The Bottom Line
Although Cirque du Soleil's latest New York City production, Varekai, doesn't stray far from their typical model, it the enchanting costumes and amazing acrobatics make it worthwhile.
Pros
- Wonderful costumes and set design
- Outstanding acrobatics
- Enchanting atmosphere & music
Cons
- Doesn't stray far from Cirque model
- Getting to Randall's Island
Description
- Randall's Island in Manhattan's East River.
- Written and directed by Dominic Champagne.
- Sets by Stéphane Roy.
- Costumes by Eiko Ishioka.
- Choreography by Michael Montanaro and Bill Shannon.
- Music & Lyrics by Ricky Ian Gordon.
- Opening: Thursday, April 24, 2003.
- Closing: Sunday, June 22, 2003.
- In traditional mythology, Icarus died when he ignored his father and flew too closely to the sun.
Guide Review - Cirque du Soleil's Varekai: New York Theater Review
While getting to Randall's Island is a challenge (you can take a ferry, bus or drive), it is enchanting to arrive on an island full of blue and yellow circus tents. Everything is meticulously orchestrated: beginning with mini-entrance tents that ensure you won't miss the souveniers or concessions. Seating is more intimate than a typical circus, but about as comfortable. Combining acrobatic feats, extraordinary costumes and mythological imagery, Cirque du Soleil's latest creation, Varekai, is dazzling. Varekai explores the death and rebirth of Icarus and his journey through the strange forest. Truly an ensemble performance, from floor acrobats to trapeze performers, there is so much to see -- making it great both kids and adults.
