A fusion of acrobatics, gymnastics and dance

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A fusion of acrobatics, gymnastics and dance

Acrobats, contortionists, dancers and gymnasts came together for Cirque Le Noir at the du Forum on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi for a breathtaking show. - Supplied photo

Published: Tue 22 Mar 2016, 6:24 PM

"No way, no waycan he do that," whispered George D'Souza in disbelief as he sat enthralled watching Cirque Le Noir.
And yet he did. Stacking up cylinder- shaped tubes chest high, the performer climbed onto the moving tower, managing a perfect balance.
It was one of George's favourite acts of the show.The Indian resident in Abu Dhabi was among the thousands who filled the du Forum over the weekend to watch the first time ever performance in the UAE of Cirque Le Noir.

SHOW TIME FOLKS:
> Where: Dubai World Trade Centre
> When: March 23- April 2
> Tickets: Dh199 onwards

Brought here by Tape Events company, Cirque Le Noir had several performances on Yas Island's du Forum from March 17 - 19 and it is now on its way toDubai, where the shows will continue at the Dubai World Trade Centre from March 23 till April 2. Pushing the human body to its limits, Cirque Le Noir brings the best out of the best. Acrobats, contortionists, even dance routines mixed with gymnastics and the classic French clown took to the small intimate stage, looking more like a fashion show catwalk than a circus arena.
The Dh999 platinum ticket holders (already sold out, but there is also the royal category selling at Dh2,000 per ticket) get to sit right next to the stage, occasionally invited to hop on the stage and perform their own acts.
Lights, sound,decor, music were all perfectly chosen and choreographed to create to create a mysterious, magical effect.The show itself features acts including spinning metal wheels, acrobatic stunts nearly 10 meters high, jaw-dropping spins on roller-skates,breath taking balancing acts and a blindfolded air flip that keep the audience at the edge of their seats.
The show ended with Columbian Wheel of Death, performed in a remarkable 360-degree custom- built stage setting. Said to be one of the most complex circus stunts in the world, the wheel features two acrobats performing high-risk feats atop and inside a pair of spinning wheels rotating high above the stage.
"The performers comprise award-winning athletes. Guided by impeccable spatial awareness, balance and stamina, each performer contributes to the unreal atmosphere as they glide through the air, swinging through a blur of hands and feet," said Tareq Abuissa, Chief Executive Officer of Tape Events. Currently Cirque Le Noir is on a world tour. Tickets for the Dubai shows, starting at Dh 199, are available on www.platinumlist.net.

silvia@khaleejtimes.com