The famous company are back in London with Alegria, which continues to perform at the Royal Albert Hall until the 3rd March.
WhatsOnStage: **** “The show, which is directed by Jean-Guy Legault and lavishly designed by Anne-Séguin Poirier (set and props) and Dominique Lemieux (costumes), is notable for its music. René Dupéré’s accordion and pop-infused score is beautifully sung by soloists Sarah Manesse and Cassia Raquel, while it pulsates under the sticks of percussionist Anthony Prochilo, who is wheeled out to give a virtuoso accompaniment to the fire dance.”
Everything Theatre: **** “It has to be emphasised how incredible are the feats of athleticism and physical ability that each one of these artists displays. And to do this multiples times every week? Just unbelievable! From performers leaping and twisting on precariously narrow Acro Poles to the hypnotising twirl of the spinning Cyr Wheel (Ghislain Ramage), every aspect of what they do is a testament to their immense discipline and dedication to their craft. Even with the safety wires attached to the acrobats, the nervous anticipation of each balance, throw and catch still fizzes in the atmosphere whilst the audience gasp; silently willing each act to go perfectly without a hitch.”
The Stage: “Jean-Guy Legault’s confident and coherent reimagining of a classic that doesn’t stint on the spectacle”
Theatre & Tonic: ***** “The show is so lavish and astonishing and the crowd of all age groups go home amazed, barely believing what their eyes have just witnessed, especially in the closing trapeze scenes, where the speed and accuracy draw good old fashioned gasps of delight from large sections of the excited crowd. There’s a cast of, it feels like hundreds, of perfectly honed acrobats and dancers and athletes and every single one of them are a joy to watch.”
Time Out: **** “To be fair, I’ve seen some Cirque shows in recent years that have seemed repetitive and soulless, dollar signs reflected in their eyes. But not ‘Alegria’: it mingles the consummate professionalism that comes from big budgets and deep experience with a fresh energy and life.”
Evening Standard: **** “Alegria apparently means happiness, and these precision-tooled performers certainly leave their audience smiling. Bring spare socks for when your first pair get knocked off.”
The Upcoming: ***** “The “wow” effect and crescendo of emotions emerge from a finely tuned concoction of terrific elements: the talent on stage, the craft behind the scenes and the technicians around the hall. After the curtain call, what’s left is a light, warm sensation.”
London Theatre.co.uk: **** “You can feel every contour of Daria Kalinina and Halina Starevich’s balancing and contortion act, their costumes clinging like a second skin, as their bodies ripple and curve in perfect synchronicity. There is also an inspired moment of immersive theatre when the audience is drawn into the action during a snowstorm, which tears its way through the cavernous Royal Albert Hall thanks to confetti and strong wind machines.”
All That Dazzles: **** “Not only are the performers world class at a Cirque du Soleil show but so too are the whole crew. Costumes and high budget set design pull together to make the whole piece a theatrical showstopper.”
Broadway World: **** “Whether this is your first time at a Cirque show or your tenth, it’s not non-stop excitement, but there is a lot to enjoy here.”
The Reviews Hub: **** “Alegría: In a New Light is a fitting celebration of Cirque du Soleil’s remarkable transformation of this genre. It’s an exciting and breathtaking display that never fails to engage. Compared to other Cirque productions it does play to a slightly younger audience, with more focus on the clowns and whilst that may feel a bit frustrating at times, it does little to dampen the joy of this show.”
To book tickets visit: https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2024/alegria/