Following sell-out performances across Australia, this internationally acclaimed production features an elite ensemble of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers and balancing artists, delivering a thrilling fusion of physical artistry, theatrical storytelling and modern stagecraft.

At the heart of the show is a charismatic and quirky ringmaster confronting a universal theme: change. Blending humour, heart and breathtaking skill, Cirque Nouvelle explores the evolution of circus—from the nostalgic wonder of the traditional Big Top to the bold, technology-driven spectacles of today.

Audiences are taken on a visually rich and emotionally engaging journey that honours circus traditions while reimagining what the future of the art form can be. Perfect for families these school holidays, Cirque Nouvelle promises to captivate audiences of all ages with its blend of daring feats, storytelling and theatrical magic.

Brisbane
Fortitude Music Hall, June 26 @ 6pm
www.thefortitude.com.au

Gold Coast
The Star Theatre, June 27 @ 6pm
www.star.com.au

From Tom Oliver Productions – founder of Wynnum Fringe – in partnership with Trigger Happy Productions and Head First Acrobats, Wynnum Wonderland serves up the same trademark mix of world-class talent and local charm that has made the bayside one of Queensland’s most exciting cultural destinations.

The beating heart of Wynnum Wonderland is the iconic Augathella Spiegeltent, a 380-seat revitalised performance tent proudly positioned on Bay Terrace. Designed by the world-renowned Klessens family and relocated 750 kilometres from Augathella to Wynnum, the tent is a masterful fusion of traditional Belgian craftsmanship and the raw, nostalgic aesthetic of an Australian shearing shed. Producer Tom Oliver said Wynnum Wonderland was a gift to local audiences, offering festive fun with a uniquely Queensland twist.

“We like to do things our own way here in the bayside and Christmas is no exception,” Oliver said. “After six incredible years of Wynnum Fringe, we know audiences love this kind of feel-good, all-in entertainment and what better time to celebrate than the silly season?” From cheeky cabaret to family fun, the Wynnum Wonderland program twinkles with the full spectrum of festive delight.

Cirque Du Sleigh (28 November – 22 December) promises a cheeky, adults-only comedy cabaret bursting with acrobatics, wit and festive spirit, while Australian comedy icon Dave “Hughesy” Hughes (10 December) headlines an unmissable night of stand-up hilarity with his acclaimed show WTF.

Families can delight in the award-winning Bubble Show in Space (13 – 21 December), a whimsical journey of shadow puppetry, shimmering smoke-filled bubbles and a rocket that really blasts off, and marvel at the high-flying antics of All Star Circus (13 – 21 December), a spectacular showcase of acrobatics and aerial artistry for all ages.

For something explosively different, the science-fuelled spectacular KABOOM: Christmas Chaos Edition (14 – 21 December) returns after sell-out seasons across Australia and the UK with a brand-new festive twist – bigger, louder and more dazzling than ever.

No Christmas celebration would be complete without carols, and Carols in the Spiegeltent (17 December) promises to fill the tent with festive favourites, followed by the community-led Wynnum Wonderland Choir (18 December), inviting locals to join Tom Oliver for a joyous singalong featuring a new rendition of Winter Wonderland rewritten just for the bayside.

Rounding out the season is The Guides (21 December), a groove-heavy live music experience for fans of Sting, Jamiroquai and Stevie Wonder, and the perfect feel-good finale to a month of merriment. For Trigger Happy Productions’ Ben Trigger, the event marks a full-circle moment.

“We’ve been part of the Wynnum Fringe story since day one and the energy here just keeps growing,” Trigger said.
“Bayside audiences are something else – open, generous and always up for a good time. We can’t wait to light up the Augathella Spiegeltent again with a brand-new season of festive fun.”

