By Molly Given
It’s not the first winter season that Cirque Dreams Holidaze has brought its energetic showcase to the city, but this year might be the most festive.
Described as “a brilliant and whimsical holiday spectacular,” this particular Cirque show will feature Broadway-style production infused with contemporary circus arts, storybook characters, and holiday music favorites. Philadelphians can nab tickets for performances next month (Dec. 23-28), all of which will take place at the Miller Theater (250 S. Broad St.)
“Part of both our Broadway Series and our Family Discovery Series, Cirque Dreams Holidaze is a family-friendly adventure and visual spectacle designed for everyone to enjoy,” said Frances Egler, Vice President of Theatrical Programming and Presentations. “With elements of musical theater, dancing, and acrobatic feats, this spectacular show is a great option for anyone looking for a ‘holiday vacation activity with family or friends.”
The plot of the show takes audience members on a journey with Clara, who arrives home on Christmas Eve to find out that a snowstorm might prevent the rest of her family from joining her. Soon after, two whimsical singers appear and whisk her away into ‘Holidaze’ — a “fantastical world full of color, wonder, and breathtaking circus acts.”
Those circus acts take on the form of aerial circus performers, sleight-of-hand jugglers, fun-loving skippers, eye-popping acrobatics, and much more. There are definitely a few different show-stopping moments, which is par for the course when it comes to seeing any Cirque du Soleil show. But what sets this particular showcase apart are the added details of seasonal elements — like penguins, toy soldiers, and reindeer — and the backdrop of new sets, scenery, storylines and even costumes.
The constant updating of fan favorite shows is part of the reason why this brand and this name have become so famous. Since 1993, millions of people have experienced ‘Cirque Dreams’ productions across the globe, which combine some of the world’s finest contemporary circus artists with dynamic choreography and whimsical storytelling. But as a grand finale, Cirque will be finishing off its holiday tour in the City of Brotherly Love once again.
Tickets can be purchased by calling 215-893-1999 or online at kimmelculturalcampus.org. In-person ticket sales can be conducted daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Academy of Music box office, at 240 S. Broad Street To find out more information on Cirque Dreams Holidaze, visit ensembleartsphilly.org