Cirque du Soleil reveal new show inspired by Hawaiian culture

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A new Cirque du Soleil show is headed to the Hawaiian islands!

In a press release Thursday, the group announced its first resident show in Hawai’i, “’Auana,” which means “to wander or drift.”

The show will honor the rich culture of the islands “through Cirque du Soleil’s signature artistry and daring feats of athletic prowess,” according to a press release.

The cast will feature a lineup of international and local talent to deliver “world-class acrobatics, outrageous comedy, mesmerizing hula, and captivating music in this lively celebration of Hawai’i.”

‘Auana will unfold across eight chapters that will each focus on a distinct story, starting with an interpretation of the Polynesian migrations to the islands featuring “high-flying” acrobats “propelled by voyaging swings.”

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

An aerial hoop act will represent the troupe’s homage to Hina, the Hawaiian goddess of the moon. The tale of Naupaka, the legend of a forbidden love between a beautiful princess and a commoner, will also be brought to life by a roller-skating duo that “defy gravity,” the group says.

A Rola Bola act, otherwise known as acrobatic balancing, will highlight the “birthplace of he’e nalu,” or surfing. O’ahu chiefess Māmala, a legendary surf rider, and Mo’o, spirits known for shape-shifting between beautiful women and giant lizards, will also be featured in the show.

‘Auana will then close with an artistic sand painter who celebrates “the spirituality of the Hawaiian people and their connection to the land” before a Wheel of Life act portraying ‘alae ‘ula birds and “their role in the mythical origins of fire.”

“Our collective—as a group of artists, designers and cultural creatives—has brought a fantastical and otherworldly journey to life through the songs, stories and traditions of our Hawaiʻi, with heart-racing performances descended directly from the heroes and luminaries of Hawaiian traditions ,” said Aaron J. Salā, Creative Cultural Producer. “For so long, we have held ʻAuana close to the chest and we are delighted to share this project with Hawai’i and beyond thanks to the grandeur of Cirque du Soleil.”

ʻAuana will open exclusively at the new, custom-designed OUTRIGGER Theater at OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel on O’ahu. Performances are set for Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm with no performances Monday and Tuesday.

Tickets are now on sale for performances starting December 5, 2024, leading up to the show’s world premiere on December 17, 2024.

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

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