ST. PETERSBURG, October 3. /TASS/. The premiere of Island, a water-based circus show, has taken place at the Great St. Petersburg State Circus. According to Sergey Belyakov, General Director of the state-run circus company Rosgostsirk, the production was inspired by the aquatic program presented by Gaetano Ciniselli at the same venue 125 years ago.

"A water circus is one of the most beautiful and spectacular forms of circus entertainment imaginable. The inspiration for this production was Gaetano Ciniselli’s 'Circus Underwater' program, which drew thunderous applause and amazed audiences in its day," Belyakov said at a press conference ahead of the premiere. He also noted that next year Rosgostsirk’s flagship venue - the Great St. Petersburg Circus, also known as the Circus on Fontanka or Ciniselli Circus - will celebrate its 150th anniversary.

The creators conceived Island as a water-based circus adventure in which a voyage aboard a luxury cruise liner turns into an unexpected journey to a mysterious island. According to the show's director, Daria Kostyuk, the production is among the most multi-genre shows in the circus world. Each act tells a distinct story centered on vivid characters, while performances in the air, on stage, and in the water are complemented by changing scenery, elaborate costumes, and animal acts. The story brings together themes of friendship, courage, and unexpected discoveries.

"There are around 140 tons of water in the Ciniselli Circus today, right in the legendary ring. It provides a setting where not only gymnasts, acrobats, and aerialists can demonstrate their creativity and talent, but animals as well. We have also invited a professional synchronized swimming team," Kostyuk said.

The cast includes trained fur seals and parrots, Lola the chimpanzee, who plays a demanding restaurant customer, and the clown duo Boatswain and Sashka, performed by Sergey Sokolov and Alexander Azhgikhin. The production also features aerial strap artists Olga Legenda and Andrey Kharitonov, as well as a water-based acrobatic vaulting troupe led by Sergey Matyukov, among others.

"We strive to bring unique, one-of-a-kind projects here. I don't think a production quite like this has ever been staged in this ring before. It is fascinating from a technical and directorial standpoint, as well as in terms of the performers' costumes. The best of the best have come to St. Petersburg to showcase their artistry and skill," said Yelena Petrikova, Chief Director of Rosgostsirk.