The art of the battle is elevated to an awe-inspiring masterpiece of theatrical artistry in Cirque du Soleil’s $165 million production of "KÀ." Filled with martial arts moves, aerial maneuvers, acrobatic choreography, plus fiery special effects, the show is a demonstration of pure power. It also affirms Cirque du Soleil’s reputation for taking things to the limit…and beyond.
'KÀ' has heroes battling for justice, family and love
The storyline in this epic production is a common one; the power-hungry will go to any lengths to remain on top. But when an omnipotent ruler becomes entangled with righteous folks, watch out!
Against all odds, the heroes bravely take on the villains. The result is a magnificent series of confrontations and adventures that reach far into the heavens and far beneath the seas, to the delight of audiences who are projected into a new realm of reality.
Breakthrough technology and remarkable physicality add to the excitement
As battlefields tilt and turn, what ordinarily would seem totally impossible, somehow becomes possible. That’s because the "KÀ" theater was not designed with a conventional stage. Rather, the theater is equipped with a series of state-of-the-art platforms and lifts; the largest platform weighs 50 tons and can be lifted up and lowered down 72 feet, rotated 360 degrees, and tilted to an angle of 100 degrees.
With the ground beneath their feet constantly on the move, the performers have an added challenge. Yet, they exhibit exactitude and finesse when carrying out physical feats that would seem impossible to the average human being. That’s because Cirque performers are by no means average. They are the crème de la crème of entertainers, whose dedication is absolute, keeping the rest of us spellbound.
As seen in other Cirque productions, the ominous Wheel of Death is also utilized in "KÀ." In one scene, when slaves are forced to operate the dangerous machine, it is not only the performers’ adrenaline that gets pumping.
Martial arts is an integral part of the show’s choreography
Fans of Cirque du Soleil have come to associate its shows with scintillating acrobatic and dance choreography.
"KÀ" brings yet another perspective with the inclusion of fight scenes based on Wushu, a form of contemporary Chinese martial arts that combines quickness, explosive power and natural relaxed movements. Add to this, drumbeats that pulsate through the theater and an exhaustive wardrobe complete with intricate make-up and body paint, and the result is a raw authenticity that bespeaks of a warrior world.
Lighthearted respites have a circus-like appeal
Yet, with all its turmoil and seriousness throughout, "KÀ" also provides moments of comic relief and innocent wonderment. In one scene, a crab, a turtle, and a starfish create the perfect bumbling moves to bring on the laughter. In another, shadow puppetry gives imagination a chance to soar.
Such instances bring a touch of circus fanfare to life. In the true Cirque spirit, "KÀ" -- along with the six other Cirque shows in Las Vegas -- continues to be a reinvention of the circus. At its headquarters in Montreal, Cirque du Soleil’s nearly 400 craftspeople and specialists diligently work behind the scenes so that the 1300+ performance artists can bring creativity, innovation and pizzazz to the stage. It’s the exceptional combination of arts and sciences that continues to make the magic onstage happen. And it’s obvious this cast loves what they do.
In "The Art of War," Sun Tzu reiterates that "if you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven and know Earth, you may make your victory complete," yet "KÀ" reminds us that sometimes the most powerful secret weapon is simply love.