Cirque du Soleil performances are always a breathtaking, captivating experience. With people performing gravity-defying tricks that take years to master, it’s hard not to be impressed. That’s why I had high expectations going into Alegria by Cirque du Soleil and they did not disappoint.

Cirque du Soleil is the leader in contemporary circus arts. Each show has unique themes with different acts and storylines that always leave you feeling immersed in the experience. Alegria focuses on the ideas of the power struggle between regression and renewal. While I have seen a few shows in Las Vegas, none of them had the iconic blue and white Big Top that Alegria has. This setting gives the show the ambience of a traditional circus that feels more intimate and personal.

There was a wide variety of talent on display such as acro poles, flying trapeze, contortion, hand balancing, the German wheel, and so much more. The fire knife dance, performed by Falaniko Solomona Penesa, had me absolutely mesmerized. He was able to move the knives at unbelievable speeds and switched between them flawlessly. At one point, he laid on his back and put the fire knife on his feet for what seemed like forever. I was also extremely impressed with Frédéric Lemieux-Cormier who preformed in the German wheel. He was able to move the inside and outside the wheel gracefully without issue. His finale was truly impressive as he was able to spin himself in the wheel at a speed that would personally make me dizzy.

Cirque du Soleil performances often have comedy skits throughout the show performed by clowns. Alegria was no exception as Pablo Bermejo Medina and Pablo Gomis Lopez provided all the laughs. Their closing performance for Act One was a breathtaking and joyful experience. Pablo opens a suitcase he was carrying after being exiled and it starts to shoot out white confetti. He quickly shuts the suitcase and this causes the whole theater to go dark. Soon after, some lights shine out and then we are thrown into a snowstorm with cold air and white confetti. This scene was show-stopping and had me grinning the whole time.

It’s evident that the cast worked diligently to create an amazing experience. I hope they felt the love from Sacramento as they were met with a standing ovation and roaring applause from the packed house. With acrobatics, comedy, amazing sets, beautiful music, and enchanting costumes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Alegria will be performing under the Big Top at Sutter Health Park through August 28th. Get your tickets before they fly out of town! Learn more here.