Cast aside those stereotypical scary forests – and cue up a colorful, kaleidoscopic place filled with incredible creatures and limitless possibilities. That's the premise of Varekai, the latest modern-circus arena spectacle by Cirque du Soliel, heading to Joe Louis Arena in Detroit for five days – Feb. 5-9, 2014.
This world tour plays six total shows during its southeast Michigan stop. A light spin on an ancient Greek myth, the story centers on Icarus, a young man who falls from the sky into an extraordinary new world set in a volcano summit. During his adventures in this land called "Varekai" – which means "wherever" in the Romani/gypsy language – this innocent hero learns to face his fears and, in true aerial fashion, soar to new heights.
Dazzling daredevil feats are set to include aerial hoop, clown acts, hand balancing on canes, juggling, Russian swings, aerial straps and more, according to the official Varekai website. Along his journey, Icarus meet a variety of vibrantly costumed characters, including The Betrothed, a beautiful creature who helps enlighten him; The Guide, a kind and wise old man; and The Skywatcher, a mad scientist/inventor.
Varekai runs a total of 2.5 hours, according to the Cirque Shows website, and is suitable for kids ages 3 and up – depending, of course, on how well your child can sit through a show of this length.
Tickets are $35-$82/adults, $28-$66.50/kids ages 12 and under, and $35.50-$69.50/students, seniors and military.
Show times are as follows:
- Wednesday, Feb. 4: 7:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Feb. 6: 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, Feb. 7: 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, Feb. 8: 4 and 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 9: 1:30 p.m.
For additional basic details about the Varekai Cirque du Soliel show at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit in February 2014, visit the Metro Parent calendar listing.
