Zephyr - A Whirlwind of Circus

An emotive and exhilarating tale about the choices humans have made regarding our planet and its resources.  In Zephyr – A Whirlwind of Circus by Cirque Mechanics, audiences will witness the unrelenting tug of war between man and nature.

Humans have been harnessing the power of the wind for thousands of years. The beauty and efficacy of that timeless and ingenious process inspired the creative team at Cirque Mechanics to create Zephyr. This theatrical circus show harnesses human power, instead of wind, to generate an energetic acrobatic experience.

Cirque Mechanics has designed and built a performance windmill to serve as the multi-functional mechanical centerpiece of our story. Mounted on a turntable, the windmill combines both modern and older more picturesque elements. This turntable transforms the scene and creates unexpected flight.

Inspired by a visit to the Whissendine Windmill, a working windmill in central England, Zephyr (which means gentle breeze from the Greek god of the west wind, Zephyros) tells the story of Nigel. Our mill owner and operator has a complicated relationship with wind, the natural resource that powers his flour mill. His reliance on wind is tested and in turn he is lured by fuel in the name of progress as his primary energy source. His choices cause elation and disruption.  Aptly represented by the community the mill serves as dynamic and lyrical circus acts. Nigel grapples with tough choices and unintended outcomes with humor and optimism. This approach leads to acceptance, coexistence and balance with wind, and ultimately, progress in his community.