The National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA) is thrilled to present the third-year student ensemble show, FAMOUS, at the NICA National Circus Centre in Prahran this June.
In this circus-theatre show for the century, a posse of egomaniacs discover that the road to hell is paved with red carpet and a god complex that can only get them so far.
Trapped in a never-ending cycle of posing, smiling, and waving to adoring fans, for whom, the novelty never seems to cease – will these celebrities escape their prison, or risk it all and ascend until they’re immortalised amongst the stars?
The performers tumble, twirl, and fly in the shoes of the rich and famous as they perform acts of swinging trapeze, Chinese pole, acrobatics and more. An Oscar-worthy performance of opulence and grandeur, FAMOUS is toxic, delusional, batty, and brilliant.
The young NICA divas thrive under the direction of prolific multidisciplinary artist, Carita Farrer Spencer (Pescado, NICA 2015), whose professional career spans three decades full of enviable collaborations.
“I love being in a position to help deepen and expand the students’ artistry, challenging them to be creative, playful, brave and the best version of themselves,” said Carita. “It is enormously satisfying to create a show that inspires, supports, and guides them in their next chapter as emerging professional artists.”
The students will be draped in lavish costumes designed by Savannah Wegman (Biographica, Lyric Opera Theatre Works) with the assistance of Melbourne Polytechnic fashion design students. The wardrobe exudes luxury with its cleverly crafted textiles and considered embellishments. The fabulously, striking stage is constructed by NICA alumni and established set designer, Tim Rutty (GRIM, 2023).
A feverish mixtape by musical maestro Darius Kedros (THIS, Rising Festival 2023) adds the appropriate amount of oomph to this celebrity soap opera. Finally, shedding light on scenes of chaos is Spencer Herd (Frame Narrative, Old Fitz Theatre 2024), a live performance lighting designer with an eye for detail so sharp it makes 20/20 vision look like an ocular impairment.
Director: Carita Farrer Spencer | Featuring: Anais Stewart, Gabriel Walker, Gemma Jackson, Jasmin Tait, Jasmine Poniris, Jesse Holden, Luca Trimboli, Merlene Hutt, Rose Symons, Taylor Vogt, Tyson Wallent, Zaelea Nolte | Costume Design: Savannah Wegman | Set Design: Tim Rutty | Composition/Sound Design: Darius Kedros | Lighting Design: Spencer Herd | Production: In collaboration with fashion design and makeup students from Melbourne Polytechnic
FAMOUS
National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA), 39-59 Green Street, Prahran
Season: 14 – 22 June 2024 (preview: 13 June)
Information and Bookings: www.nica.com.au
Image: National Institute of Circus Arts presents FAMOUS – photo by Cameron Grant @parenthesy