Faustus is back: Spectacular fire circus show to light up outdoor performance venue Stage @TheDock

SPECTACULAR: The family-friendly show includes audience participation and fire poi spinning – an ancient dance using weighted balls on ropes or chains used to spin fire. Pictures by Larkin Media

By Simon Bristow

An interactive fire circus theatre production is returning to Hull’s stunning outdoor performance venue for a five-day run next week.

And ticket prices are no bar to attending – with audiences invited to pay what they feel is fair and affordable.

Faustus delighted audiences at Stage @TheDock in the city’s Fruit Market with sell-out shows in 2021, and the family-friendly take on the mythical tale is returning with nightly performances from August 16 to 20.

Presented by From Below theatre company, Faustus combines magical comedy, flaming sword fights, acrobatics and pantomime with audience participation and fire poi spinning – an ancient dance using weighted balls on ropes or chains used to spin fire.

Presented by From Below theatre company, Faustus combines magical comedy, flaming sword fights, acrobatics and pantomime.

It tells the story of university professor Jon Faustus, whose world is turned upside down when his only friend steals a book from the King of England which has the power to summon demons if the words are read incorrectly. The pair take the audience on a magical battle against the forces of the king.

Ensuring audiences are not deterred by the price barrier of a ticket, attendees are invited to pay what they want with a donation for admission, based on what they feel is fair and affordable.

The move encourages more people to engage with the arts and the project has been made possible thanks to the support of Arts Council England, Hull City Arts, Hull Truck Theatre, the University of Hull and Yorkshire commercial property developer Wykeland Group.

Wykeland created Stage @TheDock from the former Central Dry Dock ahead of Hull’s year as UK City of Culture 2017, and owns and operates the venue.

Written and choreographed by award-winning theatre makers Josh Overton and Ed Grimoldby, Faustus runs from 8pm each night and is suitable for all family audiences

Wykeland Culture and Events Manager Natalia Cleary said: “We can’t wait to welcome From Below and their adaptation of Faustus back to Stage @TheDock after such a successful run last year.

“What’s even more wonderful is the ‘pay what you want’ offer, which will make this brilliant show even more accessible for families and those who want to engage with theatre, particularly during these challenging times with the rising cost of living.”

Written and choreographed by award-winning theatre makers Josh Overton and Ed Grimoldby, Faustus runs from 8pm each night and is suitable for all family audiences. The performances run straight through for 90 minutes.

You can book tickets here.