Review of the Hudsons Circus performance in Mackay

In a cost-of-living crisis, is Hudsons Circus worth blowing out your budget? I conquered my fear of clowns to find out.

Hudsons circus is in Mackay until April 28 at which point they’ll move onto Airlie Beach. Photo: Fergus Gregg

I had to conquer a fear of clowns to head to the circus.

I don’t know what it is about their quirky painted faces or colourful hair and clothes, but you either love or hate them – and I hate them.

But the hilarious duo performing as part of Hudsons Circus, which is in Mackay for 10 days, won me over.

I won’t spill the beans too much but a particularly funny moment, which left the kids in hysterics and parents chuckling, involved two jets of water and a very sad clown.

The entirety of Hudsons Circus moves at a breakneck speed, with acts transitioning seamlessly from one to the other.

And the most fast paced segment of the show is the magic act, which focuses on quick costume changes.

Goldie the Clown is funny and does not overstay his welcome. He returns several times throughout the show and engages wonderfully with the audience. Photo: Fergus Gregg

A magical Peruvian pair capture and hold your undivided attention with each, new wardrobe delight.

While the grand finale – the globe of death – will have you on the edge of your seat.

It’s an age old trick where a motorcyclist rides around the circumference of a metal globe, but this act raises the stakes first by placing the Ringmaster in the centre, then by adding a second and third motorbike in a dizzying show of skill.

Hudsons Circus is in Mackay until April 28 at which point they'll move onto Airlie Beach. Photo: Fergus Gregg

The lights dim and the motorists are little more than colourful blurs whirling around the orb at terrifying speeds as the audience looks on in awe.

There are also a number of animal acts throughout the show including prancing ponies, charming camels and acrobatic dogs, which complete stole the show and the audience’s hearts.

The ponies in the pony act are well trained. Photo: Fergus Gregg

These four dogs, who first caught the public eye on Australia’s Got Talent 2019, blow the audience away as they run, leap and dive for discs and often catching them midair.

The animals are talented, work well with their human partners and seem happy performing.

The acrobats of Hudsons fly high with nothing close to a safety net. Photo: Fergus Gregg

So, is it worth the money? Absolutely.

If I could describe Hudsons Circus in two words they would be: earnest joy.

It’s clear the performers live and breathe their acts and their obvious passion for their work captivates the audience.

And with such energetic enthusiasm, incredible acts and myriad laughs for everyone from children to adults, Hudsons Circus is worth the price of admission. Your kids or grandkids will love it.

Tickets prices range from $15 for a single or $70 for a family of four and Hudsons Circus Red Show will be performing at the Mackay Showgrounds until April 28 before heading to Airlie Beach from May 1-5 and Townsville from May 9 to June 2.