At a time when a man who brags about grabbing women as a chat-up technique is about to become the Leader of the Free World, the Cirque Du Soleil’s feminist take on The Tempest is a welcome breath of fresh air. If you have a daughter, niece, auntie or mother, take them to this show.

The Cirque du Soleil always produces shows with breathtaking human tricks but Amaluna has a real story that flows smoothly from act to act. The all-female rockband (complete with blue cello) provides a high-energy musical backdrop to the evening. The only moment when the band falls silent is during the Balance Goddess’s act ‘Manipulation’. During this magical moment, the only sound is her meditative breathing. The audience seems to hold their breath for the whole routine, which sees her building an incredible skeleton out of beautiful balanced palm ribs. At the last moment, when the ribs collapse, so does the tension.

The show begins with Queen Prospera causing a huge storm that washes up a troupe of young men. Throughout the show, the women take centre stage with these men primarily offering support at key moments. The only male protagonist is Cali the lizard, who scurries around the stage observing Miranda’s coming of age journey. Cali has his own moment when he performs an incredible juggling act. The fabulous clowning duo provide a sweet sub-plot as they fall in love between acts.

The first moment the women shot down from the sky on aerial straps was breathtaking. Swooping through the air, blonde dreadlocks flowing, these acrobats performed an immaculate routine of grace and strength. The absolute highlight of the show was the Moon Goddess arriving on her aerial hoop. Not content with just performing incredible acrobatics, she also sang a haunting song. Next it was Miranda’s turn as she displayed incredible strength and balance on the canes. Slipping in and out of the water bowl, she played and twisted like a fish, splashing the stage and leaving us all in awe.

Watching this beautiful show is rather like having a spectacular dream, one that will leave you musing in meetings and lessons for days after. If January and February are not your favourite months, make sure you hurry and get yourself a ticket to this magical isle.

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