She is Strong has many of the elements you might hope for in a small scale circus show. The ensemble are connected but distinct; they come together to flip, throw, and twist across the stage while still being uniquely skilled in their chosen disciplines. There are high energy music tracks and uplifting beats and there are quiet vocal loops and gentle original songs by local artists. 

The women in this show are without a doubt physically strong and exquisitely talented performers and in this show they boldly share how their weaknesses, their fears, and their obstacles make them strong. At times the closeness of the space and the performers disrupts the flow of the performance, during transitions the performers sometimes have to dodge or weave in clearly un-choreographed ways, however these moments of breaking serve to punctuate the authenticity of the stories they share.

When Dawn Pascoe takes to the air it’s as one rising up from a place of vulnerability. Climbing through recovery in the pursuit of joy and embracing hope. Dawn shares with us her prowess alongside her brokenness and yearning. She is strong and striving.

Crystal Stacey is graceful and jubilant as she manipulates hoops and body in an intricate and witty routine. Throughout this routine Crystal is also visibly draws on her strength to overcome, to persist, and to grow. She is strong and recovering.

Bonnie Blewitt on Lyra is bold, pushing the boundaries of the space and embracing the risk inherent in the act, yet her story strikes a different note. Underneath the surface there is apprehension and concern. She is strong and learning.

She is Strong showcases the talents of four women who can do incredible things but perhaps the most startling thing about this show should be the most obvious. Like the photo boards (created by Rachel Collier) that stand upstage these women are made up of a whole mosaic of memories, people, and experiences and we should be thrilled that they are strong enough to share so many of them with us.