TENDER: A Provocative Celebration of Queer Identity Through Circus Arts

As the Sydney Fringe Festival continues to push boundaries and celebrate diversity, in this respect one show stands out as a must-see: Tender, a daring circus cabaret by the local queer performance troupe Cirque X. Performing at The Vault in the Spiegeltent Festival Garden, this production is a mesmerising and action-packed exploration of relationships, sexuality, and identity through the lens of circus arts.

Tender challenges traditional notions of gender and sexuality, virtually imploring the audience to question what it truly means to be tender. Is it a gentle, affectionate touch, or a raw, aching vulnerability, wrapped in fetish and desire? The show's creators, Missy and J. Twist, have crafted a thrilling narrative that delves into these complexities, unfolding a journey that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning.

Overtly sensual, athletic, dripping with attitude, and skillfully executed, the performance itself becomes a metaphor for breaking boundaries, as aerial acts seamlessly blend with ground-based disciplines and choreography. This interplay between floor and air creates a dynamic environment that mirrors the fluidity of queer identities and relationships explored throughout the show. At times it leaves the audience gasping.

Cirque X has assembled an impressive cast of local queer talent which, beyond the performer-creators, includes circus artists Chris Barnett, Mitch Wnek, and Kenn. Their acrobatic feats and physical prowess are complemented by live musical performances, including original compositions by Penelope, a genuine star known for her appearances on The Voice and her recent ARIA dance chart success. 

The soundtrack, correctly described as "lush, dark, and grinding" sets the tone for a performance that is near explicit and provocative. As the artists flip, contort, and soar through the air, the audience is taken on an evocative journey that touches on themes of desire, power dynamics, and the search for authentic self-expression.

Tender is easily an unapologetic celebration of queerness. By dismantling gender constructs and binary thinking, the show creates a space celebrating joy and affirming diverse identities. This is more than an awe inspiring performance. It's a statement – a declaration of pride and a call for understanding and acceptance.

Tender redefines the boundaries of 'circus' and queer representation in the arts. Whether through high-flying acrobatics, pulsating music, or moments of quiet sensuality, Tender leaves a truly lasting impression.

For those seeking a unique, boisterous and thought-provoking experience during the Fringe Festival, Tender offers a blend of physical artistry, musical talent, and queer storytelling that is not to be missed. This is a show that aims to be felt as much as it is seen – a testament to the power of live performance to move, challenge, and ultimately celebrate the beautiful complexity of human experience.

VENUE: The Vault. Spiegeltent Festival Garden at The Entertainment Quarter
DATES & TIME: 24 -29th September 2024. 9:00pm each night
TICKETS: range from $39.00 to $45.00 + BF
BOOK: sydneyfringe.com/events/tender

Adult show: R18+
Haze, Coarse Language, Sexual Themes

(images: supplied)