Circus 1903, Birmingham Hippodrome - review

With jaw-dropping entertainment, daredevil acrobatics, and even a life-sized elephant, Circus 1903 has mesmerised audiences in the city and around the world.

And it's set to stay for another week – until Saturday, November 2 – as a perfect half term treat for families across the West Midlands.

In Circus 1903, children and adults are transported back to the Golden Age of the circus; with the nostalgic smell of sweet popcorn thick in the air at the city centre theatre – which is currently celebrating its 120th birthday.

Featuring ringmaster and magician David Williamson from the USA, and daring circus acts from Ukraine, Russia and all across the globe, the show kicks off with the ringmaster throwing bags of popcorn into the crowd, sending kernels flying over the audience.

Speaking over the gasps and laughter in the audience, he reminds the crowds that while they may "think they're in a theatre, they're not" and should instead imagine they're sitting under the big top more than 100 years ago.

Ringmaster David, in his black top hat, scarlet tail coat, and tall black boots, was an incredible hit with the audience, young and old.

He had the crowd in stitches in between each act, bringing children from the crowd up on to the stage to help him with his magic tricks.

The performers were stunning, and so incredibly talented. At times you couldn't almost believe what you were seeing. But the absolute highlight were the sensational life-sized elephants – Queenie and her baby Peanut, created by the award-winning team behind War Horse.

After a moment, you forgot that there were actually people manoeuvring the creatures – it was done so gracefully and elegantly, it was like there were real elephants on stage, directly in front of us.

It was magical, and what made it even more delightful were the expressions of pure joy on the children's faces in the crowd.

Certainly, their gasps made it seem like they weren't too sure if these gigantic, life-like creatures were real or not.

Bring out your inner child and enjoy a trip to the circus this half term – Circus 1903 is pure magic, happiness and wonderment.

It runs at Birmingham Hippodrome until November 2.