MYSTERE

Cirque du Soleil's premier Las Vegas show "Mystere" has been thrilling audiences for over ten years in a celebration of beauty, innovation, and human dexterity. Its longevity is a true testament to the unavoidable intrigue of "Mystere", not only as a performance but an orchestration of human creativity.

"Mystere" is roughly based in the traditions of the circus, however excluding members of the animal kingdom. Its international cast performs incredible stunts that challenge ones pre-conceived notions of the limits of the human body. Two brothers display feats of balance and strength atop a rotating dome, acrobats swing, fly, and spin from hanging trapeezes, bungee jumpers bounce around the stage in unison, and these are just a few of the stunts included in the 90 minute show. And of course, what circus would be complete without clowns? Brian Le Petit is Mystere's "head clown", and injects humor and the element of surprise into the show.

The ecclectic variety of acts in the performance is unified by two factors: the music and the costuming. Everything that takes place is seamlessly transitioned and flawlessly choreographed to original scores of music, giving an ethereal mood to the show. The performers themselves are all costumed as mythical creatures ranging from birds to "spermatos" to black widows. As a whole the characters interact organically, creating a fantastical microcosm that reflects the world in which we live.

If you haven't been to "Mystere" already, it is a must-see spectacle guaranteed to stimulate the senses.

By Kristine Gregorian