Show's no-nonsense appeal

Circus shows are these days known for their bright lights, spangly costumes and lavish sets, whereas the more down-to-earth Circus Aotearoa is a show for the every day Kiwi.

Circus Aotearoa is all set to perform its first shows in the Wairarapa - and Ringmaster Damian Gordon says its light-hearted yet visually stunning performances are a hit in the provinces.

"We've had a fantastic reception in the smaller towns," says Mr Gordon, of Raglan.

"It's lots more fun - in the regions, they're a lot more relaxed. They bring their whole family along. They quite often drop us some home baking as well.

"I think the small towns love it that we actually come and do shows for them. It's a great introduction for young people to live theatre that they wouldn't see otherwise."

Young performer Imogen Stone, 17, an aerialist and acrobat, says Circus Aotearoa's no frills shows are hugely popular with New Zealand audiences.

"We're pretty down-to-earth. We don't take ourselves too seriously," says Imogen, who trained with the Wellington Circus Trust.

"I've even ended up on stage in gumboots before."

Mr Gordon puts the success of the shows come down to the highly skilled performers - as opposed to the visual set-ups of shows like Cirque du Soleil.

"We're more about raw talent than spectacle - there's no smoke and mirrors with us.

"Part of our appeal is that Kiwis like to see Kiwis do something cool and different."

Circus Aotearoa - the only New Zealand-owned travelling circus - was set up by Mr Gordon, his wife Irene and marketing manager Paddy Gordon in Raglan five years ago.

The show has been touring ever since, travelling up and down the country from December to July, and has performed in towns such as Gisborne, Napier, Wairoa, Kawerau and Whitianga.

"It's taken us about five years to get around the entire country," says Mr Gordon, who has performed in circuses since the days of Jumbo the Elephant.

The troupe consists of eight performers, who specialise in aerial acts, acrobatics, clown routines, trapeze, adagio and juggling.

Circus Aotearoa will be performing at Carterton's Carrington Park from May 24-26.