Before traveling to NYC earlier this month, I decided to look up what shows were playing while I was there. I love Broadway, and while that’s my usual go-to for a night out, something more fantastical caught my eye: Cirque du Soliel Zarkana – “an acrobatic rock opera that blends circus arts with the surreal to create a world where physical virtuosity rubs shoulders with the strange”.
Seeing Zarkana was a no-brainer – and at Radio City Music Hall? Even better. The preview of Zarkana online had me hooked, and I dare say it was the one thing I was most looking forward to on my visit to New York City.
The story behind Zarkana is that of a magician, Zark, who has lost his powers, along with the love of his life, in an abandoned theatre. For me personally, the storyline is not what brings me to a Cirque show, and often I haven’t a clue about what’s actually going on. But, that’s the beauty of it – you don’t need to understand what’s going on to enjoy every second.
Zarkana has a running time of 90 minutes with 12 acts and no intermission. Things start off tamely, albeit impressive, with the Juggling act.
I think it’s at this time that Zark loses his powers-- honestly, I had no clue. But once the act is over, things really pick up, and for the next 80 minutes you’re in a bizarre, visually stimulating, alternative universe -- complete with a creepy baby in a bubble.
The way Zarkana is presented is a feast for the senses. I was more attentive to the music in this show than in any other Cirque show that I’ve been to-- visually I was also more attached. Hi-Def LCD screens give depth to the show unlike anything else that I have seen.
I won’t give too many more details on what goes on in the show (you just have to see it!) but my favorite acts were Russian Bar, Trio Latter, the Wheel of Death, Sand Painting and Hand Balancing.
My only disappointment was the finale – it just kind of ended. The final act didn’t have the same level of excitement as the rest of the show, for me. Overall though, Zarkana was AMAZING! To date, it's my favorite Cirque show.
When it comes to entertainment value, not much competes with Cirque du Soleil. For those who have never seen a show, it’s insanely hard to describe the emotion and intensity behind each performance –- It’s edge-of-your-seat, hold-your-breath, anxiety-ridden artistry that will have you hooked from the very first minute. If you haven’t been – Go!
Where to See Zarkana
New York City (Radio City Music Hall): From now until September 2, 2012
Las Vegas (Aria Resort & Casino): Beginning November 1, 2012.
Photo credit(s): Jeremy Daniel, Richard Termine
HilLesha
Looks fun! Fantastic pictures.
Crystal @ Simply Being Mommy
Looks like it would be a fun show.
Kathleen
I have always wanted to see one of these shows. This one looks so cool!
A Time Out for Mommy- Elaina
I LOVEEE cirque du soleil!!
Lolo
I would love to go to a cirque show some day.
Ty @ Mama of 3 Munchkins
Looks like a lot of fun!
Yolonda@ The Thrifynistas
This looks awesome!
Theresa
Love your pictures! Everything looks amazing!
April Decheine
Wow that looks like an amazing show, thank you for sharing!
admin
I can't take any credit for the photos-- they were courtesy of Cirque du Soleil: Jeremy Daniel, Richard Termine. You're not allowed to take any photos during the show. 🙂
Anne - Mommy Has to Work
Wow - you're pictures are amazing!
Stefani
This looks like fun! I want to see it.
Zipporah Sandler
I'm a huge Cirque du Soleil fan and have seen quite a few of their shows. I'm looking forward to this one as well.
debra
I've seen a few and would love to see this one!
Virginia from That Bald Chick
I've neve3r been to a cirque show.
Kelly
I have yet to see cirque show and my gosh that looks like a strange one.
Jenn @therebelchick
I have never seen a Cirque show! I don't know why, I have always wanted to. This one looks amazing!
Billie
That is a creepy baby, but the rest looks cool.
Courtney
looks fun
MomStart (Ashley)
I LOVE Cirque Du Soleil!!!
Toni
I'm going to see my first Cirque show in about 2 weeks and can.not.wait.
Tricia Nightowlmama
looks amazing and so cultural
Cirque du Soleil
I’ve been obsessively listening to the cast recording of the Book of Mormon musical. It’s fantastic, and I’m dying to see the show.
Penelope (NYC Blogger)
Ooh, eerie and cool! I saw them in Las Vegas years back…I forget what it was called, I think Mystere?
Sheri
Great pictures! It looks like a great show.
Donna
Wow, I'd love to see this in person!
April Decheine
Hope you are enjoying all your fantastic travels!
Marcie W.
Living in Las Vegas my entire life, I've had the opportunity to see many Cirque shows and love them ALL. I can't wait until this one arrives in November, just in time for my anniversary!
Cirque du soleil
Great photos !