Kooza & Cirque du Soleil Roll Into Town.

Kooza! – The name alone evokes powerful images when one realizes it is a Cirque du Soleil production.

Kooza is a return to the classic roots of Cirque du Soleil. One’s senses are barraged by a pageantry of colors, sights, and heart pounding moments intricately woven with incredible music.

It all started with a character called the “Innocent” resembling a small boy flying his kite. The lighting and ambience fit the mood perfectly. The story built throughout the night introducing more characters such as: the King, the Clowns, the PickPocket, the Bad Dog and the Trickster. The comedy provided by the meshed clowns heart stopping circus acts created a story that flowed as the night went on.

Fashion of course is a key element of any Cirque du Soleil production. For Kooza, wardrobe stylists and technicians have provided over 1000 costumes to use throughout the show.

The designs were typical “Cirque” style with unique flair. Hair was pulled through hats and head pieces, tight intricate painted body suits and gowns were all reminiscent of times of the past all rolled up into a unique style of their own. Influences of ancient Egypt and Sumerian, French renaissance and folies Bergere to name a few can be seen.

City of Calgary, Mayor, Dave Bronconnier was pulled form the audience by the “pickpocket” character. He was a good sport having his pockets picked and tie stolen by this very accomplished performer and magician. The comedy segments did a great job of keeping us laughing. It was a good time for us to get our hearts to stop pounding from the acrobatic performances.

Kooza started and ended with the “innocent” character flying his kite to a fade out to black. Soon after, a thunderous applause with a standing ovation rocked the house.

Words by Paul Spenard
Images courtesy of the Cirque du Soleil.