The Australian premiere of Mother Nature is nothing short of spectacular. This production, by the Australian Calisthenics Theatre Company, brings traditional calisthenics into a modern, theatrical spotlight, and is a dazzling celebration of movement, music, and visual beauty. From the moment the lights go up, the energy is electric as a cast of 120 performers fills the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. Young children, rising stars, and seasoned professionals all come together in a stunning display of talent and passion.
Co-Founder and Artistic Director Brooke Brown, alongside Executive Producer Melissa Dunbar, have created a bold vision. Mother Nature follows the story of one woman, representing the journey of life. ‘Mother Nature’ takes the audience through the elements of Earth, Fire, Water, Wind, Light, and Sun, with each element representing the emotional journey of life.
The performance is enriched by live music from The Cast, a superb band directed by Chloe Castledine and David Goodwin. Lead vocalist Chloe Castledine and guest vocalist JD Smith are integral in the magic of the performance. The soundtrack blends original composition with re-imaginings of classic favourites, drawing the audience deep into the story. A voiceover narrative adds to the storytelling element of the performance.
The staging is truly impressive. The upper stage houses the live band, vocalists and dancers. Two sweeping ramps lead down to an even larger central arena stage. At first, the massive set feels overwhelming. But soon, it becomes clear why it’s needed. Dancers pour in from every direction; down ramps, from side stage, hidden entrances under the stage, and even through the aisles of the audience. The space comes alive, filled with vibrant movement and breathtaking energy.
Costumes, designed by Principal Costume Designer Louise Hamilton, are a visual delight. They shimmer and sparkle, playing a key role in telling the story. Mother Nature, represented by Sophie Hamden, and the six Principal Cast dancers glow in elegant, radiant costumes, each piece enhancing their graceful movements. The ensemble costumes are equally stunning; from delicate white tutus and jazzy red outfits, to glowing, gossamer wings that light up the darkened arena. Every creative detail is thoughtful, and every piece adds to the magic.
Act One opens with Earth, which sees young Mother Nature, played by Edie Di Rubbo, transitioning to her older self (Sophie Hamden). Earth is a celebration of growth and strength. Dancers appear in shimmering tones of bronze, silver, and white. Their movements are graceful yet powerful, a true representation of calisthenics.
The choreography flows with the music, starting softly before building to a dramatic rod routine. The tribal beat pulses through the arena as dancers fill every corner of the stage. It’s hard to know where to look: everywhere, something beautiful is happening. Groups move in harmony, then suddenly all 120 dancers unite in perfect unison.
Next comes Fire, an act filled with passion, desire, and intensity. The act opens with a jazzy, sultry performance of Fever, reminiscent of classic chorus lines. The young dancers shine here, lifted high in daring acrobatic formations. A standout moment comes from dancer and vocalist Ayanna Burgan-Minniecon, whose rich, soulful vocals warm the arena like a glowing flame.
A mesmerising club routine follows, with the smooth swing of clubs matching the sultry mood. Then the arena darkens; a breathtaking sight as the ensemble appears in glowing wings, shimmering in gold and red. It’s a magical moment I wished could have lasted longer.
From the ashes of Fire, Water brings a shift in mood. This act explores sorrow, grief, and healing. The dancers move gracefully, evoking waves and flowing rivers with swathes of blue fabric. The stage transforms into a sea of motion, soothing and serene.
After the intermission, Wind lifts the energy once again. This act is a whirlwind of strength and precision which sees five groups of dancers each lift a dancer high above their heads, legs extended in perfect splits. Around them, circles of dancers spin in unison. It’s a breathtaking display of calisthenic mastery, every move executed with stunning control and artistry.
Light fills the arena with hope and unity. The songs ‘Stars’ from Les Misérables, ‘Rewrite the Stars’ from The Greatest Showman, and ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ by Coldplay create an uplifting soundtrack. The audience becomes part of the magic, raising their mobile phone lights and switching on glowing flower crowns (sold as part of the merchandise). The entire arena shines. The dancers line up for a classic calisthenics showcase: figure marching, club-swinging, rods, and dance, all blending together in a joyous, glowing celebration.
The final act, Sun, ties it all together. Dancers flood the stage wearing costumes from the previous acts. The scene bursts with colour, warmth, and joy. The Sun shines above, as Earth, Fire, Water Wind and Light bring the whole journey full circle. The finale is an explosion of energy, with the full cast filling the stage in a celebration of unity, life, and light.
Mother Nature is a stunning visual display of dance, movement, dazzling costumes, and amazing storytelling, with music, lighting, projections and special effects adding even more layers of wonder. Even the youngest dancers display remarkable polish and maturity, while every performer shows incredible strength, flexibility, precision and dedication. The Australian Calisthenics Theatre Company have proven just how powerful and beautiful calisthenics can be. Mother Nature is a triumph of talent, passion, and imagination.
Mother Nature, presented by the Australian Calisthenics Theatre Company, was held 4 July 2025 at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.
It will be performed again in Melbourne on 5 December 2025. Keep an eye on the website for ticket details.
Website: https://www.auscalisthenicstheatre.company/whats-on/mother-nature
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/auscalisthenicstheatre.co
Photo credits: Andrew Beveridge
