If you happened to catch a glimpse of me at Cirque du Soleil TOTEM this past week, you were likely to see my eyes wide open and jaw hitting the floor due to the sheer amount of talent present on the stage under the Grand Chapiteau at Atlantic Station. This was my first experience (there's no better word for it) with Cirque du Soleil and one that I'm not bound to forget. Yes, it was that good!
A little about the show....TOTEM traces the fascinating journey of the human species from its original amphibian state to its ultimate desire to fly. The characters evolve on a stage evoking a giant turtle, the symbol of origin for many ancient civilizations.
This storyline is evident throughout the entirety of the show and put together seamlessly, incorporating tongue-in-cheek comedy along with dramatic feats of acrobatics and skill from cultures around the world. The cast is comprised of 53 artists from 18 countries — Australia, Belarus, Brazil, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Italy,
Japan, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Mongolia, The People’s Republic of China, Russian Federation, Spain, Ukraine, The United Kingdom and The United States of America.
One of our favorite acts was that of five women riding unicycles balancing metal bowls on their heads and throwing the bowls with their feet onto one of the other unicyclist's head. Sounds crazy, right? It may be, but these ladies have it perfected. My husband and I were astounded at the skill, balance and grace it took to complete this daring task, but time and time again they proved their ability.
Costumes are designed and created in Montreal and are specific to each performer, taking molds of their faces to ensure the best fit possible of masks and other accessories. Costumes also will start out solid white and are individually designed and patterned in vibrant colors.
Each artist applies their own makeup before each show which takes about an hour in a step-by-step process. While backstage, we were introduced to one of the "Frogs" who has been in TOTEM since the launch of the show. This native of Japan was a gymnast and coach but decided to try out the life of travle with Cirque du Soleil and is loving the experience. He was also very gracious to answer our many questions and pose for a photo!
SPECIAL OFFER FOR 40% OFF TICKETS!!!
To celebrate the beginning of the Holiday Season, Cirque du Soleil is partnering with Toys For Tots to offer a short exclusive sneak peek performance of its latest production TOTEM on Black Friday November 23, 2012. Participants who donate a toy at this event will be given access to an exclusive discount for 40% off tickets to select TOTEM shows in Atlanta. Guests will also be able to get their photo taken with Santa at the end of the event, so be sure to bring your camera!
SHOW DATES & LOCATION:
NOW - December 30th
Under the Grand Chapiteau at Atlantic Station
TICKETS
Click HERE to purchase tickets
Price Range: Adult - $48.50 - $153.30; Child - $36.50 - $111.50
For more information about Cirque du Soleil TOTEM, click HERE.
