Cirque Italia, an aquatic spectacular, is coming to dazzle St. Albert audiences. Erected under a big blue and white tent at St. Albert Centre Mall parking lot, the Water Circus Gold show presents European-style acts that create a moving and dramatic experience.
Founded in 2012 by Manuel Rebecchi, Cirque Italia brings together 17 circus artists from Brazil, Argentina, Cuba, Mexico and Canada. The acrobats perform high-energy, split-second acts with ropes, silks, trapezes, juggling pins and archery, while pushing the boundaries of human ability.
The big tent seats 1,500 people. The most audacious element in the tent is the central water stage of which there are only three in the world. It contains 35,000 gallons (about 132,489 litres) of water that display mesmerizing fountain jets and curtains of rain perfectly timed to artists’ acts.
To create these poetic visions, 27 computers are required to sync the water to music, said Alex Acero, principal performer and clown ringmaster.
The basic storyline centres around a five-year old girl, who while watching TV, is pulled into the 1950s, an era that spawned poodle skirts, Elvis and Marilyn Monroe. The ringmaster takes her hand and leads her towards the magical adventure, Acero said.
Rebecchi was initially inspired by the element of water which is so versatile and necessary for our existence. By adding laser lights, bubbles and pop music he created a different dimension in circus arts — one that appeals to everyone’s inner child.
“This is a unique show and the only one of its kind that travels in Canada and the United States. It’s something to see it in your backyard,” said Acero.
There are seven two-hour shows that run from Aug. 22-25 at various times. Tickets range from $35 to $80. Visit gold.cirqueitalia.com for ticket information.