Colonial Circus - History, Clown Style

You can’t stop laughing through the utter absurdity, before walking out of the theater pierced through and motivated to act. They masterfully get us, the crowd, engaged and in our comfort zone before turning us inward to our own white guilt. What a concept👏👏

Truly amazing clowning work while tackling tough subjects with humour and humanity. It's the best show I've seen in a while!

Production was brilliant. Performances were immaculate. It was super funny inspite of not being sharply written. Best out of 7 shows I have watched.

The description led me to expect something else, and I was hoping for a deeper exploration of colonialism.

Across the 10 shows I saw over the first weekend, this is both the weirdest and the most political. And not a circus as the performers are quick to point out. But it is definitely about colonization. Check your white guilt at the door for this inventive and challenging production!

Loved the colourful costumes and exaggerated antics.

I beg your paaaardon but it was simply tea-rific! I loved every minute! It shines a necessary spotlight on colonialism with comedy.

No circus, very little colonialism.

A funny and Fringey show, but disappointed in the lack of depth and discussion on the topic of colonialism.

What Barbie was for feminism, Colonial Circus was for colonialism. Perhaps not for those looking for intersectional discourse.

A show that is entertaining with considerable and well considered audience involvement, it also addresses key issues around colonialism in a clever and entertaining manner. Somewhat ironically, when looking for someone from India in the audience, the performers only found someone from Karachi. Too bad this Fringe audience didn't have a broader representation from the real Vancouver and the real Canada.

Enjoyed the story of human civilization and how we destroy ourselves with our ideals. Very creative, goofy and humorous. I didn't know why the little girl got rejected when she volunteered to participate on stage.

Clowning turns out to be the perfect way to illustrate colonization. Creator/Performers Shreya Parashar, and Sachin Sharma invite the (mostly colonial-ancestored) audience into the story with playful whimsy, then skillfully increase the temperature until we are all looking white privilege in its bloodshot eye. We sang, laughed, “helped” in ridiculous ways, as the story unfolded. One show can’t answer all of the questions about how we went so wrong. This one employs sometimes friendly, sometimes fierce humour to shine a light on some aspects of colonization and white privilege. I am glad I saw it, and I hope you will too.

This show was super interactive. Never an easy thing to do.

They kept the crowd laughing through a history lesson that dives into the dark, bloody and racist past of colonialism.

Super silly show with great improvisors, and fun for those who love clowning. Amazing, avant-garde and, hopefully, a harsh eye-opening experience for some.

A fun quirky show excellent for fans of clown improv and those who seek some social commentary in their entertainment. The audience the night I attended was a little flat and that may have contributed to a four-star instead of five-star experience.

Interesting show with some provocative (and welcome) conclusions. But it felt a bit uneven and needed some editing.

First and foremost, these performers were charming, engaging, and witty improvisors.

That said, I really felt for them.

The audience for the show I saw was exhaustingly white. Perhaps it was unfair of me to expect a little POC catharsis, but due to the interactive nature of the show, the demographics of the audience really took me out of the experience.

As one of the few people of colour in the crowd, I would have loved to participate but I couldn't put myself in front of that many white people for their pleasure. I would have liked to feel like the crowd was on my side, but instead it felt like I was watching a bunch of folks enjoying themselves without really feeling connected to what the performers were communicating. It kind of felt like talking to a bunch of suburbanites who like rap primarily because things are being rhymed quickly, rather than appreciating the message.

All this to say, the performers did the best with the hand they were dealt, and I would be more than happy to watch this again, but with a better crowd.

It’s clown, it’s comedy, it’s complicated. I love how they held time, paced the show so carefully and the reveals still had me thinking. Whether you’re just seeing what’s on the surface or what’s between the lines this is a lovely clown show I recommend!

Plus they have great chemistry on and off stage!

Excellent crowd work, aggressively hard to anticipate, heartfelt and meaningful.

Clown is not my thing. These performers are very good, and do clown very well. If you are not a fan of clown though skip this show. If you like clown pile on with the rest of the clown world !

Bizarre, thoughtful, fun! I will be thinking about this one for awhile. It didn’t seem like my cuppa at times, and then at other times, I’m like “wow I really like this”. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a play with so much audience participation, and the interactive aspect was done so well. Shreya and Sachin‘s chemistry was palpable. The content was deep and dark and handled light heartedly and thoughtfully. This is a piece I would like to see again - Vancouver anyone?! *The volume of the interlude music at this venue seemed really loud to me. I had to rifle through my bag to find earplugs. I would be mindful of this at the sugar swing club as it’s the only of 15 shows I’ve attended where I needed earplugs.

One of my absolute favourites this year! So charming, clever and funny. A perfect clown show with smarts. I keep recommending it!

Colonial Circus is sharp, bold, and hilarious. The more you participate in the show, the better it is. Te su!

I had no idea of what I was stepping into, and went in with an open mind. The show’s opening is a masterclass in how to engage and draw in an entire audience way beyond typical fringe interactions. The clowning is superb and the messages about white privilege and dominance range from subtle to hard-hitting. This show brought energy, made me laugh, and made me think. Highly recommend!