Head First Acrobats’ Thomas Gorham said audiences could expect a high-energy mix of world-class artistry, cheeky humour and Christmas chaos. “Wynnum Wonderland’s line-up is as packed as Santa’s sack, overflowing with world-class acts and holiday cheer,” Gorham said. “Bring your mates, bring your festive spirit and get ready for a month of mischief, mayhem and unforgettable moments under the Spiegeltent.”

With its dazzling line-up, iconic setting and unmistakable Queensland personality, Wynnum Wonderland is poised to become one of Brisbane’s must-do holiday events and a sparkling new tradition on the city’s festive calendar.
Wynnum Wonderland runs from 28 November – 22 December 2025.

Wynnum Wonderland
The Augathella Spiegeltent, Wynnum, Brisbane
28 November – 22 December 2025
www.wynnumwonderland.com

Perched on the galaxy’s edge, where space cowboys, alien drifters, and the legendary Rodeo Sisters dazzle with out-of-this world acts you Rodeo Clown Rusty takes us on a journey through the golden days of LASSÙ, determined to revive the magic that once filled the saloon.

Seventh-generation circus performer and producer, Merrik Ashton, grew up surrounded by the unique lifestyle of circus performers, and has known nothing but the thrill of performance and travel. The performing arts are literally in his blood, and he is thrilled to be travelling the country sharing this new work.

“This show is something truly special. Audiences can expect a thrilling, risqué circus experience that blends modern spectacle with traditional artistry – all performed in our bespoke big top – allowing an intimate yet exhilarating environment to witness every daring feat up close!” said Ashton.

“Climb aboard the rocket ship – you will love the journey” – Scenestr

LASSÙ’s Creative Director is the Helpmann Award-winning choreographer Mitchell Woodcock, one of Australia’s most sought-after creative minds, known for his extensive work across entertainment. He has created performances for over 50 national and international artists, including Kylie Minogue, Rita Ora, and Meghan Trainor. Other credits choreography for the Paper Dolls series for Paramount+, as well creative director for The Voice, Australian Idol, and major global events like the ICC T20 World Cup Opening Ceremony and the FIFA World Cup Closing Ceremony.

Immerse yourself in a story where past and future collide in a spectacular, risqué circus experience.

LASSÙ Cosmic Cabaret
19 to 28 September
Victoria Park, Gilchrist Avenue, Sprint Hill
www.lassutheshow.com.au

Following a sell-out regional tour in April 2024, the internationally acclaimed all-star cast of Cirque Nouvelle is back, ready to present a truly unique and versatile production. This multitalented lineup of world-class circus performers combines acrobatics, juggling, aerial artistry, and Cyr wheel talents into an unforgettable theatrical experience.

At the heart of the show is a quirky ringmaster, Edwardo, struggling with a fear common to us all—change. Through dazzling performances and a dynamic storyline, Cirque Nouvelle explores the evolution of circus from the classic ‘Big Top’ era to today’s cutting-edge theatre productions featuring state-of-the-art technology, lighting, and costuming.

Kicking off in Ipswich on 5th July, the tour will make its way through Logan, Redlands, Gladstone, Bundaberg, Maryborough and Toowoomba, ensuring that families across Queensland have the chance to experience the magic. This is your opportunity to witness a world-class production right on your doorstep.

“We’re beyond thrilled to bring Cirque Nouvelle to Queensland,” says James Capener, Artistic Director of Cameo Rascale Entertainment. “This show is designed to entertain, inspire, and create special moments for families. We can’t wait to share it with audiences all over the state.”

Tour Dates & Locations:
Saturday 5 July – Ipswich Civic Centre
Sunday 6th July – Logan Entertainment Centre
Monday 7th July – Redland Performing Arts Centre
Wednesday 9th July – Gladstone Entertainment & Entertainment Centre
Thursday 10th July – Moncrieff Entertainment Centre (Bundaberg)
Friday 11th July – Brolga Theatre & Convention Centre (Maryborough)
Sunday 13th July – The Empire (Toowoomba)
www.cameorascale.com

Audiences across the state can expect a thrilling, risqué circus experience that blends modern spectacle with traditional artistry all performed in a stunning bespoke big top creating an intimate and exhilarating environment where they can witness every daring feat up close.

