CircusReviewsWest End

Review: Cirque de Soleil – Corteo, Royal Albert Hall

[review]

In a dazzling evening at the Royal Albert Hall, Cirque du Soleil‘s Corteo captivates with enchanting performances. The stage area is centrally located, with the audience divided into two sections, facing each other. Surrounded by stunning chandeliers and baroque aesthetics, the large setting is a masterpiece created by designer Jean Rabasse. The production’s intimate and clever staging make nearly every ticket in the house a good seat.

Through innovative lighting and props, the hall is transformed to heavenly skies, unlocking impressive locations that seem to exist only in dreams. The music turns lyrical and playful, carrying Corteo through a timeless celebration in which illusion teases reality.

Like other Cirque du Soleil productions I’ve experienced, Corteo lacks a solid storyline and features minimal dialogue. However, through expressive movement, we gather that a clown, Mauro, has envisioned his own funeral — a vibrant, bold, and festive affair. During this spectacular event, he is welcomed by beautiful flying angels and four former lovers, elegantly draped across crystal chandeliers suspended in the sky. His journey unfolds as he is celebrated for being a beloved clown, encountering a cast of fascinating characters, lovers, foes, and mystical beings. The climax [spoiler alert] sees him performing one last time, whisked away into the clouds by angels, leaving the audience to wonder whether it was a dream or reality.

Mauro is played by Stéphane Gentilini, a very likeable and charming Frenchman who speaks in Italian and English throughout. I found it harder to follow the storyline when the script was mainly in Italian. However, the programme had short translations for each act, which greatly helped. 

The show dazzles with outstanding jugglers, puppeteers, aerialists, pole artists, acrobats, and teeter-boarders. Each performer shines, leaving the audience in awe of their remarkable skills. As at a traditional circus, I found myself on the edge of my seat, gasping and cheering as the artists took daring risks. While some acts, such as the juggling, feel slightly dated, the innovative aerialists forming shapes inside chandeliers bring fresh excitement.

However, for me, the most successful and enjoyable act – and seemingly the most effortless – was the Ukrainian Valentina Paylevanyan, a clown hanging from five gigantic helium balloons. Not only does she float over the stage, but she also ventures a long way into the auditorium, pushed on her way upwards and onwards by members of the audience. I could watch this for hours — interesting that something so simple can be so hypnotic and enjoyable, showing that simple pleasures are still the best! A few of the acts are less successful, especially those that rely on visual comedy, such as the human golf ball scene, which seems very dated.

The theme of flight is carried throughout the performance. From a floating bed to a flying cyclist, the show is a visual feast, creating a magical atmosphere. Performers defy gravity, plummeting from the sky and soaring through the air, utilising swings, ropes, and ladders.

The costumes too are exceptional, influenced by traditional harlequin designs. Dominique Lemieux really brings the story together with the use of rich fabrics and sequins. I had the incredible opportunity to attend the premiere night, which added an extra layer of excitement to the entire performance. The sea of harlequin-themed outfits and glittering glamour was truly stunning. To top it off, a red carpet was adorned with performers, making the experience even more interactive!

Although I wished for a clearer storyline, I thoroughly enjoyed Corteo, which is fabulous all round entertainment. This show is ideal for families, inviting fun audience interaction. It’s a visual delight that showcases some of the finest artists on an exhilarating stage, making for an unforgettable experience.


Directed by: Daniele Finzi Pasca

Set Design by: Jean Rabasse

Costumes by: Dominique Lemieux


Cirque de Soleil – Corteo plays at the Royal Albert Hall until the 2nd March. Further information and booking are available here.

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