Review of Cirque du Soleil's "Totem"

I was privileged to see Cirque du Soleil's new traveling show, "Totem," which opened in Pittsburgh last week. It was, in a word, stunning. It is so original that it defies description. The sets are innovative and enormous, featuring a massive (biological) cell-like enclosure mid-stage, and a state of the art digital screen floor which mimics the beach, the ocean or whatever whimsical setting the CDS folks want. There's humor, acrobatics and breathtaking feats on the trapeze. One surprising performance featured a pair of rollerskated Native Americans on a tiny drum which could have easily been hokey but was instead fresh and memorable.

Part circus, part play, part performance art -- the best one can describe it is to say is that it is fascinating and captivating show. Totem, tells the story of evolution from a variety of perspectives – from ancient amphibians to Native Americans to a 19^th century scientist to a trio of frolicking beachgoers. It's well worth the price of admission, and worth a trip to Pittsburgh if it's not coming to your town or city.

"Totem" is being performed under a huge tent, the "Grand Chapiteau," in a massive parking lot in the Strip District, just a bit over a mile from our hotel. It runs through June 5.

We are offering a package, so please see our website for more information.

For information on ticket levels and pricing, click here