If you can focus on the main performers, though, you will witness some of the human body’s most elegant and powerful movements. A mesmerising routine with a woman bound in a waterfall of red silk literally put the audience on the edge of their seats. Three women lithely twisted their bodies around, rotating and spinning rings in time to the music, while later a larger troupe performed acrobatic feats of tumbling and leaping that made us collectively gasp.
Perhaps the most moving moment of Quidam, though, was its simplest. In a long dance of form and expression, a man and a woman used only their bodies to continually bind and separate themselves . At times, you could be forgiven for thinking the two forms had fused into one. For a few lovely minutes, no elaborate costumes or blaring soundtrack competed for attention. It was simply a graceful expression owed to the remarkable power and ability of the two performers that kept everyone mesmerised…as long as you ignored the man twirling in the pink tutu just stage left. (Words: Barbara Cole) 

Quidam is on until 16 February. For more info, visit: www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/quidam/default

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The most striking element of the show is the pure richness of it. The details and effort that must have gone into making the costumes alone is fascinating in itself. Then when coupled with the talent of Jean-Baptiste Thiérrée and Victoria Chaplin (your unusual and amazing entertainers for the evening) the entire thing is captivating. It’s even enjoyable to simply marvel at how the stars manage to change so quickly!

Thiérrée’s performance is reminiscent of watching an eccentric but beloved uncle entertain the kids at Christmas lunch. The difference here is that Thiérrée is a gifted magician with a mischievous sense of humour while the highlight of your uncle’s show would’ve been keeping the 50p he pulled from behind your ear. Where Thiérrée is open and cheeky, his co-star Chaplin is coy and mysterious. She’s a graceful and powerful performer who can transform costumes into creatures and back again.

The playful performances and countless oddities that make up Le Cirque Invisible offer a delightful and intriguing experience that is like falling down the rabbit hole. Oh, and the rabbits make an appearance too! (Words: Beth Downey)

 On until August 21. For more info, visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk 

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