Paradisum: Circus Meets Dance at Playhouse

By Elke Porter | WBN News Vancouver | December 16, 2025
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DanceHouse and The Cultch are bringing Recirquel's Paradisum to the Vancouver Playhouse for four performances January 21-24, marking the show's North American premiere. This haunting fusion of contemporary circus, dance, and physical theatre explores themes of renewal and human connection in a post-apocalyptic world.

The full-length production features six performers who use aerial work, acrobatics, and choreography to depict life after civilization's collapse. Director and choreographer Bence Vági transforms simple stage elements—a rippling black drape, ladder, rings, and hoop—into otherworldly landscapes where the artists perform breathtaking feats of strength balanced with moments of stillness and grace. The performance unfolds through scenes of purification, birth, awakening, and ritual, accompanied by Edina Szirtes' striking soundscape of strings, electronica, and percussion.

Paradisum premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August 2024, where The Guardian praised it as "physically impressive [and] undoubtedly beautiful." The show represents Recirquel's signature style—a distinctive blend of mid-eastern European classical theatre tradition with contemporary circus arts that has established the Budapest-based company as a global leader since its 2012 founding.

"In this turbulent geopolitical moment, work from Hungary offers a rare window into the resilience and imagination of artists creating amidst complex social and political currents," notes Jim Smith, DanceHouse's Artistic and Executive Director.

Who Should Attend

Paradisum appeals to fans of contemporary dance, circus arts, and innovative physical theatre. The production's mythological storytelling and visual spectacle will resonate with audiences who appreciate Cirque du Soleil-style performances but seek more experimental, artistically-driven work. Theatre enthusiasts interested in international perspectives and those drawn to immersive, visually striking productions will find much to admire.

The show is recommended for ages 12 and up and contains strobe lights. Following its Vancouver debut, Paradisum tours to Québec City, Montréal, and Toronto.

For tickets and information, visit dancehouse.ca

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