Preview: North of Now

In 2027 the Chamäleon welcomes a moving new work from one of the world’s greatest circus companies, the ‘rockstars of circus’, Circa.

‘In the rivers north of the future, I cast the net’ wrote the poet Paul Celan, describing a space that exists beyond time, though not beyond hope. That space is where the acrobats of Circa make this work. Within the catch that hasn’t yet happened. The landing that exists at the end point of a still imagined trajectory. The future we can only create by reaching for it.

Over two thrilling acts, first working with intricate group acrobatic choreographies and then through otherworldly aerial disciplines, the ensemble strive to find equilibrium within a world that refuses to stand still, searching for the profound in the ordinary miracle of holding each other’s weight.

Directed by the legendary Yaron Lifschitz, with a layered and propulsive score by Gabriel Cazes and performed by core members of Circa’s dynamic ensemble, this extended, Chamäleon exclusive version adds a world premiere second half to North of Now. The result is an experience that strips circus back to its essentials:  one person held entirely in another’s hands, a body launched in defiance of gravity and the breathless question of whether the catch will come in time.

Ticket sales start October 24

Produced by Circa
Created by Yaron Lifschitz and the Circa ensemble.

Director and Lighting Designer Yaron Lifschitz
Composer and Sound Designer Gabriel Cazes
Costume Design Libby McDonnell

Supported by:

Circa represents world-class Australian circus artistry and is one of the world’s great performing arts companies. With their award-winning productions, they captivate audiences and earn standing ovations, sold-out performances, and glowing reviews worldwide.

Under the visionary leadership of Yaron Lifschitz and in close collaboration with their ensemble, they craft a diverse array of productions that constitute “a revolution in the spectacle of circus” (Les Echos). For 20 years, Circa has pushed the boundaries of contemporary circus, redefining the art form by showcasing how extreme physicality can forge powerful and emotive experiences.

Based in Brisbane, Circa tours the globe each year, premiering new creations and becoming a staple at prestigious festivals and venues in New York, London, Montreal—and at Chamäleon Berlin.

Through their extensive engagement programs, including the Circa Academy, Circability, and Circa Cairns (a First Nations-led circus initiative), they provide access, participation and professional development outcomes. They have also delivered major projects, including the Creative Lead on the Commonwealth Games Festival 2018 and managing Artour for the Queensland Government.

In 2024, Yaron Lifschitz was honored with the Distinguished Artist Award by the International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA), joining the ranks of extraordinary artists such as Robert Lepage, Laurie Anderson, Leonard Bernstein, and Pina Bausch.