Theatre
Review: A night like no other at Cirque Du Soleil
Cirque Du Soleil’s Amaluna sparkles at London’s Royal Albert Hall, as their Varekai production prepares to tour the UK.
A visual spectacular like no other, Cirque Du Soleil’s Amaluna balances the jaw-dropping with the sensual, as aerial acrobatics meet beautiful choreography and a healthy dose of humour.
Telling the coming-of-age story of the young Miranda on the island of Amaluna, the backdrop offers opportunity for astounding human feats. Intertwined in a tale of double-crossing and forbidden love, the performers glide around the vast auditorium with a unrivalled elegance. The more understated moments, a seemingly impossible balancing act for example, perfectly break up the high-octane with equally mesmerising performances.
A full band accompanies the action, with spine-tingling vocal performances by the all-female musicians. It’s one of many elements that pack an empowering punch, mirrored in the control of the protagonist Miranda’s caregiver; also the show’s genuinely funny compère and comic relief.
At its most breathtaking the production sees performers swinging over the crowd, flying in from the venue’s vast roof, as well as tumbling through the air. One particular crowd-stopping moment sees the male love interest, Romeo, careering to the ground head-first to audible gasps.
All these elements come perfectly together to tantalise all of the senses, and to truly transport the audience into another world. That world of pure wonder, mystique and above all else, unique exhilaration awaits.
Amaluna continues at the Royal Albert Hall until the 26 February 2017. The Cirque Du Soleil’s Varekai reaches the UK on the 15 February 2017. Grab tickets for the touring production through Ticketmaster.co.uk.
Check out the trailer for Varekai below, on tour throughout February and March: