Performers past and present took to the stage at Port Kembla’s Vault theatre for WOW - What a Story! which showcased 30 of the most popular acts including hula hooper extraordinaire Heidi Hillier (Heidi Hoops) and the South Coast Scrubbers.

Artistic director and performer Wendy Regan said Circus WOW (Women of Wollongong) was a unique women’s community circus that combined physical theatre with humour.

‘‘It’s a support network, an extension of the family, a commonality that women can share, where they can go and be understood,’’ Ms Regan said.

‘‘It’s like going for a coffee with your girlfriends or going to the mother’s group when you’ve got a baby.

‘‘If you don’t feel comfortable in a leotard or tights and going upside down with your bum in the air, it’s a place where you can train in comfort.’’

Today, the circus involves 40 women training on a weekly basis, a core of about 20 people behind the scenes and a member base of around 200 women.

As well as actual shows at the weekend, an exhibition showcased Circus WOW’s history with photos, memorabilia, costumes and screenings of past performances.