If you’ve been lucky enough to go to a cirque-type show in the past, you’ve probably had the following thoughts:
- How’d they do that?
- Is that humanly possible?
- I think I’m enjoying this more than my kids!
If you haven’t seen a cirque-type show, check out this clip.
Whoa, right? That’s “Cirque Mechanics – Pedal Punk.” They’re coming to Omaha soon. More on that in a second.
When I first saw this clip about 10 months ago, I knew my kids would love this show. Our whole family loves bikes, and save for Mr. Wonderful, we all like clowns (I think there’s only one in this show…).
About Pedal Punk
Cirque meets BMX bikes in “Pedal Punk,” at the Orpheum Theater Nov. 12. Photo courtesy Cirque Mechanics
“Pedal Punk” is a Steampunk-inspired circus on wheels, where cycling is a way to escape the technology-obsessed society. The show is about a wacky bike shop mechanic who creates wondrous machines and inspires the cyclist in all of us to become a Pedal Punk.
The show will be in Omaha Nov. 12 and I was invited to share details with you. “Cirque Mechanics – Pedal Punk” is presented by Omaha Performing Arts. (Disclaimer: I’m an employee of Omaha Performing Arts. I was invited as a family blogger to write about it, though, not as an employee.)
What you can expect
One of the acts in “Pedal Punk.” Photo courtesy Cirque Mechanics
Here are some of the acts that will be in this show:
– The Gantry Bike, a pedal driven, roving mechanical marvel, a giant playground on wheels
– The Gantry Trampoline act, led by master trampolinist Wes Hatfield is a daring adrenaline rush. The acrobats bounce, climb and play, all while the Gantry spins and moves.
– Male contortionist, Windu, seems to disassemble his body à la urban breakdancer.
– BMX rider, Blake Hicks
– Nata Ibragimov transforms playing with bike rims into a dynamic tango. She rolls and spins her hoops with rhythm and precision, across the stage and high up in the air.
– A Classic Penny Farthing turns into an impressive aerial duo act with Lauren Stark and Lindsey Covarrubias, when the bike is lifted by Gantry power, high above the stage.
– Jan Damm, is a skillful comedic juggler and clown. His hysterically funny audience participation piece, a very clever stationary bike race, will create heroes in the crowd.
– Nick and Wendy Harden perform a romantic unicycle dance that overwhelms the senses. Their balancing and pedaling tell a tale with dexterity, strength and passion.
If you go
Cirque Mechanics – Pedal Punk
When: Thursday, Nov. 12, 7 p.m.
Where: Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.
Tickets: Buy tickets at TicketOmaha.com (tickets start at $15)
Tip: Consider bringing along some canned food or other non-perishable food items for the Shine the Light on Hunger drive, supporting the Food Bank for the Heartland. There’s a blue barrel in the Orpheum’s lobby to collect your donations.
Disclaimer: All thoughts and opinions expressed are mine. I was provided complimentary tickets to attend this performance in exchange for tell you all about the show.