“Climb aboard the rocket ship – you will love the journey” – Scenestr

Seventh-generation circus performer and producer, Merrik Ashton, grew up surrounded by the unique lifestyle of circus performers, and has known nothing but the thrill of performance and travel. The performing arts are literally in his blood, and he is excited to be bringing this new show to the east coast.

“Adding North Lakes, Mackay and Townsville to our Lassu Queensland tour is incredibly exciting. This show is something truly special—an electrifying, high-energy production that pushes the boundaries of live entertainment. I can’t wait for audiences to experience it,” said Ashton.

LASSÙ’s Creative Director is the Helpmann Award-winning choreographer Mitchell Woodcock, one of Australia’s most sought-after creative minds, known for his extensive work across entertainment. He has created performances for over 50 national and international artists, including Kylie Minogue, Rita Ora, and Meghan Trainor. Other credits choreography for the Paper Dolls series for Paramount+, as well creative director for The Voice, Australian Idol, and major global events like the ICC T20 World Cup Opening Ceremony and the FIFA World Cup Closing Ceremony.

Immerse yourself in a story where past and future collide in a spectacular, risqué circus experience.

LASSÙ Cosmic Cabaret
Sunshine Coast | 16 May – 15 June | Maroochydore
North Lakes | 20 June – 6 July | Prospect St
Mackay | 18 July – 27 July | Mackay Showgrounds
Townsville | 1 Aug – 23 Aug | Central Park
www.lassutheshow.com.au/

Over 10 days from 21 April to 1 May, 2022 more than 114 extraordinary performers will thrill, entertain and mesmerise audiences with 76 diverse performances across 6 venues in Brisbane including Brisbane Powerhouse, Metro Arts, The Tivoli, La Boite Theatre, The Ron Hurley Theatre, and Kingston Butter Factory.

The brainchild of Cluster Arts, the nations’ celebrated production house for performing arts’ Circus & Physical Theatre companies, CIRCFest22 Meanjin will showcase First Nations artists, independent companies, and Australian international superstars of the circus world.

Circus has come a long way from the sawdust big top with a ringmaster whip-cracking tired lions through hoops. Australian contemporary circus is a modern performance artform of breathtaking human athleticism, raw emotional power, pure entertainment, and sharp social commentary. CIRCFest22 Meanjin offers everything from blazing burlesque to stiletto funambulists, powerful physical theatre to radical drag, crazy clowns to breathtaking acrobats.

Directors Deb Wilks and Kate Malone who have programmed 14 Queensland premieres celebrating Brisbane’s colourful underground history as a circus city said, “CIRCFest22 Meanjin brings together a bold and ambitious program that celebrates circus in all its richly diverse forms – there is something for everyone. Our focus has been on delivering a festival where the artists are at the heart of every decision and that makes for some spectacular outcomes.”

As well as a public facing program, CIRCFest 22 Meanjin will have key industry activations, hosting a number of forums & sector development opportunities including a First Nations led sector development for circus & physical theatre. This will be done in conjunction with The Australian Performing Arts Market (APAM). It is hoped in the future, as borders reopen for touring, international buyers and presenters will attend, along with Brisbane audiences being able to experience international circus companies’ performances.

Ruth Wikler Deputy Director of Programming, TOHU from Montreal said, “The proposed virtual exchange between Montreal’s International Contemporary Circus Market (MICC) & Brisbane’s Cluster Arts will draw on the momentum built over the past two years. CIRCFest22 Meanjin’s international digital platform, followed by the MICC’s in-person market, provide an ideal opportunity for this & underpin a reciprocal touring arrangement between Canada & Australia -two global circus countries.”

