Cape Town and Vegas rola bola artists connect at mirror tent
Rola bola star Axel Perez shows College of Magic graduate Merlo Hollenbach a few techniques backstage at The Royal Countess Zingara
Image: Allison Foat
A meeting of circus minds took place under the mirrored tent at Century City when Las Vegas–born rola bola star Axel Perez teamed up with Merlo Hollenbach, from Noordehoek, to share insights and balancing techniques ahead of The Royal Countess Zingara's La Dolce Royal , currently showing at its mirrored tent in Century City.
Mr Perez, a sixth-generation circus artist, has spent more than 15 years perfecting his gravity-defying act. He is known for his feats atop stacked boards and cylinders.
Axel Perez onstage at The Royal Countess Zingara
Image: Daniel Rutland Manners
Meanwhile, Mr Hollenbach a College of Magic graduate and Zip Zap Circus alum, said he approaches the craft with equal parts discipline and creativity.
He said meeting with Mr Perez was inspiring. "Axel was incredibly generous when we met, showing me several rola bola techniques and sharing amazing advice. And then to be able to watch him perform onstage at Countess Zingara right afterwards was incredible."
La Dolce Royal runs Tuesdays to Sundays at 8pm at Century City.
Tickets start at R1150 and include a welcome drink, a four-course dinner, and the production.
For bookings, contact www.zingara.co.za | boxoffice@zingara.co.za | 021 891 0448