Cirque du Soleil returns to Atlanta with AMALUNA, now playing through November 30th under the blue and yellow Big Top at Atlantic Station.
I have seen a number of Cirque shows now, including TOTEM, in 2012 here in Atlanta, and OVO, which I think was by far the most kid-friendly. AMALUNA reminds me a bit of O, which was the first Cirque show I ever saw, in Las Vegas - not in a tent, but in a larger, traditional theatrical environment. The element of water used throughout AMALUNA is back and the colors are simply beautiful and serene. Whereas OVO was more about crazy fun acrobatics, this show is simply more beautiful. The clowns (in general not my favorite part) were less obtrusive and had roles which seemed more in line with the theme of the show than most. I always go to a Cirque show wondering - what will it be like this time? And I always leave having experienced more jaw-dropping moments and an overall sense of being thoroughly impressed!
AMALUNA features everything you expect from a Cirque show - aerial straps, uneven bars, juggling, the teeterboard, classic circus arts (no bicycles this time)...but by far my favorite part was the Waterbowl. I was so close up and to watch the performers diving in, swimming underwater...it was beautiful.
The waterbowl is a piece of acrobatic equipment that doubles as a dramatic set element. It resembles a giant, clear gemstone set in a ring of stylized organic shapes that resemble a vortex captured in time. As it interacts with the lighting,this “jewel” changes its appearance and aura, much like a real precious stone.
Coming in a close second - the Chinese Pole. This photo doesn't do it justice. But WOW. Talk about an exhibit of strength!!
Is it for kids? I have mixed feelings. To me, Cirque shows are generally a unique adult experience (and I enjoyed my champagne and popcorn!). OVO was different and was definitely a show even young kids would love. This one has some adult themes, and I don't know how much kids under 10 would appreciate it. Surely they'd love the teeterboard and juggling acts. But overall I'd recommend this one for kids 10+. That said, it may also be more appealing to girls than boys. I tend to see everything with my two boys in mind!
I got the gist of the story by watching the performance, but to me Cirque is about the individual elements, set, costumes - not so much the theme or story. Some might disagree. But in case you are wondering, here's the official summary of what AMALUNA is all about:
THE STORY
Amaluna invites the audience to a mysterious island governed by Goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon. Their queen, Prospera, directs her daughter’s coming-of-age ceremony in a rite that honors femininity, renewal, rebirth and balance which marks the passing of these insights and values from one generation to the next.
In the wake of a storm caused by Prospera, a group of young men lands on the island, triggering an epic, emotional story of love between Prospera’s daughter and a brave young suitor. But theirs is a love that will be put to the test. The couple must face numerous demanding trials and overcome daunting setbacks before they can achieve mutual trust, faith and harmony.
Amaluna is a fusion of the words ama, which refers to “mother” in many languages, and luna, which means “moon”; a symbol of femininity that evokes both the mother-daughter relationship and the idea of goddess and protector of the planet. Amaluna is also the name of the mysterious island where this magical story unfolds.
A TRIBUTE TO THE WORK AND VOICE OF WOMEN
For the first time in Cirque du Soleil’s history, Amaluna features a cast that comprises 70% women, with a 100% female band. “Amaluna is a tribute to the work and voice of women”, explains Director of Creation Fernand Rainville. “The show is a reflection on balance from a women’s perspective”, he adds. Director Diane Paulus, winner of a 2013 Tony Award (Pippin) and recently named as one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2014, says: “I didn’t want to build a ‘women’s agenda’ show. I wanted to create a show with women at the center of it, something that had a hidden story that featured women as the heroines.” Paulus drew from a series of classical influences when creating the concept of the show; including tales from Greek and Norse mythology, Mozart’s The Magic Flute and Shakespeare’s The Tempest.
DISCOUNTED TICKETS
Experience Amaluna from Cirque du Soleil, now playing under the iconic blue and yellow big top at Atlantic Station. Save 20% on a Family 4 Pack and take an adventure to an island governed by goddesses. CLICK HERE and buy your discounted tickets today.
For more information, please visit Amaluna on FACEBOOK.
Want to Go?
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Wed., Nov. 5 Show at 7:30pm
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* I received complimentary tickets to attend this show in return for this review. Opinions, however, are my own.
