When the name Cirque du Soleil is mentioned, people often smile and describe incredible shows with talented performances and amazing sets. Cirque du Soleil is the largest theatrical producer in the world and their latest touring show is Toruk – The First Flight.

Cirque du Soleil is headquartered in Montreal, Canada. Toruk – The First Flight is a different type of show for them. Most of their touring shows or the many running daily in Las Vegas, are heavy on acrobatics and non-stop theatrical action. Toruk – The First Flight is quite different.

Toruk – The First Flight is inspired by the blockbuster movie Avatar. Written, directed, produced, and co-edited by talented James Cameron, it was a huge worldwide phenomenon. The movie hit theaters in 2009. In fact, Avatar is still the highest grossing movie ever with about $2.782 billion in worldwide revenue.

Like the Avatar movie, Toruk – The First Flight is set on the distant moon named Pandora. The name “Toruk” is derived from the dragon-like monster featured in the touring show. Avatar was based in 22nd century Pandora, this show is set in prehistoric Pandora, about 3,000 years earlier.

“Toruk” is stunning from a visual standpoint. It’s a stunning spectacle for the senses, with over-the-tops sets and engaging, tribal music.

Living on Pandora moon are the Na’vi. These people are the animated blue creatures we will come to love. Omaticaya is local a clan and we meet both Entu and Ralu. These two characters partake in a ceremony that is part of growing up. They climb, swing and perform a dazzling rope exercise while suspended over a pseudo fire pit.

Next, we learn from a shaman from the Omatikaya tribe, that a catastrophic lava flow will destroy the Tree of Souls. This is large natural disaster that devastate everything in its path.

The mission of the small Na’vi clan and central theme of Toruk – The First Flight is to save the socially important Tree of Souls. Their journey is to find the Toruk – a gigantic, flying dragon to save Pandora. Along the way, Entu and Ralu meet a young woman named Tsyal.

Directed by talented Neilson Vignola, the show’s stage is massive and emcompasses the entire area floor. From touring mountains to lush jungles and massive waterfalls, the scenery is amazing. The show a multimedia production on steroids. Using 40 video projectors, Vignola and Cirque du Soleil created a visual masterpiece. The set’s surface area covers about 20,000-square feet.

In true Cirque du Soleil fashion, Toruk – The First Flight showcases many talented performers. In one scene, about three dozen Na’vi all perform across the arena floor in full blue bodysuits and elaborate face paint. It’s a array of running, tumbling, jumping and aerobatics. When finished, the large crowd gave a thunderous ovation.

One of my favorite scenes was when the large flood emerges. Beginning in the crowd, the overhead projectors create the illusion of moving water at as it slowly moves across the set. Crashing waves and sound effects leave the crowd in awe.

Another memorable scene was when scattered bones were put together to create the dinosaur skeleton. The characters climb and move around the skeleton, which resembles a seesaw. Using balance and nimble moves, they perform up and down the dinosaur’s vertebrae.

Furthermore, an additional hi-tech feature of the show was to integrate the audience into the performance. Therefore, you are encouraged to download a the Toruk app and join along the journey. Audience members get text message telling them what to do next. In addition, you also get access to unique backstage videos and photos.

Many of the past Cirque du Soleil shows have an circus theme with high-wire acts, trampolines and high-octane gymnastics. Toruk – The First Flight is not like that. Even with the action, the show seems to accept its slower pace. Expect the highlights to come from the visual stimulation and story line as we follow the challenging journey of Entu, Ralu and Tsyal on prehistoric Pandora.

For Avatar fans, it’s been publicized that a series of sequels will be made. Targeted for late 2018 will be part 2. James Cameron will be part of all 4 movies currently scheduled.

If you would like to attend Toruk – The First Flight or any Cirque du Soleil show around the world, contact The Life of Luxury. Our concierge specialists can get you the best seats. Be sure to come back again soon, to read our luxury blog.

Photos: The Life of Luxury

Now you can combine the beauty of San Francisco and and the exciting new Cirque du Soleil at the luxury W San Francisco Hotel.

