‘I like to do nothing’. After wintry months rather lacking in the energy to do anything, hardly a surprising statement – except it was uttered by one of the five performers in Traces, a contemporary circus show from Les 7 Doigts de la Main. Another said: ‘I like to cover one eye and look at things, then I cover the other eye and look: the colours are different.’ This is the essence of the show: a different way of looking at things.

The show maintains the high-octane  energy levels and builds to unimaginable highs. The beauty of a pas de deux with incredible lifts, a love song live with acoustic guitar, and a twirling strap act allow some breathing space between athletic speed and drama. Then there is the humour running throughout, the teamwork and trust, the little rivalries and getting to know each performer. Also incorporating hoops and poles, a piano and chairs, even a mini Busby Berkely routine on skates and skateboards, Traces is quite simply a joy to watch and a celebration of the energy and spirit possible in life. Though the narrative frame of people facing an imminent disaster is not really clear until the final, climactic section, and technical problems prevented some visual elements appearing, there was no doubt that the audience loved it all.

Fantastic! Refreshing! Great! All responses heard from spectators – along with spontaneous applause throughout the show, and cheers, gasps and laughter from children and adults alike. Catch this circus! With only a few performances in Scotland (the anticipated highlight of their tour, according to performer Geneviève Morin), it’s definitely worth finding the energy…

Showing@Festival Theatre Edinburgh until 3rd Feb, then touring to Glasgow