-By Kim Parnell-
Under the bright lights of theatres around the country, a modern circus story is unfolding—one built on legacy, risk, reinvention and a leap of faith that changed everything.
Cameo Rascale Entertainment, the creative force behind Cirque Nouvelle, has a history that spans decades. The story begins with James Capener, who was born into an acrobatic family that performed across cruise ships. For him, the stage wasn’t a distant dream; it was home from the age of five. As a second-generation performer, his childhood was shaped by travel, discipline and the thrill of live audiences.
But when he turned 18 and his family stepped away from performing, James found himself at a crossroads. The show needed a new direction—and a new partner. Enter Rebecca.
With a background in dance but no circus experience, Rebecca auditioned, stepped into an unfamiliar world and said yes to something entirely new. That single decision would shape the next chapter of both their lives.
More than a decade later, the now married pair, have become a dynamic duo, performing together for eleven years in an acrobatic juggling and variety act that has taken them across the globe. From cruise ship stages to theatre headliners, their journey has been one of constant movement, evolution and shared ambition. Currently based in Perth, Western Australia, they continue to push creative boundaries—but their biggest leap came just a few years ago.
Rebecca reflects. “Three years ago, we started thinking about the future and dreaming bigger. That’s where Cirque Nouvelle was born.”
The vision was clear: create a land-based theatrical production that could tour Australia, featuring a larger cast, a compelling storyline and the kind of immersive experience that lingers long after the curtain falls.
“We’ve always wanted to build something more expansive,” Rebecca explains. “A show that combines incredible acts with a meaningful narrative. So, we wrote it, debuted it in our hometowns, and it went really, really well. Since last year, we’ve been touring it around the country, and the response has been amazing. Now we’re looking ahead to even bigger stages.”
At its core, Cirque Nouvelle is about change—something every audience member can relate to, regardless of age or background.
“Change is something we all face,” Rebecca says. “Day to day, across different seasons of life. We wanted the show to reflect that. Yes, there are spectacular acts, but we also wanted people to walk away feeling something deeper—something meaningful.”
Central to this narrative is the ringmaster, a character who acts as the emotional anchor of the production. He represents the tension between tradition and modernity, grappling with how the circus has evolved from its classic roots into a contemporary theatrical experience filled with technology, lighting and elaborate costuming.
“You see his struggle,” Rebecca explains. “He’s trying to find where he fits in this new world. But by the end, we come full circle and realise there’s a place for everyone—not just in circus, but in life. The old and the new can coexist. In fact, we need both.”
It’s this storytelling element that sets Cirque Nouvelle apart from more traditional circus productions. While audiences are treated to a stunning array of performances, it’s the emotional thread that ties everything together that leaves a lasting impression.
“That’s the feedback we hear time and time again,” Rebecca says. “People love the acts, but it’s the story that stays with them. It gives them something to think about, something to talk about—even years later. That’s what makes it special.”
Behind the scenes, however, bringing that vision to life is no small feat.
Rebecca wears two hats: performer and co-producer. It’s a balancing act that demands both creative focus and logistical precision.
“Our first tour was definitely an eye-opener,” she admits. “It’s one thing to be thinking like a producer—making sure everything runs smoothly, from technical elements to scheduling—but then you have to switch instantly into performer mode and be completely present on stage.”
In the early days, juggling both roles was a challenge. But with experience has come confidence.
“The more we’ve done it, the more natural it’s become. And as long as our bodies allow it, we’ll keep doing what we love—together, on stage.”
The scale of each performance day reflects the intensity of life on tour. It begins long before the audience arrives.
“We usually get to the theatre around 10am,” Rebecca explains. “The bump-in process takes three to four hours—it’s quite extensive. Then we run through technical elements, make sure everything is set, and before you know it, doors open and we’re on.”
Once the final applause fades, the work doesn’t stop.
“We bump out that same night, pack everything into the trailer, jump on the bus and head to the next venue. It’s full-on—especially during a run of shows—but being in front of an audience makes it all worth it.”
Rebecca’s own journey into the circus world is a story of transformation. A dancer since the age of three, she was studying full-time at college when James came to audition students.
“I had never done circus before,” she says. “I couldn’t juggle—I didn’t know anything about it. But he taught me, and over time we kind of swapped skills. I brought my dance background, and he brought the circus.”
That exchange became the foundation of their unique performance style.
“I’m just so glad I said yes back then,” Rebecca reflects. “You never know what doors will open when you try something new. Now I’m dancing, juggling, flipping—I absolutely love it.”
Of course, performing at such a high level requires more than talent. Preparation is key, both physically and mentally.
“It doesn’t start on the day of the show,” Rebecca explains. “It’s a lifestyle. Staying fit, going to the gym, stretching, eating well—it’s all part of it. Then on the day, it’s about being organised, focused and trusting the training.”
And while the discipline is essential, so too is the joy.
“You have to trust the preparation and allow yourself to have fun with it. That’s when the magic really happens.”
Among the many highlights of Cirque Nouvelle, one act consistently stands out: fire.
“It’s always a crowd favourite,” Rebecca says with a smile. “A lot of people haven’t seen fire performance in a theatre setting before, so it really surprises them. I always tell audiences to look forward to that moment.”
Ultimately, though, it’s not just about individual acts—it’s about the shared experience.
“We want people to leave feeling a sense of wonder and fun,” Rebecca says. “It’s a family show, so it’s for everyone—kids, adults, friends, grandparents. Come together, enjoy it, and hopefully it becomes something you talk about afterwards—over dinner, with friends—and remember for years to come.”
As Cirque Nouvelle continues to tour, it carries with it a message that resonates far beyond the stage: embrace change, honour where you’ve come from, and don’t be afraid to step into something new.
Because sometimes, all it takes is one yes to transform everything.
Event Details:
Cameo Rascale presents Cirque Nouvelle
Tuesday, June 30
6pm
Brolga Theatre, Maryborough
Tickets: www.brolgatheatre.org
