The Copenhagen Collective is a group of 17 acrobats from across the world who have come together to form a unique theatrical acrobatic experience. Their first show, ‘The Genesis’ promises to focus on the depths of human connection and the power of unity and I was intrigued to see how acrobats as an art form lent itself to this mission.

My first word to describe the piece would be breath-taking. The cast consistently are climbing each other in more and more inventive ways, tumbling and forming tableaus with just their bodies that I didn’t imagine possible. The whole piece has a sense of movement and for the majority of the production the stage is awash with limbs as they fly into the air. I frequently felt unsure as to what I should be watching, worried that I was missing out on one spectacle by watching another on a different part of the stage. This constant feeling of movement also therefore heightens the intensity when there was stillness or indeed a singular focal point. Whilst the show builds slowly it feels like this is the perfect choice to gain momentum for what soon becomes a jaw dropping spectacle.

The show aims to explore the power of unity and human connection and it was amazing just how strongly this came across in the hour long piece thanks to the direction and choreography by Patrick King & Johan King Silverhult. The very nature of the acrobatics that were being performed meant that human connection was vital for this piece to succeed, especially with the trust the company must have in each other when being lifted to such heights.

The company themselves were mesmerising to watch and this is a rare occasion where it really would be impossible to single out a performer for particular praise as it is genuinely such an ensemble piece. They had a unique quality of strength and grace amongst them all. It was also a joy to see that women lifted male company members, men were able to dance with other men both of which helps defy expectations in what you would expect from a piece like this.

The technical side of the show also deserves praise. The soundscape composition by Leif Jordansson took us from a classical feel to a more modern club andalong with this lighting design by Stefan Goldbaum Tarabini which also added to the shifting mood of the piece helped ensure that the show didn’t become repetitive.

Genesis by Copenhagen Collective is a breath-taking way to spend an hour, marvelling at just what the human body can do when it works in unison with others.

Copenhagen Collective- The Genesis is running at Peacock Theatre until 6th September. You can find out more and book here.

If you like this review you might also like my review of Sabrage, Cabaret and The Devil Wears Prada.