CIRCUS Joseph Ashton always attracts a crowd in Rockingham and this season is no different, with a fresh act set to hit the stage for the first time.
The popular circus has enjoyed much acclaim over many years, with its array of talented two-legged and four-legged performers thrilling audiences both young and old.
Bekki Ashton said this year was no different.
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READ NOW“We always try to keep the show different, but there are always the favourites that you can’t change too much, like the flying trapeze, the horses and the dogs,” she said.
“The skill level of a lot of the acts has gone up… the tricks on the trapeze are world-class; the Wheel of Death, again the skills in that are just phenomenal.”
As well as honing their performing skills, the circus has also claimed a national award for its front-of-house experience, from the big top right down to the custom-made seating.
“Our brand-new seating from Mexico, it’s the only one of its kind in Australia… every seat in the big top is a good seat,” Ms Ashton said.
Featuring some of the best Australian talent, Circus Joseph Ashton has also welcomed international visitors such as Taylor Henderson.
Hailing from the US state of Washington, Ms Henderson said the chance to work with the circus in Australia had been the trip of a lifetime.
“It’s been great; it has definitely been a learning experience,” she said.
“I’ve learned so much about the performance life and the behind-the-scenes and the set-up. It’s just completely different to what I’m used to. It’s been a really, really good experience.”
Ms Henderson and Ms Ashton said they might even be able to treat Rockingham to the debut of a new act before closing on August 14.
“We do hope the Chandelier will be debuting while we’re here,” Ms Ashton said.
“It’s a good coup – we’re down to the business end of it now, bringing the production part together and tweaking the nitty-gritty.”
Fact box
Who: Circus Joseph Ashton
When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays up to August 14, with matinee and evening shows
Where: Dixon Road Reserve, Dixon Road, Rockingham