Merrik Ashton, a seventh-generation circus performer, was born into Australia’s renowned Ashton family. With performing arts quite literally in his blood, Merrik’s life has been defined by the thrill of travel and the spotlight. Making his circus debut at just 2 years old, he has since spent nearly 3 decades perfecting his craft. His journey has taken him across Australia, the United States, and most prestigiously to the New Generation Monte Carlo Circus Festival at 18, where he and his brother earned multiple awards.

While Merrik’s heritage and life on stage might make the transition to producing seem inevitable, it was a calling that took him by surprise. A passionate observer of circus, musicals, plays, and live music performances, Merrik discovered that his years of experience and unique perspective were essential to shaping his own vision for the live performance world.

When it came time to bring LASSÚ to life, Merrik knew there was only one person to lead its creative direction: Mitchell Woodcock, who embraced the challenge of crafting a show that promises to be truly unique.

LASSÚ is a carefully curated blend of modern and traditional circus, dance, and burlesque, woven together with a captivating narrative. Audience members won’t be left wondering about the story; they’ll be fully immersed in it. The intimate venue is designed for a visceral experience—guests will feel the strain in every muscle and witness every bead of sweat as world-class performers leave them breathless. And if scantily clad acrobats and dancers aren’t quite your vibe, the venue’s two bars are open throughout the show.

This production brings an unmatched level of sophistication to Fringe World. For his debut as a producer, Merrik couldn’t imagine launching anywhere other than Perth. Though born in Sydney, Perth has become his adopted home. He first arrived in Western Australia at 11 years old with his family’s show, Circus Joseph Ashton, which toured the region for 12 years. This enduring success was made possible by the families of WA, who returned year after year to watch the show in their local suburbs.

Now, Merrik is thrilled to bring LASSÚ to life just 10 minutes from where he spent his childhood playing cricket for South Perth.

“It’s my honour and privilege to debut what I know will be a world-class show for the people of Western Australia.”