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SXIP SHIREY “JANK!”first glimpse at a new production by Sxip Shirey and Unicycle Productions, in partnership with PRODG and directed by Guillaume Blais.
This 30-minute showcase is a part of a joint evening with Machine de Cirque who will showcase their new production “Whole Lot of Nonsense” as a part of CINARS international conference independent showcase program in Montreal.
Come November 9 at 8pm to La Monastere, see both shows, stay for a drink after. FREE.
Send RSVP to: [email protected]
JANK!
On the way to a party in Berlin, an electro brass band from New York gathers circus artists in Montreal, takes a wrong turn in London, passes through Tirana and Istanbul, and lands in New Orleans.
The legendary Sxip Shirey leads a circus driven by music featuring bullhorn harmonicas, dirty electronics, sousaphone, percussion, and other unusual instruments, in a celebration where music and circus become one.
Showcase Director: Guillaume Blais
Showcase performers:
Sxip Shirey, Attis Clopton (Drums) John Alterie (Sousaphone)
with Montreal-based artists Marjorie Nantel, Annie-Kim Déry, Jérémy Vitupier, Luther Bangert
Shanta Thake: Chief Artistic Officer, Lincoln Center, NYC:
“Sxip Shirey makes performances that are as thoughtful as they are wild. Drawing on decades immersed in composition, circus, and performance, he creates an exhilarating world where meticulous craft meets spontaneity, play, and beautiful chaos. His shows don’t simply entertain—they pull you into a completely unexpected universe of sound, movement, and possibility.”
Bill Bragin:Co-Director/Co-Founder of GlobalFest, Executive Artistic Director The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
“How do you describe the indescribable Sxip Shirey? Circus music composer with the energy and presence of an old school ringmaster, a lover of a great pop hook who is able to find the sweet spot in Balkan brass, hip-hop, object based compositions and R&B. Endless musical surprises that elevate whatever collaborator he works with.”
Jennifer Harrison Newman, Schwarzman Center, Yale University:
Sxip Shirey is a mad scientist of sound, funk, and fun! The JANK! Circus mashup is a raucous ride where Sxip and his collaborators mix a genius chemistry of daring physical feats, and inventive musicianship. A highlight of our season!
The Guardian:
“It’s Eastern European brass band meets New York hip-hop. Shirey and his band’s infectious energy works with the exuberance of the circus performers, carrying the vitality of the cast out into the audience.”
The Wall Street Journal:
“The multifaceted New York-based musician is renowned for his kaleidoscopic array of gewgaws and gadgets repurposed for performances by a one-man gonzo orchestra…his résumé doubles as a passport of imposing sophistication and variety.”
The New York Times
“…his performances seem a combination of careful planning and spur-of- the-moment inspiration.”
NPR Fresh Air:
“Eclectic and Original”
Produced in partnership with: PRODG
About the artist:
SXIP SHIREY: A prominent figure in contemporary circus arts, Shirey most recently composed new works for the multi-award-winning Australian circus company Gravity and Other Myths for their 2026 production LOUDER, an acclaimed collaboration with the Brandenburger Symphoniker that fused physical acrobatics with reimagined classical music. Prior to this, he was the composer and music director for the hit circus arts production LIMBO, produced by Melbourne-based Strut N Fret Productions House and London-based Underbelly and South Bank Center. LIMBO toured internationally (2013-2019) to critical acclaim, including performances at the Sydney Opera House, London’s Southbank Center, the Bogota International Theater Festival, and Madonna’s 57th Birthday party.
Guillaume Blais: Founder of PRODG and passionate creative director, Guillaume is a renowned circus artist. He stands for deep values such as integrity, humanity and creativity. Always driven, he continues to inspire and push the boundaries of circus arts with an authentic and innovative approach.
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Event venue
La Monastère, Montreal, Canada
Tickets
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