If you’ve ever seen a Cirque de Soleil show, you know it’s usually
a thrilling, hold-your-breath combination of acrobatics, costumes and music. Now
take that, add ice and you’ve got their latest show, "Axel."
Axel (currently on tour) takes place in an ice rink, so all
the usual death-defying aerial stunts are done on and high above unforgiving
ice, which makes it extra heart-pounding. Beyond the acrobatic stunts, the
performers incorporate classic figure skating technique -- jumps, ice
dancing and spins add another layer on top of an already
spectacular show.
The story, which is loosely told through movement and music,
stars a rocker named Axel. He sings, he draws and he plays the guitar, all
while on skates. He falls in love with the mysterious Lei who’s both graceful
and powerful. They fight with the villainous Vi for a light, each backed by an
army of skaters who can breakdance as well as fight using martial arts.
One of the best elements of the show is simply the ice and
how it is used. Not only do the performers move across it, but it becomes a
blank canvas that video is projected onto to paint a colorful set. In one moment,
it’s a race track with mini cars zooming around and the next moment it’s a giant
sketch pad showing Axel’s drawings. Because it’s just a projection, it can
change quickly and set the next scene.
The other unique feature of Axel is the live music. Axel
sings popular songs such as Tears for Fears’ “Mad World” and “Creep” by Radiohead,
as well as original songs like the peppy “Hero of the Day.” Axel sings live and is backed by a full band of live musicians, including
percussionists and guitarists that each get a moment to shine in the spotlight.
This really gives the show more of a concert vibe than just purely a physically
acrobatic show.
“For Cirque du Soleil 'AXEL,' we were
inspired by the feeling of arena concerts,” said Patricia Ruel, Creative
Director. “With Axel as the singer, popular songs, lights, laser and video
effects fueling the high-flying ice-skating and acrobatics, we created an
atmosphere that catalyzes energy and excitement.”
The costumes and the makeup are
stunning, too, but the skilled performers really are the backbone of the show,
bringing all the elements together. Many of the performers have unique talents,
whether it’s Olympic-level figure skating, spinning down the silks high above
the rink, or balancing on a ladder over a dozen feet tall. The show gives them
all room to breathe, with plenty of high-stakes action to keep everyone on the
edge of their seat.
In its 25th year, the
Canadian circus company really takes their already-arresting live entertainment
to a new level of awe. People of all ages will enjoy this show. With the
tech-inspired elements appealing to kids and tweens, including a robotic
skating dog who plays fetch with the audience before the show, to the sheer poetic
artistry of the skating that older audience members really embrace, it’s a
really great show for whole families to enjoy. Be sure to catch it before it
melts away to a fever dream.