Cirque du Soleil Returns to Hong Kong with Spectacular Kooza Show

Cirque du Soleil has returned to Hong Kong after a seven-year hiatus with its electrifying production, Kooza, now showing at the Central Harbourfront Event Space until July 13. Originally scheduled to end on June 22, the family-friendly show has extended its run due to popular demand.

Kooza follows the journey of the Innocent, a curious clown who is whisked into a surreal, high-energy world by the Trickster. What unfolds is a two-hour display of breathtaking acrobatics, daring stunts, and whimsical clowning that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

Described by Chief Show Operations Officer Duncan Fisher as “the most ‘circus’ of all our circuses,” Kooza brings together traditional circus elements with contemporary flair. Fisher, a former gymnast and acrobat, now oversees Cirque’s global operations, including five big-top shows currently touring. Each touring unit includes a team of 120 to 130 people, with about 50 performers and the rest comprising technicians, crew, management, and even kitchen staff.

This year’s Kooza features updated acts and new talent, including aerialist Mizuki Shinagawa and hoop artist Sante D’Amours Fortunato. Many performers share personal and professional bonds, such as Fortunato and her husband Alexandr Yudintsev, who plays the Innocent. The couple previously performed in another Cirque show, Corteo, before joining Kooza.

Setting up the production is a logistical feat, involving over 100 cargo containers transporting tents, generators, and essential supplies. A skeleton crew typically arrives weeks in advance to prepare the site, level the ground, and install fencing. As the show date approaches, the team races to complete setup, overcoming common hurdles like weather delays or staffing shortages.

Fisher highlights the unique appeal of staging the show in central Hong Kong. Unlike most cities where space constraints push shows to the outskirts, Kooza enjoys a rare prime location downtown, right by the water and City Hall. He praises Hong Kong as one of Cirque’s top global venues and expresses hope for future shows in Asia through partnerships with Mast International and Great Entertainment Group.

Cirque du Soleil’s Kooza promises a magical experience for all ages, celebrating the essence of the circus with unmatched artistry and spectacle.

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