Review:

(Performance)

“Neil Goldberg’s Cirque Dreams” by Cirque Productions.

(Lyric Theatre, Queensland Performing Arts Centre 13^th to 18^th April 2004)

Review by John Frame 13^th April 2004:

“Neil Goldberg’s Cirque Dreams” www.cirqueproductions.com At the Lyric Theatre, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Brisbane (13^th – 18^th April 2004). Ari and I went along as Queer Radio reviewers to the opening of "Cirque Dreams" last night at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC and I can assure you that this really is a fine combination of spectacular sight and sound. The whole stage is very heavily lit using black light and, of course, responsive fluoro colours are used on costumes and some key apparatus (these visuals have to be witnessed in person to appreciate the uniqueness of the experience).  Noemie Jane, a woman with a strong voice reminiscent of the Diva from "The Fifth Element", croons a live accompaniment to a big pre-recorded original soundtrack - and the tightly choreographed human circus elements are performed with accuracy, style and pure strength. I'm sure everyone in the audience will have helplessly swooned over the men and women in the ensemble. The performers are obviously very good and trusting friends, because they get into some extremely intimate positions. Also I was surprised to find that this is not a "Cirque Du Soleil" event - it's by a Florida, USA-based troupe "Cirque Productions" who've been building a big reputation since 1993. This tour continues around the globe into 2006, so you may never get to see anything else quite like it (at least not for a very long time). I particularly enjoyed the "Flying Fabrics" and "Men Of Power" (all three of them) - but it's all entertainment of the highest calibre. Cirque Dreams plays up to this Sunday 18th April 2004 - see http://www.qpat.com.au/events/Cirque%20Dreams .  The official Cirque Productions website has lots of good background material including a "live preview" (which is much too short to give you any real idea how big the show is): http://www.cirqueproductions.com/index_main.htm It’s also good that souvenir material is reasonably priced – and that the company are happy to autograph programs in the foyer after the show.