Planet Circus exceeded my expectations in every way possible and left me gobsmacked.

The performance was packed full of breathtaking aerial acrobatics, incredible feats of strength and awe-inspiring acts.

Each performer was seamlessly transitioned into the next in a seemingly never-ending array of talent.

Walking towards the tent at the Old Farmhouse on Yarm Road, Darlington, felt like a magical experience.

The first night on their brand new UK tour was a roaring success and the crowd showed their approval.

From trapeze artists to tightrope walking and motorbike stunts the show had it all.

The Northern Echo: One of the most spectacular acts of the night was a pair of alien trapeze artists that spun and

Timea from Hungary opened the performance with some incredible foot juggling, starting with balls and ending with wheels of fire.

A duo took the stage next with a huge metal wheel and began spinning and rolling across the stage.

Krisztian and Kelly wowed the audience with some nerve-wracking lifts while balancing precariously on the brink of falling.

The Northern Echo: Hungarian performer Krisztian swung around the rind as fire erupted around him

Each act was eased into the next by an impressive range of slapstick material from a clown.

The 'Globe of Speed' provided a penultimate display for the performance with first one, and eventually five motorbikes flying around a metal cage.

The Northern Echo: An incredible display by the Peter Pavlov team as five motorbikes flew around the Globe of Death

To say any more would ruin the surprise finale of the show. 

It is absolutely no surprise that Planet Circus is making a name for itself as one of the standout entertainment groups in Europe.

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The show has been put together by an old circus family Tanya, Pavel, Jo and their children Josh, Bonita, Peter and Emilia. 

They wanted to create a performance that has a special family atmosphere and it shows.

From the moment you arrive you will be greeted at the ticket desk by a family member and all of them have a role in the running of the show.

Forget binging that next Netflix series or taking the family to the cinema and book your family tickets to a truly marvellous evening of entertainment.

Planet Circus will be at Darlington until July 2 before heading to Bilton, Hull, Harrogate, Kirkby in Ashfield, Derby, Coventry and Lincoln.