Did not find this easy to follow, the colonialism just seemed to be directed at how one drinks tea. It was hard to find the context of which type of colonialism was being identified - just the British?? In India? Sorry, For me this missed the mark

How often have you found yourself watching the news, or sitting in a history lesson, thinking about imperialism, evolution, religion, and wished to yourself, “if only this could be explained to me by clowns?” Well, now it can be! Colonial Circus will appeal to fans of Mump and Smoot, as Shreya Parashar and Sachin Sharma’s dark clowns take the audience on a hilariously uncomfortable trip through colonial history. This show is not for the easily offended or faint of heart, but those that can take it will absolutely love it. It’s sharply satirical and not remotely subtle about its political stances. The two clowns rely on many instances of audience participation to help tell their story and make their point, and if their alluring strangeness doesn’t scare you away then it will most definitely entice you in. The two characters are a pair of excellently crafted clowns, often switching dynamics and status but never losing their distinct personalities. Both performers treat their clowns with the respect they deserve, unafraid to show the darkest parts of history the way it’s seen through the clown's eyes. Anyone who’s willing to have their realities challenged by a pair of clowns will certainly enjoy Colonial Circus.

I really had no expectations going into this one, but wow—it is both hilarious and deeply unsettling. These clowns do an outstanding job of working the audience while crafting a memorable albeit disturbing story. It’s not excessively preachy or inauthentically showy; instead, you’ll find yourself laughing when you should probably be crying, and that disorientation will leave you thinking long after the show ends.

How often have you found yourself watching the news, or sitting in a history lesson, thinking about imperialism, evolution, religion, and wished to yourself, “if only this could be explained to me by clowns?” Well, now it can be! Colonial Circus will appeal to fans of Mump and Smoot, as Shreya Parashar and Sachin Sharma’s dark clowns take the audience on a hilariously uncomfortable trip through colonial history. This show is not for the easily offended or faint of heart, but those that can take it will absolutely love it. It’s sharply satirical and not remotely subtle about its political stances. The two clowns rely on many instances of audience participation to help tell their story and make their point, and if their alluring strangeness doesn’t scare you away then it will most definitely entice you in. The two characters are a pair of excellently crafted clowns, often switching dynamics and status but never losing their distinct personalities. Both performers treat their clowns with the respect they deserve, unafraid to show the darkest parts of history the way it’s seen through the clown's eyes. Anyone who’s willing to have their realities challenged by a pair of clowns will certainly enjoy Colonial Circus.

This show was not what I expected from the program description - it was better! The performers settled the audience into a open mind and open heart with some gentle physical clowning, then gradually brought their point home in a series of sketches until the final gut punch where everyone realizes how little things have changed over the last few centuries. Highly Recommended!!!

it was a little confusing and a bit overdone in the beginning, but as it went on it it improved greatly. It was weird, quirky, and definitely poked at Colonialism

This show is so funny, the physical comedy and connection between the clowns is amazing. You will be laughing throughout as they definitely give a lesson in colonialism. Possibly the best example of how to involve an audience I have ever witnessed. This is a must see. A masterclass. Go see it!

Colonial Circus is a wild bizarre romp into gut splitting comedy while also riding an undercurrent of a smart social commentary. It's so hilarious and crazy at times that it's impossible to describe. But no matter, these two clowns have tremendous chemistry and play the crowd brilliantly. The time flew. And I'd give it more stars if I could. Go in with an open mind and be ready to have your day brightened significantly.

Absurd and serious, usually at the same time.

These two clowns are hilarious, endlessly inventive, and a real joy to see. Physical humour, joy with language, and a warped fun-house mirror held up to the long history of colonial exploitation.

Truly exceptional engagement with the audience.

Laughed, cried, and overall had a fantastic time with this very clever exploration of colonialism through the most absurdist lens. Highly recommended!

I read the description of this show and genuinely couldn't picture what on earth this would look like, and that's exactly why I bought my ticket.

It absolutely blew me away. This show obviously deals with some heavy subject matter, but it never feels heavy.

There's a lot of audience interaction, and the performance I saw was blessed with a very enthusiastic audience who created some of the funniest moments of the night.

The impeccably timed comedy makes the serious moments hit even harder.

I'm not usually a clowning person, and I am so glad I took a chance on this show.

This is why fringe is such a joy; art like this is able to be showcased. If you have any interest at all in clowning go see this show. If you don't... STILL GO SEE THIS SHOW.

These performers have something meaningful to say and they were able to figure out how to say it in an entertaining, silly, weird way that in my opinion just works so well.

A brilliant, thought-provoking, hilarious, unsettling hour. This is not a pedantic colonialism 101; it was both deeper and funnier than I'd expected. There were so many moments I wished I could pause to just think a bit longer about what they'd just presented. The performers expertly used humour in a way that both entertained and kept us off-kilter (sometimes uncomfortable in a way that felt appropriate to the subject matter), but never felt glib or like they were making light of dark historical and contemporary realities. So glad I caught this show - I'll be thinking about it for a long time.

