Cirque du Soleil, the world-renowned circus performing arts company, has taken its mission of combining breathtaking acrobatics with rich storytelling to new heights with the launch of its latest show, ‘Auana,’ which premiered this month in Waikiki, Hawaii. This vibrant performance intricately weaves together Hawaiian culture, language, and art, showcasing hula, juggling, and stunning aerial displays. The production aims to honor and reflect the traditions of Hawaii, making authenticity its cornerstone.
Neil Dorward, the director of ‘Auana,’ engaged deeply with the local culture during the creative process. He expressed to PEOPLE how significant it was for him and his team, composed of many locals, to present the stories of Hawaii truthfully. “It had to be authentic, and it had to tell the right stories. The stories are very complicated,” Dorward noted. To grasp the nuances of these narratives, he turned to Hawaiian children’s books to help demystify the tales and their various interpretations.
“It's got to be digestible. It's got to be from a visual perspective,” Dorward explained, elaborately describing his thought process. “So when I learned it all, I went back to the basics. I said, ‘I'm just going to go and buy some kids’ books about the stories.’” This choice, he reasoned, was pivotal not just for integrating cultural narratives but also for building bridges to broader audiences. Children’s literature often offers simpler renditions of complex cultural tales, providing the creative team with insights to craft visual storytelling through performance.
This incorporation of local narrative traditions is part of Cirque’s broader strategy to connect with audiences on multiple levels. The essence of ‘Auana’ is more than just representation; it invites viewers to experience and understand the beauty of Hawaiian culture through the lens of Cirque du Soleil’s signature visual extravagance. Dwayne Johnson, who graced the show’s opening, celebrated its cultural significance, declaring, “It’s good to be back home during this time and bring the little ones here too.” His words capture the spirit of returning to roots, signifying familial and cultural ties.
Meanwhile, Cirque du Soleil continues to light up stages worldwide with other productions, including ‘Cirque Dreams Holidaze,’ which brings festive cheer through its enchanting blend of circus artistry. This production transports audiences to the heart of the holiday season, featuring holiday-themed characters, acrobatics, and classic songs with delightful twists. It’s positioned as the perfect way to extend the joy of the holidays and engage audiences of all ages.
Just on the horizon, the iconic ‘Alegría’ is set to return, with its reinvented version planned to hit the stage from November 20 to December 19, 2025, in Chatou, Île-de-France. This show, described as filled with magic and strong emotions, invites audiences to immerse themselves in the dramatic narrative of redemption and revolution. The evolution of ‘Alegría’ pays homage to its legacy, celebrating the emotional depth and artistic expression of circus performances.
The anticipation surrounding ‘Alegría’ highlights Cirque du Soleil's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. Each reimagined performance aims to resonate with contemporary audiences, ensuring the show remains relevant and captivating. The storyline set against the backdrop of revolution carries powerful themes, affirming the company’s dedication to meaningful storytelling integrated with spellbinding acrobatics.
Cirque du Soleil’s productions extend beyond mere entertainment; they often become cultural phenomena. With worldwide fame and the ability to adapt performances based on cultural contexts, the company makes significant impacts through its artistry. Whether it is through ‘Auana,’ exposing audiences to authentic Hawaiian traditions, or delectable festive spectacles like ‘Cirque Dreams Holidaze,’ the essence of Cirque lies within its ability to connect with audiences on deep, emotional levels.
Looking at the larger picture, December appears to be brimming with opportunities for theater and circus enthusiasts alike. November is often quiet but promises to ignite excitement with countless performances, solidifying the theater season’s vibrant return. Audiences also can expect to witness spectacular circus acts as various troupes gear up for end-of-year shows, with Paris offerings showcasing talents from across the artistic spectrum. Cirque du Soleil remains at the forefront of this movement, captivating audiences worldwide through innovative narrative performances.
Cirque du Soleil remains committed to its founding principles, ensuring every performance celebrates the marvels of storytelling, whether through the lens of Hawaiian culture or the splendor of holiday festivities. These productions underline the shaping of community through shared experiences of art, highlighting the transformative power of performance. For those eager to escape the ordinary, these shows offer perfect opportunities to become part of the magic, elevati