Amaluna is the newest touring show from Cirque du Soleil and now you can view it firsthand. The spectacular Amaluna show offers audience goers on a journey to a mysterious island that’s governed by Goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon.

The luxury W San Francisco hotel is offering an exclusive package that is ideal for a unique wintertime getaway or thoughtful holiday gift for that special person in your life.

Amaluna from Cirque du Soleil runs from November 15 to December 29 and performances will be held at AT&T Park, which is only one mile from the W San Francisco hotel),

The “Amaluna” Cirque du Soleil Package includes:
• Custom themed cocktails in W’s energetic Living Room Bar
• Complimentary parking
• Complimentary late checkout
• General admission tickets to Amaluna™
• A special Cirque du Soleil gift

The new W San Francisco, Cirque du Soleil Package is priced starting at only $449.

If you are interested in booking a reservation at the luxury W San Francisco hotel, then please contact The Life of Luxury.

Cirque du Soleil’s Mystere show at the Treasure Island (TI) hotel, is like being awake during one of your most bizarre and with wonderful dreams, and it’s quite an incredible ride.

The stunning Las Vegas show invites its guest to venture into a magical world filled with brilliant colors and bizarre creatures on a wild journey to the edge of human potential. Intrigued yet?

Mystere experience begins before the curtain rises with classic Las Vegas entertainment, as two clowns come out to play tricks before the large audience and on each other. The demonstration is a very light hearted note and helps the time to pass away while the audience is seated.

As the clowns direct you to your seat, they playfully hold onto your tickets and take you on a wild goose chase before you’re safely seated.

As show begins, that’s when the real magic starts. It’s a variety of  acrobats, bicyclists and the music is so beautiful and  haunting that it will absolutely leave you mesmerized.

No matter which direction you look, there is always non-stop action. You’ll see athletic skills unlike anything you have ever experienced. In addition, the sets and costumes are simply beautiful.

Sometimes the whole experience seems like a surreal dream or like that you have just stepped into the mind of Salvadore Dali. It’s a parade of  graceful ballerinas, gigantic Snails, dashing heroes and total buffoons.

Your senses are often pulled in different directions. Half of the time you will be mesmerized and the other half you will be laughing yourself silly.

There are many amazing stage shows in Las Vegas but Cirque du Soleil is a must see. It is not the aquatic splendor of  O or the Beatlemania of Love, but is the perfect cameo of what a Cirque show should be.

All the show’s performances are of top quality and the entertainment experience will definitely be appreciated by all ages.

Mystere has a wonderful sense of intimacy to it. It’s feels like you are privy to your own private show or an intimate glimpse into a mystical world of magic.

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

Michael Jackson was known to millions as the “King of Pop.” Although he is no longer alive, his legacy shines in the amazing Cirque du Soleil production Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour show.

Cirque du Soleil creates musical magic once again, after it’s two recent hit shows in Las Vegas – Love show dedicated to the rock ‘n roll Beatles band, and Viva Elvis honoring Elvis Presley.

Jackson’s musical legacy truly comes alive in Cirque’s Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour show. The amazing Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour began its run last year and continues its successful journey this month, visiting major cities across California. then throughout the U.S. until early August. You can see the entire city tour date list at: http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/michael-jackson-tour/tickets.aspx

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

This show extravaganza is the vision of Writer and Director, Jamie King. King was selected by both The Estate of Michael Jackson and Cirque du Soleil to bring this monumental dream to reality. Jamie King has been called one of the most influential “movers and shakers” in the music industry, and the “Jerry Bruckheimer of tent-pole concert tours”.

King knows dancing and he has choreographed some of the most popular music videos and directed some of the highest-grossing concert tours of all time.

Fans of Michale Jackson will love this grand, Cirque du Soleil show. It’s not only a tribute to his brilliant music over the years, but also showcases Michael Jackson’s humanitarian work and his genuine love for our planet Earth. The show captures the spirit, passion and heart of the artistic genius.

