Cirque - The Greatest Show, UK Tour (2024) Review

Written by Emmie for Theatre & Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

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Brought to the stage by the Entertainers, Cirque - The Greatest Show is a unique kind of circus musical performed by a company of leading vocalists and dancers that is the perfect show for all of the family to enjoy. Currently embarking on a UK Tour, this show combines notable West End and movie hits (including LaLa Land and The Greatest Showman) with various circus performances. From incredible contortionists, aerialists, and illusionists, the performers show audiences thrilling feats of agility and flair. 

Cirque - The Greatest Show features a loose narrative, with Christian Lee as a monochrome mime serving as the central figure that unifies the entire production. Lee has the audience in the palm of his hands in these slight interludes for the more impressive acts on display. Add the addition of a couple of audience participants, the result is a memorable element of the show.

The variety of acts on display is good in this show, Duo Eclipse is a thrilling duo of skaters and audiences definitely gasp as the crossbow act from Jennifer Van Gool and Thomas Barrandon gets underway. The acts are supported by a strong group of dancers (Dione Hassell, Shonagh Leatherbarrow, Rhys Richards, Stephen Strain, Brogan Paris, Liam Raven, Megan Dawson) who help to fill the vast stage that they have to work with.

All the songs in Cirque - The Greatest Show were performed by four professional singers, but unfortunately, this aspect felt weaker to me. I had hoped for more impactful vocals to match the energetic and breathtaking performances interwoven throughout the show. As well as that, maybe it’s just me but I feel like The Greatest Showman doesn’t carry the same impact it did back when the show was released in 2017. 

There's no doubt that Cirque - The Greatest Show lives up to its promise of being both charming and astonishing, offering audiences of all ages delightful surprises in its delivery. The fusion of musical theatre with circus elements is an engaging concept that captivates and entertains. This company has great potential to expand their ideas in the future, and I look forward to seeing their continued innovation. It was thoroughly enjoyable and contained some great variety. 

On UK Tour until June 2025.

☆ ☆ ☆