It’s almost a given for Cirque du Soleil’s shows to be spectacular, but “Toruk—The First Flight” offers something entirely different.
Inspired by James Cameron’s science-fantasy blockbuster “Avatar,” “Toruk” gives a peek into the lives of the Na’vi and the world they live in, offering a spellbinding, sensory experience. Here are but a few of the many reasons why it’s a show you shouldn’t miss.
The ever changing landscape
The show occupies the entire floor of the MOA Arena as its stage, transforming it into a variety of landscapes, from dry terrain and a flowing river to a massive volcanic eruption — depending on the scene. The transitions are sheer magic made possible through the use of cutting-edge technology in the form of high-tech projectors and moving stage segments.
The make-up, the costumes and the pageantry
Fact: everyone in Cirque du Soleil knows how to do his or her own make-up. It doesn’t matter if you’re one of the supporting acrobats or playing one of the principal parts—you have to do it. Daniel Crispin, who plays Entu the Na’vi, confirmed this in an interview with Interaksyon.
Make-up and costumes in this case are extraordinary. Crispin and other members of the cast are dressed to look exactly like Na’vi, those blue mystical creatures from James Cameron’s science-fantasy film, “Avatar.” They parade in character, speaking and acting like Na’vi, each a sight to behold.
Amazing acrobatics
As in other Cirque shows, people don’t show up for the theatrics alone, but to be mesmerized by the acrobatics as well.
In an interview with Interaksyon, head coach Michael Ocampo explained that one can actually audition to be part of the Cirque. However, the ones who do get in normally have 15 to 20 years of experience under their belt and are considered experts in their chosen craft or discipline.
In “Toruk,” the acrobats you see twisting themselves in and out of ropes, hanging from heights of 30 or even 40 feet and flipping from one end to another are highly trained, exceptionally skilled and experienced acrobats that you might never get the chance to see elsewhere.
The magical creatures
Na’vi aren’t the only magical beings you’ll see in the show. There are other creatures—prancing about, trudging slowly or hovering high above. Surprisingly, they aren’t real, but are actually handcrafted puppets manually controlled by expert puppeteers, one of which is actually a Filipino by the name of Rob Laqui.
These puppets aren’t the cute, fluffy types though; some are altogether fearsome while others are simply majestic.
The spectacular lighting effects, projections and the star-lit sky
The stage is a gray and bare platform; nothing of interest there. But once the show starts, the arena transforms into Pandora, the world of the Na’vi. You see water flowing through a river, lava breaking into the surface, and the terrain changing and yet these are all cinematic projections—technically engineered light patterns designed to play with your senses.
You see the same stars that light Pandora’s sky at night, the supernatural glow of the sacred trees, and more. A visual extravaganza like no other.
A pivotal storyline buoyed by an impressive cinematic score
“Toruk – The First Flight” is essentially a prequel to James Cameron’s film. It showcases five Na’vi tribes, relates the ordeal of Na’vi on a very important mission and what they went through for their species.
James Cameron himself was impressed by the plot and how it was able to successfully depict the imaginary world and beings he created. The storytelling would not have been as effective, however, without the stunning visuals and up-to-the minute scoring.
An immersive experience
The show is your ticket to Pandora; watching it is akin to visiting Pandora yourself. You don’t get access to a far-flung universe every day; that extraordinary world, right before your very eyes, and all those Na’vi, sharing the same breathing space with you.
In the beginning, you are a mere spectator, watching the story unfold, but sooner you get to take an active part— if you download the “Toruk” app. The app lets you sprinkle more magic to some of the scenes and actually become part of the show.
“Toruk—The First Flight” will run its remaining shows at the Mall of Asia Arena until July 2. As the official partner of Cirque du Soleil, Globe invites all subscribers to a 30 percent discount for all shows. Just key in GlobeLiveToruk30 as the promo code.