Cirque du Soleil’s show “Varekai” flies to the Baton Rouge River Center this week.
Cirque du Soleil formed from a group of 20 street performers in 1984 and is now a major Quebec-based organization exhibiting acrobatic circus entertainment. There are currently 19 shows being exhibited throughout the world created by Cirque du Soleil.
“Varekai” is about a boy who is brought into the depths of a mystical forest that showcases a world of enchanted creatures and creative movement. The cast brings to life the story of this new world. The boy sets off for an adventure for the audience to follow.
The use of bold and translucent colors add to the show’s mystical appearance through a display of costumes. The audience can watch people flying through the air and above the stage as acrobatic silhouettes, and the show incorporates many movements and stunts that are daring in nature. There are several acts that involve the Aerial Hoop and Aerial Straps.
The cast of Cirque is diverse, with more than 5,000 employees from more than 50 countries represented within the company. “Varekai” has 50 performers from 18 countries. In about a year, they visit around 40 to 45 cities to perform the show, which runs for several days in each city.
Cirque du Soleil has training for new members of the company that can take about three months to a year depending on candidates’ skills, including English classes for non-English speakers to ease their transition into the crew.
“The show is about dance and movement,” said Vanessa Napoli, publicist of “Varekai.” “Even though some necessarily don’t speak English … they still communicate through body language, which is beautiful about this show.”
The show’s use of high-preforming acts and creative circus artistry showcase the Romany foundation of Cirque du Soleil.
“It’s beautiful, and the audience will get overwhelmed visually; it’s theatrical,” Napoli said. “It represents what Cirque du Soleil stands for; amazing aerobatics, beautiful costumes and wide use of the stage.”
She said the show transports viewers into a dream world where the audience can see firsthand the artistry behind “Varekai.”
There are more than 130 costumes in the “Varekai” wardrobe. Moleskin is one of the most commonly used fabrics. Other special materials include flexible titanium rods, sponge nylon and different types of fire-resistant materials. These materials are necessary for the members to perform their acts.
The crew goes through great lengths to make sure the costumes are in top condition. Even pre-show make-up can take 45 to 90 minutes to apply.
Napoli said being on the road with members of “Varekai” has given her a second family. She said they are always interacting with one another on a personal level. They always explore the cities they visit together.
“They inspire me to want to do better and be better,” Napoli said.
“Varekai” runs March 12 to 16 at the Baton Rouge River Center.

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