Crystal Reverie: Cirque du Soleil's Frozen Spectacle
Crystal Reverie: Cirque du Soleil's Frozen Spectacle
A Nostalgic Reunion with Spectacular Performances and Whimsical Winter Magic
I was welcomed back to the enchanting world of Cirque du Soleil's Crystal, where breathtaking performances on ice blend seamlessly with the magic of imagination. Returning to the WFCU Centre in Windsor, Ontario, on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at 7:30 pm, this spectacle marked a nostalgic reunion for me with the first Cirque du Soleil show I ever photographed back in 2018.
Taking a journey backstage during the rehearsals on November 23rd, the behind-the-scenes experience was nothing short of mesmerizing. From the bustling wardrobe with over 5,000 costume pieces to witnessing acrobats and ice skaters rehearse their gravity-defying acts, every corner of the arena resonated with the anticipation of the upcoming show.
On premiere night, the excitement reached its peak as I picked up my tickets from old colleagues at the Media Table. Despite being assigned to shoot the event from my seat, the opportunity to capture the artistry of Crystal from a different perspective was a welcomed challenge.
Crystal, Cirque du Soleil's 42nd creation, marks a breakthrough with its exploration of the artistic possibilities of ice. This unique production seamlessly weaves together world-class ice skating, acrobatics, and a captivating storyline, pushing the boundaries of performance. The international cast, representing eighteen different nationalities, brings Crystal's tale of self-discovery to life.
The costumes and makeup, designed to withstand the rigors of ice, add a whimsical touch to the show. From Crystal's flamboyant red hair to the surreal and fantastical attire of various characters, each costume contributes to the visual feast.
The show unfolds as Crystal, a creative young woman, falls through the ice into an underwater world of her imagination. Through a journey of self-discovery, she turns her quirks into creativity, venturing out on thin ice to appreciate life from fresh angles.
The quick-change costumes, the dazzling skates, and the meticulous attention to detail showcase Cirque du Soleil's commitment to creating a spellbinding experience. The event, with its humorous nods to winter themes and impeccable performances, highlights the essence of Cirque du Soleil's magic.
As Crystal graced the stage wearing a Windsor Spitfires hockey jersey, the hometown connection added a delightful touch, resonating with the local audience. Despite a slight delay in the 2 pm show, the enchantment of Cirque du Soleil's Crystal remains timeless.
In conclusion, this event was not just a return to familiar grounds but a reaffirmation of why Cirque du Soleil productions continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Crystal's spellbinding performances, coupled with its imaginative narrative, made for a truly unforgettable night. The magic of Cirque du Soleil's Crystal lingers on, inviting audiences to look at life from fresh angles and discover the beauty of venturing out on thin ice.
Don't Miss the Encore!
After mesmerizing Windsor, Cirque du Soleil's Crystal is set to enchant audiences once again! The dazzling spectacle returns for six spellbinding performances from January 4th to 7th, 2024, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Brace yourself for a journey into a world where ice and imagination collide, delivering a breathtaking experience like no other. Secure your tickets and get ready to be captivated by the magic of Crystal!
Photos and review by Kevin Blondin
