Reviewed by Nicholas Linnehan

A few years ago, I was asked to review a Cirque de Soleil’s production of Kurios. I remember entering the tent and being immediately transported into a fantastical world of pure imagination and wonder. I recall the goosebumps running up and down my spine numerous times. I was in a constant state of awe. It was simply unforgettable. Thus, when I was invited to see their new show Luzia, my heart started beating rapidly as the expectant excitement infiltrated every inch of my body. Finally, the day of the show arrived and I could not wait any longer. Sadly, Luzia left me feeling somehow cheated by my experience. Maybe it’s unfair to judge one show against the other, but for me the bar was set very high, perhaps too high to be lived up to.

The acts themselves were adequate, but they had mistakes in them, especially the person who tried to fit their body through a ring and failed to do so many times. But more than that the genius that constantly amazed me previously was seriously missing from this show. I kept waiting to be blown away by jaw-dropping moments. I was depressed by the flatness of the show, except for the clown who brought energy and excitement to the production. I hope that the creative team will revisit the amazing originality of Kurios and infuse it back into their next work.

Luzia plays under the Big Top at CitiField through June 9, 2019 https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/usa/new-york/luzia/buy-ticke