If you’re a fan of jaw-dropping circus acts and a bit of whimsy, then Cirque Alice at QPAC is the show you need to catch. Straight from the creators of global hits like The Illusionists, Circus 1903, and Le Noir, this show brings Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland to life like you’ve never seen before. Trust me, this isn't your average circus. It’s a mind-blowing mix of acrobatics, magic, and Alice-level weirdness — and it’s all wrapped up in a fantastical, high-energy adventure.

So, what’s the deal with Cirque Alice? Well, it’s a reimagining of the classic Alice in Wonderland, but with a seriously cool circus spin. Alice (played by the talented Layla Schillert from Australian Idol) takes us through Wonderland, but instead of stumbling upon talking animals and mad tea parties, she’s surrounded by gravity-defying aerialists, contortionists, and acrobats. It's Alice’s world, but everything’s cranked up to 11.

The Mad Hatter is played by none other than Jeff Hobson, a world-renowned magician who seriously knows how to work a crowd. Throughout the show, the Mad Hatter expertly breaks up the intense moments with his illusion tricks, always finding ways to entertain the audience during set changes. His magic adds a touch of lightness to the show, giving the audience moments to laugh and marvel before diving back into the heart-stopping acrobatics. Whether he’s pulling off impossible tricks or engaging with the audience in cheeky ways, he brings a playful energy that balances the more dramatic parts of the performance.

The Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum duo, performed by the TT Boys (from Cirque du Soleil), steal the show with their high-energy antics and acrobatic feats that’ll leave you wondering how they bend that way. It’s Wonderland, but with way more flips, spins, and wow moments.

And speaking of “wow,” the performers in this show are next-level. The Cirque Alice team includes some of the most talented circus performers from around the world, including Australia’s Got Talent finalists, The Ramadhani Brothers, Oleg Tatarynov, and Maria Sarach (yep, you guessed it, Cirque du Soleil). These acrobats aren’t just performing — they’re pushing the limits of what the human body can achieve. There are death-defying stunts that will have you holding your breath, moments where you’ll wonder how they’re even possible. Watching these performers defy gravity and challenge the very limits of physical possibility is an experience in itself.

One act that really stood out was a performance by a couple who complemented each other in a way I’d never seen before. The female performer appeared to be suspended by nothing more than a single piece of string, a fragile thread that symbolised both her literal and metaphorical balance. As she hovered mid-air, the delicate string became a symbol of her vulnerability and strength, while the music heightened the raw emotions of the moment, leaving the entire audience on the edge of their seats. Her strength, grace, and balance were unbelievable as she twisted and flipped in the air, her movements perfectly in sync with her partner. The sheer risk and beauty of the moment were enough to make you forget to breathe. It was one of those acts that made you realise just how far circus arts can go — it was both mesmerising and a little bit terrifying, in the best way possible.

Now, let's talk about the visuals. Cirque Alice is an absolute visual feast. The set is this surreal Wonderland that mixes neon lights, whimsical props, and a constantly shifting stage that makes you feel like the world itself is alive. And those costumes? They’re all kinds of creative, from the classic Alice look to the Mad Hatter’s eccentric style, all drenched in colour and energy.

The soundtrack deserves a shout-out too. It’s a fresh take on some of the world’s most iconic classical hits, but with a modern twist. The tunes complement the high-energy, fast-paced action perfectly, setting the mood for each scene — whether it’s a playful moment with Tweedle Dee and Dum or a more intense, gravity-defying act.

Cirque Alice is the kind of show that makes you forget what day it is. It's a circus like no other, filled with breathtaking performances, killer visuals, and an unforgettable soundtrack. Whether you’re a fan of circus, Alice in Wonderland, or just love a good show, this one’s got something for everyone. It’s a magical experience that’ll leave you wide-eyed, gasping for breath, and talking about it long after the curtain falls.

 

Review: Joanna Letic 

Imagery: Peter Wallis