Afrique en Cirque at Southbank Centre

A night of fun, wonder and mystery, Afrique en Cirque feels right at home with the rest of the summer festivities in Southbank – a spectacular way to end a day of walking by the riverside, eating street food and drinking with friends. The vibrant demonstration of culture, energy and acrobatics pays homage to Africa through its costumes, staging, instruments and music.

One might wonder how such a small stage can accommodate the full extent of a circus performance. But the one hour and 30 minutes runtime is cleverly sectioned into different thematic displays, from gravity-defying stunts, juggling, contortionism, a musical showcase and audience participation. Furthermore, the everyday simplicity of life, from the bustling of street markets, being one with nature when fishing to the friendships formed in construction work, are interweaved into the production. The wonder of it all is wrapped up in the charisma of the performers whose bright and smiling faces can’t help but draw viewers in and lift their spirits.

The performance begins gradually, opening the audience up to hypnotic jazz and funk music as the ringmaster gently introduces them to the journey they’re about to embark on. As the show begins to pick up pace, so does the electrifying atmosphere within the room. The build-up allows attendees to be more receptive when it’s finally time for audience participation. These are the moments which are truly the highlight of the entire night. Everyone is encouraged to clap their hands to the beat of the music, the ringmaster calls for the audience to repeat after him, and even mistakes and close calls are part of the performance. It’s this sense of community built by those on stage and those watching that makes Afrique en Cirque such a magical experience.

The staging is simple but extremely effective with the hues of purple, blue and red lighting creating a sense of mystique that pairs well with the music. Cloth and shadows are also used to enhance the presence of the instrumentalists, reminding the audience that they are as much part of the performance as the dancers and acrobatics are. Still, the strong echoes of the atmospheric sounds – the buzz of the insects, the flow of water and the distant call of the forest – maintain such a natural and immersive hook that transports those watching from Queen Elizabeth Hall into the wonders of a circus performed out in the wild. The costumes are not only a colourful display, but the patterns in them stretch and contort with the performers, creating optical illusions for people to awe and marvel at.

Yet still, do not be fooled by the bright and playful spectacle of Afrique en Cirque. There’s commentary here, specifically in regards to alienation and othering – especially in the contortionist’s section where he is treated like some otherworldly creature. These little details and nods to African history create self-awareness in both the performers and viewers. It prevents Afrique en Cirque from being just shock factors and tricks. Instead, it’s a piece with something important to say. As it comes to a close, everyone gets a chance to shine, including the background instrumentalists. Each individual takes centre stage, showing off their speciality. No man is left behind, amplifying the theme of community and breaking down the walls that separate. Overall brilliant and with so much to offer, Afrique en Cirque is an experience not to be missed this summer.

Mae Trumata
Photos: Courtesy of Southbank Centre

Afrique en Cirque is at Southbank Centre from 24^th until 28^th July 2024. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.