Exit Circus Review: A Squad That Drives Each Other Up the Wall 2026

This circus review of Exit at Zoo Southside, Edinburgh, captures a frantic farce of slamming doors and acrobatics. The Belgian production, choreographed by Piet Van Dycke, brings four performers into an intimate space where a scaffold structure with a cutaway design and a white facade becomes the stage. As the cast move in and out, they become human dominoes, narrowly missing each other in a series of comings and goings that are both comedic and tense.

The Premise: A Farce of Slamming Doors

Exit opens with performers walking among the audience, sizing up the space rather than engaging directly. The set, designed by Arjan Kruidhof and Arjen Schoneveld, features several doors that frame the action. With this much slamming, an element of farce emerges as the cast move in and out, narrowly avoiding collisions. The frantic arrivals leave no time for knocking, and the audience is advised to take a side seat to appreciate the full effect. The show hints at what might be happening behind those closed doors, including a cheeky nod to swiping right as the acrobatics increase.

The Performers: Strength, Skill, and Charisma

The rotating cast for this performance includes Harrison Claxton, Luuk Brantjes, Christopher McAuley, and Samuel Rhyner. They work harmoniously as a team, displaying impressive strength and skill. The choreography by Piet Van Dycke transitions from light-hearted comedy to more serious tricks, with subtle costume changes that go unnoticed at first. The performers' charisma keeps the audience engaged, even as the production rests in one register for too long.

The Score and Set: Building Tension

Bastiaan van Vuuren's initially twinkling score accentuates light intrigue and comedy, then builds tension as the show progresses. The simple-seeming set opens up new possibilities when one wall becomes a giant teeterboard, and one performer almost reaches the lighting rig. This transformation adds a layer of surprise and keeps the visual interest alive.

Comparison: Exit vs. Sawdust Symphony

In the same space two years ago, the circus show Sawdust Symphony offered a richer experience that grew by the minute. Exit, while fun, remains an open-and-shut case. The following table compares the two productions:

Key Takeaways

• Exit is a family-friendly production with strong acrobatic performances.
• The set design cleverly transforms into a teeterboard, adding visual excitement.
• The show's farcical elements are entertaining but may lack depth for some viewers.
• Side seating is recommended to fully appreciate the choreography.
• Compared to Sawdust Symphony, Exit could benefit from more mystery and variation.

FAQ

In conclusion, Exit offers a fun and energetic circus experience with strong performances and clever staging. While it may not reach the depth of Sawdust Symphony, it provides an entertaining hour of acrobatic farce. For those seeking a light-hearted show at the Edinburgh Festival, Exit is worth a visit.