Downstage Theatre Presents The Dark Circus DEADLY, Opens October 6

Exploring the darker side of circus. A man, a woman and the seven deadly sins.

"First there was DeLaGuarda, then The Dome Spectaculars and now the beautiful Deadly."
Lynn Gardner, The Guardian

The compelling chemistry between two Argentinean artists has inspired acclaimed circus director Deborah Pope to revisit Deadly, a work that she created 10 years ago in Brazil. Deborah Pope: "This is the work I am most proud of, because of the way it combines circus, theatre and dance. The complexity of the relationship it explores has moved audiences worldwide. In this virtual world of Facebook and email, Deadly is about the real physical and emotional connections, and disconnections, between people."

Using circus, theatre and dance, Deadly explores the relationship of a couple using the theme of the seven deadly sins. Why the sins? Pope continues: "Like any real relationship, there are moments when we behave badly, selfishly, and the beauty of being in love is that your partner may see you at your worst but they (usually) forgive you. Deadly explores these tensions, and uses circus to do it."

Some might wonder how on earth a form like circus can explore such intimate and dark themes. Positioning itself squarely outside of sequins, body paint and shine, Deadly is raw and visceral, and celebrates the beauty power and strength of the human form. "It's beautiful, sensual and fierce. It's a very demanding show to perform because of the chemistry and skills required. On top of being consummate circus performers and acrobats, they also need chemistry, to be able to act and move."

After creating Deadly in Brazil in 1998, Deb and her performance partner toured throughout South America and Europe winning awards and rave reviews.

" a devilishly good show, sexy and confident as it marries circus to drama with stupendous effect" The Guardian

"creating one stunning image after another, leaving the audience breathless with admiration for the beauty of the human form". The Scotsman

"the definitive mark of Physical theatre" Jornal de Tarde, Sao Paulo 2002

Deborah has already proved that circus works well in Downstage with two hit seasons of her last show Adagio. The enthralling combination of jaw dropping acrobatics, stylish physical theatre and side splitting comedy was a hit with audiences and reviewers alike.

"Adagio was great celebration of the enjoyment of circus. Following on with Deadly, we explore the darker theatrical side of circus. At times Deadly feels like you're watching a beautiful movie and then all of a sudden these beautiful, sculptural bodies become completely real."

Director: Deborah Pope (Adagio, An Adagio Christmas)
Performers: Virginia Molina, Rodrigo Osis

Deadly

Dates: 6-23 Oct

Times: 6:30pm Tue-Wed and 8pm Thu-Sat.

Matinee: 16 Oct Prices: $25 to $46.

Meet the Artists: Tue 12 Oct
Tickets can be purchased online, by phone at (04) 801 6946 or in person at Downstage's box office. For up-to-date information visit www.downstage.co.nz Downstage is proudly sponsored by BNZ.

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