Circus of Horrors, Wolverhampton Civic Hall - Review

Loosely based on the Alice in Wonderland tales, the show was stylistically rooted in both gothic and steam punk fashions which was echoed in both the impressive stage set and costumes.

Upon entering the venue, fans were greeted with characters from the show gracing the foyer which immediately created a spooky atmosphere and set the tone for the evening.

With a four piece live band accompaniment, the show was fast paced and exciting with pyrotechnics, acrobats and your typical circus acts given a much darker twist.

Led by the ringmaster Dr Haze, the show flits between well written songs whilst offering up acts such as the Mongolian laughing boy who sticks pins through his face and puts dynamite between his nether regions.

This show is most certainly not for children, featuring elements of burlesque and nudity whilst reflecting a freak show and carnival style.

There were many moments within the first half of the show where people were visibly wincing and covering their eyes, however this made the show all the more exciting.

It was also impressive to see such spectacle take place on the Civic Hall stage rather than in a big top, such as a woman swinging from her hair above the audience and a man swallowing a curved sword.

The fact that such feats were done in such close proximity made them all the more fascinating and engaging.

Although the hall was unfortunately only half full, this did not take away from the performance and upon leaving the show you only feel sorry for not more people getting to witness such great entertainment.

By Daniel Earl