Tender

Exploring the notion of Tender, this production combines the breaking down of stereotypes with some amazing aerial work, acrobatics, and cabaret.

The stage is set with a bare tubular steel cube sitting alone on the stage along with two performers who strip down to underwear. However, the male performer wears female underwear and vice versa. This tantalising opener establishes the mood for the night.

They are quickly joined by the entire cast of artists and the cube transforms into one of the many props used by the performers to climb over, balance and seemingly do the impossible, all wrapped in queer scenarios.

The acrobatics are spectacular, particularly the female performer in 6-inch gold heels with platforms flipping without the support of her hands and landing in the jump splits!

Aerial work forms a large part of the production. I particularly enjoyed the aerial silks with a Heart stopping ‘death drop’, and what I like to call ‘torpedo spins. There is also some breath-taking aerial hoop work that has the performer soaring right to the top of the big top and out over the audience. In fact, there are a lot of aerial routines I have never seen before in this production.

The BDSM section of the evening is full of tease - handcuffs, an ankle spreader bar, gags, blindfolds and more all showcasing some incredible pole work in boots and gloves to add to the degree of difficulty. This is performed to ‘It’s a Fine Line Between Pleasure and Pain’.

Song links the sections of the production perfectly. The ‘Unicorn’ song is a standout complete with unicorn horns and a multicoloured voluminous cape.

The highlight of the evening comes near the end. Two performers on a trapeze performing feats of balance and strength. It was clearly the audience favourite.

Cirque X are to be congratulated for bringing this intriguing, sensuous production to Adelaide. I hope we see them back!

Tender is an exploration of sexuality in its various forms. It is raw, raunchy and riotous, and contains amazing acrobatics and aerial work and is recommended viewing if you are over 18!

Barry Hill OAM

To check out our round-up of Adelaide Fringe reviews, click here.