Is there a kind of hubris in calling your show Humans 2.0? Probably, but you’ll have to let Circa away with it, because the Australian acrobatic troupe really do showcase next-level feats of human accomplishment in their latest production. It’s pared down to the basics, from the costumes (a stylish mix of couture-mesh bodysuits and neutral toned casuals) to the minimalistic electro-soundtrack, to the clean plain lines of the equipment; on the rare occasion it is used, it’s just a rope, a pair of aerial straps and a trapeze.

Everything pulls your focus onto the bodies of those acrobats, and the shapes, textures and speeds they generate with them. And they are marvellous. What sets this show apart from its previous model (Humans) is the level of imagination in the choreography. One acrobat makes stark jagged shapes or undulates python-like on aerial straps: no traditional feminine balletics for her. In other sections, performers are flung between human towers, picked up by their heads, or balanced just off centre of where you would expect them to be, whacking up the level of strength and skill needed by the whole ensemble. As always with Circa there are women taking the role of base in hand-to-hand. 

Pain is never far away here, in mischievous and unexpected places. They take turns standing on each other: not just shoulders but jumping on chests and backs. At one point they (deliberately) fail to catch one man and he slams into the ground. Endurance is a vital feature of this new upgraded human. With experimenters like Circa pushing their bodies, the future of acrobatics is in good hands. 

Underbelly Circus Hub, until 27 August, 6.35pm.