Many of us have the impression that a circus is where you see contortionists, jugglers and tight-rope walkers doing stunts and tricks, and clowns goofing around with their silly antics; we think of it as a place for slapstick entertainment.
Last week, I caught Cirque du Soleil Kooza, and I realised just how wrong I was.
The latest addition to the world-famous theatrical producer Cirque du Soleil’s series, KOOZA, is back in Singapore.
Presented in the intimate setting of the iconic blue and yellow Big Top tents that sits beside Marina Bay Sands, KOOZA pays homage to Cirque du Soleil’s roots by combining thrilling acrobatic acts with the traditional art of clowning.
Inspired by the Sanskrit word “Koza”, which means “box”, “chest”, or “treasure”, the 140-minute show follows the journey of “The Innocent”, who opens the portal to a magical world through a mysterious box.
Portrayed by an endearing pyjamas-clad character, “The Innocent” took us through the acts, the whole time reflecting exactly how we felt as an audience – in awe of everything.
We were thoroughly impressed by the stunning stage props, seamless transitions, the dazzling lights that complemented the acts, the adorable antics of the clowns, and the incredible stunts by the performers.
The Hoops Manipulation was one of first to leave an impression.
While most of us can’t even handle one hula hoop, the performer showed off her exceptional balance and impressive dexterity, spinning up to seven hoops at once, and making it look effortless while at it!
It’s no exaggeration to say that she was one with the hoops as she glided around on the aerial hoop, changing poses quickly while still managing to look graceful while doing so.
Another highlight was the Double Highwire, which involved four nimble performers who not only demonstrated their remarkable ability to balance, but who also had to jump over one another, have a fencing match, and even cycle on a thin wire!
The Skeleton Dance takes you to the craziness of the dark side with its choreography and flamboyant feather costumes. Pretty as it was, it served as a well-timed break (to us at least) as our hearts were racing from the intense acts happening back to back.
Our favourite act of the night was undoubtedly the Wheel of Death.
As the name suggests, a small slip up on the wheel can send you plummeting to your death. Be prepared to have your breath taken away and your nerves at an all time high as you watch the brave duo tame the enormous spinning contraption.
Throughout the night, we were kept at the edge of our seats. The crazy stunts we saw had us raving through the intermission and at the end of the show. The live singer and band, as well as goofy antics by the adorable clowns made it that much more entertaining.
True to Cirque du Soleil’s mission to invoke imagination and evoke emotions, we left the show wondering how amazing it would be if we worked or lived in a circus. Whether you’re already a fan of Cirque du Soleil, or have never caught any or their shows, don’t miss KOOZA! You’ll be surprised at how much you’ll enjoy your experience!
DiscoverSG Pro-Tip: Visit the toilet before you head over to the Big Top, and head over early! You don’t want to squeeze with the crowd for both ticket collection and bag check at the entrance.
Cirque du Soleil KOOZA will be performing in Singapore until 20 August 2017. Tickets are still available so get your preferred seats before they’re gone. Ticket prices start from $61.50, with the top tiered VIP Rouge – First Row tickets starting at $318.
Cirque du Soleil Kooza
Address: Under the Big Top Tent, next to Marina Bay Sands
Date: 12 Jul – 27 Aug
Duration: Approx. 2 h 20 min (including 30min interval)
Purchase your tickets to Cirque du Soleil KOOZA here.
Also read, 10 Fresh Events And Food Spots That Have Just Popped Up In The Second Half Of July [16-31 July]!
(Header Image Source: Cirque du Soleil)
