NO MORE WAITING IN LIMBO

Last night was the grand opening of Brisbane's newest cultural gem, The West End Electric, and what a night it was! This bespoke 400+ seat theatre, unveiled with great fanfare by the globally prolific Strut & Fret, set the stage for a spectacular launch with their smash-hit circus-cabaret, LIMBO — The Return.

From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes of New York’s Jank maestro, Sxip Shirey, filled the air, the audience was transported into an otherworldly realm. The show, a reimagining of the original LIMBO that dazzled audiences in 17 countries, brought the house down with its stunning blend of fire-breathing feats, gravity-defying stunts, and hypnotic music.

Under the masterful direction of Scott Maidment, the Creative Director of Strut & Fret (known for hits like Blanc de Blanc and The Party), LIMBO — The Return is a true testament to his visionary approach to live entertainment.

It’s a night that is as diverse as it is entertaining, and each artist brings their own flavour and flair to the show.

Clara Fable, the powerhouse songstress and fire-breathing queen, left the audience gasping for air with her fiery performance. Fable’s charisma and skill shone brightly, proving why she is a star in the circus cabaret world.

Sxip Shirey’s live music, performed by a motley band of multi-instrumentalists, added another layer of enchantment to the show. Shirey's unique “Jank” sound—an eclectic mix inspired by New Orleans big brass, hip-hop, and Balkan music—perfectly complemented the show's high-energy acts. His collaboration with Maidment has created a sonic experience that is both electrifying and unforgettable.

The production also featured dazzling performances by aerialist Maria Moncheva, who performed a stunning act in chains. Australian tap dance sensation Hilton Denis made the crowd beg for more with his faster-than-lightning feet. As he slacklined directly above people’s heads, David Marco had the audience ambivalently in fear and awe at the same, while corde lisse virtuoso Ben Loader displayed incredible strength and flexibility.

In each of their productions, Strut & Fret introduce something innovative, and the creative innovations are always a highlight. One of those (many) innovative moments is when drummer Mick Stuart beatboxes with a mirror in hand to reflect a laser-like stage light to the rhythm he beatboxes. Grant Arthur also holds his own as multi-talented musician and gets in on the fire action with his sousaphone.

James Browne’s design of The West End Electric theatre itself deserves a standing ovation. The space, with its chic and luxurious nod to London’s famous West End theatre district, combined with elements of historical vaudeville and bohemian hedonism, created an immersive environment that was as much a part of the performance as the artists themselves.

LIMBO — The Return is a high-powered extravaganza that will leave you gasping for more. It’s a high-powered extravaganza that not only showcases the incredible talent of its cast but also highlights Brisbane’s burgeoning cultural scene. Strut & Fret has set a new standard for live entertainment in Queensland, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what they do next. Chances are, like Madonna, you'll want to see it twice!