Circus Incognitus

The simplest or most commonplace things--a ladder, a cardboard box, a piece of paper, a bouncing ball, a derby--become the tools of Jamie Adkins’ trade in his award-winning exhibition of acrobatics, juggling and sleight of hand. The Canadian Adkins, who in recent years has wowed crowds at international festivals while also garnering a Drama Desk nomination, works very much in the mode of the great silent clowns (think Charlie Chaplin), with a visual presence that also recalls the latter-day theatrical antics of Bill Irwin. Still, it's the "circus" part that amazes most, and Adkins saves his boldest--and most satisfyingly physical--balancing tricks for performance on the slack wire. This entry in the Family Field Trip series is a gimme for younger audiences, but accompanying adults will equally experience a childlike thrill at Adkins’'gravity-defying feats.