Waldo’s Circus of Magic & Terror
Written by Hattie Naylor & Jamie Beddard
Based on an original idea by Hattie Naylor
Music by Charles Hazlewood
Role: Co-Director
Co-Directors: Claire Hodgson & Billy Alwen
Set & Costume Design: Ti Green
Lighting Design: Katy Morison
Sound Design: Andy Rose
Choreography: Vicki Igbokwe
Associate Music Director: Dave Johnzy
Casting Director: Polly Jerrold
“Moving and thought-provoking”
The Guardian
“There is power and beauty in this show”
The Times
”Invites timely consideration of creeping illiberalism”
The Telegraph
Come one, come all to spectacular new musical Waldo’s Circus of Magic & Terror. Under the twinkling stars of the big top, sensational circus, powerful magic and electrifying music combine to tell a poignant story of courage, resistance, and love.
It’s 1933 Brandenburg and the Nazis are burning books and suspending civil rights. Many are desperate to escape, but for Waldo and his travelling circus of outcasts, acrobats, and aerialists, ‘the show must go on’.
As Hitler’s dictatorship strengthens and oppression grows, the daring humanity and courage of this circus troupe stay hidden beneath the painted-on glamour of Waldo’s big top. Love, loyalty, and risk-taking balance on the tightwire as the world outside becomes darker and more dangerous.
This spectacular new circus theatre musical is informed by historical research and the experiences of real performers.
Presented by Extraordinary Bodies. Co-produced with Bristol Old Vic and Theatre Royal Plymouth.
Extraordinary Bodies is a collaboration between Diverse City and Cirque Bijou.
Photography: Paul Blakemore