Crystal, Cirque du Soleil’s first ice show, shimmers and shines. When you take one of the world’s foremost athletic troupes and put it on ice, the result is equally magical, enthralling, spectacular, amazing, and, at times, jaw-dropping. I loved it.
When Crystal falls through fractured ice, it results in a fractured personality. In the watery depths, she evolves from a young girl who’s a misfit to one who dives into her imagination and discovers her inner strengths. At least that’s my understanding. Honestly, while the story is uplifting, that’s not what wowed me.
Crystal combines athletic strength with dancing grace. It’s hockey and hip hop, flying Walendas and Bolshoi ballet, roller derby and dancing queen, snowboard cross and ski jumping, all in two all-too-quick hours. Now add live fiddle, guitar, and piano. And a clown, who enjoys throwing snowballs into the audience. And razzle-dazzle lights and sound.
On a hot August night, it’s an ideal way to chill. Despite the seemingly tropical temps last night, I brought a lightweight hoodie and a rain jacket, and wore them both inside the arena.
I saw the show in Portland, but check Cirque du Soleil’s Crystal’s travel schedule to see if it’s near appearing near you.