Australia is recognised internationally as a leader in the artform and Brisbane is its hothouse, home to companies like Circa, Casus Circus, Briefs Factory, Hoopla Clique, ARC Circus and Chelsea McGuffin & Co who are in high demand on every international festival circuit.

CIRCFest22 Meanjin will see Brisbane come alive with death defying feats, breathtaking spectacles and something to entertain and engage everyone from the subversive and sexy for adults only to the fun and thrilling for the family.

CIRCFest22 Meanjin
21 April – 1 May 2022
Brisbane Powerhouse, Ron Hurley Theatre, The Tivoli, La Boite Theatre, Kingston Butter Factory, Metro Arts
www.circfest.live

Don’t miss the hottest ticket in town this summer where the queerest, dirtiest, and wildest circus, comedy, burlesque, drag, and cabaret acts let loose, dripping in sweat and backed by a live band.

Hosted by internationally renowned cabaret icon Reuben Kaye “the evil love child of Liza Minnelli and Jim Carrey” (British Theatre Guide), you’ll be guided through a diverse line up of thrilling entertainment including the bewitching burlesque star Jacqueline Furey, Australia’s much-loved nightingale Tina Del Twist, premier drag hip hop trio Luna THICC and the THICC Shake Crew, and award-winning beatboxer Hope One. This stellar line up is also joined by the enigmatic Brisbane contortionist and aerialist Ashleigh Roper, and professional pole dancer extraordinaire Charlie Love.

See our iconic Cremorne Theatre transform into a speakeasy where you can sip signature cocktails and schmooze over charcuterie^^.

Get ready for an adults only night of filthy frivolity and a smorgasbord of talent. The revolution starts this January.

The Kaye Hole
6 January – 12 February 2022
Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane
www.qpac.com.au

Australia’s infamous theatre thugs and carnie queens are serving up their signature concoction of circus, drag, burlesque and comedy in a silly, sassy and sexy showcase. Sahara and her rollcall of Brisbane’s maven muso’s team up with the Briefs boys and throw down an arty party like no other. We’ve checked twice and this show is definitely on the naughty list.

If your holiday season is in need of a good dose of art, spirit and decadence, this fabulously festive and gloriously risqué show will leave your baubles sparkling and Xmas spirit over flowing. The Carol Lloyd award winning Sahara Beck armed with her band and backed by her Briefs boys will string you along and gift wrap your Bite Club experience with a cheeky mistletoe overhead.

Bite Club: The Xmas Edition
11 – 18 December 2021
The Princess Theatre, Brisbane
www.theprincesstheatre.com.au

Ten bodies appear in a flash of light. They move in harmony for a fleeting moment and then descend into a sinuous trance. Towers grow and decay, bodies leap and are caught, as physical limits are pushed to their extreme. Can we ever find a perfect balance or is adapting to constant change the only way forward?

This next chapter of Circa’s internationally acclaimed Humans is a tightly woven choreography of bodies, pulsing with music by composer Ori Lichtik and revealed in Paul Jackson’s dramatic lighting. Created by circus visionary Yaron Lifschitz, Humans 2.0 is intimate, primal and deeply engaged with the challenge of being human.

Humans 2.0
10 – 20 November 2021
QPAC, Brisbane
www.qpac.com.au

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced that Queensland had secured the World Premiere season to be held at QPAC’s Lyric Theatre in March 2021.

“Thanks to the way Queenslanders have managed the coronavirus pandemic, we’re now able to return to the theatre,” the Premier said. “Today’s announcement is a great win for Queensland, not only for our arts community but also for our economy as we continue to rebuild from the pandemic.

“Shaun the Sheep is a global phenomenon. It’s great to see Circa – one of the state’s most successful performance companies – premiere this show here in Queensland. The arts industry employs thousands of people throughout the state. World class productions like this will help this sector to recover from the impact of COVID-19.”

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said Shaun the Sheep will be able to play to full houses and engage the young and the young at heart.

