By: Lauren Holle with CatMax Photography
Photos: Courtesy of Cirque du Soleil
Cirque Du Soleil is back, and this time it’s all about MJ. The show premiered in Atlanta Friday, June 29th and continues Saturday and Sunday at 8pm in Phillips Arena. This ninety-minute performance showcases a wide range of Michael Jackson’s legendary music, from the days of The Jackson Five to the favorites of his solo career.
Being less than a week after the third anniversary of Jackson’s death, the show brings forth a lot of emotions from the crowd; chills, cheers, and tears. The show honors his memory by demonstrating his beloved music and artistry.
Not only is the content of the performance amazing, but also the performers who carry it out are simply mind-blowing. You see stunts that you think are impossible, and acrobatics so beautiful, they take your breath away. Even the musicians are characters in the show! Aerial strap artists, Luba Kazantseva and Igor Zaripov, soar across the stage while dancers twirl beneath them. And during “Dangerous”, pole dancer Felix Cane gets the guys drooling and girls in awe as she moves and “dances” while hanging on by her ankles. Guitarist, Desiree Bassette, and cello player, Tina Guo, battle it out in “Beat It”. And the most staggering act, put on by contortionist, Baaska Enkhbaatar, shocks everyone with her insane flexibility and ghoulish movements.
Other memorable performances in the show include the mobster scene for “Smooth Criminal” in which the dancers replicate MJ’s style and dance moves while playing a video of Michael running from the cops. Also, the light-up suits that appear a number of times are a fun, energetic way to match the energy in the music. The show integrates many of Michael’s sayings and words to live by into acts. The glowing red hearts appear from all over the arena and come together during “I’ll Be There” sending out his message on the importance of love.
The Michael Jackson Immortal World Tour Cirque Du Soleil is an exciting performance for all ages. It will hold your attention from beginning to end. Tickets on sale at Ticketmaster.com.
