Staple surprise: A circus like no other
Melbourne Fringe Festival
Social Staples ★★★★
Gasworks Theatre
September 25-27
Ever tried to balance on top of a can of diced tomatoes? It's one of a number of clever analogies the Na Djinang Circus brings to their production Social Staples. As six acrobats throw, balance and position cans in a complex routine, it gives rise to the feeling of just how hard it can be to make ends meet.
Throughout the performance, the troupe subtly explore themes of individual and collective gain, wealth and culture.
There are fearless acts with aerial rope, a subtle but stirring exploration of depression and suicide and vegemite footprints explore culture.
As one performer lights matches that slowly flicker and fade on the ground, another performs a moving and saddening sequence about rape.
Gasps and tension from the audience are also met with splashes of humour, pasta is turned into a musical instrument and childhood games are played with marshmallows and cinnamon.
You'll never look at pantry items the same way.
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