A ROMANTIC CIRQUE-THEATRE SPECTACLE BRINGS LOVE AND WONDER TO THE CIRK
3 May – 15 June
The Cirk @ Cresta Shopping Centre, Randburg
Prepare to be enchanted by Malo and the Moon Maiden, a heart-warming cirque-theatre production that weaves a magical tale of love, longing, and hope.
Conceived, written and directed by South Africa’s theatre luminary Janice Honeyman, Malo and the Moon Maiden will run at The Cirk at Cresta Shopping Centre in Randburg from Saturday 3rd May to Sunday 15th June 2025.
Malo and the Moon Maiden tells the story of Malo the Clown and his eternal devotion to Melodia Luna, the celestial Moon-Maiden, set against the backdrop of a once-glorious circus faded by time.
This poetic journey blends breath-taking aerial artistry, fantastical acrobatics, slapstick comedy, and heartfelt storytelling.
Audiences of all ages will be swept into a dreamlike world filled with a colourful parade of clowns and gravity-defying acts, where love shines brighter than the stars.
The production of 9 artists stars Daniel Buckland as Malo, bringing depth and charm to the lovelorn clown, alongside Claudia Moruzzi as the radiant Melodia Luna, whose celestial grace captivates the heart. Yahto Kraft revels as the evil ringmaster Ratchett who dares to stand between these two loves. The cast is supported by a vibrant chorus of circus folk, including singers, dancers and aerial artists, creating a rich tapestry of movement and magic.
Malo and the Moon Maiden draws on director Janice Honeyman’s unparalleled expertise in crafting visually stunning and emotionally resonant productions. Known for her record-breaking pantomimes at Joburg Theatre and acclaimed works like The Color Purple and Mamma Mia!, Honeyman infuses Malo and the Moon Maiden with a lyrical beauty inspired by the romantic circus paintings of Marc Chagall.
Her international credits include productions at London’s Hampstead Theatre, Stratford-Upon Avon’s Royal Shakespeare Company, New York’s Lincoln Center and the Sydney Opera House, cementing her reputation as a visionary storyteller.
Honeyman summarises the show for us; “Malo and the Moon Maiden is a whimsical tale of two people from different worlds, who find each other through love and understanding, respect and harmony. And they need to make their different backgrounds match and meld if they are to find happiness with each other.”
She continues; “This circus tale – a rollicking adventure filled with intrigue – has something for everyone and carries the whole family along on a funfair ride of music, laughter, poignant sadness and jollity, giving you scenes of comedy, conflict and good cheer. There is a series of spectacular circus skills on display and a story that will warm the heart and tickle the fancy and fantasy of anyone who will swing along, and live the story with us.
Malo and the Moon Maiden is a new and original piece of theatre, combining the elements of plays, musicals, circus exhibition, actors and singers.”
The original score, composed by Wessel Odendaal, weaves a spellbinding soundscape that elevates the production’s emotional depth, from playful circus melodies to hauntingly beautiful themes. Odendaal’s music perfectly complements the story’s blend of joy and melancholy.
The set and lighting design by Wilhelm Disbergen transforms The Cirk into a whimsical circus world, with a central ring, raised stage, and a moonlit sky that evokes both nostalgia and wonder. Disbergen’s innovative use of The Cirk’s equipment creates an ever-changing backdrop of stars, heavens, and circus life.
Malo and the Moon Maiden is a story of resilience and devotion, following Malo and Melodia as they navigate a faded circus ruled by the cruel Ringmaster Ratchett. Through daring escapes, star-spun ladders, and celestial dances, the production celebrates the enduring power of love.
Malo and the Moon Maiden is on stage at The Cirk at Cresta Shopping Centre from
Saturday 3rd May – Sunday 15th June 2025.
Performances are Saturdays and Sundays at 14h00, with limited Friday shows at 19h00.
Tickets, priced between R220 and R320, are available now at www.cirk.co.za.
Malo and the Moon Maiden is suitable for all ages.
For more information, email info@thecirk.co.za or WhatsApp: 067 261 0289
The circus is coming to town with all the mystery, the magic and the memories of our childhood.
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