LION-tamers and clowns were nowhere in sight as an internationally-renowned "urban circus" arrived in Hull.

Traces, a show by French-Canadian act, The 7 Fingers, is at Hull New Theatre.

During the performance, the five-strong dance troupe turn the traditional circus on its head, using basketballs, skateboards, classical piano, dance, acrobatics, comedy and illustration.

The group trained at the famous National Circus School, in Montreal, and have enjoyed sell-out performances in Paris, New York, Sydney and London.

Now, for the first time, the artists have embarked on a tour of England.

The show, which arrived in Hull yesterday, has another performance tonight and tomorrow.

Unlike most circus performers, the four men and one woman must be highly-skilled in a whole host of tricks.

The Mail caught up with The 7 Fingers member Antoine Carabiner-Lepine, in between rehearsals at the theatre.

Taking time away from the Cyr wheel, a giant hula-hoop, he said: "We do acrobatics, play the guitar, do singing, drawing, comedy sketches and basketball.

"It is an very energetic and physically demanding. We train every day for three months ahead of each tour."

To book tickets call the box office on (01482) 226655.