Prepare for a dazzling display of theatre, acrobatics, and live music as the Lyttelton Circus Theatre Co (LCTC) brings their original production, Berlin Burlesque: The Story of Hanussen, to the Gasworks Theatre this April.
After a sell-out season in Christchurch, this 14-strong ensemble of theatre makers, acrobats, musicians, and entertainers is ready to take the world by storm.
Berlin Burlesque tells the extraordinary true story of Eric Jan Hanussen – a master illusionist, magician, charlatan, lover, and the owner of a notorious 1930s Berlin nightclub. Gasworks Theatre will be transformed into this iconic nightclub for an unforgettable, immersive experience.
The show is a high-energy fusion of intelligent theatre, captivating circus arts, and a dynamic live soundtrack. Expect a rollercoaster of emotions, from comedy to tragedy, all wrapped in an unforgettable package of live music, magic, circus acts, and even a little bit of nudity. Berlin Burlesque promises to make audiences laugh, gasp, and leave with a sense of awe.
The existing cast includes Tom Trevella as Eric Jan Hanussen, Pascal Ackermann (aerial, fire, clowning, poles) Sophie Easton,(vocals, hoops, dance, clowning) and David Ladderman (narrator, juggling, poles) all of whom have garnered praise for their performances in the sold-out Christchurch season.
New faces join the cast for the Melbourne season, including actress Bea Hemsley who plays Hanussen’s long-suffering lover and Rebecca Salmi joins Nele Siezen to become the Twisty Duo (aerial, acrobatics and stilt), Tyson Smith (guitar) joins the band alongside Carmel Courtney (keys, horns & vocals), Doug Brush (drums, percussion) and Mike Fudakowski (8-string fretless bass).
Founded in 2007, Lyttelton Circus Theatre Co (LCTC) is an internationally recognised troupe, known for their bold and boundary-pushing productions. Their work blends circus, theatre, and music, with a commitment to creating original, immersive experiences that leave a lasting impact on audiences.
Their signature production, The Butler, enjoyed a triumphant tour across all the major New Zealand festivals and the UK, charming audiences with a four-week season in London.
Don’t miss out on this mind-blowing show that promises to be an unmissable highlight of the Melbourne arts calendar!
“Berlin Burlesque is a dazzling riot of a stage show. It will make you laugh and it will make you gasp and you’ll emerge uplifted” – Christchurch Press
Berlin Burlesque: The Story of Hanussen
Gasworks Theatre – Gasworks Arts Park, 21 Graham Street, Albert Park
Season: 2 – 26 April 2025
Bookings: www.gasworks.org.au
For more information, visit: www.lytteltoncircustheatre.co for details.
Images: Lyttelton Circus Theatre Co presents Berlin Burlesque: The Story of Hanussen – photos by Dean MacKenzie