Approaching John Cain Arena, we spot children practicing their acro moves in the concourse through floor-to-ceiling windows – future Cirque du Soleil stars, perhaps?
Corteo is a dreamlike funeral procession for a clown, which blends elements from traditional Italian circus with Commedia dell’arte. Conceived by Daniele Finzi Pasca (creator of LUZIA), this is classic/vintage Cirque du Soleil.
Since it premiered under Montreal’s Big Top back in 2005, this production has captivated over 12 million mere mortals across 30 countries and four continents. Finally, in 2025, Australian audiences will fall under Corteo’s spell.
Cirque du Soleil Corteo – Melbourne
- Friday 29 August – 7:30 PM
- Saturday 30 August – 4:00 PM NEW, 8:00 PM
- Sunday 31 August – 12:00 PM NEW, 4:00 PM
- Full tour dates and tickets: here
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Set designer Jean Rabasse’s double-sided stage is a marvel, transforming the arena into back-to-back proscenium arch theatre spaces. The hand-painted scrim sets the scene even before we take our seats, depicting old-worldly circus characters such as a pierrot clown and harlequin.
Dominique Lemieux’s costume design references historical circus wardrobe, but nothing about it is tacky. Cirque du Soleil’s curious trademark sonic identity is everpresent, played live by eight musicians, and we’re immediately dropped into a parallel universe where disbelief is suspended.
As Mauro The Dreamer Clown, Stephane Gentilini imagines his own funeral as a carnival and is visited by flying angels.
The opening chandelier scene is opulent and enthralling. As the inverted performers spin – attached to a chandelier by one flexed foot only – crystal pieces twinkle, enhancing the score.
We can just imagine parents trying to discourage their kids from turning their own beds into Trampo Beds after watching this show. Don’t try any of this at home, kiddies!
As The Clowness, Valentyna Paylevanyan demonstrates a childlike playfulness as she floats above the audience beneath four ginormous helium balloons – pushing off upstretched hands, spontaneously interacting with each point of contact and reminding participants she’s not hefty. We’ll cherish this fantastical visual forever.
Geert Chatrou’s whistling prowess steals Act 2. Close your eyes and you’d swear his whistling was actual birdsong!
Even though we suspect The Acrobatic Ladder Guy faked the degree of difficulty of his penultimate trick, for dramatic effect, we’re totally invested and the pay-off is huge!
The romantic Duo Straps act – a masterclass in grace and seamless partnering – leaves us misty-eyed and speechless. We’re on the edge of our seat throughout the immaculately-timed Tournik routine, which showcases an entire team of gymnasts criss-crossing on horizontal bars with zero margin for error.
Mauro The Dreamer Clown delivers his closing monologue while riding a bike high above our heads. Referencing an Albert Einstein quote – “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving” – Corteo is a meditation on mortality, during which we’re reminded that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
Corteo runs at John Cain Arena until 31 August.
