Cirque du Soleil – KOOZA comes to San Diego

Photo from 'Valdiney Pimenta' via Flickr

Experience the unforgettable magic and mystery of human acrobatics in the colorful kingdom that is Cirque du Soleil. Get ready, because the electrifying visual world of performance is coming to San Diego this week. Cirque du Soleil’s spectacular KOOZA begins this Thursday, February 25^th, at 8 p.m. at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

KOOZA tells the story of a downhearted loner who searches for his place in the world. On his journey, he discovers an interesting array of characters, from the King to the trickster to the obnoxious tourist.

The show combines the two origins of Cirque du Soleil—acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. KOOZA presents the marvel and brilliance of the human body and its abilities in a “colorful mélange that emphasizes bold slapstick humor.”

Ever since the 1980s, Cirque du Soleil has returned to San Diego every two years. In 2008, the revolutionary circus troupe brought us “Corteo,” which was about a clown imagining his funeral taking place in a carnival fashion, complete with a parade and other joyous festivities. Unlike the other Cirque du Soleil shows, “Corteo” had more of a clear storyline and setting, and the stage was set up differently, dividing the audience on two sides. The performance nonetheless inspired plenty of awe, wonderment and smiles as the audience cheered. “Quidam” was the show that came to San Diego in 2006, and “Varekai” was the main show back in 2004.

It’s hard to choose a favorite, as each show has a unique story and exciting world to display in a different artistic and mind boggling way.

“It’s definitely spectacular. My wife and I have seen two of the shows and they were both sensational shows,” said Encinitas local John Deleon when asked about Cirque du Soleil. “The dancing was impressive, and the performers are not only artistic—they were athletic as well.”

Deleon and his wife look forward to seeing KOOZA this month.

Come see Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA for yourself and experience the various themes of “fear, identity, recognition and power.”

Ticket prices vary ($36-$125) depending on the seating section of your choice. Del Mar Fairgrounds offers two showings on the weekend days and most Fridays, and one showing at 8 p.m. during the weekdays (excluding Mondays, when the performers take the day off!). Get your tickets soon, because this circus will only be in town until March 21^st, and then you’ll have to wait two more years to see it again.