Colonial Circus: History, Clown-Style

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!