World-class acrobatic circus comes to Warrnambool Community Garden quarry amphitheatre

For the first time ever, the Warrnambool Community Garden's Quarry amphitheatre will transform into a breathtaking stage for contemporary circus, as Melbourne-based One Fell Swoop Circus brings its internationally acclaimed work to the region.

Following the global success of By A Thread, the company will present its newest production, In Common, a powerful and visually striking performance set against the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the converted quarry.

Crackling with tension and wonder, In Common features a seemingly impossible structure of floating beams held together by tension alone. Within it, a fearless ensemble of acrobats balance, fly and catch one another in heart-stopping feats of strength, trust and precision.

Convenor of the Warrnambool Community Garden, Courtney Mathew, said the event marks an exciting new chapter for the much-loved local space.

“Seeing the quarry come alive in this way is incredibly special. It’s a space with so much history and natural beauty, and we’re thrilled to explore new and creative uses that bring people together,” Ms Mathew said.

“This performance really reflects what our community garden is all about: connection, care and collaboration. It’s not just a show, it’s an experience that speaks to how we support one another and grow together.”

Co-Artistic Director and General Manager of One Fell Swoop Circus, Charice Rust, said bringing In Common to Warrnambool holds personal significance.

“I have strong family ties to this region, so being able to share this work here feels incredibly meaningful,” Ms Rust said.

"My grandparents owned a sheep farm in Warrong and later moved to Port Fairy to live. I actually credit the start of my circus path with working on the farm."

"I relished the hard physical labour, the endurance of getting through a day or a mob of sheep. And I also loved defying the expectations of what female bodies are capable of. "

"I found circus classes as a teenager and it wasn’t strange to be a strong girl, it was encouraged! It opened up new and exciting challenges for me physically, new ways to push myself."

Young aspiring performers will have the opportunity to take part in a hands-on workshop earlier in the day from 3–4pm, with places strictly limited.

Participants will explore the simple physics behind acrobalance (partner and group balancing), constructing mini versions of the ‘tensegrity’ structures featured in In Common before learning balances and pyramids in a guided group session. The workshop highlights themes of balance, forces and teamwork that sit at the heart of the performance.

The event promises a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, with food trucks and a bar on site so audiences can settle in and enjoy an unforgettable evening in the quarry.

This is a ticketed community event raising funds for the volunteer-run Warrnambool Community Garden, a not-for-profit supporting sustainable food production and community connection.

Tickets are priced at $21 for adults and $9 for under 18s, making the event accessible for families and audiences of all ages.