Gig combines performer’s circus skills

Rockingham performer Ruth Battle is joining the circus.

The physical theatre actor, acrobat, aerial artist and hula hoop specialist was invited to join Gypsy Circus — an all-new show produced by Circus Joseph Ashton which will tumble into Langley Park for the school holidays.

The gig allows Battle to combine her work with hoops with her flourishing aerial skills.

She told Telegraph Newspapers the role was challenging and thrilling.

“This is the first time I’ve done an aerial hoop show, so that’s special and exciting for me,” Battle said.

“I have a new hula hoop act that I am excited to perform and I’ve been crazy creating an aerial hoop act.”

Battle believes she was always destined to be on stage.

She said she stumbled across Total Theatre in Perth when she was 21 — a physical theatre school she credits for her career.

“I branched out to do more circus-related work,” Battle said.

“I guess I fell in love with circus through my teacher, Reg Bolton.

“He died during my first year at Total Theatre. I only got a short time with him but he ignited this passion in me.”

Battle said being physically fit was essential in her new role under the big top, where she will perform on a suspended, steel hoop.

“This apparatus requires a lot of spinning,” she said.

“It’s very graceful but it’s very hard to get right.”

Gypsy Circus is led by ringmaster Magnus Danger Magnus and features a host of talented WA performers, including Mandurah’s Adam O’Connor.

Expect daring wire and juggling acts, mind-blowing acrobatics, and heart-warming domestic animal acts.

Gypsy Circus will perform shows from July 7 to 20.

To book, visit www.gypsycircus.com.au or call the circus hotline on 0455 194 357.