Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023, 4 p.m. — Hering Auditorium

Although inspired by modern circus, Cirque Mechanics’ roots are in the mechanical and its heart is in the stories of American ingenuity. The shows, rooted in realism, display a raw quality that makes their message timeless and relevant. The stories are wrapped in circus acrobatics, mechanical wonders, and a bit of clowning around.

Cirque Mechanics was founded in 2004 by Boston native and German wheel artist Chris Lashua after a successful collaboration with the Circus Center of San Francisco. Cirque Mechanics quickly established itself as a premiere American circus with its unique approach to performance, inspiring storytelling, and innovative mechanical staging. Spectacle Magazine hailed it as “the greatest contribution to the American circus since Cirque du Soleil.” The troupe has created five extraordinary productions: Birdhouse Factory, Boomtown, Pedal Punk, 42FT- A Menagerie of Mechanical Marvels, and, most recently, the wind-inspired Zephyr.

“… a diversified theatrical experience, showcasing unparalleled athleticism over glamour, machinal innovation over concealed sleight of hand.” – OnStage Blog

“The greatest contribution to the American circus since Cirque du Soleil.” – Spectacle Magazine

“Intelligently conceived and expertly executed.” – The New York Times