Following its acclaimed Brisbane Festival season, Fijian Flying Circus heads to Melbourne and Sydney with a distinctive fusion of circus, contemporary performance and traditional Fijian storytelling.
Created by VOU, the internationally renowned Fijian dance company founded in Suva in 2007, the production draws on the islands’ rich mythology, music and natural wonders to create a vibrant theatrical adventure.
At its centre is Loma, a curious young girl who tumbles into a mystical world of cheeky veli (forest spirits), towering giants and elemental forces. When one of her enchanted shoes is stolen, she embarks on a quest to retrieve it, accompanied by her mischievous sidekick, Tui.
Launched in 2024 as Fiji’s first and only professional circus, the company emerged almost by accident when VOU’s dancers crossed paths with touring circus trainers. What began as an experiment has evolved into an ambitious performance that weaves gravity-defying acrobatics, aerial artistry and theatrical storytelling into a celebration of Fijian culture and legend.
From breathtaking hair hangs and daring tightrope walks to the powerful rhythms of the lali drum and the harmonies of live island song, Fijian Flying Circus brings traditional influences into conversation with contemporary circus. Its imagery also celebrates Fiji’s remarkable flora, fauna and endemic wildlife, offering audiences a glimpse of the islands through a distinctly local lens.
The Melbourne and Sydney seasons follow a landmark period for VOU, including two consecutive invitations to perform at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art and the distinction of becoming the first Fijian company to headline a major New Zealand arts festival in early 2026.
Combining spectacular physical feats with cheeky humour, mischief and a generous sense of fun, Fijian Flying Circus offers more than a family entertainment spectacle. It is a celebration of cultural identity, imagination and the power of storytelling, inviting audiences of all ages to discover the warmth, creativity and exuberant spirit of Fiji.
In addition, the tribe is not only travelling one production, they will bring to life their flagship theatrical show: Fiji Untold in select theatres around Australia. Fiji Untold is a theatrical depiction of Fiji’s myths and legend, a contemporary piece showcasing Fiji’s stories. Deeply rooted in culture, chanting and storytelling, the production showcases depth of loss, rebellion, identity, self-redemption and self-discovery.
The Fijian Flying Circus will play under the big top at the Melbourne Showgrounds from 17 October – 22 November, before touring to the Blacktown Showgrounds from 12 December 2026 – 10 January 2027.
Fiji Untold will be presented at the Clocktower Centre, Moonee Ponds, on Sunday 11 October; the Coliseum Theatre, Western Sydney, on Saturday 28 November; and the Canberra Theatre Centre on Monday 30 November 2026.
Image: Fijian Flying Circus – courtesy of VOU