O

Celebrating the majesty and mystery of one of Earth's most powerful, and provocative elements; Cirque de Soleil's eclectic, aquatic production “O” truly captures the romantic, and unpredictable nature of water, through a number of classical dramatic expressions. A fusion of opera, dance, synchronized swimming and gymnastics set the tone for a dynamic celebration of 'eau', from it's source and life-giving properties, to it's demise and evaporation.

A permanent fixture at the Wynn-owned Bellagio Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas; “O” is yet another of Cirque de Soleil's innovative productions that required a purpose-built theater. The tenth theater-production to be devised by the avant-garde Canadian production company necessitated a 1.5 million gallon capacity pool, as the central fixture for the show's flamboyant brief. Additional enhancements included a state of the art speaker system and heating apparatus, along with resistant theatrical costumes for the entire cast – such necessities inevitably bumping up the costs, which eventually realized over $100 million. The 1,800 capacity theater has since been further enhanced with the inclusion of a surround sound system, and hydraulic machinery for some of the high-dive and trapeze feats.

Visitors to the Bellagio often expect “O” to be little more than an enhanced synchronized swimming show, particularly if unfamiliar with Cirque de Soleil productions. So it comes as no surprise, that the aquatic masterpiece defies expectation for many. Incorporating classic circus acts such as the trapeze, high-wire and aerial hoops; “O” is choreographed in such a manner, that such daredevil antics become more than just an aesthetic thrill. “O” is a theatrical visual experience, incepted to embrace the affinity of nature with water, as well as it's boisterous alter ego, exemplified by the rocking aerial “Bateau” (boat) scene. The production set is an evolutionary hive of activity during performance. Utilized as a watering hole for frisking zebras and predatory beasts from the outset; subtle transformations using aerial props (like flying horses) prevent the scenes from merging too quickly.

Perhaps integral to “O's” success as a show, is that not all of the 'action' is concentrated around the element itself. Tribal warriors integrate street-dancing and fire-poi during zebra exhibitionism and courting. Water spirits appear in plenitude, as angel-like creatures hover above the shimmering pool - perhaps resemblant of fireflies or exotic birds. Such scenes are frenetic, yet elegant; individual, yet linked as the elements of air, and fire are united with water and earth. Up-beat tempos, and melodious harmonies reflect the briskness and abruptness by which nature changes course; water changes direction and life itself is impacted, by unpredictability.

Cirque de Soleil's knack for bringing fantasy to life (in glorious audio and Technicolor) is no new front page news. With a history of over 20 such productions, the company know how to exceed the expectations of even the most avid “Cirque” fans. “O” is no exception to this rule. While such standards as the trapeze act, and aerial acrobatics have become trademark; inclusions such as the 'Cadre' (an aerial grid-like platform, upon which ambitious gymnastics are performed) set this production apart from anything else you might have seen. Additional exhibitions of specialist stunt-work include the “Trapeze Washington” ( a circular framed swing, which in turn spins upon a carousel pendulum); the triple “High Dive” and the “Russian Swing”. With such an eclectic array of epic performances, audiences tend to be more than satisfied with the fact “O” lacks a bricks-and-mortar plot!