Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA: What a Dream of Mexico

LUZIA is Cirque du Soleil’s interpretation of a “waking dream of Mexico,” an adventure of modern and traditional music, dance and acrobatics. My kids couldn’t take their eyes off the bright costumes and unbelievable acrobatics.

As the story begins, a displaced traveler, the clown whose story ties all the scenes together, skydives into magical Mexico. The first half is filled with acrobats dressed like birds leaping through the air, complex dance routines and true feats of strength as a man balances himself high in the air.

The second act opens, after a brief intermission, with an amazing soccer player showing off footwork and impressive ball handling, followed by a juggler, aerial acrobatics, a contortionist and a high-flying swing show.

The best thing about Luzia is that it appealed to both my children’s core interests: multiple dance and acrobatics numbers and the soccer segment that made my oldest daughter put down her popcorn. My 4-year-old most enjoyed the costumes, especially the way they brought so many animals to life, while my 7-year-old was captivated by the soccer player and the “boy who was so bendy.”

My husband and I enjoyed the whole show, particularly the music and singing as well as the clown’s humor and audience engagement. Luzia is a fun and unique experience to share with your children

Know Before You Go: Because of Cirque’s rotating stage and circular seating, there may not be a bad seat in the house. If you’re taking small children, be aware that the music can be loud and there are bright lights and short periods of darkness. With intermission, we were in the tent for about two hours and my 4-year-old became restless toward the end of the first half and again toward the end of the second half.

–Lauren Townsend