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

The Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour features 60 international performers (dancers, musicians and acrobats) wearing incredible costumes, and of course the greatest hits music of Michael Jackson. The Immortal show invites us to imagine attending an actual Michael Jackson concert, but without the King of Pop.

The show tells the story of Michael’s career through the unique, “silent” narrative of a mime, who was played by the very talented Salah Belemqawanssa. A massive stage comes alive with stunning performance of color and acrobatics. The impressive live band played for two plus hours of Jackson’s hit music is amazing as well.

Michael Jackson’s iconic voice was the lead vocal for the entire Cirque du Soleil production. Songs from his younger years as a member of the Jackson 5 such as “ABC” and “I Want You Back” were performed in a segment titled “Fanatics Medley.” The scene takes place in front of a Neverland stage set.

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

The “Dancing Machine” song was a powerful combination of various dance styles that blended with animated machinery, blasts of steam, metal outfits and talented acrobats dressed as welders swung from the arena’s rafters.

The last performance prior to the intermission was the historic song “Thriller.” The stage came alive with zombies and corpse-costumed dancers who nodded to the classic beat and video choreography of this 1984 hit song.

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

“Beat It” was an instant crowd pleaser from the opening few notes. The performance showcased items that we all associate with Michael Jackson – his hat, glove and penny loafers. As the song reaches it’s crescendo, we are blessed with an outrageous duo playing an electric bass and electric guitar.

In a segment named “Mega Mix”, several of Michael’s greatest hits are played including “Can You Feel It,” “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough,” “Billie Jean,” and “Black or White.” Almost everyone in the packed arena was up on their collective feet …. moving and grooving. It was a clever combination of dance, music and acrobatics. During “Billie Jean,” we saw Jackson’s famous choreographic style as his silhouette appears from the dancers’ LED costumes.

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

As the crowd loudly cheered, there was one more number to enjoy. The curtain call was “Man in the Mirror,” as the different groups of performers appear on stage before a light shines on a bedazzled life-size glove in the darkness. The performers inside the glove elegantly move to the music, creating visual artistry. “Man in the Mirror” was a fitting way to end Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour as the song was often used by Jackson to end is own concerts.

The Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour was an amazing, visual joy ride and truly was a celebration of the legacy of an immortal – Michael Jackson.

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil – Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour

The amazing Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour continues its successful journey this month, visiting major cities across California.

In partnership with the Estate of Michael Jackson, Cirque du Soleil presents the Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour. This once-in-a-lifetime show presents an opportunity for his fans to appreciate both the music and choreography of the “King of Pop” Michael Jackson.

Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour was written and directed by Jamie King, who is a leading concert director in pop music today. Early in his career, King actually worked with Michael Jackson, in addition to Prince.

Cirque du Soleil – Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour

Only Cirque du Soleil can deliver the incredible creativity and provide Michael Jackson’s fans around the world unique insight into the spirit, passion and heart of this artistic genius. Michael Jackson truly transformed global pop culture.

The Cirque du Soleil production features over 60 talented international dancers, musicians and acrobats. Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour brings a riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world.

As the Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour unfolds, a fantastical realm showcases Michael’s inspirational Giving Tree — the wellspring of his creativity. The secrets of Michael’s inner world are unlocked, such as his true love of music and dance, fairy tale and magic, and the fragile beauty of nature.

The Michael Jackson show celebrates his legacy that continues to transcend generations. Audience members will embrace Michael Jackson’s artistry before their very own eyes.

Through unforgettable Cirque du Soleil performances, Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour shares Michael’s global messages of love, peace and unity.

Tickets are on sale now for all future Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour shows in California at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000:
Sacramento, CA January 10-11, 2012
San Jose, CA January 13-15, 2012
Oakland, CA January 17-18, 2012
San Diego, CA January 21-22, 2012
Anaheim, CA January 24-25, 2012
Los Angeles, CA January 27-29, 2012

See the entire city tour date list at: http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/michael-jackson-tour/tickets.aspx

“O” – Cirque du Soleil

The most famous attraction at the Bellagio is the “O” experience. “O” offers viewers a theatrical performance with vivid color, breathtaking special effects, and mesmerizing costume, set design, and troupe performances.

