Arts, Etc.Theater

‘Varekai’ swoops into town

Cirque du Soleil’s latest touring production of “Varekai” will be showing in the blue and yellow tents at the Pomona Fairplex through Dec. 28. This production is dedicated to the spirit and art of the circus tradition. “Varekai” means “wherever” in the gypsy language of Romany. / photo by Jenna Campbell
Cirque du Soleil’s latest touring production of “Varekai” will be showing in the blue and yellow tents at the Pomona Fairplex through Dec. 28. This production is dedicated to the spirit and art of the circus tradition. “Varekai” means “wherever” in the gypsy language of Romany. / photo by Jenna Campbell

by Bailey Porter
LV Life Editor

Just in time for the holiday season, Cirque du Soleil’s “Varekai” has arrived in the Fairplex in Pomona – an incredible opportunity for local residents to experience the wonder that is this traveling circus.

The show opened here last week and runs through Dec 28.

Brilliant blue and yellow tents transform the parking lot and welcome everyone into the world of the circus. Excitement and anticipation fill the air as the reputation of this international circus precedes the performance.

“Varekai,” Cirque du Soleil’s latest production, written and directed by Dominic Champagne, originated in Montreal, Canada. It features a world of fantasy brought to life though magical creatures and acrobatics. “Varekai” means “wherever” and explores the nomadic tradition. / photo by Jenna Campbell
“Varekai,” Cirque du Soleil’s latest production, written and directed by Dominic Champagne, originated in Montreal, Canada. It features a world of fantasy brought to life though magical creatures and acrobatics. “Varekai” means “wherever” and explores the nomadic tradition. / photo by Jenna Campbell

“Varekai” means “wherever” in the Romany language of the gypsies, the universal wanderers. The artists share their quest for “Varekai” as each act takes the audience on adventures in celebration of the life of the circus and of community.

“Varekai” blends the rhythm of French song with the graceful athleticism of its performers in this unbeatable show.

Comedy weaves together spectacular acrobatics through the antics of a character who is a splendid cross between Mr. Bean and Christopher Lloyd’s character in “Back to the Future.” Also, clown acts throughout the show – including a duo’s stint as ushers and in magic show spoofs – offer a sophisticated combination of physical comedy and timing.

And the acrobats are world class. At times all one can do is gasp.

The extraordinary strength and beauty of the human body is accentuated by imaginative costumes of brilliant colors. The world of “Varekai” wraps around the audience in blue and gold.

The shadows of the artists as they swing from a triple trapeze and aerial straps dance on the walls of the tent. The crowd is immersed into the show and is kept there until the end.

Each act gives something magical to the show. In an opening act, a young man has just lost his wings, as the myth of Icarus goes, and he performs high above the stage. Using a net as a hammock, swing and support, he moves with effortless acrobatics. This man is followed through the whole performance as he encounters the fantastic world of “Varekai.”

Finally he reaches the end of his search and finds love and a new life. In a powerful final act, Russian swings shoot the artists, dressed in vibrant colors of flame high in the air to descend down flowing white sheets as the couple look on.

“Varekai” challenges the limits of what the body and mind are capable of achieving.

Bailey Porter, LV Life Editor
Bailey Porter
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