Cirque du Soleil’s OVO – A Celebration of Micro Brilliance

The big top has returned to Toronto! For decades, Cirque du Soleil has dazzled audiences around the world with its unique blend of jaw-dropping acrobatics, stunning visuals, and evocative storytelling. For me, these shows are not just performances—they’re transformative experiences. Having worked under the big top during my university days, Cirque holds a special place in my heart, and OVO delivers another unforgettable spectacle.

OVO, which translates to “egg” in Portuguese, is a vivid and imaginative exploration of the world of insects, full of life, color, and energy. From the pre-show when performers were walking through the audience, the show immersed the audience in the beautiful and intricate world of insects. It’s a story of connection, harmony, and love

As always, Cirque du Soleil’s performers redefine what the human body is capable of. OVO is no exception, featuring an array of acts that left the audience in awe. A highlight for me was the ariel cradle act. An aerial cradle act is a circus performance where two performers work together in the air. One, called the “catcher,” hangs from a suspended frame using their knees. The other, called the “flyer,” gets tossed into the air, and is caught by the same, or another catcher. There were so many acts where performers seemed to defy gravity, soaring and somersaulting with breathtaking precision. The aerial silk act, featuring a duo spinning in perfect harmony, was a masterclass in elegance and trust.

Another standout was the foot-juggling ants…yes, ants! They balanced and flipped giant kiwi slices and corn pieces with extraordinary finesse. And then there’s the climactic trampoline, 

The set design furthers the immersion into the teeny-tiny world of the insects, including viibrant, oversized flowers hung over the audience. Costumes are equally dazzling, with intricate designs that perfectly blend whimsy and realism. Each character whether a cockroach, ladybug, or butterfly is brought to life through meticulous detail.

The music, a fusion of Brazilian-inspired rhythms and Cirque’s signature ethereal soundscapes, is a character in its own right. It pulses with energy during the high-flying acts and mellows into hauntingly beautiful melodies during quieter moments. The live musicians deserve a special mention for their seamless interplay with the performers.

While OVO is an incredible show, some transitions between acts felt a touch abrupt, briefly disrupting the otherwise fluid pacing. Additionally, while the storyline—centered on a love story between a quirky ladybug and a curious foreigner was charming, it occasionally took a backseat to the spectacle.

Cirque du Soleil’s OVO is a joyous celebration of life, reminding us of the beauty and interconnectedness of the natural world. With its awe-inspiring acrobatics, vibrant visuals, and infectious energy, it’s a show that will leave audiences of all ages buzzing with excitement.

OVO is playing in Toronto for a limited time, and I wholeheartedly recommend catching it before it flies away. It’s a reminder of why Cirque du Soleil continues to captivate audiences around the globe, it’s not just entertainment; it’s magic.

Check out our video recap of OVO below

Get tickets to Cirque du Soleil’s OVO here

Review by Shan Fernando