Husband-and-wife duo James and Rebecca Capener are bringing a new evolution of circus to The Joan in Penrith on October 5.
The pair direct, produce and perform in Cirque Nouvelle alongside a talented line-up of performers.
“We’ve been performing as a duo together for ten years, working on international cruise ships and in hotels and resorts all around the world,” Rebecca told the Weekender.
“Being Australian-based, we’ve always had the dream to settle down one day and produce shows in our own home – which is what’s happening now.
“For the last three years, we’ve been working on this show called Cirque Nouvelle and presenting it to regional theatres around the country.”
The performance has received rave reviews for the exceptional talent on display, the fusion of traditional circus with contemporary acts, and the family-friendly atmosphere.
And this all stemmed from an audition that was held ten years ago.
“I grew up dancing and James is actually a second-generation performer – he’s been performing since he was four years old,” Rebecca explained.
“James performed with his family for many years, and when he turned 18 and his family retired, he held an audition to find an assistant for the show, and that’s when he found me.
“He came to my college, held the audition, and offered me the job. There was me thinking it was just going to be a bit of experience in the world for 12 months, but 10 years later we’re happily married and still doing our thing.”
Rebecca said it’s been a beautiful adventure, and added that audiences should expect the unexpected during Cirque Nouvelle.
“We have put together a circus variety show, but there’s more to it than just juggling, acrobatics, aerials, and fire performing – we’ve also intertwined a storyline,” Rebecca stated.
“The show is special because it displays how we have reinvented tradition. We honour the roots of classic circus while weaving in modern theatre effects, proving that both can co-exist.
“It’s fun, it’s modern, the soundtrack is exciting and high energy, and audiences will be surprised and maybe a little bit touched. We’ve had tears from some audience members during shows.”
The pair collected cast members during their travels to perfect the performance.
“Over the ten years, we’ve met so many incredible and talented people, and our cast are our friends who we’ve met all over the world,” Rebecca explained.
“It’s a very special thing to not only work with talented individuals, but also people that mean a lot to you and are kind-hearted hard workers.
“We’re all growing and experiencing this journey together, which is very rewarding.”
Find tickets for Cirque Nouvelle online at www.thejoan.com.au.
