They fly through the air …
By Juliet Schoen/Staff Writer
The famous Cirque du Soleil has moved its tent (called the Grand Chapiteau) from the Santa Monica Pier to the parking lot at the Convention Center in downtown Los Angeles. Appropriately, it faces Staples Center, the site of athletic feats. This version of the animal-less circus continues to astound by presenting acts that defy not only gravity, but also probability. The name of the latest in a long list of shows is “Varekai,” which translates from the Romany language as “wherever.”
Wherever you look under the big tent there are strange creatures lurking, all wearing the kinds of costumes for which the Cirque is famous. After the obligatory introduction with clowns, a young man descends from the “sky,” supposedly the legendary Icarus who flew too close to the sun, which melted his waxen wings. He performs incredible gyrations while ensconced in a net.
This is just the first in a series of derring-do acts that include flyers suspended by wrist straps gliding above the stage, artists creating the illusion of skating, dances of various kinds, juggling, trapeze acts and acrobatic marvels. Of course, there is a magician to provide the laughter in the two acts. It’s all rather spectacular.
Varakai was conceived by a new creative team headed by director Dominic Champagne. The cast is international with more than 50 performers representing 14 countries. The spectacle has come a long way since it was first orchestrated by Guy Laliberté in Quebec City in 1984 as part of the celebration marking the 450th anniversary of the arrival of Jacques Cartier.
There are eight different versions of Cirque de Soleil performing all over the world. Where are these artists found and where do they learn those skills? It is indeed a world of wonder.
Also spectacular are the ticket prices for adults, which are $80, $71 and $60. Those willing to spend $190 have the privilege of entering the Tapis Rouge, which offers the best seats as well reserved parking, hors d’oeuvres during intermission and a souvenir program. Children’s tickets are $56, $49.75 and $42. Parking is being offered by some lots for $20, but you can park at the Convention Center facility for $10.
With Cirque du Soleil, you get a lot of hollers for your dollars.