Anatasia IV and Hannibal Helmurto impressed in The Ventiloquist at Venue Cymru. Picture: The Circus of Horrors
The Circus of Horrors' creator and ringmaster Doktor Haze. The Picture: Circus of Horrors
Circus of Horrors singer Kirstantino. Picture: The Circus of Horrors
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HAVING only seen intriguing snippets of the Circus of Horrors’ modern day freak show, I was interested to see how it stands up as a full length performance.
Sadly, new show The Ventriloquist at Venue Cymru, Llandudno left me underwhelmed.
One major disappointment was ringmaster Doktor Haze. The ghostly host seemingly tried to channel Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper, but lacked the vocal chops that his brand of hard rock needed.
He also took too much stage time from his more talented co-singer Kirstantino, who was impressive, nevertheless.
The songs were uninspired and failed to add much to the story, with lyrics that often missed the mark.
That said, backing band the Interceptors from Hell were excellent, with an American guitar prodigy who added a Satriani-like virtuosity to proceedings.
The show’s story sees a possessed ventriloquist dummy wreak havoc in 1920s Berlin.
While this is a fine premise, the plot is muddled and it was hard to work out who to root for, as everyone seemed as ghastly as each other.
Doktor Haze is the supposed hero, yet he drives the most likeable character to suicide simply for a few insults?
However, the acts are where the circus of Horrors shines, and there is plenty of fun to be had by watching the assembled freaks showcase their talents.
Tony Garcia’s juggling was excellent, while his namesake Kristina’s contortionism was as mind-bending as it was potentially bone-breaking.
Sword-swallower Hannibal Helmurto is a carnival freak of the highest order, and watching Anastasia IV fly around the stage suspended by her hair is an amazing sight.
Despite its flaws, The Circus of Horrors offers fans and first timers alike plenty of demonic fun.
RATING - 7/10