Friday, May 2, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Hudson’s Circus Delivers High-Flying, Heart-Pounding Fun

The big top is back — and Hudson’s Circus is serving up a spectacular slice of Aussie circus tradition with a modern twist, right here under the canvas.

With all the fun of the fair greeting visitors at the entrance — think games, fairy floss, dagwood dogs and all things gloriously carnival — the atmosphere is buzzing before you even set foot in the ring.

At the heart of Hudson’s Circus is a proud nod to Australia’s rich circus heritage. Unlike the elephants and lions of old, the stars of today’s show are homegrown heroes: Australian-born camels, ponies and dogs, who steal hearts with their clever antics. Loved and pampered when they’re not in the spotlight, these four-legged performers spend their downtime living their best lives on a country farm.

Inside the big top, the magic really takes flight. Some much-loved acts made a welcome return, but Hudson’s has cracked the whip on new thrills too. An Ethiopian couple wowed the crowd with a dazzling rollerskating routine that left the audience on the edge of their seats (and their skates). Not to be outdone, the high-flying South African aerialists displayed jaw-dropping strength and grace as they twisted and soared high above, leaving jaws firmly planted on the ground.

A swashbuckling twist was a crowd favourite, with the pirate-themed high-wire act balancing bravery and brilliance several metres up — no plank-walking required, though a few gasps and heart-stopping moments were guaranteed.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Hudson’s without a grand finale to leave pulses racing. The famous globe of death roared to life, this year with a third daredevil rider weaving into the frenzied, metal-ball mayhem. More riders, more speed, more heart-in-mouth moments — it was a high-octane, high-risk, high-cheer finish that had everyone on the edge of their seats.

Keeping spirits high and funny bones well exercised between acts was none other than Goldie the Clown, whose hilarious, interactive routines had kids and grown-ups alike in stitches. Whether it was a cheeky prank or an audience-involving skit, Goldie proved once again why he’s a firm favourite in the Hudson’s family.

Add in whip-cracking displays, contortionists bending belief (and a few laws of physics), and a generous half-hour intermission to refuel, and Hudson’s Circus delivered a jam-packed hour-plus of thrills, laughter and pure magic.

For an unforgettable day out with all the family, Hudson’s Circus really is the greatest show on earth — or at least, in town this week!

Hudson’s Circus has pitched the big top at the Mackay Showgrounds from 25th April to 11th May — swing by, clown around, and catch all the action before it disappears. Book at hudsonscircus.com.au or phone 0458 HUDSON (0458 483 766).

Photo credit: Photos by Nell

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