STEPHEN PULLINGER Hippodrome Circus, Yarmouth

STEPHEN PULLINGER

It has swiftly established itself as the perfect way to blow away those Christmas cobwebs …

A packed audience yesterday remained spellbound throughout more than two hours of colour artistry and athleticism at Yarmouth's Hippodrome Circus. For the third year of his Christmas Circus revival, producer Peter Jay has performed his now familiar magic trick of pulling together the cream of world ring acts.

Add the local glamour of the Estelle Clifton Dancers and a new element - aspiring youngsters from the Hippodrome's Circus School - and a family success is guaranteed.

As Hippodrome connoisseurs know well, Mr Jay has transformed the circus genre into a fast-moving show with exciting music and lights.

The Bulgarian Vriim Troupe gave the audience an immediate lift with a breathtaking acrobatic display, the Russian Swing propelling them almost to the roof of the 100-year-old auditorium.

The first half ended with an equal adrenalin rush - Mexico's Flying Rodogels pulling off a rare triple somersault in their dazzling flying trapeze act.

The cleverly choreographed show provides plenty of changes of pace, with the infectious comedy of clown Alonso and South African duo Mawendo providing a graceful aerial display.

As usual, the second half brings the Hippodrome's impressive water feature into action - one of only three in the world still working.

The ring is swiftly transformed into a pool, allowing the Jan Baines Show Swimmers to perform.

Anyone with memories of the mind-numbing circuses that provided staple Christmas entertainment on TV years ago needs to think again.

The Hippodrome provides a modern show and anyone who has yet to sample it would do well to get along.

t The Christmas show continues until January 11. Box office: 01493 844172.