LUZIA — A LUCID MEXICAN TAPESTRY

Cirque du Soleil has once again spun its mesmerising web of wonder and fantasy in Brisbane, this time with its show, Luzia, a stunning homage to the vibrant culture, sounds, and spirit of Mexico.

Luzia is a visual feast. On opening night, the audience was treated to a dazzling spectacle that seamlessly blended breathtaking acrobatics, captivating storytelling, and visually striking scenes.

From the moment the show began, the audience was transported into a dreamlike vision of Mexico—an enchanting land where rain can be summoned with a turn of a crank. Luzia, a portmanteau of “luz” (light) and “lluvia” (rain), lives up to its name by brilliantly weaving these elements throughout the performance. Water, in particular, plays a starring role, creating some of the most unforgettable moments of the night.

One of the standout acts featured a trapeze artist soaring through a curtain of rain, her body twisting and turning with the agility of a bird in flight while under her was an exceptional Cyr wheel performer. As the water cascaded down, intricate patterns were projected onto the droplets, creating an almost ethereal tapestry of light and motion. It was a moment that truly captured the poetic beauty of Luzia, leaving the audience in awe of the combination of human skill and natural elements as well as a breathtaking example of Cirque du Soleil’s ability to fuse artistry and technology to elevate traditional circus acts into something transcendent.

The show’s strength lies not only in its visual splendour but also in its playful, almost whimsical storytelling. A recurring character, a clown stumbling through a series of mishaps, provided moments of light-hearted humour that bridged the fantastical acts.

The set design was a masterclass in surreal beauty, with each scene evoking a different aspect of Mexico’s rich landscape and heritage. In fact, the sets and costumes have equal status to the talented performing artists.

The performers, as always, were exceptional. Hoop divers brought a playful energy to the stage, their incredible precision and speed eliciting with the added challenge of doing their tricks on a giant conveyor belt. cheers and applause. Each act was meticulously choreographed, showcasing not only the physical prowess of the artists but also their deep commitment to storytelling through movement.

The music, a hauntingly beautiful score blending traditional Mexican sounds with contemporary influences, was the heartbeat of the show. It elevated every act, from the graceful contortions of a performer balancing on one hand to the rapid-fire speed of a juggler who seemed to defy the laws of physics. The live band infused each scene with a vibrant, emotional pulse that connected the disparate acts into a cohesive whole.

Luzia is an A-plus, must-see production. It is showing in Brisbane until 10 November 2024.