In French, the native tongue of Cirque du Soleil, the word for water is eau, pronounced “O”, and there’s plenty of it in this breathtaking theatrical extravaganza conceived by Franco Dragone.

Most of the stage floor is given over to a large pool that, thanks to some theatrical magic, appears, changes shape, and disappears at the director’s will. In, around, under, and (most spectacularly) above this transmutable stage Dragone has created a surrealistic dream of wonder.

In typical Cirque du Soleil fashion, an oddball assortment of clowns and “characters” runs through the entire show occupying the margins of the action and hinting at some mysterious storyline that may or may not exist. In any event, they are window dressing to the major circus acts that form the core of the show. And what acts they are!

“O” – Cirque du Soleil

Most of them are aerial acts taken to amazing lengths of imagination and bravado. Occasionally, the action descends to pool level, on floating islands or small platforms that rise from the watery depths. Here acrobats and contortionists hold forth, diving into the water and performing intricate water ballets.

In one exhilarating number, a succession of divers soar aloft from wildly swinging platforms to perform stunning, and occasionally funny, dives into the pool. In another, acrobats perform on a ghostly ship swaying high overhead.

The depth and breadth of theatrical imagination on display here is seemingly limitless and even the simple act of raising the curtain when the show begins can take your breath away.

Like many Cirque du Soleil shows, this is one where it helps to get some distance from the stage. That way you can better take in the staggeringly beautiful stage pictures that follow one after the other in this truly magical production.

O will no doubt run forever at the Bellagio. For more Las vegas show information or tickets call 800-963-9634, 702-796-9999, or log on to the Cirque du Soleil site at http://www.cirquedusoleil.com

Courtesy of: Cirque du Soleil

Canadian company Cirque du Soleil, is well known around the world as a “must see show.” Cirque du Soleil describes itself as a “dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment.”

In Las Vegas alone, there are seven different Cirque du Soleil productions running, including O at Bellagio, KÀ at the MGM Grand, and Mystere at Treasure Island.

Alegría by Cirque du Soleil is touring the U.S. and Canada, and was first created to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the entertainment company. Alegria began its initial run in 1994 and was one of Cirque du Soleil’s popular “Big Top Tour” shows.

Alegria toured with its own tent and entertained smaller audiences of around 2,500 people. Then in 2009, Alegria morphed into a format better fitted for larger arenas. Now playing in bigger venues, Alegria can be seen by many more people.

Alegria can be described as a journey set to music. The show leads its audience to a strange, yet magical world that allows us to briefly forget all of our day to day problems.

Alegria is Spanish for “jubilation” or “joy.” That in a nutshell, describes both the show and its set. The set is a playground for the various performers including clowns, gymnasts and acrobats.

There are Gothic arches, various slides and staircases, along with large yet subtle glowing lanterns. Side ramps allow the characters easy access to the main stage area, along with a way to gracefully leave as their act ends.

The show’s cast includes 55 very talented artists, who represent 17 different nationalities.

The show includes an assortment of stunning acrobatics, trapeze performances, and aerial high bars. There’s a variety of clown acts plus other performers who demonstrate flaming knife dancers, a contortionist act, a Russian Bars act, and array of synchronized choreography.

Courtesy of: Cirque du Soleil

The opening act is by a woman dressed in all white who truly mesmerizes the audience. She performs on a trapeze and you can at times hear a pin drop as she makes incredible moves. Other times the audience gasps in unison with her every release, as she moves high above the arena floor.

As two wide strips of floor are slid away, it unveils long trampolines. Next is a non-stop series of tumbling runs and an aerial assault as the gymnast performers use the trampolines to catapult themselves into amazing front and back flips, twists and turns, and high-flying somersaults.

Alegria uses its talented clowns to bring both humor, as well as story telling techniques to the show. One moving scene involves a clown who leaves a train station after a short interaction with a new found love. His performance continues as the seasons pass, then winter arrives.

A blizzard hits. A large turbine fan whips up strong winds across the stage as the clown shivers. Thousands of small pieces of paper, representing snow, begin to blow across the stage and into the audience … as they now become one with the performance.

