophonist, guitarist and drummer as well as the director, Yamoussa Bangoura on the kora, which is a traditional West African string instrument. Bangoura plays it beautifully creating a lovely tone of something in between a harp and a guitar. The band makes very interesting afrojazz tunes that are orchestrated for the circus.
In between the stunts, Bangoura's choreography fills the stage with African dance which exudes much energy and cheer albeit a slightly monotone routine. The star of the circus was definitely the contortionist who puts the audience at the edge of their seats. His body folds and unfolds like an origami. The performance is well-crafted – rhythmic and seriously jaw-dropping. Another act that stands out is the beautiful hoop show where the performer and the silver ring spin as one.
Afrique en Cirque presents a truly impressive spectacle of acrobatics. Kids will be blown away at every movement although athleticism alone without drama and depth might not be enough to inspire the grownups.
24 – 28 July at Southbank Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hall.
Review by Sam Lee