A creative masterpiece developed by Scott Maidment and his team from Strut & Fret Productions, 'Cantina' combines a host of circus performers and musicians from across the globe in a stunning display of balance, flexibility, bravery and comedy. From the very first pluck of the ukulele and a breathtaking display on the intersecting tightropes strung across the room, 'Cantina' immediately draws you in like a moth to the sultry flame.

Featuring five central circus performers each showcasing their particular talent in an equally striking manner, 'Cantina' includes a range of your standard circus tricks - tightrope walking, body contortion and acrobatics to name a few - staged against a darker, somewhat sinister backdrop. Performing faultlessly, these cast members bring new meaning to the notion of 'circus artiste' - the expression evident in their lithe bodies, which combined with such a fearless display of strength and skill will impress even the most sceptical of viewers.

'Cantina' is based loosely on the bar featured in the Star Wars films, yet the show still flings itself swiftly between past, present and future, kicking off with music and ornamentation fuelled with the sex and passion of an early 20th century Paris. Throughout the show, dramatic changes in music, costumes and performance at times imply a futuristic setting, until suddenly the soundtrack and content have altered to mirror something closer to the present day. The Barber Shop Quartet finale speaks volumes about the nature of the show itself - a place where the thing you least expect is more than likely to happen next. On the surface there doesn't seem to be much method behind the switch between themes and backdrops, yet 'Cantina' moves fluidly; it offers little explanation but much satisfaction in its inexplicable beauty.

Interested in making 'performances' rather than 'plays', Maidment and his team are to be commended for their intuitive combination of performers, talents and mediums in this newest creation. For a nail-biting hour jam-packed with the best of circus brilliance, take this opportunity and get yourself along to the Spiegeltent and see 'Cantina' as part of the Brisbane Festival.

‘Cantina’ plays until September 21.