‘Auana Shares an Exclusive Sneak Preview Ahead of World Premiere
More details released for Hawai’i’s first-ever resident Cirque du Soleil production
Photos: NMG Network
The cultural and creative team of ʻAuana, the first resident show in Hawai’i for Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, presented a first look of two acts on December 4 ahead of their first public performance at the new OUTRIGGER Theater at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel.
The panel dove deep into their collaborative process to infuse culture with the internationally recognized flare and artistry of Cirque du Soleil. ‘Auana, meaning “to wander” or “veer off the beaten path” sets the theme of exploration and discovery that permeates through the entire show. This theme invites guests to wander through time and place, with hula, as the central element. The traditional Hawaiian dance is the heartbeat of the show, it supports the main narrative in each act, blending with Cirque’s illustrious acrobatics. The costumes in ‘Auana, designed by Manaola Yap, draw heavily from traditional textiles, carrying protective symbolism, especially the Niho (triangle) design, which represents the Hawaiian Islands. Renowned linguist Dr. Keao NeSmith worked hand in hand with composer Evan Duffy to artfully share the beauty of ʻAuana’s story through lyrical storytelling all in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi.
“More than anything, this show is a celebration of the spirit of Hawai’i through the lens of Cirque du Soleil,” said Neil Dorward, Show Director. “Thanks to this team, we have created this spectacular world for audiences to enjoy, but more importantly, for the community of Hawai’i to be proud of.”
In a vibrant fusion of world-class acrobatics, live music, and hula, ‘Auana cast and crew thrilled guests at the preview event with three performances, showcasing a unique storytelling experience that honors Hawaiian culture:
- The Golden Age Act transports audiences to the early days of tourism in Hawaiʻi, a time when Waikīkī began to shine as a destination. This act features Icarian Games, a mesmerizing foot-juggling act, alongside hula choreography that evokes the joy and spirit of the early 20th-century Waikīkī, with music inspired by the famous Hawaii Calls radio show.
- In an homage to Hina, goddess of the moon, a performer ascends to the heavens in a stunning aerial hoop (Lyra) performance, set against a backdrop of moonlight and graceful hula.
- A Trickster comedically weaves the stories together through stunts and audience participation.
Tickets for ʻAuana can be purchased at www.cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii ahead of the world premiere on December 17th. The unprecedented debut adds to the legendary genealogy of Waikīkī entertainment, bringing revelry right to the heart of this world-famous wahi pana (storied place) at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel. The home for ‘Auana is a custom-designed, intimate theater space, seating 784 guests, creating a truly personal connection between the performers and the audience. Ticket prices start at $85 including taxes and fees plus a 30% kama’āina (Hawai’i resident) discount is available. ‘Auana will perform Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. with no performances Monday and Tuesday. Show schedules are subject to change. For more information about this joint venture led by OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group and Cirque du Soleil, follow @cirquedusoleil.auana on Instagram and Cirque du Soleil Auana on Facebook.
ABOUT CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ENTERTAINMENT GROUP
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is a world leader in live entertainment. Building on four decades of pushing the boundaries of the imagination, the artistic entertainment company brings its creative approach to a large variety of artistic forms such as live shows, multimedia productions, long-form content, music, immersive experiences, and special events. Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group celebrates 40 years of defying reality, defining entertainment, and illuminating the world through art and creativity. Since its creation in 1984, more than 400 million people have been inspired on 6 continents and 86 countries. The Canadian company now employs more than 4000 employees, including 1200 artists from more than 80 different nationalities. For more information about Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, please visit cirquedusoleil.com.
ABOUT OUTRIGGER RESORTS & HOTELS
For more than 75 years, OUTRIGGER has charted a journey of discovery – expanding from Hawai’i to premier resort destinations including Fiji, Mauritius, Thailand and the Maldives. The privately held hospitality company invites guests to ‘Come Be Here’ with authentic Signature Experiences and the OUTRIGGER DISCOVERY loyalty program – a member of the award-winning Global Hotel Alliance (GHA). OUTRIGGER’s multi-branded portfolio includes OUTRIGGER® Resorts, Hawaii Vacation Condos by OUTRIGGER®, Kapalua Villas Maui and Honua Kai Resort & Spa Maui while also managing select properties from top international hotel brands including Embassy Suites by Hilton®. Find out more at OUTRIGGER.com or visit @OUTRIGGERResorts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.