EMPIRE

In an age of slick, computer-generated imagery in movies, and auto-tuned vocals in disposable pop songs, Empire is a welcome immersion into the vaudevillian world of comedy, circus, variety and burlesque.

“We scoured the planet to find the most awe-inspiring acts,” says Australian theatre producer and Spiegelworld Impresario, Ross Mollison.

“We wanted to capture a certain mood and attitude by combing these talented acts into one show to represent everything that is sexy, excessive, decadent and bizarre about New York City.”

Empire is a mesmerising menagerie of breathtakingly talented international performers housed in an atmospheric and ornate 700-seat antique Belgian spiegeltent.

“The audience are also part of the show because of their reactions to these world-class artists performing dangerous feats of strength, balance and flexibility so close to them,” continues Mollison.

Mollison has curated a precious and varied show, intimately performed in the round of the spiegeltent stage.

The acts in Empire range from ethereal hula-hoop routines performed in a spinning sphere, the seductive Gorilla Girls combing beauty and brawn, as they sensuously perform balancing acrobatics, through to the nail-biting, jaw-dropping high-stakes act of human juggling.

Empire is a timely acro-cabaret escape for circus aficionados or anyone searching for an irreverently good time this summer.

Until Jan 27, Showring at the Entertainment Quarter, Lang Rd, Moore Park, $59-149, premier.ticketek.com.au