Now Playing: Cirque du Soleil

Although Cirque du Soliel's Quidam opened a few weeks ago, Shanghaiist didn't get the chance to see the show until last night. Initially, we weren't exactly over the moon about seeing the Canadian troupe perform...to new age music...in tights...on one of our precious Friday nights. But, we were wrong. Insert foot into mouth here.

Last night's show was a great display of entertainment, music, and dance that bridged that cultural divide. It was a welcome break from those teahouses we've been going to recently. The big tent (it is a circus after all) was moderately packed with a very appreciative audience. Note to future event promoters: at both the Christina Aguilera concert and at last night's show, the cheaper tickets were packed, while more exclusive seats were still available.

One minor quibble with the show is the "story". Perhaps the audience needs to be high in order get a complete understanding, but we seem to remember a bit about a girl with a hat, a headless guy with an umbrella (pictured), and some creepy guy with boxing gloves. What they have to do with each other is anyone's guess. We can't complain too much because it was still a great show. The highlight of the night was the performance of four Chinese girls and their "diabolos", or juggling props consisting of a spool which is whirled and tossed on a string tied to two sticks held one in each hand (thanks Wikipedia!).

If any reader is interested in going to the show, try to sit in the center, facing the stage. Our tickets were 360RMB and fairly close to the stage, but off to the left of the stage. If you happen to be sitting there, be prepared to be blinded by spotlights. If you are lucky enough to sit in the first few rows, also beware. You might be chosen to come onstage and embarrass yourself.

"Quidam" by Cirque du Soleil, playing now until August 26,
at the Big Tent near the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum (太阳城堡, 近上海科技馆)
Tickets: call 962388 or (021)64480898
Ticket Prices (in RMB): 150, 360, 680, 880, 2000