A globally-acclaimed circus pushing human bodies to their extremes is coming to Melbourne
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30.01.2025

A globally-acclaimed circus pushing human bodies to their extremes is coming to Melbourne

Words by Staff Writer

Brisbane circus company Circa is bringing their globally acclaimed production Humans 2.0 to Arts Centre Melbourne's Playhouse this autumn.

The company’s return to Melbourne comes fresh from celebrating their 20-year anniversary, with Humans 2.0 representing the next evolution of their internationally renowned show Humans. Under the direction of Yaron Lifschitz, the production explores the physical limits of human capability, pushing bodies to their extremities while examining the challenge of finding perfect balance in an ever-changing world.

Ten performers will take to the stage in a display of sophisticated acrobatics and tightly woven choreography, accompanied by composer Ori Lichtik’s score and Paul Jackson’s dramatic lighting design. The show sees bodies moving in harmony before descending into what’s described as a sinuous trance, with towers growing and decaying as physical limits are tested.

Humans 2.0

  • Premieres at Arts Centre Melbourne Playhouse
  • Running from May 14-24, 2025
  • Duration: 70 minutes, no interval
  • Age recommendation: 8+
  • European and US tour begins March 2025

Explore Melbourne’s latest arts and stage news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

The production has garnered significant acclaim since its debut, with ArtsHub describing it as “jaw-dropping, seat-clawing and armchair-exhausting.” The Conversation praised the show as “spellbinding physical drama, with just the right amount of play, death-defying tricks and whimsical imagery,” while Time Out noted that it “pushes the boundaries of what circus and acrobatics can be.”

Since 2004, Circa has been at the forefront of contemporary Australian circus, redefining the art form through their blend of movement, dance, theatre and extreme physicality. The Brisbane-based company has performed to more than two million people across 45 countries, earning standing ovations and rave reviews across six continents.

The company maintains strong community engagement through programs including Circa Academy, Circability and CircaCairns, a First Nations-led circus initiative. Humans 2.0 marks their only Australian performance for 2025 before embarking on an extensive international tour.

Tickets available at artscentremelbourne.com.au