Fringe review: GASHA
The acclaimed troupe Cirquework hit Adelaide with a celebratory mash-up of historical and contemporary Japanese imagery. ★★★★★
After two successful years at Fringe, Cirquework is back with a highly anticipated SA premiere. GASHA slips seamlessly between traditional and contemporary, inviting the audience to explore the deep contrasts of Japanese culture through daring circus acts. The name blends ‘gashapon’ (capsule toys that you buy from vending machines) and the elegance of ‘geisha’ which captures the spirit of this show: unpredictability and excitement meet the beauty and grace of kimono, among other Japanese cultural motifs. Every element, from costumes to music to movement feels like a tribute to Japan’s rich history and the way tradition lingers in contemporary culture.
The show opens with a rising sun, immediately transporting the crowd into a space filled with endless possibility. Next, an incredible hair-hanging act blows us away and the excitement builds continually through silks, hoops and a Cyr wheel. An incredible musician, blending traditional instruments like the shamisen and taiko drums with EDM and electric guitar, is a real highlight, creating a diverse blend of sound across time and place. Beyond the death-defying aerial acts, this use of musicality brings everything together to create a shared experience between Japan and the world, past and present. From the front row to the back of the tent, the incredible global cast creates a strong and lasting connection with every viewer, making GASHA a must-see circus act during the 2026 Fringe season.
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GASHA us playing at The MOA at Gluttony from February 20 – March 22
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