Global entertainment powerhouse Cirque du Soleil premiered ‘Auana, its first resident production in Hawai‘i, to a sold-out audience at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel on December 17.
A dazzling homage to Hawai‘i’s heritage and Cirque’s iconic artistry, the show combines breathtaking acrobatics, multimedia projections, and mo‘olelo (stories) inspired by the islands’ rich culture. Performances run Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., exclusively at the OUTRIGGER Theater.
This monumental occasion was marked by a star-studded red-carpet event, where celebrities, cultural icons, and community leaders including Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, James Beard Award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi, and Olympic gold medalist surfer Carissa Moore gathered to honor this innovative fusion of art and storytelling from the internationally renowned entertainment brand.
The evening underscored the seamless synergy between Cirque du Soleil’s creative vision and OUTRIGGER’s deep-rooted commitment to preserving and sharing the aloha spirit.
“I thought the show was brilliant, the performers were amazing, but what I really loved is that our Polynesian culture is at the forefront of something that pierces cultures like Cirque du Soleil,” said Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson.
“I think it’s rare when you have something that can span from beautiful storytelling, culture, song, comedy, humor – I loved it.”
Rooted in Hawaiian history and mythology, ‘Auana takes audiences through eight visually stunning chapters with vivid, dreamlike scenes and daring acrobatic portrayals.
The world premiere performance provided a transcendent experience for all in attendance, fusing traditional Hawaiian language, song and hula with rousing theatrics and acrobatic ability.
“We’re bringing together a generation that is no longer apologetic about who we are. We stand in our ‘ōlelo, we stand in our culture and we allow that culture to be in the firmament,” said Dr. Aaron J. Salā, cultural creative producer.
“We’re not seeking opportunities to find culture. It is in us. If we find opportunities to tell our stories using platforms like Cirque du Soleil that catapult our work to the mainstream, I feel very simply but very firmly that Hawai‘i can change the world.”
Unbound by the constraints of reality, ‘Auana both reimagines and pays homage to the magnificent Hawaiian spirit through Cirque du Soleil’s signature artistry and daring feats of athletic prowess.
A riveting lineup of international and local talent delivers world-class acrobatics, outrageous comedy, mesmerising hula, and captivating music in this lively celebration of Hawai‘i.
The compelling narrative of ‘Auana unfolds across eight chapters, each telling a distinct Hawaiian story. The opening act begins with a stunning interpretation of the Polynesian migration to the islands, as a high-flying super troupe of acrobats is propelled by voyaging swings, taking to the sky.
Scenes shift to explore the “golden age of tourism” with a duo of foot jugglers using only their bodies to perform intricate flips and twists.
An homage to Hina, goddess of the moon, will be represented by a graceful Lyra (aerial hoop) act before the beloved tale of Naupaka is brought to life by a highly skilled roller-skating duo that defy gravity with incredible spins, strength and flexibility.
Paying homage to the birthplace of he‘e nalu (surfing), an acrobatic balancing Rola Bola act exemplifies the skill and agility of surfers live on stage.
The next energetic chapter combines acrobatics, dance, strength, playful swimming and diving in a water bowl to showcase O‘ahu chiefess Māmala, a legendary surf rider and Mo‘o, who could alternate between the form of a beautiful woman and giant lizard.
An artistic sand painter then celebrates the spirituality of the Hawaiian people and their connection to the land before ‘Auana comes to a close with the red-hot Wheel of Life act, a daring acrobatic portrayal of ‘alae ‘ula birds and their role in the mythical origins of fire.
Tickets for ‘Auana are available at www.cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii for performances starting at $85 inclusive of taxes and fees.
Also available is the ‘Auana VIP Experience—a premium add-on for ticket holders. This exclusive package includes a 90-minute reception in a private open-air lounge at Maui Brewing Company Waikīkī, featuring a curated menu of Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine, ‘Auana-inspired cocktails and Maui Brewing’s locally-crafted beverages.
VIP guests will also enjoy the unique opportunity to meet ‘Auana cast members, take photos and view exclusive behind-the-scenes content.