Cirque Italia set to make a splash

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This article was published 22/07/2024 (811 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Can’t get away to the lake this month? Cirque Italia brings the water to you, under a giant blue-and-white big top tent in the parking lot of St. Vital Centre.

Following the recent production of the horror-themed Paranormal Cirque, this show, which opens Thursday and runs to Aug. 4, offers Winnipeggers a fresh chance to experience the circus magic, this time with a splash of fun and a lot less fright.

Cirque Italia is renowned for its animal-free shows that blend circus arts with dramatic storytelling. The Water Circus Gold, one of its two travelling water shows, features a stage that holds 35,000 gallons of water. This year, the show invites viewers on a magical adventure set in the nostalgic era of the 1950s.

Alex Acero, a fourth-generation circus performer and the show’s ringmaster, says he’s excited to be performing in Winnipeg for the first time with the unique show.

“We have a stage that costs half a million dollars, goes up at least 35 feet high, and is operated by 27 computers to create different designs with water that really enhance the show,” Acero says.

Acero’s role in the circus is multifaceted, encompassing duties as a comedian, host and ringmaster. His central role as the latter involves a wide skill set, including a trick involving a diving board and trampoline, which requires hours of preparation.

Acero says being part of the circus isn’t anything new for him.

“My whole family is in the circus, so it’s what I grew up with,” he says. “I chose to be a clown because it’s one of the best ways to entertain people and make them laugh.”

This year, Water Circus Gold is set to transport viewers back to a time of sock hops, drive-in theatres, and rock ‘n’ roll. Acero, who has been with Cirque Italia for nine years, emphasizes the show’s universal appeal.

“We have two hours of entertainment for the whole family — no matter who you are, you’ll have a great time,” he says, adding that the ’50s-themed soundtrack is full of sing-along favourites.

The show features an international slate of performers from countries including Argentina, Brazil, Romania, China, Portugal, France, Cuba, Mexico, Chile, Canada and the United States. Acts include juggling, low wire, contortion, aerial ropes, trampoline and the wheel of death, all enhanced with water effects.

“We have at least 17 performers from all over the world,” Acero says. “It’s definitely a very technically advanced show that takes a lot of work and effort. It’s really a team effort.”

thandi.vera@winnipegfreepress.com