The annual arrival of the Canadian circus spectacular at the Royal Albert Hall has become a welcome fixture of London's cultural calendar.

Their shows locate some of the best acts in the world in high-concept immersive worlds, complete with stunning sets and costumes, feats of impossible strength and bendiness, and original live music.

There's usually a loose narrative, it might be Shakespeare's Tempest, a world of insects, or last year's steampunk inventor Kurios.

Ham & High: The concept is of a jester who takes the empty throne of a once glorious kingdomThe concept is of a jester who takes the empty throne of a once glorious kingdom (Image: Matt Beard)

Re-worked from an old show, Alegría's concept and story is weaker than others, but the acts are no less jaw dropping, the visuals don't disappoint, and the Grammy nominated music performed by a band and duo of singers, is stirring.

It starts with a dumbshow - The Cirque is mostly mime and clowning. A court jester clumsily takes the empty throne of a once-glorious kingdom. But I had to read the programme to discover a supposed power struggle between the old order and vigorous youth.

We're then flung into a highly choreographed acrobatic routine on bendy acropoles that left you shaking your head in wonder.

Ham & High: Two acrobats on aerial straps create a moving and head-shakingly athletic routineTwo acrobats on aerial straps create a moving and head-shakingly athletic routine (Image: Matt Beard)

Elsewhere there's a moving and skilful couple on aerial straps, who kiss while hanging upside down - seemingly suspended by only a foot.

There are also exciting twirling fire batons, and a graceful hand balancing act by two women, which makes you realise how unusual the combination is.

There's also a love-hate relationship between two male clowns that's so-so amusing. But around half way through, Alegria pulls off a stunning coup de theatre, whipping up a paper snowstorm in the Albert Hall that conjured memories of the brilliant Slava's Snowshow.

Ham & High: The grand finale features the first Flying Trapeze act ever staged in the Royal Albert HallThe grand finale features the first Flying Trapeze act ever staged in the Royal Albert Hall (Image: Matt Beard)

Later, the stage floor peels back to reveal huge trampolines for a terrific tumbling and acrobatic display. And the grand finale sees a giant net unfurl from another floor panel for the first Flying Trapeze act ever performed at the Royal Albert Hall.

As you crick your neck open-mouthed to watch this timeless feat of grace, strength, and timing, you feel somehow connected to the audiences who marvelled at French acrobat Jules Léotard more than 150 years ago.

Alegria In A New Light runs at the Royal Albert Hall until March 3.