We Live Here

Circus and stories from families of dying children are not a combination you would expect would work, but WOW, just WOW.
This production from Flipside Circus and Metro Arts was breathtakingly beautiful, depicting heartfelt interpretations of experiences of families and staff from Hummingbird House, an amazing youth hospice in Brisbane.
The talent of all performers was incredible but the standout central mother figure Amy Stuart was a literal ‘Tower of Strength’.
I loved how the cast’s bodyweight pressing into her shoulders created such an easily understood physical metaphor, so that for just a moment we are reminded of the challenges that these families experience and the intense pressure of having to face the realities of illnesses that are life sentences for their children.
The fun part of circus was also brought into the performance with many funny, clever scenes, from stories that express the families’ yearn for the normal, everyday memories like birthday parties, swimming in the pool and a romantic date.

It was a bizarre feeling to be smiling and laughing, but with a huge lump in my throat and holding back tears.
From the very first moment I was mesmerised by this performance.
The music, the lighting, the video projection and words of the staff and parents in the background, perfectly timed to show the parallels of circus and death to be tremendous strength, courage and beautiful moments.
Absolutely loved it and would recommend to all.