VEGAS Vacation Must See: KA by Cirque du Soleil
Before Cirque du Soleil set up permanently at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, they were already world famous and their shows were known the world over as a leading-edge fusion of acrobatics, musicals, and theatre. But when they came to Vegas the “Cirque” had a serious problem: how to compete. Las Vegas is already jam packed with a never ending list of fun, entertaining, and exciting things to choose from.
As with all their productions, the Cirque sticks to what makes their shows popular and successful all around the world and are guaranteed to please diehard fans and neophytes alike: vibrant costumes, daring acrobatic feats, powerful music, and captivating theatricality. But, unlike their past performances that are based on highly abstract visual representations, KA tells a straightforward story.
KA’s narrative is comprised of fourteen scenes and is performed by over 80 artists from around the world. The story incorporates complex automation and pyrotechnics, puppetry, multi-media projections, martial arts and capoeira dance, with the Cirques’ traditional use of astounding visuals, costumes, and acrobatic feats. It is truly a sight to behold.
What really sets the Cirque apart from anyone else, is the fact that they perform their shows without a stage in the traditional sense. There is no permanent floor. Instead, KA creates a theatrical landscape with two giant moving platforms, five smaller lifts and platforms that appear to float through thin air, and performers who dangle, dance, and spin weightlessly on thin trapeze wires. The net result is an awe-inspiring, gravity-defying, spectacular that defies imagination.
KA’s music and sound is dreamy. There is a full band off-stage that accompanies the performance and live singing that takes place on stage during the show. The music itself is stirring and has a level of emotional profundity more common found in operas or symphonies. The sound system is world class, creating a dynamic surround sound experience for the audience; no matter where you are it makes you feel like you are in the heart of the action.
The overall production is so powerful, it creates the feeling of breathlessness and excitement in the audience and has them clamouring for more. F.i.l.e.s. News owner and Editor-in-chief Rob Yun said that the show is so powerful, it’s guaranteed to give you Goosebumps; the energy of the show is as thrilling as it is exciting.
Unlike the Cirques’ past performances, KA features four short pre-show performances. Guests are greeted by the villagers of KA, in the second act two musicians climb up to two stringed instruments especially designed for KA. The third act includes flips, leaps, and dives off and around the architecture of the stage in an attempt to dazzle and shock the crowd, and the preshow finishes with a staged act designed to remind patrons not to use flash photography or mobile phones during the performance.
At the end of the day there’s really only one thing to say about Cirque du Soleil’s production: KA is simply the best action, martial arts, and acrobatic show in the world. It is worth every penny of the cost. KA gives the most bang for your buck in Vegas entertainment but more importantly, it will take you on an emotional journey that will warm your heart. When you plan your trip to Las Vegas, you HAVE to see KA. Please!
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