Paradisum
Programme Info
Synopsis
Asian Premiere
Confronting destruction and regeneration through hypnotic soundscapes and poetic physicality
Paradisum explores the mythology of rebirth following the silence of a destroyed world, bodies become the only means of communication and movement is– the only shared language. From the swirling natural energies of the 'fabric of life', pulsating around them, the creatures of this new existence emerge and enact purification, birth, awakening, and sacred ritual in their pursuit of anima mundi – the world’s soul.
Directed and choreographed by Bence Vági, the work extends Recirquel’s artistic trajectory within the cirque danse genre, which merges modern dance, circus arts, and theatre into a poetic and highly refined movement language. Within the contemporary circus field, this approach represents a distinct and elevated artistic direction: acrobatics dissolve into choreographic gesture, and physical risk is leveraged as expressive force rather than spectacle.
The performance’s visual world plays a dramaturgical role equal to that of the human body. The “fabric of life” appears as a shifting, breathing stage presence, continuously transforming – from roaring sea to sheltering leaf, floating stingray, or whispering wind – remaining in constant dialogue with the performers. Scenography and movement together create a world that feels elemental and alive.
Rather than following a linear narrative, Paradisum unfolds through a sequence of evocative, symbolic states, creating a space where ancient myth and contemporary concerns intersect. Its soundscape and visual design support this journey, shaping an atmosphere that is both ethereal and visceral.
Paradisum had its world premiere at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where it was met with strong audience response and highly positive critical reception. This performance at HKPAX marks its Asian premiere.
Co-produced with Müpa Budapest and Liszt Fest (Hungary).
About the Artist
RECIRQUEL CIRQUE DANSE BY BENCE VÁGI
One of the leading contemporary circus companies today, Recirquel was founded by director and choreographer Bence Vági, who created cirque danse, a new genre blending contemporary circus with dance and theatre. Over the past decade, Recirquel has developed a distinctive artistic language that has positioned the company as a pioneer in the international performing arts scene.
With more than 300 performances a year, Recirquel tours extensively, appearing at major arts festivals and in renowned theatres across Europe and the Americas. In Asia, the company made its debut at the Busan International Dance Festival in 2024 with its large-scale production, Solus Amor, marking an important first step in introducing cirque danse to Asian audiences.
In recent years, Recirquel has expanded its artistic practice beyond the stage, experimenting with innovative formats that combine cirque danse with immersive and site-specific performance. Its latest large-scale production, Walk My World, premiered in Budapest in November 2025. This groundbreaking project represents a new direction for the company, integrating immersive theatre with contemporary circus in a transformative audience experience.
Through its touring productions and ambitious immersive projects, Recirquel aims to build long-term international collaborations and bring its unique artistic language to audiences worldwide. The company is based at Müpa Budapest, one of Hungary’s leading cultural institutions.
Gallery
Photo credit: Bálint HIRLING
Photo credit: Bálint HIRLING
Photo credit: Bálint HIRLING
Photo credit: Bálint HIRLING
Photo credit: Bálint HIRLING
Remarks
- Free seating.
- You are recommended to arrive 15 minutes before the event starts. Latecomers will be admitted at appropriate times.
- Student Pass holders may queue on-site for available seats.
- This programme contains strobe lighting. Individuals with photosensitive health conditions are advised to proceed with care.
- Programmes are subject to change without prior notice. HKPAX reserves the right to final decision regarding programme arrangements.