“Shaun the Sheep is a family favourite throughout the world and to have this production here is a fantastic win for Queensland,” Ms Enoch said. “The arts, cultural and creative sector plays a crucial role in our COVID-19 recovery, bringing our communities back together and supporting jobs for artists and arts workers. That’s why the Palaszczuk Government is implementing nearly $60 million worth of measures to support the sector through the impacts of COVID-19 including the $22.5 million Arts and Cultural Recovery Package. The Palaszczuk Government will continue to invest in arts and cultural projects to support Queensland’s social and economic recovery.”

Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show is being supported by the Queensland Government through a unique three-way partnership, comprising investment from Screen Queensland, Arts Queensland funding via the Queensland Arts Showcase Program and QPAC as the Presenting Partner. The project has also been made possible by the Federal Government’s Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (Rise) fund.

Trevor Evans MP, Federal Member for Brisbane said, “Circa’s Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show will continue to build Brisbane’s reputation as one of the world’s significant circus cities and I’m very pleased the Morrison Government has lent its support to this new family-focused production. There is no better place for the world premiere to occur than right here in Brisbane. The Federal Government’s RISE Fund is targeted at supporting the reactivation of the arts and entertainment sector which has been hard hit by the pandemic and Circa is leading the way for performing arts organisations.”

Since 2004, from its base in Brisbane, Australia, Circa has toured the world – performing in 40 countries to over 1.5 million people. Its work is continually greeted with standing ovations, rave reviews and sold-out houses across six continents.

Aardman is the Academy Award®-winning UK studio behind Chicken Run, Wallace and Gromit, and of course, Shaun the Sheep. The tales of an enterprising Sheep named Shaun and his farmyard pals have been seen in 170 territories worldwide, and has spawned two critically celebrated feature films, a half-hour special and over 170 television episodes. With a second half-hour special in production, set for a 2021 winter release, Shaun the Sheep will continue to entertain a whole new generation of international fans.

Director Yaron Lifschitz and the Circa Ensemble capture all the sophisticated and challenging elements of Circa’s extreme physicality while embracing the fun, humour and playfulness found in the world of Shaun the Sheep. Scenic Designer Dan Potra and Costume Designer Libby McDonnell have created a new world for Shaun and his flock to inhabit, seamlessly blending the dimensions of animation, stage, film and live acrobatics.

The entire family will be treated to a visual spectacle, with Aardman’s signature Shaun the Sheep animation, combined with live performance from Circa. Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show is packed full of smart wit and outright hilarity, as Circa simultaneously blurs the lines between movement, dance, theatre and circus.

Director Yaron Lifschitz commented, “Shaun the Sheep is a playful, rambunctious feast of humour, good spirits and the triumph of the little guy. The medium of circus is a perfect vehicle for bringing these qualities to the stage. Melding the worlds of stage and screen, and incorporating the extreme physicality of circus without losing the emotional depth and charm of the original, is a major creative challenge – it’s the sort of thing we at Circa thrive on.

Circa’s Chair, Michael Lynch AO CBE said, “This ambitious new creation is made possible with partners including Screen Queensland and QPAC, and through the incredible support from the Federal Arts Ministry and Arts Queensland”.

Aardman continues to innovate and inspire as its globally recognised and beloved characters step out beyond the screen, through its impressive portfolio of live experiences, exhibitions and attractions, which allow fans to experience the world of Shaun the Sheep in exciting and interactive ways.

Ngaio Harding-Hill, Head of Attractions and Live Experiences at Aardman, added: “We have always had an ambition to create a Shaun the Sheep circus show. The physicality of circus performance marries perfectly with the slapstick traditions, thrills and humour of the brand. Circa’s creative vision made them the perfect partner to create a Shaun the Sheep Circus show for global audiences. Shaun is already very at home in Australia, so we are thrilled to premiere the show at QPAC.”

Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show
Lyric Theatre, QPAC
From March 2, 2021
www.shaunthesheepcircus.com.au