The Cirk & Janice Honeyman collaborate on a brand new cirque-theatre spectacle
Prepare to be enchanted by Malo and the Moon Maiden, a heart-warming cirque-theatre production that weaves a magical tale of love, longing, and hope.
Conceived, written and directed by South Africa’s theatre luminary Janice Honeyman, Malo and the Moon Maiden will run a The Cirk at Cresta Shopping Centre in Randburg.
This poetic journey blends breath-taking aerial artistry, fantastical acrobatics, slapstick comedy, and heartfelt storytelling.
Audiences of all ages will be swept into a dreamlike world filled with a colourful parade of clowns and gravity-defying acts, where love shines brighter than the stars.
The production of 9 artists stars Daniel Buckland as Malo, bringing depth and charm to the lovelorn clown, alongside Claudia Moruzzi as the radiant Melodia Luna, whose celestial grace captivates the heart. Yahto Kraft revels as the evil ringmaster Ratchett who dares to stand between these two loves. The cast is supported by a vibrant chorus of circus folk, including singers, dancers and aerial artists, creating a rich tapestry of movement and magic.
Malo and the Moon Maiden draws on director Janice Honeyman’s unparalleled expertise in crafting visually stunning and emotionally resonant productions. Known for her record-breaking pantomimes at Joburg Theatre and acclaimed works like The Color Purple and Mamma Mia!, Honeyman infuses Malo and the Moon Maiden with a lyrical beauty inspired by the romantic circus paintings of Marc Chagall.
Her international credits include productions at London’s Hampstead Theatre, Stratford-Upon Avon’s Royal Shakespeare Company, New York’s Lincoln Center and the Sydney Opera House, cementing her reputation as a visionary storyteller.
Honeyman summarises the show for us;
“Malo and the Moon Maiden is a whimsical tale of two people from different worlds, who find each other through love and understanding, respect and harmony. And they need to make their different backgrounds match and meld if they are to find happiness with each other.”
She continues;
“This circus tale – a rollicking adventure filled with intrigue – has something for everyone and carries the whole family along on a funfair ride of music, laughter, poignant sadness and jollity, giving you scenes of comedy, conflict and good cheer. There is a series of spectacular circus skills on display and a story that will warm the heart and tickle the fancy and fantasy of anyone who will swing along, and live the story with us.
Malo and the Moon Maiden is a new and original piece of theatre, combining the elements of plays, musicals, circus exhibition, actors and singers.”
The original score, composed by Wessel Odendaal, weaves a spellbinding soundscape that elevates the production’s emotional depth, from playful circus melodies to hauntingly beautiful themes. Odendaal’s music perfectly complements the story’s blend of joy and melancholy.
The set and lighting design by Wilhelm Disbergen transforms The Cirk into a whimsical circus world, with a central ring, raised stage, and a moonlit sky that evokes both nostalgia and wonder. Disbergen’s innovative use of The Cirk’s equipment creates an ever-changing backdrop of stars, heavens, and circus life.
Malo and the Moon Maiden is a story of resilience and devotion, following Malo and Melodia as they navigate a faded circus ruled by the cruel Ringmaster Ratchett. Through daring escapes, star-spun ladders, and celestial dances, the production celebrates the enduring power of love.
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Show Information
Malo and the Moon Maiden
Venue:
The Cirk, Cresta Shopping Centre
Dates and Times:
3 May – 15 June 2025
Limited Friday shows at 19h00
Saturdays and Sundays at 14h00
Ticket Prices:
From R220 – R230 (excluding Service Fee)
Bookings:
Bookings available here
Duration:
2 hours including an interval
Age Restriction:
None – perfect for families and children!
About The Cirk
The Cirk is an entertainment and performance company dedicated to sharing the love of cirque arts. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, our skilled artists have enchanted audiences across the continent with thrilling performances. Our team boasts an extensive repertoire of specialty aerial and ground acts, thoughtfully constructed for both standalone shows and corporate events.
At The Cirk, our goal is to inspire creative expression and art in its many forms, bringing the magic of cirque to everyone in a way that is unforgettable, unique, and of unparalleled quality.
As one of the only cirque entertainment companies in South Africa, we pride ourselves on creating an ecosystem where artists can collaborate and create the best shows on the continent.
