HONOLULU (KHON2) — After years of development, the first resident Cirque du Soleil show created specifically for Hawaii has arrived.
Cirque du Soleil Auana combines the rich traditions of Hawaiian culture with the thrilling acrobatics and innovation that the world-renowned circus company is known for.
The show is set to debut at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, where a media preview offered a glimpse of what audiences can expect from this groundbreaking production.
Cirque du Soleil Auana is the result of a creative collaboration between cultural experts Dr. Aaron Sala, designer Manaola Yap, kumu hula Hiwa Baughan, and linguist Kaeo Nesmith.
Together, they celebrate Native Hawaiian culture through eight acts inspired by mo‘olelo (Hawaiian stories).
The performance integrates hula, Hawaiian language, and breathtaking acrobatics, offering a unique fusion of tradition and contemporary artistry.
During the preview, Neil Dorward, co-creator and director of the show, shared the vision behind the production.
“It really is a celebration of the spirit of Hawai’i through the lens of Cirque du Soleil,” Dorward said. “We’ve created these fantastical worlds for the audience to enjoy, but most importantly, it’s a show that the community will be proud of.”
Dr. Aaron Sala, the cultural creative producer, explained the significance of the show’s title. “Auana, as we all know, is related to hula, often seen as hula auana,” Sala said. “It represents the integration of modern western instruments with the Hawaiian tradition, allowing for movement in a particular way.”
He added that auana literally means “to wander,” symbolizing a journey that is both grounded in Hawaiian culture and open to exploration beyond traditional boundaries.
Cirque du Soleil Auana is set to become a cultural milestone, blending the beauty and spirit of Hawai’i with the wonder of Cirque du Soleil’s signature acrobatics.