Guinea-founded, Montreal-based Cirque Kalabanté, headed up by Yamoussa Bangoura, is back with a brand-new piece, after the success of 2023’s Afrique En Cirque. WOW (World Of Words) finds the company in similar territory to its last production, celebrating Guinean culture through dance, vignettes of rural life, and call and response banter with the audience, as well as showcasing the cast’s astounding talents for tumbling. 

This show feels a little bit darker in tone, and there is something not quite coherent about it. After a brooding opening, with performers swirling around the floor in regal blue capes, they split into two groups to chase and grapple with one another in acrobatic stage fights. It’s a unique frame for a circus set, but feels at odds with the otherwise joyous vibe. Similarly the act from contortionist Mohamed Ben Sylla (a star in the troupe) contains a strange mixture of showy tricks and unease, when he writhes and twists in ropes held by two men. 

It is a treat, however, to see Bangoura on aerial straps, and once again his kora playing and singing is breathtaking. The group are back on upbeat form for a wild and athletic finale that has us mouthing that show title. 

Cirque Kalabanté: WOW (World Of Words), Assembly Hall, until 25 August, 4.10pm.