BWW Reviews: Cirque's KURIOS Brings Magic and Wonder to Marymoor

Get ready to let your inner kid loose in the circus while the adult in you marvels at the death defying feats as you take in the wonder that is "Cirque du Soleil: Kurios". And while the cohesive story of it all wasn't the most solid, the acts involved more than make up for it as they fly, contort and swing in super human ways.

Like I said, the story is a little threadbare but the theme of it all surrounds an inventor who has delved into the world of his cabinet of curiosities and while there encounters the many creatures an items that live within. So not much of an actual story but more than enough as a jumping off point to explore this steampunk-ish world with its myriad of outstanding artists.

There's the dinner party where one guest must balance all the chairs at the table in order to reach the chandelier high above them only to see that there's a mirror image of them and this balancing act coming from above as well. The highflying trampoline act as they show off an "underwater world" that covers the entire stage. The soaring aerial straps act of Siamese twins suddenly separated. Not to mention the hilarious clowns including one who just wanted to show a lovely audience member his apartment where she met the various creatures that live within. Even a miniature little play acted out by fingers. And so many more. There's really something for everyone here and they all thrill. But even beyond the thrills, the style and artistry of the set design and costumes are the usual Cirque du Soleil genius that is second to none. The steampunk world they've created is truly magical with someone made out of accordions, a glamorous woman living inside the belly of the ringmaster, an otherworldly aviator and so many more odd creations and mechanicals that sometimes you don't know where to look with so much wonder on stage.

It's truly a magical night with one awe-inspiring moment after another. I, of course, had my favorites. The aforementioned clown with his pets had me giggling to no end. The highflying Siamese twins routine was nothing short of chilling and beautiful. The balancing acts with the aviator as well as the chair stacking dinner guest had my jaw dropping to the floor. And that trampoline act (especially for one who's afraid of heights) gave one thrilling butt puckering moment after another as they bounced so high that they could touch the top of the Big Top.

And all that's just my highlights with so much music, acrobatics, humor and artistry I really don't see how anyone could walk away from the show not feeling like a wide-eyed kid again. And with so many wow moments on stage I can't help but give the show the WOW rating with my three letter rating system. But then what can you expect from an organization that has been thrilling people for so long and really has their magic down to a science. And this well-oiled machine is no exception.

"Cirque du Soleil: Kurios" performs at Marymoor Park through March 22nd. For tickets or information visit them online at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

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