Back to All Events

Sideshow by Steven Takasugi


  • Meat Market 3 Blackwood Street North Melbourne, VIC, 3051 Australia (map)

Based on the dark sideshows of Coney Island's amusement parks in the early part of the 20th century, 'Sideshow' is a meditation on virtuosity, freak shows, entertainment, spectacle, business, and the sacrifices one makes to survive in the world.

Rubiks Collective proudly presents the Australian premiere of Steven Takasugi's spectacular theatrical work for amplified octet and amplified playback. The saxophonist is the Sideshow Giant, having bellow-like lungs. The violist is a sword swallower, expert with a bow sword. The pianist is the Human Spider, born with eight hands. The percussionist is the self-sacrificing Proprietor/Announcer. Each character of this quartet has his or her uncanny double, twin, imposter, accomplice, copycat.

Roll up and see the biggest show in town. We've been waiting for you.

"Takasugi came through big time with his promise of a freak show… This is an amazing piece.”
– LA Times

This event is generously supported by the City of Melbourne Arts Grants Program and Creative Victoria.

Friday April 9th, 7pm
Saturday April 10th, 7pm
$25/$20 concession, plus booking fees
TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE

Directors & Performers
Steven Taksaugi (US) & Eugene Ughetti (AU), directors
Eliza Shepherd, flute
Harrison McEwen, clarinet
Luke Carbon, saxophone
Jacob Abela, piano
Kaylie Melville, percussion
Isabel Hede, violin
Aaron Wyatt, viola
Timothy Hennessy, cello
Tilman Robinson, electronics
Niklas Pajanti, lighting

Earlier Event: March 26
'Waiting' Video Launch
Later Event: April 29
This Soft Eclipse