Do you enjoy theatrical shows and the circus? At the ExpoMeloneras venue, Totem by the Cirque du Soleil will be performed in Gran Canaria. Its run is for a limited time only, so you shouldn’t miss this unique experience, which includes a wide range of performances produced by the Cirque du Soleil.
What is Totem, the Cirque du Soleil show in Gran Canaria?
Totem is the latest production by this global giant and is performed as a touring show. The Cirque du Soleil describes Totem as a reflection on human evolution, from its most primitive amphibian stage to the aspiration of flight, showcasing myths related to the origin of humanity.
During the performance, a theatrical atmosphere is created using interactive projection technology to enhance the scenes developed in Totem. These include volcanoes, lakes, swamps and starry nights, among others. In 2013, the show was awarded the New York Drama Desk Award.
The Cirque du Soleil is considered the largest and most outstanding production in the world and, in 2019, it returns to Gran Canaria. It is a Canadian company whose spectacular shows are accompanied by live music and endless magic. Therefore, the Cirque du Soleil in Gran Canaria is expected to be yet another success in its trajectory.
Totem performances – Cirque du Soleil in Gran Canaria
On stage, the characters of Totem evolve and evoke a giant turtle. Many ancient civilisations used this turtle as a symbolic representation of their beliefs. The Cirque du Soleil will showcase in Gran Canaria the connection between humans and other species, their potential and their dreams.
The audience will enjoy performances by acrobats on the trapeze, as well as Russian bars, ice skating and much more. The show is inspired by many founding myths. In Totem, the progressive evolution of species is expressed through acrobatic and visual language—a connection between legend and science.
Special features of Totem
Every circus has its own distinctive characteristics. The Cirque du Soleil stands out especially for its costumes and stage design.
Costumes
The Cirque du Soleil is known for portraying the evolutionary progress of humanity. The show features 779 costume pieces inspired by nature. Designer Kym Barrett focused on treating fabrics in a way that mimics natural elements.
These designs incorporate advanced printing techniques and fluorescent pigments. Fragments of glass and mirrors are also used as decoration. Some examples include:
- The Native American dancer’s costume is inspired by various indigenous tribes and includes a Hopi headdress and a cross.
- The velvet leotard worn by the Crystal Man features around four thousand five hundred reflective pieces, of which four thousand are mirror fragments, making it the heaviest costume at around 3.5 kilograms.
- The Lycra bodysuits of the antipodism duo are fitted with three thousand five hundred crystals, with an additional thousand on the helmet.
- The unicyclists’ costumes feature different colour variations, including earthy tones with details that represent natural elements. These details enhance the beauty and quality of the costumes, including feathers, pods, screws, insects and flowers.
Stage
The Cirque du Soleil in Gran Canaria will use interactive projections during the performance. This is made possible through infrared cameras, allowing projections that create hyper-realistic imagery which appears to move and react to the performers’ movements—both in pre-recorded sequences and in real time.
The main element of Totem is the “turtle shell”, used both as acrobatic equipment and as a decorative feature.
Another key component is the “scorpion bridge”, sometimes used as an entrance. It is made from approximately 4,500 kilograms of steel and includes hydraulic motors so it can move smoothly as required. Finally, the “reed swamp” is an essential background element that facilitates the performers’ movement across the stage.
Why attend the Totem show by Cirque du Soleil in Gran Canaria?
Because it is a special event and its presentation at ExpoMeloneras is for a limited time only. The Cirque du Soleil in Gran Canaria will deliver a spectacle unlike anything previously seen on the island. It is entertaining and engaging, helping audiences understand the different stories told over time about evolution.
Moreover, due to the touring nature of the show, the opportunity to experience a performance of this scale is limited, only until 22 September 2019. This presentation of the Cirque du Soleil in Gran Canaria is supported by the Lopesan Group, and you can enjoy an exceptional stay at our hotels while attending this unique event.
Attending Totem by Cirque du Soleil in Gran Canaria is an experience that brings together art, emotion and spectacle in a unique setting such as ExpoMeloneras. A perfect plan to enjoy a different kind of evening during your stay on the island, where culture and entertainment come together.
And if you want to keep exploring the island after the show, Gran Canaria offers a wide range of leisure options for all tastes. From seaside bars to live music venues, the possibilities are endless. You can continue discovering plans and recommendations in our guide Everything you need to know about nightlife in Gran Canaria, where you’ll find more ideas to complete your experience.
