REVIEW: Luzia (Cirque du Soleil) ★★★★

There’s a trip to the circus, but then there’s Cirque du Soleil – an extraordinary, magical spectacular that will make you gasp, cringe and cheer!

For this latest production, the focus is on Mexico and the natural environment. Water, wind, plants and creatures, surprise the audience with wondrous creations that flow seamlessly from scene to scene. Clowns and cacti perform together and engulf you in an ‘other world’.

Music and movement are sublime, telling the story through both mime and in Hispanic songs, providing us with a story that is both surreal and beautiful.

Highly talented artistes perform fantastic acrobatics and daredevil feats, with each one become more intricate and dangerous as the audience reacts.

Yet compared to previous productions, Luzia feels lacking in thrill and danger. Previous shows have seemed bigger and bolder; some acts in this felt like a youth club programme.

Having said that it is a fantastic production. The costumes are delightful, and the artistic effects of both light and water are mesmerising. Swings, hoops and poles all contribute to a unique evening that does take your breath away, but also leaves you feeling slightly underwhelmed.

Reviewed by Michaela Clement-Hayes
Photo: Matt Beard
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