Since its foundation in 1993, Cirque Éloize has become one of the world leaders of contemporary circus arts with over 4,000 performances given in 436 cities and 36 countries worldwide. Philadelphia is the latest stop for Cirque Éloize iD this holiday season. What a spectacular opening night it was!

Photo Credit: Théâtre T & Cie/ Valérie Remise

Cirque Éloize iD is unlike any other Cirque show you have seen before. Jumping right into the show, you’ll notice that this has a very urban feel to it and I loved it. Act One is all fun and games. If you think you’ve seen these stunts before, you will be in for a surprise. The diverse cast of no more than sixteen takes all of your childhood favorite stunts to a level we all dream we could reach. From in-line skating and biking to acrobats, juggling, and more, Act One is a walk down memory lane and a look at the best of the best. A look at how far such talents can be stretched. It is truly magnificent what you will see before your eyes. My favorite number was without a doubt the duet between a break dancer and the contortionist.

The stakes are raised and the creativity is taken to new heights in Act Two. Oh my, the things you can do with a jump rope! The jump rope number in Legally Blonde the Musical is a favorite of mine but doesn’t come close to the amazing things shown off here. Jumping rope with roller blades, bikes, within ropes, and more… there is a ton to see here! Even more dangerous is the number that opens up Act Two, Chinese pole and aerial silks. I am surprised the show did not have a “Do not try this at home” message before the show began. I was left speechless. My heart slowed and I was glued to the stage, hoping and praying that everything would go well. These artists are in their environment and have done these stunts a million times but that doesn’t make it less life threatening.

iD allows the audience room to pick up our jaws and rest easy with more colorful, fun stunts, one of which includes audience participation, and finally the trampowall, yes trampowall, which was a ton of fun to watch. Cirque Éloize iD has something that everyone in your family will love. It’s like a mash up of So You Think You Can Dance and a circus. Cirque Éloize iD is mesmerizing and inspiring, just what you need to see going into the new year. Cirque Éloize iD is the show to see this season so be sure to get your tickets now for when it comes to a city near you.

Cirque Éloize iD will run for eight shows December 26th to 30th, 2012. Get tickets (ranging from $25 to $65) by calling 215-893-1999, online, at the Kimmel Center box office, or at the Merriam Theater box office.