Circus: The Greatest Show – Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

Director: James Taylor

Producer: Max Fox

An enthusiastic and vociferous audience is treated to a great evening of entertainment in this spectacular variety that combines the best of musical theater with breathtaking circus skills. The brainchild of Max Fox and James Taylor, it is a kaleidoscope of singing, dancing, magic, contortion, aerial daring, juggling, acrobatic roller skating, cyr wheel skills (a kind of giant circle that changes color and pattern in which Billy George perform a dazzling array of acrobatics) and specialized fire act. The pace is non-stop, with the stage full of lights, color, sound (very loud) and action, so you hardly know where to look as you become mesmerized by the amazing feats and talent of the performers. Whether it’s the dynamic Eclipse Duo of Steve and Georgia, an acrobatic roller skating couple who push the limits of confidence with their amazing routines and amaze with their stunts and seamless synchronicity, or the amazing dexterity of juggler Tom Barrandon or the sheer daring, elasticity and the bravery of high aerialists Dione Hassell and Shonagh Leatherbarrow, this show has something for everyone.

The show is held together by award-winning comedian, actor, magician and mime artist Christian Lee, who comes to entertain the audience between acts with his unique brand of madness. The simple, basic premise is that he enters a monochrome world and seeks a life in color. Then follows a series of stunning set pieces that showcase this ambition. Lee is a consummate performer who perfectly demonstrates his range of skills, keeping the audience entertained while the next scene is set up and even involving a few individual members who were lucky enough (?) to sit in the front row. So good were these, along with their winning antics and applause, that this reviewer wondered if they were a plant, but no – they were genuine. The coat-hanging routine is particularly clever.

All the lead singers – Max Fox, Robbie Waugh, Wes Bromley and Tori Murray – are exceptional, producing high-quality sound in a mix of popular West End and Broadway songs as well as individual hits from Elton John. They even have amazing vocals and are a pleasure to listen to, accompanying the action brilliantly.

This show is sure to be a hit with the whole family, from young to old, and should impress everyone who comes to see it.

Revised July 26, 2024.