KÀ Cirque du Soleil

Duality; an ancient Egyptian belief historically known as 'Kà', sets the foundation for Cirque de Soleil's fantasy plot, for the innovative production of the same name - now a permanent fixture at the MGM Hotel and Casino. With more than a touch of Eastern inspiration; “KÀ” was unveiled at it's purpose-built theater in 2005, by the famous stunt-theater company Cirque de Soleil. Creative stage and theater director Robert Lepage (interestingly responsible for staging Peter Gabriel's “Secret World Tour”, and the Canada Production Company's “Bluebeard's Castle) was employed to develop the ambitious project, with a highly immodest $220 million budget.

If there is one key attribute that sets “KÀ” apart from any of the Cirque de Soleil contemporaries; it is the distinct lack of any permanent staging. Destined to be a predominantly aerial-based production, “KÀ's” theater set was designed without a central stage – a huge abyss forming the 98-foot deep vortex, around and above which, much of the show revolves. Entering the theater, it is immediately apparent this is no standard aerial production. Cirque de Soleil devised “KÀ” to be a complete visual feast for the soul, replete with imposing columns lining the theater, atop which tribal guards stand, ever watchful. Armed archers, tribal chiefs and elusive elfin like entities, also flit between the seating aisles, while spectral lighting creates an eerie pre-show ambiance.

The prelude to the classic 'triumph over adversity' storyline, is an introduction to the background of the two Imperial siblings – both of whom are also the production's main characters. The twins originate from a mythical Far Eastern kingdom, and return home aboard a flying vessel, amid a flurry of energetic celebration and color. Such joy and jubilation are short lived when the handsomely decorated scaffold (disguised with rich golds and royal fabrics) resembling a sumptuous Eastern palace, is attacked by an army of archers, under orders of the evil warrior. Separated amid a chaotic fire-show and cacophony of explosions; the plot takes a dynamic turn, as the Imperial twins find themselves in a fateful struggle to overcome evil, and be united once more.

“Kà's” entire set comprises an astonishing array of hydraulic systems, floating platforms and ever shifting landscapes - such as the Sand Cliff, from which the Twin Brother nearly falls to his fate. Cleverly disguised to replicate tempestuous oceans, emaciated jungles and burning palaces; the shift between scenes is practically impossible to pin-point.

Such is the high-octane, constantly evolving nature of both choreography, and characters within the performance space, that the eye is ever trying to keep up with both the plot, and countless members of cast. The death-defying center prop known as the “Wheel of Death” halfway through the show, represents one of the most dangerous, and highly skilled stunts to be performed within the production. Aerial combat, vertical stages and apparent free-falling from the skies may look equally as dangerous, however most are performed with the attachment of bungee ropes and wires to the characters. Many reviewers have identified the “Wheel of Death” as one of the show's unique highlights, since the wire-free stunt is still one of the oldest, and most dangerous circus acts in the world – very few productions still incorporate the feat at all!

The Cirque de Soleil company has long been affiliated with world-class 'art theater', however “Kà” represents one of their few productions to follow a specific story-line. While the likes of “O” and “Le Reve” combine complex acrobatics with daredevil choreography; pushes the boundaries of such feats, with many of the performances conducted without safety equipment. Not only does this contribute to the realism of the show's effects, but also to the respect gained by the cast, from the audience. “Kà” commands deserving attention; draws it's audience into a fantasy adventure and captivates with the kind of mesmerizing stunts, rarely even found within movies. Proof enough that a show of this caliber, deserves the mainstay on the ever-competitive Vegas Strip.