Corteo - A Grand Procession by Cirque du Soleil - The Haute Life

We all should receive a little pomp and circumstance when we die. And who better to drive home this need for extravagance than Cirque du Soleil?

On Thursday, June 8th, my almost 14-year-old son and I had the joy of watching Corteo, the mesmerizing creation by Cirque du Soleil. The arena performance transports audiences into a whimsical realm where a circus clown, Mauro, imagines his funeral as a beautiful circus parade. (The word Corteo or cortege in Italian means joyous procession.)

Jess and Rhett attending Cirque du Soleil's Corteo — Jess and Rhett attending Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo

I’ve seen multiple Cirque shows and become an even bigger fan with every new performance. And now, I have two lifelong fans, my boys, Rhett, who attended Corteo with me, and Vincent, who saw ‘Twas the Night Before in December.

From the moment the light hits the stage, Corteo unveils a visual extravaganza that seamlessly blends acrobatics, music, dance, and storytelling. Instantaneously beauty and danger hang in the balance when four women (Mauro’s former loves) perform breathtaking acrobatics on giant chandeliers above his bed.

This scene moves seamlessly into a comical act where giant trampolines are disguised as beds, and the performers act as children bouncing on the bed. Although, this bouncing is of a little more Olympic quality. I also now have to go over, once again, why we are not getting a trampoline for our yard. (Ha, ha, ha, ha!)

As with all Cirque shows, from cyr wheels to sky-high acrobatics on a pole suspended in the air, we held our breath and cheered with the 360-degree audience. The artists’ display of athleticism and grace that defies the laws of physics had everyone on the edge of their seats!

But, I particularly loved the clowning around in the golf parody, where the golf ball (a performer’s head sticking out of the floor) taunts and plays mischievous games with the golfer.

I plan to head to Golf Galaxy this weekend to grab a box of those menacing balls to swap with the Titleist ones currently in my husband’s golf bag.

Another highlight was when the circus character, Valentina, was suspended from helium balloons and floated over the audience, depending on them to push her to move across the arena.

In addition to the visuals, the live orchestra and vocalists complemented the performances, enhancing the atmosphere and intensifying the narrative.

Corteo’s success lies in its ability to engage the audience on multiple levels. It speaks to the child within us, reminding us of the power of imagination and the importance of cherishing life’s simplest joys. It also presents a profound exploration of the human condition, touching on themes of loss, longing, and the inevitability of mortality while instilling hope and celebration.

In summary, Corteo is an extraordinary spectacle transcending traditional circus performances’ boundaries. Its fusion of artistry, athleticism, and storytelling creates an immersive experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally moving. Whether you are a fan of Cirque du Soleil or new to the world of contemporary circus, Corteo is an absolute must-see, offering an unforgettable journey into a dream world where imagination reigns supreme.

And, don’t forget to bring someone you love to make them a fan for life also!

The show runs now through June 11th. Get your tickets today!

Buy tickets HERE.

Corteo – A Grand Procession by Cirque du Soleil

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