Circus has always been about the spectacle, and that’s what Cirque du Soleil delivers in LUZIA, its latest production under the grand chapiteau at Atlantic Station.
Of course, it had some help, namely an entire country — Mexico — which inspires the costumes, colors, music and themes that dominate the show. If you’re planning to attend, here are five tips to know before you go.
1) Get there early.
You can grab some refreshments or browse Cirque swag under the big top before the show. Costumed characters are happy to pose for photos, and the setting itself invites people to linger over their drinks. But you’ll want to get to your seat promptly. Artists begin their antics on and off stage just before the opening scene, and it’s always fun to see what they’ll do for those who are watching.
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2) This show is colorful.
It’s flamboyant and graceful, seamless and striking. If you’ve ever been to Mexico, you’ll see how LUZIA captures some of its essence. The story follows a traveling everyman who parachutes into a land of vibrant flora and fauna. Mexican traditions like the luchador, mariachi band and sombreros make their appearance along with more subtle symbols: flowers, candlelight and ever-present water, magnificently brought to stage in a rain curtain and shallow pool.
3) Physics is optional under the big top.
It’s par for the course in Cirque terms. The feats are astounding and with an artistic flair, whether it’s the dancing contortionist or the juggler with his own live soundtrack. The first act was my favorite: gymnasts diving through stacked hoops, backwards, simultaneously, in pairs, and more. Oh, and that’s while on a giant treadmill. Your jaw will drop a half dozen times. Go in expecting that.
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4) There are puppets and they are cool.
I know what you’re thinking. Puppets are lame, right? Not so in LUZIA. From catci to cockroaches, these puppets are works of art that blur the line with costuming and scenery. The horse and jaguar are two highlights to look for.
5) Spanish speakers have more fun.
Well, everyone has fun, but there’s a little extra humor and narrative for those who can follow the bursts of Spanish that occasionally crop up in the show. Knowing Spanish — or English for that matter — isn’t necessary, though, as language in general takes a backseat in Cirque performances. You can follow the story, loose as it is, with pantomime and imagination alone.
It’s all happening through Nov. 5 at Atlantic Station, where there’s fortunately a good view from any seat. Tickets are available online.
Feature photo credit: Matt Beard © 2017 Cirque du Soleil
