For many Perth locals, little more needs to be said than “BarbieQ and Kinetica” to entice them to a show. This line-up is a phenomenon with a justifiably strong reputation. Their current offering P!NK: The Circus is another electric FRINGE WORLD spectacular and one to share with friends who have not yet had the pleasure of being dazzled by this team.
Storming the stage with vitality, sass, and undeniable skills, each performer brings unique flare. Collectively, they defy gravity and the laws of fashion physics, performing in near 40-degree heat clad in denim and fabrics that don’t breathe, still making it all look pretty.
The set is simple with a giant screen backing but the stage glows with an effervescent cast, with little more than boxes or an acrobatic apparatus. With apparently sumptuous ease, Kinetica performers Sarah, Matthew, Fay, and Anthony slink and fold around a pole, silks, netting, and each other.
Joining them, Karl Kayoss, Haydn, Jessica, Kade, and Kenisha have also mastered the arts of body performance to the thumping beats of a slew of P!nk anthems. This is all amped up to titillating delirium with the magnetic lead Drag Queen BarbieQ who embodies the powerhouse icon P!nk.
Some performers were comfortable, others less so, in conveying emotional journeys of their saucy characters while somersaulting and acro-dancing. This is easily overshadowed by lithe agility on display. The cast execute amazing feats throughout emotive portrayals of beloved hits, many known for their candour and provocations. One particularly compelling piece is a gorgeous and intimate dance homage from a daughter to a mother.
Strutting in towering heels, stomping in boots, BarbieQ leads the ensemble cast through well-crafted choreography in a rebellious ride that incited the audience into hour-long joyous whoops and exclamations of wonder. P!nk herself would likely be proud. Even if you don't already love P!nk, acrobatics, aerial feats, dance, eye candy galore, or drag splendour, you won't regret seeing this. Be warned that your throat will be hoarse from cheering and hands sore from rapturous applause.