Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group has unveiled details of its first resident production in Hawai’i that has been named “‘Auana”. Announced 12 months ago, the Hawai’i-inspired production will be hosted at Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel from late 2024, and is a unique curation of artistry, acrobatics and heritage.

The title, ‘Auana, stems from the loose translation to wander, veer off the beaten path or to embark on a journey. ‘Auana was selected to foreshadow the thrilling adventure that audience members will take part in, traversing through Hawai’i’s unique mo’olelo (stories) and stylised depictions of historic milestone events.

Still under development, ‘Auana promises to meld the poetic and nuanced Hawaiian worldview with Cirque du Soleil’s signature style of breathtaking acrobatics, dramatic storytelling, and flair.

“Our vision for ‘Auana faithfully connects us all to the islands of Hawai’i through innovative and engaging storytelling, using hula dance, music, comedy and incredible acrobatic performances,” say Director Neil Dorward.

“It is my hope that our audiences will be transported into a world where stories can live unconstrained by reality, honouring the land and the people of this place,” Dorward added.

The fabric of the show is woven through the Native Hawaiian inspiration of the natural beauty of the islands. These components will be personified through colour, texture, projections and sound, culminating in a spectacular celebration of the rich Hawaiian culture through the lens of an internationally and locally acclaimed ensemble. The home for ‘Auana will be a custom-designed, intimate theatre space, seating 784 guests.

Tickets for ‘Auana are now available at cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii for performances starting 15 December 2024.

Ticket prices start at US$69 plus taxes and fees with a special 30% kama’āina discount available. ‘Auana will perform Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.