I ❤️ Mayo

This show is nothing you’d expect but everything you’d aspire to experience in a Fringe show. Never before have I harmonized, laughed until my face hurt, and gotten chills in the same hour. These actors are beyond impressive, not just in their physical comedy and vocal abilities but in their chemistry and presence. The use of props and lighting was intentional and perfect, somehow repurposed but never exhausted. Audience participation made the show all the more real, and as the story progressed, all the more jarring. These artists managed to present colonization, imperialism, and cultural homogenization in a way that is unique but entirely understood. These actors are genuinely hilarious and immeasurably skilled, but also incredibly witty in how this history is told and formulated. Colonial Circus has made a lasting impression on not only the audience, but the Edmonton Fringe Festival. I’m so grateful to have sat in front of this stage, thank you for sharing your art.

CARLY VOS, AYTC

'A brief history of colonialism' from bouffon clowns: strange, unsettling, fascinating Colonial Circus.... Check out the full 12thnight review!

Tonight I had the pleasure of attending the improv show Colonial Circus, and it was a truly wonderful experience. The performers created a show that was both hilarious and completely unique. ​The energy in the room was fantastic, and I was consistently impressed by the cast's quick wit and creativity. They had a great rapport with each other and the audience, which made the show feel like a collaborative and memorable event. From the moment it started, it was clear that everyone on stage was a skilled improviser. The scenarios they created were clever, and their ability to build on each other's ideas in real time was a joy to watch. ​I'd highly recommend Colonial Circus to anyone looking for a night filled with laughter and spontaneity. It's a testament to the power of live improv and a fantastic show that I won't soon forget.

This was my first fringe show and I was amazed by the timing and humor which the team brought throughout the show.

A very fun and subtle way to explain the colonisation. I would recommend everyone to give it a shot and enjoy this beautiful show.

Absolutely phenomenal show. Such a funny, profound way to explore the harms of colonialization while injecting humour to look at how ridiculous it is. This show demonstrates the merits of clowning and how it can be used as a storytelling medium. Both Sachin and Shreya are amazing artists who have impeccable and loving body language to shepherd the audience through their wacky journey. Go see this show!

I’m asian and studied critical race theory in uni as part of an edu/engl degree, which informs my perspective. I don't really get uncomfortable at any kind of race joke. The more a race joke confronts the audience, the more I typically like it. So for me, this show was a highlight of my Fringe so far. Just an absolute riot. I thought every joke was hilarious. The artists mentioned that in the process of working on this show, they sometimes couldn't tell what was funny or not anymore, and that made me laugh because my degree definitely changed my brain chemistry when it comes to race jokes too. They also mentioned writing jokes with intention, and I think that comes through very clearly here.

I wish this show were longer. I would be happy to watch this show change and evolve in the future as I feel like there's still a lot of space in it to change or add things. I could see this being a very different show even a year from now, and I’d probably still love it.

The Word 'Awesome' is Even not enough.... Overall it this 1 hour story narrates various subjects and Two2Mango 's Sachin & Shreya have complied them excellently. Yes this is Circus 🎪... Circus of why human kind have ruined this Holy Earth. Technical aspects: Beautiful storytelling, Audience engagement and Stage coverage. The Sound and Lights will blow your mind ⭐

I personally was laughing alot.... Until the Army 🪖 scene ... After that I was stunned 😨.

Great work #Two2Mango

It was an amazing show....loved the humor, timing and storytelling. Their art is amazing and everyone laughed throughout the show!

This is a brilliant show taking the audience from the dawn of time to present day. The actors are incredible clown artists who bring tough topics with vulnerability and respect. There are plenty of laughs in this show. This is storytelling that tells the truth.

This is a very funny show and everyone was enjoying themselves. I laughed the whole time.

Great blend of storytelling, physical comedy and improv.

It's a mesmerizingly vicarious journey throughout the show. They presented some of the most sensitive topics hilariously, kudos to this duo's comic timing. Blending in some of their mother tongue (Hindi) within the show made it grounded and their true emotions could be felt by the audience, the message they were communicating could get through their bodies.

Review: Colonial Circus: History, Clown-Style ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’ve never seen a show like Colonial Circus before—and I’ve definitely never seen a show that uses clowning like this. At first, I wasn’t sure what I was watching. It was absurd, hilarious, and totally unpredictable. But as the piece moved forward and took on a more serious tone, it began to reveal itself. The room shifted. Suddenly, it was clear: beneath the chaos was something real, sharp, and necessary.

The subject matter—colonization, power, and historical legacy—is undeniably heavy, but the performers deliver it in a way that’s fun, magical, and sneakily profound. It’s like if Mr. Bean were tasked with explaining colonialism to the masses: full of physical comedy, surreal moments, and surprise emotional gut-punches.

This is the kind of bold, genre-defying theatre that feels like it could only happen at Fringe. A real hidden gem—or more accurately, a real hit. Don’t miss it.

Wow! This is pure clown. An important message delivered in the most fun way. A must-see!

I loved every second of Colonial Circus! Superb clowning and a powerful message all in one. I highly recommend this show!