Nestled between the Conspiracy Theory Tattoos and Rocky Mountain Punk stores, the Learned Lemur on Colfax is an eccentric oddities shop featuring macabre art pieces and even a taxidermized giraffe named Geoffrey.
Once a month, the Learned Lemur and Geoffery host the “Conspiracy Circus” show. October 2022 marked their one-year anniversary.
One of my favorite parts of these shows is the variety of acts performed, not only from the constantly shifting cast, but also the acts themselves. No two shows are alike. There is just a delightful mixture of burlesque and sideshow acts.
Burlesque is a form of seductive performance art involving dancing, skits, and comedy. While the sideshow acts are often associated with a wide range of circus-like performances from jugglers, contortionists, fire eaters, clowns, hoopers, and strong men and women.
At the “Conspiracy Circus”, this mixture of seduction and circus is balanced on a core cast of must-see performers and acts. They include: “Three Feral Cats in a G-string", “Woman of One Thousand Acts”, “Alabaster”, Circus Strongman – “Babyface Reid”, resident stage kitten and burlesque performer - “Cassy Cyanide”, and the one and only ringmaster of the show, “Gio the Ordinary”.
The show itself takes place in an intimate setting across from Bruz Off Fax, a brewery featuring a variety of Belgian-style beers. Since the show building is not connected to the brewery, the “Conspiracy Circus” is an 18+ age limit event, as compared to the usual 21+ age limit required by most clubs and bars that host these types of events. As a result of the lower age limit, you get to experience the fun of the circus as an adult!
Audience involvement is also a significant feature of the intimate setting of the “Conspiracy Circus”. Performers frequently venture out into the crowd to playfully tease or invite volunteers on stage for certain acts.
Consent is mandatory for all parties involved, and if you’re shy like me and would rather remain in your seat, it is a relief to know that you will not be pressured into anything.
The cast of the “Conspiracy Circus” is made up of a diverse group of creatives. Many of the performers are also members of the LGBTQ+, queer, and disabled communities. They are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
If you are interested in attending a show, tickets are available on the Learned Lemur’s website. After ten sold out shows, tickets tend to go fast. Fortunately, the show occurs monthly, and tickets are usually available within the first week of the month.
To make sure you don’t miss when tickets are available, the Learned Lemur shop and the “Conspiracy Circus” show both have active Instagram pages. The cast of each months’ show, along with their social media handles, are also posted.
Check them out! Geoffery would be so grateful to you for supporting local artists and performers.
