It's the World, Contorted

Men with men, men with women, women with women, nymphs with clowns. Stop what you're thinking, and instead put your mind in a wonderful place filled with impressive stamina and intense acrobatics. Still can't follow? Imagine daring aerialists on trapezes soaring to their partners 40 feet above the stage floor. In Cirque du Soleil's Alegria, a cast of 55 performers from 17 countries showcases amazing aerobatic feats using pure strength, balance and unparalleled skill. Watch a display of choreography and tumbling in Power Track, which uses a hidden trampoline system. In Russian Bars, performers fly through the air while performing mid-arm tucks, twists and flips, before landing on their partner's shoulders. The scenes are set with outrageous costuming and inventive characters, such as the Nostalgic Old Birds, a gang of ugly and deformed aristocrats dressed in flamboyant fabrics. And as is the M.O. for all Cirque du Soleil shows, this one is soaked in more symbolism than I could wring out in a bucket. But even if you don't get to the deeper meaning of the performance, the out-of-this-world theatrics will keep your eyes glued to the stage. Catch the show from Wednesday to February 28 (only eight performances). Tickets are $36 to $75. Tickets are available by calling 866-337-1312 or visiting cirquedusoleil.com/alegria.
Wed., Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Thu., Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Fri., Feb. 26, 3:30 & 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 27, 3:30 & 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 28, 1 & 5 p.m., 2010