Madame Zingara has returned with a new offering called After Forever.
Housed in one of the last remaining antique mirror tents in the world, the new show sees the venue transformed into an enchanted forest.
Complementing the fantastical theme are a host of international and South Africa cirque acts, whose respective performances help transport you into another world.
Tying the show together is Hot Mr C – the jester whose wickedly witty anecdotes and asides will have you rolling with laughter. Assisting him is Kleine Pomplenickle, the absinthe fairy, whose trickery adds to the fun.
“The hostess with the mostess”, Lillian Khumalo, does a great job of hosting the show with her feisty antics and amazing voice, which we enjoyed in the odd song. The six cirque acts really provide the thrill element to the show. From aerial to acrobatic acts to a rhythmic bollas act from Argentinia and an edge-of-your-seat human juggling act – you’ll be hard pressed to pick a favourite. That said, some acts do deserve special mention.
Starting with Ethiopian duo Amanuel and Samial who perform a daring human foot juggling act that will have you clasping your seat as you watch their synchronised bodies perform juggling like you’ve never seen it!
Walter and Ezequiel from Argentina present a high-energy flamenco dance coupled with drum beats and staccato rhythms, created to the beat of handheld bollas hitting the floor. The Russian Bar Trio demonstrate the utmost balance and precision. Ukrainian artist, Roman, flies and somersaults to great heights – at times seeming as if he would touch the top of the tent – before landing effortlessly on a 15cm wide balance beam. South Africa’s Sam Kotze (in a previous interview) promised her act would provide a “re-imagining of the art of pole dancing” and she delivers just that. Using her body strength, balance and poise, she makes her pole act something of cirque art.
In between the cirque acts, South African songbirds The Specifics and Khumalo belt out an array of musical treats. From high-energy hits to soulful ballads and some popular music, they keep you entertained.
This review would not be complete without mention of the menu, which brings to the table an offering as exotic as the show. From the classic Zingara Chocolate Chilli Fillet, to a herb-encrusted Norwegian salmon dish, to a Moroccan chicken tagine and more – you’ll be spoilt for the choice of flavours from around the world. Rounding off the experience is the staff’s playfulness which adds to the great atmosphere.