Cirque Mechanics' 'Birdhouse Factory' Set for 3/2

A clever twist on the cirque genre, Cirque Mechanics' "Birdhouse Factory" combines traditional circus elements - acrobatics, juggling, trampoline antics, contortionists, dancing and clowning - with a story steeped in mechanical ingenuity. This cirque-meets-industry romp fills The Eccles Center on Saturday, March 2. The spectacle begins at 7:30 p.m.

Set in a 1930's depression era widget factory, "Birdhouse Factory" is brimming with mechanically inspired artistry. The genius of the show is the way the factory's "machines" become props for the workers/acrobats. A trapeze artist soars thanks to the spins of an acrobat inside a giant gear-like wheel. A contortionist performs on a turntable powered by unicyclists. Trampoline wall artists defy the laws of physics by virtually flying and walking on air. And, Cirque Mechanics rounds out the fun with ample clowning, acrobatic-dancing and an enchanting story of laughter, love, flight and birdhouses.

Critics have flipped over this unique approach to cirque-style entertainment. According to The New York Times "Birdhouse Factory" is "exceptional, evocative, eye-catching, ear-catching and, to keep the list short, engrossingly entertaining." And Time Out Dubai writes, "With the wonder of Cirque du Soleil and the grassroots chic of Stomp, this is circus without the tack."
Cirque Mechanics was founded in 2004 by seasoned BMX cyclist, circus acrobat and stage performer Chris Lashua. This unique company finds its roots in the mechanical and its heart in the stories of American ingenuity. The shows, rooted in realism, display a raw quality, rarely found in modern circus, which makes their message timeless and relevant. The company's first show, "Birdhouse Factory" was produced in partnership with the Circus Center of San Francisco and the Pickle Family Circus.

Tickets and information are available at The Eccles Center box office, 435-655-3114 or www.ecclescenter.org.

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