This is a retro-post. I put this online 24 December 2005 using the date it was originally sent out.
(Details of Las Vegas trip excised)
“KA” recently opened at the MGM is the latest incarnation of Cirque: it joins permanent Vegas shows: O, Mystere, and Zumanity. In addition, I’ve also seen Alegria, Nouba, Quidam, and Drallion. Do you call a Deadhead into Cirque a “Cirquie”????
This Cirque has had pretty good reviews in the short few months it’s been open, so I am unable to fathom why the 1030 show wasn’t sold out. But it wasn’t — about 80% full. Maybe there’s too much Cirque in one place? Who knows.
Anyway, when we walked in we were greeted by the ushers, who all play parts. It’s not a standard usher, but an usher/actor. You get to interact with them if you want (we did).
The auditorium is mind-blowing. The set is one of the most-cool sets I’ve ever seen for ANY play. Why they didn’t use the overhead catwalks more, I don’t know. Visually this Cirque’s set was a flawless 10. Flawless, I say.
This Cirque also has a story. Well, they all do, but nobody watching it has ever figured them out without the help of the program. This Cirque is easy to figure out. Your eight your old kid could grasp this one. I’m not sure if it’s good or bad, but it is what it is. No trying to interpret what something means in this show.
Musically, there are a few bits that stand out — and one tune dancing around in my head. However, I will say Nouba and Alegria both have better music. I like that haunting operating Cirque song style. KA doesn’t really have it. The music’s good, but it’s not awe inspiring. This may be KA’s only (slightly) weak spot.
That leaves the acts themselves. KA is not your father’s Cirque. It’s just totally different in a mind-boggling awe-inspiring way. KA is in this area, my favourite or second favourite Cirque show. (I still have a soft spot for the wall-walking in La Nouba).
KA has an amazing stage that moves. The acts are performed at all angles from flat to 90 degrees. It’s beyond understanding how they can do this. KA is worth every penny of the $150 ticket price. Nay, it’s worth double.
SEE KA!!!! 9 out of 10. Maybe 9-1/2!