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Cape Town – 120116 – Street fashion in Church sqaure. REPORTER: WENDELL. PICTURE: THOMAS HOLDER
Buoyed by the enthusiastic response to the dance shows he has brought to Durban, Russian promoter Edouard Miasnikov brings Moscow Circus on Ice to the city for the first time in April.
The newly renovated Durban Ice Rink will be the stage for this sensational show, for four performances only on April 28 and 29.
Directed by Natalia Abramova, artists from the Moscow Circus on Ice blend international-level figure skating with demanding acrobatics and dance routines, while traditional Russian costumes and dynamic sound and lighting add to the festive atmosphere.
The idea of a circus on ice was the brainchild of artistic director Arnold Gregoryevich Arnold, who began his creative experiment in 1962. Having worked in theatre, circus, cinema and ballet, he decided to combine the various art forms to create what was then the world’s first circus on ice.
According to the history books, the cast was carefully selected and after two years of literal blood, sweat and tears 47 novice artists presented the first show on October 16, 1964.
It is said that the first audiences and circus experts were amazed by the transformation of traditional circus genres – well-known tricks combined with figure skating techniques produced surprising dynamics!
The first overseas tour to Brussels Royal Circus the next year set the stage for a concept which has won world-wide recognition.
Director Abramova continues to improve and enrich the circus with new creative works, inspired by tradition and the beautiful art form of figure skating.
“Moscow Circus on Ice is a dazzling fantasy show which will appeal to all ages,” said Miasnikov. “The talented stars juggle, leap and spin their way through a series of balletic acts, all on the point of their blades. And, of course, the circus wouldn’t be the same without the traditional comic actors and clown.”
Expect the unexpected as the performers glide around on stilts, spring between parallel bars, show off their unicycle and perform skipping rope stunts. Skilled magicians and wacky dancers add to the carnival atmosphere.
Shows are on April 28 at 1pm and 5pm and April 29 at 12 noon and 4pm. Tickets from Computicket are priced from R130.
