Dr. Seuss' imagination looks dull by comparison. Visually bewitching, audibly extraordinary and physically mind-boggling, Mystère is a glimpse into an enchanting realm where we all wish we could stay. Hypnotized into the trance of the world's most multifarious circus, Cirque du Soleil continues to solidify its theatrical dominance in America's Entertainment Capital.
The fantasia-like theme of Mystère is deceptively complex, with the creative components delivering a story with almost infinite interpretations. Innocence screams through majestic evolution, time collides with itself as past and future fold into the present. Humor is interlaced throughout; a mischievous clown is a constant reminder that nothing is above humanity and nothing is too perfect to disturb.
The cast storms the stage in a kaleidoscope of art, athletics, music and creativity, birthing a journey that mesmerizes the subconscious just as much as it does the eyes. Androgynous, athletically ripped performers bounce around like lemmings frolicking on a child's dream playground. An amped-up teeter-totter sends the little ones up and away, and trampolines spring into a new art form.
The percussion is a show in itself. The drums provide an orgasmic level of sound, swinging from the ceiling and filling the room with convulsing rhythms. A series of musicians follows suit with live vocals and musically poetic blends of woodwinds and strings.
An oversized infant serves as a joyous guide. With laughter and naivety, the round toddler explores the unique new world hand-in-hand with audiences. Confronting bizarre creatures in his search for a father, the big baby glues together the show, embodying the childlike wonder in each ticket-holder.
High-flying acrobatics pierce the space with aerial stimuli in an elevated ballet, bungees and trapezes replacing the pointe shoes.
Landing as Cirque's first stationary production here in 1993, Mystère has redefined what entertainment is in Las Vegas and has been raising the bar ever since. The custom-built theater retained the intimacy of the troupe's traveling big top. Modeled after a Greek amphitheater, the peaceful venue is fully exploited by the performers scurrying up, around and over the crowd.
The only disappointment rises with the house lights at the end of the show, as the 90-minute dream world will not be one you will want to wake from. Bon voyage.