Circus Abyssinia: Tulu: Dazzling Circus and Beautiful Ode to Ethiopia
Prepare to be amazed by the production of “Circus Abyssinia: Tulu” at the New Victory Theater. A beautifully conceived family circus, Circus Abyssinia: Tulu celebrates Derartu Tulu, an Ethiopian distance runner and Olympic icon who won the gold medal in 1992 through a series of mind-blowing aerial acts you have to see to believe.
This incredibly talented troupe — and the first circus created entirely by Ethiopian artists– was founded by brothers, Binyam “Bichu” Shimellis and Mehari “Bibi” Tesfamariam in 2017 that celebrates Ethiopian culture through visual and musical forms of storytelling and daring acrobatic acts.
Through a series of inspiring moments, families go on a journey through different olympic moments fused with Circus Abyssinia’s talent. This includes dancing with flags and flames of Olympic pageantry, mind-bending contortionism, roller-skating, incredible leaps, powerful aerial moves, and movements you have to see to believe. This all mixed with the troupe’s high-energy backed by lively and infectious soundtrack of ’70s Ethiopian funk, disco, and modern Ethio-pop that is celebrated through moments of dance and singing as well as the backdrop to the daring feats.
It was incredible to watch the talent, strength, and daring acts of this captivating troupe. During the show, my kids were in awe of the moments that unfolded right before their eyes. Some of our favorite moments were seeing contortionist Semeret Getachew Bekana twist and move her body into an assortment of shapes, watching the acrobats fly off the Russian swing and land onto a mattress, and seeing the rapid roller-skating moment in a tight circle.
Throughout each moment, we were on the edge of our seats as we witnessed the courageous leaps and jumps and incredible acrobatics. We even heard some kids shout in between claps, “I love your show.”
You’ll also be amazed by Daniel Amera Seid, an aerialist who seamlessly leaps into the ceiling by his ankles, or pulls his body up by just holding onto to one block. It’s magnificent, powerful, and inspiring that the body can even do that!
Clocking in an hour, the circus is ideal for kids ages five and up and families can also enjoy pre-show activities. They also have a fun pre-show experience where kids can test out some of their acrobatic skills, make a medal, or have a snack before the show.
Note: Masks are required to watch this experience and they do have masks available if you didn’t bring them with you.
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu Details
December 9th-January 1st
New Victory Theater
209 W 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
646.223.3010
Ticket_Services@NewVictory.org
For additional information, visit newvictory.org