The music performed by a live band, is both lively but haunting. The musical score is all original and created specifically for each act. You’ll hear a mix of musical styles that include jazz, rock ’n roll, and even traditional accordion circus music.

The White Singer has an incredible voice and acts as the show’s storyteller. The talented performer sings in several languages including Spanish and French. She brings out a multitude of expressions and a variety of emotions in her beautiful singing.

Alegria is visually stunning and provides a variety of performances that touch all of us in some way. The show uses a perfect combination of music, sound and lighting, plus brilliant costumes and theatrics that when brought together, deliver a memorable theatrical show.

It was clearly a beautifully presented show, with breathtaking acrobatics, humorous clowns, enjoyable music, and a combination of both power and poetry.

You’ve heard of Cirque du Soleil, now get ready for a brand new experience, this time located in the heart of Waikiki –

Cirque Hawaii!

Brought to you by some of the very same talented individuals that made Cirque du Soleil such a huge success, Cirque Hawaii features a talented cast of more than 34 performers from around the world who are guaranteed to dazzle and amaze with their unbelievable acrobatic skill and superb dance ability!

Cirque Hawaii has exploded on Waikiki’s entertainment scene with all the joie de vivre that can be expected from a show patterned in the tradition of the wildly popular and purely magical Cirque du Soleil performances of Las Vegas and international fame. Mounted by two former Cirque du Soleil performers, the Waikiki show features a troupe of 34 award-winning aerialists, acrobats and dancers from around the world.

The show is staged in the Cirque Hawaii Theatre, formerly the IMAX Theater, at 325 Seaside Ave. in Waikiki. The performance is not so much a circus but a story about a circus choreographed by a former Cirque du Soleil performer. The costumes, music and lighting, acrobatic artistry and fine-tuned talents of the performers are laced together to bring precision and enchantment to the magical illusion of the show.

The story follows the journey of lead character Josephine, who searches the globe for the best talent for her exotic circus. Flamboyant costumes, extravagant theatrical make-up and captivating music add to the spell of a well-crafted show with highly skilled performers.

Audiences of all ages, locals and visitors alike, are blown away by the high-energy, precision acts, the laugh-out-loud antics and comedic narration, as well as the elaborate costuming and bright, fanciful make-up – and it all takes place in Cirque Hawaii’s multi-million dollar showroom which features a state-of-the-art light and sound system!

There are several different packages to choose from, but the Deluxe Producer’s Package just can’t be beat and includes VIP seating, a backstage tour, and a complimentary group photo with the show’s amazing troupe of artists!

There’s nothing quite like it in all of Waikiki, and, in fact, the entire island of Oahu, so why not come see what all the excitement is about, and “Experience The Unique” at Cirque Hawaii!

Once a children’s paradise, TI (formerly Treasure Island) Las Vegas is now a playpen for adults. From the hottest nightclubs in town to a luxurious pool and party tub, TI is able to meet just about any decadent desire that may arise.

The British navy has left TI, which is now watched over by a bevy of beautiful sirens. In the fast-paced Sirens of TI show, visitors watch as the sirens protect their booty from a team of pirates with surprising ferocity.

Guest rooms integrate comfort, style and elegance as well as offer breathtaking views of the Las Vegas Strip through floor-to-ceiling windows.

A 95,000-square-foot casino is comprised of several thousand slot and video poker machines in addition to table games and a poker room.

TI has 2,885 rooms, which includes 220 suites.

Dining options are diverse at TI, consisting of Isla Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar, the enjoyable Kahunaville, The Buffet at TI, Social House and Canter’s Deli which is known for serving enormous portions.

Another popular spot at TI is Mist, the perfect place to have a few drinks, socialize and people-watch.

But perhaps the crowning glory of TI is Mystère, a Cirque du Soleil production now in its second decade at the resort.

Many of the pirates may have departed TI, but they have left countless treasures behind for guests to enjoy.  Source: LasVegas.com

Treasure Island – TI
3300 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109