Giffords Circus

Stepping into Waterfield at Giffords Circus in Chiswick House & Gardens feels less like arriving at a show and more like being transported into a nostalgic 1950s fairground dream. The grounds have been completely transformed, with food stalls lining the pathways, sweet treats tempting from every corner, and the unmistakable scent of popcorn hanging in the air. Everything centres around the iconic big top tent, radiating anticipation and excitement long before the performance even begins.

Now in its 26th year, Giffords Circus’ latest production, Waterfield, directed by Cal McCrystal, is an ambitious blend of theatre, storytelling and high-risk circus spectacle. Inspired by rural English wildlife and brought to life with choreography by Kate Smyth, the production creates an immersive, handcrafted world.

The Cienna Sisters’ aerial strap and hoop routines left audiences wide-eyed as they floated impossibly above the crowd, holding one another with effortless grace and strength. The Ethiopian Addis Ababa Troupe were nothing short of spectacular, bringing explosive energy, tumbling, human pyramids and gravity-defying acrobatics that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Their determination through increasingly complex routines and lifts culminated in well-earned standing applause. The knife throwing act from Elena and Giacomo was stressful in the very best way, a masterclass in tension and trust. With the assistant spinning as knives flew in every direction, the entire tent seemed to collectively hold its breath.

Equally pulse-racing were the Valencia Flyers and their infamous Wheel of Death. Elevated high above the ground, the pair spun, ran and launched themselves through the air with such seamless confidence that the whole audience remained gripped. The host was endlessly charming, tying together the evening’s many acts with warmth and effortless charisma. Backed by James Keay’s lively musical direction and the superb six-piece live band, The Grasshoppers, the atmosphere never faltered.

The only aspect that slightly let the show down was the recurring rat and mole characters. Initially, they were funny, successfully breaking up the acts with light relief. However, as the performance progressed, their appearances became increasingly irritating, and their final act lacked the payoff needed to justify the amount of stage time they occupied.

Regardless of this, perhaps the most memorable moment came at the very end. In a joyful breaking of the fourth wall, audience members were invited into the ring to sing and dance alongside the performers. It was immersive, celebratory and wonderfully unexpected, creating a genuinely magical finale.

Giffords Circus’ Waterfield is utterly enchanting, nostalgic and nerve-wracking. A spectacle that proves the circus is far more than child’s play.

Theatre: Chiswick House and Gardens

Reviewer: Em Davison

Date: 21/05/2026

Stars: 4