Back to the circus, and I don’t mean my day job (kidding!). Cirque du Soleil is back in Brisbane with their show ‘Kooza’, and I simply must tell you how it went!

I first saw Cirque du Soleil when I was younger, with my family. I think the first show we saw was ‘Luzia’, but I cannot remember, sadly. Regardless, it was an incredible experience, and we always try to go whenever they return.

Founded in 1984, Cirque du Soleil originated in Canada by a group of stilt-walkers called Les Échassiers. It’s been through many different iterations over the years, with ups and downs like most productions, but it has withstood the test of time to become one of the most iconic global exhibitions.

Their latest show, ‘Kooza’ follows the Innocent as they make their way through the wacky world of Kooza. Throughout the journey they encounter the Trickster, the King, clowns and performers, and a mad dog.

The name is inspired by the Sanskrit word “koza,” meaning “box,” or “treasure,” and this title was chosen ‘because one of the underlying concepts of the production is the idea of a “circus in a box.”‘ (Cirque du Soleil)

Set and Crew:

Now, I love all the little details of these sorts of shows and productions, so I had to dedicate some time to talking about the smaller details, crew and unsung heroes of the show.

The set itself was quite simple, with a round stage and a tower at the back. I loved the design, and especially the parts of the show when the Trickster or the Innocent opened it up. We had pretty good seats in the front section to the side of the stage, and I appreciated how the acts moved around quite a bit so audiences could see from all angles.

I loved all the technical sides of things too, like seeing how the crew set up each act while the entertainers kept the audience distracted. There were a few funny moments with the crew involved too, and its these moments and details which make the show so elite.

I know my sister and I were incredible grateful to see all the safety precautions taken for the performers too. Nets, pads, and spotters were not used but were all ready to go at all times. It definitely brought me a little peace of mind, and helped me to enjoy the death-defying acts even more.

Ultimately, everything worked smoothly (and even if it didn’t, the audience had no idea!). That seems like a success to me!

Performances

Now, I don’t want to spoil all the acts, especially because I think you should go and see them for yourself! But I do have to talk about some of my favourites!

Firstly, the show opened with three incredible contortionists who set the scene for the rest of the show. Graceful, fluid and strong, they moved so powerfully as they contorted themselves into all sorts of shapes.

And then there was a unicycle act that did not get the love it deserved! The balance and strength required to ride one of those things is amazing enough, but to do it while dancing with, lifting and carrying his partner on his HEAD was crazy. My family and I were extra loud to try and make up for the lacklustre response.

The Wheels of Death was absolutely heart stopping, but I think the high wire act was my favourite. The four performers made it look so easy as they danced back and forth across their tightropes, fencing and jumping and riding bikes!!!

What made it most incredible was the fact that as they began one of their penultimate acts, they actually had a little mistake. One performer slipped and fell off the rope, but caught himself and climbed back up. They regrouped and immediately signalled to the musicians that they would go again. This time, they nailed it.

All night, I was thinking of how incredible their minds and bodies are to do these absolute feats. Every stumble, every extra second to balance or catch a breath adds a beautiful human tough too, and reminds us in the audience that these are real people putting their bodies on the line for the show.

I also loved the live singing and musicians. Every day there seems to be another machine trying to replace all that human artists do, but this was a reminder that truly nothing compares to the experience of live music. The singers were fantastic, and my sister and I loved watching the drummer absolutely kill it during his solo.

Throughout the show, the comedians and mimes were fantastic at keeping the audience engaged while people shuffled into their seats or during the changeovers on stage. I adored the ‘cleaner’ mime who went about his work sweeping everything—and everyone—before the show. They also had a segment with an audience member who was brilliant himself. I usually get a bit nervous when the big blokes get pulled onstage for these sorts of acts, but I was pleasantly surprised that he played along well, and even had some funny moments himself. I think the mimes loved it even more!

Costumes:

I couldn’t write a proper review without discussing the amazing costumes!

Productions like these are awesome because the wacky nature lends itself to more unique costumes and designs. As Kooza invites us to look back to the circuses of old, the performers were dressed like clowns while also incorporating inspiration from Indian and Eastern European art. These influences combined to create beautifully textured pieces, beautiful draping and unique shapes.

I have to dedicate a moment to the Trickster too, whose perfectly fitted suits elevated the magnificent persona. The Trickster’s bright vertical colours are in contrast to the Innocent’s pale horizontal lines and oversized outfit. The juxtaposition is striking, and highlights the differences between the Innocent’s world (maybe ours?) and the magical precision and colours in Kooza.

The Trickster also wore a swirly red and yellow suit, and I noticed how the lines on the jacket and pants perfectly lined up. Again, this attention to detail is incredible!

The headpieces, makeup, and various other costumes were all just as wonderful, though my favourites had to be the feathery coat worn by the Hula Hoop performer and the feathery skeleton dancers.

Location, Parking and Food:

Now, if you’re anything like me, you want to know about the transport, parking, and food situation wherever you go—just in case.

We drove in and saw heaps of people parking on the street because it did cost $20 to park in front of the big top. We decided to cop it and got a good park right at the front. Fortunately, it also meant we were among the first out, so everything worked out well.

Tickets were $69 each when we booked earlier this year, though the same seats are about $145 now. We sat to the side of the stage in the first section, but there is no such thing as a bad seat in Cirque du Soleil!

As for food, we bought a bottle of water ($6.50), a peach yuzu and gin cocktail ($20) and a bag of popcorn ($13). Between the three of us this was plenty, and we probably didn’t need that much to be honest. Food Total = $39.50.

The circus was located under the Big Top on Curtin Ave. E, behind the Royal Queensland Golf Club. It was a relatively easy drive, and not too busy for us as we went on a Thursday night.

Summary

All in all, it was a 10/10 night. Every act was such an incredible feat of human ability and performance. I love this circus and I’ve been a few times, but it never gets old. It’s a shame when the audience is quiet, as each act is so unbelievably difficult and incredible. I mean, can you do any of those things? Nonetheless, I loved the show and can’t wait for the next one!