Gorilla Circus Dazzles Newbury with their brand-new show, RPM

On Saturday 12 July, Gorilla Circus brought Newbury’s Market Place to life with its show RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) as part of the Corn Exchange Newbury’s 101 Outdoor Arts programme. 

True to its name, RPM propelled audiences through a whirlwind of dynamic breakdancing, roller-skating and skilful choreography, while never losing sight of its powerful message. Around 800 people enjoyed the imaginative and thought-provoking performances, one performed in the early evening sun and the second which completed as the dark settled over the Market Place.

Audience members were in awe of the talent shown by the performers in this ambitious production and were left contemplating the powerful messages of the show. RPM explores the impact of Britain's colonial history, confronting the truths about our past. At the show's centre was a large custom-built treadmill that became both stage and metaphor as the cast of acrobatic tumblers, roller skaters and dancers delivered extraordinary athleticism and artistry. From the very first spin, the talented performers weaved expert movement and storytelling seamlessly, creating a dynamic use of the space and linking history and modern life with the power of music and performance art.

Coming next in our 101 Outdoor Arts Programme is Creative Commons (13 & 14 Sep), a two-day series of perhaps on Greenham Common, presented to mark the 25th anniversary of the Common returning to public use.