Theater: Cirque du Soleil Corteo

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Cirque du Soleil - 'Corteo'

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Cirque du Soleil translates to a different world of entertainment that stands out for its daredevil balancing acts, acrobatics and body contortions. But his shows are not just wonderful spectacles but are a lesson in themselves. These shows combine wisdom, sentiment and are a testament to Soleil's understanding of the art. His shows are far removed from the old-fashioned pomp of a traditional circus

Corteo means "cortege" in Italian. The show by the legendary Cirque du Soleil is a procession of fun and joy. It is a festive parade imagined by a clown. Soleil combines the the passion of an actor with the power an grace of an actor to create a show that stands out for its uniqueness. The stage is set and the drama unfolds in a mysterious realm between the heaven and the earth. The show is a fantastic combination of fun and comedy. The effect is heightened by the amount of spontaneity that the show packs in. In characteristic Soleil style, the show has an imaginative story complimented by extraordinary sets and unbelievable acrobatic feats.

The clown in the Corteo pictures his own funeral in a carnival atmosphere. There are caring angels and deeply felt sentimentality that appeals to all. if there are the larger than life sets and dazzling glamor, there is also the finely articulated details that make the show more than a acrobat parade. There is the juxtaposition of the ridiculous with the tragic, large with the small, and also the power of perfection with the quiet charm of imperfection. The show displays the strength, fragility, wisdom and kindness of the clown who is not just the jester but also a pointer to the inner selves of all of us. The clown epitomizes the portion of humanity that is within each of us.

Corteo is a creation of Daniele Finzi Pasca, the Swiss clown-theater director. He is the one responsible for Eloize's superb "Rain.'' The show is conceived and staged by Pasca with the help of Teatro Sunil. The artistic leadership is provided by the Cirque founder Guy Laliberte and the Director of Creation Line Tremblay. The show is definitely jazzier, more densely layered than before and is laced with self-mocking humor. The show has a few parts to watch out for, as the human-marionette bit and a "Teatro Intimo" slapstick "Romeo and Juliet" spoof.

Then there is the remarkable team of Stephane Beauregard, Jeremie Robert and Petar Stoyanov. Along with Yuliya Raskina they execute gravity-defying patterns that were never seen before. Uzeyer Novrusov is an example of whimsical balance. His moment in the show is when he tries to reach an inviting angel while dance-teetering on a ladder.

The music is lyrical and playful. Keyboardist Roger Hewett's seven-piece band delivers memorable tunes in light-rock, jazz, samba and cabaret style. Given the fantastic ride that it is, the show is hugely successful.