LUZIA BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL PERFECT FOR FAMILIES – opens in Brisbane September 26
Joyful, fun, colourful, magical, captivating, wondrous, enchanting and breathtaking – these just some of the words used to describe LUZIA by Cirque du Soleil, the stunning new show set to open in Brisbane on September 25 under the iconic Grand Chapiteau.
LUZIA takes audiences on a fantastical journey through a vibrant world filled with wonders, playfulness and artistry, as well as incredible visual surprises and breathtaking acrobatic performances.
Written and directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, LUZIA invites people to an imaginary Mexico, like in a waking dream, where light ("luz" in Spanish) quenches the spirit, and rain ("lluvia") soothes the soul. Smoothly passing from an old movie set to the ocean, to a smoky dance hall or an arid desert, LUZIA cleverly brings to the stage multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico taken from both tradition and modernity. Rich in awe-inspiring moments, LUZIA enchants by incorporating rain into acrobatic and artistic scenes – a first for a Cirque du Soleil touring production.
What's more, one of the lead artists in LUZIA is Queensland's own Helena Merten, who told of her excitement about returning to her home state, "I've dreamt of this since I was seven years old when I saw my first Cirque du Soleil show QUIDAM in Brisbane. Now in returning home to Queensland, to where it all began, and I am beyond excited."
HERE's 10 reasons why families will LOVE LUZIA:
1. There's Magical Visuals and So Much Colour!
The stage transforms into a vivid tapestry of Mexican landscapes and dreams and kids will be mesmerised by the giant horse puppet galloping across the stage, the enormous monarch butterfly wings, and the vibrant costumes inspired by traditional Mexican folklore. There's so much to watch 👀
2. There's Gob-Smacking Acrobatic Performances!
You really do have to see it to believe it! Incredible acrobatic acts like the high-speed Cyr wheel with artists spinning across the stage, the gravity-defying hand-balancing act and the unbelievable contortionist will leave everyone gasping in amazement. You'll LUZIA your mind (😉).
3. There's Wonderful Whimsical Storytelling…
The show is a magical adventure through a fantastical version of Mexico. Imagine a giant, friendly jaguar puppet having fun with acrobats, a dreamy forest that glows under the moon, scuba diving in the air, and a sudden rainstorm that magically turns into a sunny desert. It's perfect for big and little imaginations.
4. The Music is Live and Lively!
The music of LUZIA makes audiences smile, tap their feet and clap their hands! It is a mixture of ancient and modern Mexican sounds infused with the brassy notes of tubas and trumpets and the suave melodies of the Spanish guitar, all driven forward by the relentless percussion and drums. And it's all LIVE, enjoy 🎶🎺
5. Be Up Close and Part of the Show!
LUZIA immerses the audience – the artists interact directly with the crowd, the stunning rain curtain projects intricate patterns, the giant puppet horse gallops so close, the projections are so clear, the singer's dress blooms on stage and the performers dance through the crowd! It's such an immersive experience you'll LUZIA track of time!
6. It's Really Family Friendly Funny!
The humor in Luzia is accessible and engaging, with comedic acts like the water-filled contortionist who surprises the audience with unexpected splashes, and the clumsy lifeguard who hilariously fumbles with an inflatable pool toy. Kids (and adults) laugh their heads off. The joyfulness is truly wonderful.
7. There's Spectacular Water Effects
The show artistically incorporates water into the acrobatic acts – a first for a Cirque du Soleil touring production. There is a stunning sequence where a curtain of rain falls on the stage, creating a canvas for breathtaking projections and aerialists perform as rain cascades around them. Prepare to LUZIA yourself in water wonder!
8. There's Incredible Animal Puppets and Characters
Huge, lifelike and breathtaking – the jaguar that prowls the stage and the horse that gallops are so mesmerising, it's magic. Then there's the performer who mimics the movements of a hummingbird, the high-flying straps artist, suspended above a giant cenote (water-filled sinkhole), who flies like a bird, and of course the stunning monarch butterfly – it's all creatures great and tall!
9. Yep, There's a Football Dance!
Kids won't believe the skill! Football (AKA Soccer in Queensland 🙃) is highly celebrated in Mexico and in this act two men try to out-skill each other. They make the ball bounce, roll and spin using their knees, feet, soles and the back of their neck. Call the Olympic selectors!
10. Luzia Leaves You Feeling Really Really Good
LUZIA is infused with themes of transformation, wonder and joy. The show's finale, with all performers coming together in a vibrant, celebratory dance, leaves families with a feeling of unity and happiness. Try and stay seated during the finale – bet you can't!
TICKETS FOR LUZIA's Brisbane shows are via www.cirquedusoleil.com/Luzia.
