TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — National Taichung Theater's Arts Nova series will kick off Friday evening with high-energy wrestling and circus acts in “Slam!”
Created by Robert Lepage — who notably worked on Cirque du Soleil's “Ka” with his team Ex Machina and Canadian circus troupe Flip Fabrique — audiences will witness six wrestling matches. The bouts offer a diverse range of styles, including singles, women's, mixed tag team, and multi-participant events.
The performance blends professional wrestling techniques with circus acrobatics, showcasing a fusion of athleticism and artistic expression. The show will run for four performances at the NTT Playhouse from Friday through Sunday.
Beyond the wrestling ring, the performance introduces engaging characters such as a staged audience, overzealous fans, referees, and even cleaning staff.
Lepage explained that wrestling has always been a world that emphasizes acrobatics, physicality, and athleticism. By incorporating circus performance, he aims to push the boundaries of wrestling even further.
Flip Fabrique Artistic Director Bruno Gagnon shared that the performance will take audiences on a journey, transitioning from the familiar wrestling environment into an unexpected world. Eight performers from Flip Fabrique take on multiple roles, showcasing wrestling techniques they’ve been specially trained in, while challenging the limits of both circus and wrestling.
Olivier Normand, the show’s motion designer, described how the stage features a wrestling ring that transforms into a circus performance space through hidden mechanisms. While wrestling is traditionally associated with violence, he explained that this performance also introduces playful elements, urging the audience to actively engage with the show by cheering or booing, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.
This year's NTT Arts Nova will run until June 8, offering 10 productions. They encompass diverse themes, from the wrestling and circus fusion of “Slam!” to AI explorations, immersive audio-visual experiences, Australian choreography, and Japanese comedic performances.
