Cirque du Soleil presents a new show inspired by Hawaiian culture

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (FOX5) – A new Cirque du Soleil show is coming to Hawaii!

In a press release Thursday, the group announced their first performance in Hawaii under the name “Auana,” which means “to wander or drift.”

According to a press release, the show will honor the islands’ rich culture “through Cirque du Soleil’s distinctive artistry and daring athletic feats.”

The cast will include talented international and local artists who will present “world-class acrobatics, outrageous comedy, mesmerizing hula and captivating music in this vibrant celebration of Hawaii.”

“Auana” will consist of eight chapters, each focusing on a separate story, beginning with an interpretation of Polynesian island migrations featuring “high-flying” acrobats “powered by traveling swings.”

The “golden age of tourism” will also be explored by a duo of foot jugglers.

The sky-high hoop performance will be the band’s tribute to Hina, the Hawaiian moon goddess. The Tale of Naupaka, the legend of forbidden love between a beautiful princess and an ordinary man, will also be brought to life by a roller skating duo who “defy gravity,” the group says.

Bol’s role, also known as acrobatic balancing, will highlight the “birthplace of he’e nalu,” or surfing. Chief O’ahu Māmala, a legendary surfer, and Mo’o, spirits known for shape-shifting, the series will also feature women and giant lizards.

“Auana will conclude with a performance by an artistic sand painter who celebrates the “spirituality of the Hawaiian people and their connection to the land,” followed by a performance by the Circle of Life, featuring ‘alae’ula birds and “their role in the mythical origins of fire”.

“Our collective – as a group of artists, designers and cultural creators – has brought to life a fantastic and otherworldly journey through the songs, stories and traditions of our Hawaiian Islands, performing heart-warming performances directly from the heroes and luminaries of Hawaiian traditions,” said Aaron J. Salā, Creative Cultural Producer . “We have held Auana close to our chest for so long and we are thrilled to share this project with Hawaii and beyond through the greatness of Cirque du Soleil.”

“AUANA will be open exclusively in the new, purpose-built OUTRIGGER Theater at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel on O‘ahu. Performances take place from Wednesday to Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., with no performances on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Tickets for performances starting on December 5, 2024 and ending with the world premiere of the show on December 17, 2024 are now available for sale.

Those wishing to purchase tickets can visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii.

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