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Cirque X: Tender – Review by Felicity Amos

Sydney Fringe Festival

Provocative. Alluring. Sensual. TENDER.



Like a well-orchestrated seduction this show knows exactly what it’s doing and how to make

the audience go ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’. And just like the good old classics, this one starts with a

strip tease.


From the moment Chris Barnett stepped onto the stage it was hard to look away. And you

didn’t want to. As J Twist joins him the two begin nonchalantly shedding layers of fabric to

reveal a hidden twist. This cheeky opening number lets you know exactly what you’re in for

and has the audience in the palm of their hand from the very beginning.


In this bold and daring show each act mirrors and celebrates the fluidity and limitless

expression of sexuality and gender, blurring the lines of any preconceived absolutes, and

sometimes each other. From the sizzling dynamic between J Twist and Missy, to the perfect

synchronicity of Chris Barnett and Mitch Wnek, every number is perfectly curated to take

you on a sensual journey of vulnerability and desire. As the cast fold themselves over the set

and each other it is clear they collectively have an incredible chemistry and mutual trust,

exactly what you want and need for a show exploring intimacy through acrobatic art.

The calibre of skill and passion oozing from this cast means I must take a moment to sing the

praises of each and every one of them.



Kenn exhibited a beautiful connection with all the shades of their being. From sexy, strong

and confident to soft and graceful. Kenn’s impeccable use of hairography helped highlight

their cheeky, fierce and fun side before hypnotising the audience with those incredible hips!

Defying the laws of physics looked easy for Mitch Wnek who gave a remarkable aerial sling

performance. Mitch delivered a raw and emotionally charged performance, only heightened

by the rain of sequins falling from his costume as he effortlessly wound his way up higher

above the stage. The strength and control he displayed whilst also taking us on an emotional

journey was breathtaking.


Penelope, the Australian Lady Gaga. I don’t know what sparkled more, her or her outfits!

But with her delectable vocals and magnetic stage presence, it’s no surprise that the audience

was full of some diehard fans, and I’m fairly certain some new converts too.





Missy has you captivated with just a look. Her solo act was sensual, striking and funny!

Performing her pole number was second nature to Missy, with beautiful fluid transitions and

strong shapes. Flawlessly displaying her strength and control wasn’t enough though because

Missy had to show off her impeccable comedic ability and performance prowess, creating a

wonderful connection with the audience that fell for her head over heels.


J Twist. The audacity to be that confident, talented and hot. Why do things the boring

average way when you can look at things from a whole new perspective and add a little spice

to your life? Which is exactly what J Twist does. If their flexibility, coordination and strength wasn’t impressive enough, then doing it all whilst exuding an air of rizz and looking

smug AF surely was.


Chris Barnett gave a bold and fearless lyra performance, pretzelling and spinning

effortlessly from one trick into another high above the stage. His incredible performance was

evocative and as explosive as the powerful flips he dared to take over the audience’s heads. A

truly magnificent display of strength and grace working as one.


Mastermind Producers J Twist and Missy have curated a phenomenal production of passion,

talent and sass. Every single aspect of Tender is meticulous and intentional from the segues

between each act to the selection and use of music. It’s really no wonder why this show was

given an enthusiastic standing ovation from the audience.


A shout out to the legends behind the scenes who played no small part in the polished

execution of this show, from the magnificent costumes and stunning lighting design to the

dependable counterweighter, Jamie Davies, who helped their performers soar!

An incredible visual delight for lovers of awe-inspiring acts, heat and intrigue.

This show will leave you gasping and begging for more.


Show is rated: R18+

Occasional Coarse Language; Strong Sexual References.

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