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 strangeâ€.
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):Â Jeremy Daniel, Richard Termine
