Cirque du Soleil brings its 1980s-themed production to Tysons.
Photo by Matt Beard Photography
After his successful run of spectacular live concerts in the 1980s, which got bigger and more bombastic with every tour, superstar Prince went back to his roots with his Nude tour in 1990, a show that was stripped down to the bare essentials, putting the spotlight on the artist’s key talent that had made him his era’s biggest pop sensation – his music.
Think of Cirque du Soleil’s latest production, Volta, which kicked off its two-months residency at Under the Big Top at Tysons II in Tysons last week, as a similar tribute to the artistry that people fell in love with when the Montreal-based theatrical company first took its show around the world. If you expect dramatic pyrotechnics and gimmicky special effects, Volta isn’t for you. But if you want to witness some of the best acrobats known to man show off their talents, in a small, intimate setting that invites the audience to become part of the show, then you will get your money’s worth and more.
With an obvious 1980s vibe, the visually stunning two-hour show is a nod to the circus’ roots—a spectacle featuring the extreme sports, such as BMX biking and parkour, that were popular when Cirque du Soleil was founded in 1984, as well as the death-defying stunts that have made the company a household name among circus enthusiasts around the world.
Its original music is another key element to Volta’s success. Director Bastien Alexandre and director of creation Jean Guibert weave acrobatics with a stirring score composed by Anthony Gonzalez of the international electronic group M83, performed live.
The storyline follows a gameshow contestant who learns that ultimate freedom comes from fulfilling one’s true potential, not the artifice of fame. “Energetic, urban, and contemporary, Volta is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the big top acrobatics in a visually striking world,” the company promises.
Cirque du Soleil’s residency at Tysons runs through Sept. 29. The show’s schedule has been tailored to families, with weekly showtimes beginning at 7:30 p.m. and weekend matinees as early as 12:30 p.m. Tickets start at $49. CirqueDuSoleil.com
Where to Stay
The Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner is located just a five-minute walk from the Big Top. The hotel offers a special package that includes your room, complimentary valet parking, a $50 food and beverage credit, and a 20-percent discount on Cirque du Soleil Volta tickets. Rooms start at $549. RitzCarlton.com
This article originally appeared in our August 2019 issue.
