REVIEW: Circa's acrobatics simply breathtaking

Seven singularly mesmerizing acrobatic circus performers comprised Circa, taking the idea of circus to a new frontier at Memminger Auditorium. These real life superheros with mind-boggling strength and bravery are greater than any computer-generated types like them, and if you don't have tickets already -- run, don't walk -- to get them.

The 90-minute nonstop performance featured both solos and ensemble work where the performers tumbled, flew, hung, and flipped in every possible way to a collage of music ranging from classical to contemporary. With playful precision, men stood on women's heads, attempted handstands on index fingers, and spun webs like spiders hanging from ropes and bungee cords. Each scenario held beautiful moments of danger which consistently captured the audience's attention as they gasped and sighed with relief as each death-defying feat unfolded.

Duets were at times comical and often tender but always sensual and intriguing. The highlight of these duets was when one of the three female performers stood on her partner with shiny red stilettos in a passive/aggressive dance that had audience members squirming in their seats.

The group's members used their own bodies in astounding ways with innovative acrobatics and little reliance on props. Even a simple solo where one of the men performed a series of silly hand tricks or when another reached his arm so far into the air it seemed to dislocate itself, needed little else to entertain.

Not to say that the girl with eight hula hoops did not delight as she performed unimaginable movements to a French song. Or that the guy standing on his head on the trapeze while holding onto his partner without a net or a spotter was anything short of spectacular.

In an age where technology never ceases to amaze, it is a relief to see the human body alone do the same, bringing the audience to its feet in awe. The performance will be repeated through June 12.