10th
Expectations Exceeded
Every now and then I come across a situation that allows me to reset
my expectations. Recently this happened at a performance of Iris by
Cirque du Soleil.
The back story is that I had spoken to some hard-line Cirque fans who
thought the use of video and technology was a departure from the
formula that defines a good Cirque show. They could not have been more
wrong.
The music and performances were absolutely the first-rate production
for which Cirque is known. The stage had many unique characteristics
and formed a character on par with past productions. And there was a
heart-string pulling tale of love at the core that grounded each
performance into a semi-coherent storyline in the way that only the
best shows can.
The show has fantastic repeat watchability thanks to several
outstanding ensemble numbers that are jam-packed with frenetic energy
and a marvelous cascade of characters that are cacophony of movement
and superbly timed physical expression. The fantastic show-stopping
number after intermission blew my mind and was simply delightful.
Needless to say, I will be booking another seat in the near future so
my senses can savor the delectable symphonic and gymnastic treat that
was Iris.
