Stilt-walkers, kaleidoscopic colours, glittering tarot card readers and suited-up magicians, all in one, fantastical, dizzingly colourful set-up? That's right – the circus is back in town.
On every second Saturday night of the month until mid-November, an immersive, circus-themed pop-up is set to bring a little escapist fantasy to the back streets of Alexandria, taking over the arcade game filled den of Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. This wonderland, called Showtime, will cater to all of your senses: swish through lush red velvet drapes, wander through the entertainers and stalls of performers and artists (keep your eyes peeled for the snake charmer, none other than Sydney's burlesque queen Porcelain Alice) while a DJ spins tunes all night. The event is put on by Funlab, the brains behind Holey Moley and Sky Zone, who know a thing or two about having fun.
Running from 7-10pm, the adults-only event will keep you wined and dined as well as thoroughly entertained. Theme-park-inspired, American-style diner eats are on the menu: there are burgers, cheese steaks, potato buns, corn ribs, onion rings and an eight-hour hickory-smoked brisket sandwich. Get a range of ultra-camp alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to tide you through the evening, including loaded shakes, Nerds-infused drinks, and even a cocktail inspired by a disco ball.
Plus, you can win tickets throughout the night (à la Time Zone back in the day) and cash them in for retro prizes: think pop vinyls, gaming consoles, and other '90s paraphernalia.
Check it out in Sydney on Friday May 7 and every second Saturday night from May 8 at 75 O’Riordan Street, Alexandria NSW 2015. Book your tickets here.