Review: Circus Cortex return to dazzle audiences at Stonham Barns Park, near Stowmarket

Bold colours, bright lights, dazzling performances and thrilling entertainment greeted audiences as Circus Cortex took to the big top at Stonham Barns Park this weekend.

The mainly Ukrainian company has been entertaining the crowds since Thursday in Circus Cortex’s second visit to the attraction – with one more show lined up for later today. If you’re quick, it’s a chance to catch them before they move on.

This year’s show, Masquerade, built on last year’s production Golden Age and once again showcased the phenomenally talented company.

From daredevil balancing acts, to hilarious clowning around, polished dancing (with excellent choreography) and, above all, plenty of audience interactivity, Masquerade has all the ingredients for a stonking evening out.

The entertainment value of the circus cannot be underestimated, with my daughter, her friend and I gasping, cheering, laughing and clapping throughout the whirlwind two-hour show.

Our particular favourite was the amiable clown, who managed to get audience members balancing boxes and hula hooping – much to the crowd’s delight.

We also adored an exhilarating rollerskating spectacle – how the performers do not get dizzy I will never know – and graceful aerial hoop antics.

The show is billed as ‘a riot of colour and energy – an unforgettable evening where mystery meets spectacle’ – a description which hits the nail on the head.

The director and producer is Irina Archer, who started as a professional gymnast competing around the world before joining global shows and companies.

On returning to the UK, she worked as an agent for large circuses before launching Circus Cortex.

She said: “Circus Cortex is a top cirque with a difference. You never know what to expect and this year we have turned up the volume, the thrills and the risk.

“It’s an immersive experience where the performers go all out to put on an extravaganza that the audience will never forget.

“We are so fortunate to have acclaimed performers from the Ukraine - who are among the best entertainers in the world – and they are giving every performance their all as they tour the UK to amaze audiences with their talents.”

The company’s last performance at Stonham Barns is at 5pm today.

For further information and ticket details visit https://www.circuscortex.com, info@circuscortex.com or call 020 3816 0295.

Follow Circus Cortex at @circuscortexuk on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.