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| - Zumanity has turned out to be my favorite Cirque show here in town mainly because, as a rule, I'm quite a fan of cabaret style shows but what really attracts me to Zumanity is both it's personality and it accessibility.
If you believe that Cirque du Soleil is "supposed to be a certain way", then this show might disappoint you, but if you recognize the truest nature of Cirque, then you recognize that they are constantly looking to create something they HAVEN'T done before, rather than re-create from some Cirque "formula".
(To that end I will not compare it to anything rather just distinguish what I feel are relevant qualities about the experience)
In my opinion, what makes Zumanity stand out isn't the fact that the performers are doing incredible things, but rather they are just BEING incredible by way of showcasing their diversity.
Stereotypes are turned upside down as Zumanity cleverly challenges the normal conventions of a cabaret styled show.
Here you find a leading man who has all the brawn you might expect, however, this Adonis is barely 3 feet tall.
The sexy twins that entice you to "take a bite", just so happen to be a beautifully rotund duo armed with fresh strawberries.
Here, the notion of showgirls has been replaced by a pair of plumed behemoths whose bodies are as much the costumes as the ornate headresses and codpieces they wear.
It is a show that allows you to fantasize without guilt and enjoy the sensuality and sexuality inherent in us all.
Androgyny runs rampant in this production while the conventions of gender sufficiently balance out the overall sense of diverse human expression.
In all fairness, i do believe that Mystere is THE quintessential "gateway" to Cirque du Soleil, but it is the artistry, musicianship and humor of Zumanity that has made it my number 1 recommendation to people who ask about which show they should see.
True, Zumanity is not big on spectacle but it's all heart...and strawberries.
Now, you can't get THAT everywhere.
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