Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"...One of the great divisions in circus is between shows that subsume the individual into the whole and those that celebrate the individual artist, like, say, the great Montreal company known as The 7 Fingers. "Acelere," which is not interested in stars or centerpieces, lands between the two in just the right way; the tumbling, twirling, singing and smiling are performed in such a way as to make you interested in the young performers and their real lives, but also to appreciate the collective, world-changing power of creative risk-taking - in this case flowing out of the people of Colombia."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...But the real subject of Acéléré is bodies launched into space by other bodies, landing with breathtaking accuracy on narrow beams or on platforms constructed out of still more bodies. When an apparatus does appear, it consists (with one bizarre exception) of nothing more complicated than a fulcrum or a rope. Under director Felicity Simpson and choreographer Carlos Neto, the show parlays a nearly bare stage and a cast of ten into something airy, vibrant, ungadgety, and fun."
Stage and Cinema - Highly Recommended
"...Three rings do not make a circus, any more than "two boards and a passion" make a play. Sometimes all you need is fifteen performers for sixty power-packed minutes. That's the fantastic formula working in Chicago Shakespeare Theater's all-purpose Yard space on Navy Pier. Making its North American debut as the culminating event of the second annual Destinos - Chicago International Latino Theater Festival, Circolombia recalls the percussive romp Stomp! with its free-style, semi-improvisational, street-wise gusto. Titled Acelere, this is heavy-duty make-believe from the country of Colombia."
Around The Town Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...We seeing a bunch of tough street kids, from different areas and life-styles meeting up for a day of events of circus proportions. The show is lively, filled with music and daring deeds, but none different from those we have seen in many a "Cirque" show in the past. In fact, where this new "black Box Theater" exists is where the old Pepsi stage was for many years, the home of the Cirque Shanghai shows. Those who have seen those know that this space has had some true special acts."
The Fourth Walsh - Highly Recommended
"...CIRCOLUMBIA is a one-of-a-kind spectacle! These pictures and my words don’t capture it. It needs to be experienced to be believed! Get a ticket soon!"
Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Highly Recommended
"...Director Felicity Simpson brilliantly ties this troupe into a cohesive ensemble, creating an inviting and exciting environment; the audience is encouraged to scream, laugh, cry, take pictures to post all over social media. Despite the lack of a proper narrative structure, Simpson applies dramatic contexts to each act, imbuing each graceful movement with profound artistry. The trust that Simpson facilitates in these performers is nothing short of inspiring."
Third Coast Review - Recommended
"...“People, are you ready? Circolombia is in the room!” This was the chant that began slowly and tentatively and built to a full on proclamation complete with fist pumping and other crowd pleasing moves, like hip hop dance, soulful signing and ultimately, circus. All of this was part of the show Acéléré by Circolombia at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, scheduled as the culminating program of Destinos–Chicago International Latino Theater Festival."
Picture This Post - Highly Recommended
"...Spectacular, powerful, and full of passion, Acéléré Circolombia is a performance like nothing that many of us have ever seen before."
