Adelaide based dance innovators, the Australian Calisthenics Theatre Company (ACTC) will premiere their critically acclaimed arena spectacular Mother Nature in Melbourne on December 5th at The Plenary Theatre in the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. This groundbreaking theatrical production is a dazzling celebration of movement, music, and visual beauty, which redefines traditional calisthenics into a modern, spectacular art form that explores the breathtaking beauty, balance, and emotional power of the natural world. This high-scale dance production features a vast and diverse ensemble of 120 world-class calisthenics athletes. Dressed in elegant costumes, their incredible flexibility and physical prowess are showcased in stunning choreography and visuals, effortlessly moving together to capture the audience’s undivided attention.
The performance is accompanied by an incredible 12-piece orchestra that plays out a high voltage soundtrack, blending original compositions with re-imaginings of hits from artists such as Lady Gaga, Sam Smith, Coldplay, ACDC, as well as Frozen and Wicked.
ACTC Artistic Director, Brooke Brown said, “Calisthenics is normally a sport based on rigid competition. We’re breaking through that by highlighting its theatrical side in an arena setting. Mother Nature is about showcasing the strength and power of this predominantly female sport. Creating an opportunity where any calisthenics dancer across Australia can participate is our way to bring calisthenics out to the wider community. It also presents an opportunity for the elite in the sport, after their extensive years of training in all facets of dance, to do what they love on a commercial stage in front of a much bigger audience, without the pressure of a competition.”
The 90-minute arena spectacular is divided into six acts, each exploring themes of beauty, artistry, and creation. The performance will utilize two massive stages and feature stunning choreography and breathtaking effects. The elite cast includes seasoned professionals, rising stars, and young children from across the country
Brooke Brown is a committed advocate who has significantly boosted the profile of calisthenics, as a uniquely Australian sport. She has successfully broadened the sport’s appeal beyond its immediate community, introducing its beauty to a wider audience. Furthermore, her dedication includes fostering training, development, and commercial opportunities for cast members throughout South Australia and nationally.
Brooke is also a seasoned professional herself with more than 35 years in the sport. She also owns her own calisthenics club and has featured in seven state/national teams as a competitor.
Mother Nature is ACTC’s second production and part of their annual program.
https://www.intix.com.au/event/2025-actc-mother-nature
