Theatrical company Circa has a nimble advantage, with small crews able to tour widely. It’s a hit in Singapore and is now attracting interest in China.
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Sure, there are flips, tumbles and splits but for Harley Mann circus is all about connection. The Wakka Wakka man, 23, who will direct the premiere of
Arterial at the Meat Market Melbourne this week, says circus has a synergy with Indigenous culture.
Arterial, part of the Yirramboi Festival, features the Na Djinang Circus troupe, with performers (left to right) Dylan Singh, Harley Mann, Maggie Church-Kopp and Jada Narkle (top).
Credit:Justin McManus
Both are support-based cultures, he says, in which everyone works to help the group. âThe thing about circus is it has this inherent similarity to the way Aboriginal people function. Learning from your elders, sharing, coming together at night and performing, itâs about connecting,â he says. âYou go to circus festivals and it really feels like youâre out with mob.â