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The Bottom Line

Cirque du Soleil doesn't come to Arizona every year, but we have been lucky enough to have had several shows in the past several years. This year Corteo comes to Scottsdale as part of a limited national tour. Corteo is colorful, musical, awe inspiring, and absolutely entertaining.

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Pros

• A show for the entire family
• Dazzling performances and effects

Cons

• The usual tight seating

Description

• Corteo is more like a true circus than many other Cirque du Soleil shows I've seen so far.
• Because Corteo showcases many acrobatic performers, kids and guys will love it.
• Music for Corteo is performed lived, and is mostly upbeat. There is singing, but not much.
• Corteo is showing at Scottsdale's WestWorld through April 9, 2006.
• At Corteo, lap children 2 or under are free.
• There are student and senior discounts. No other coupons or discounts are available.
• Enjoy this Corteo photo gallery!

Guide Review - Cirque du Soleil Corteo

Corteo, means "cortege" in Italian, which, in this case, refers to a funeral procession. A clown pictures his own funeral taking place in a carnival atmosphere, watched over by quietly caring angels. According to Cirque du Soleil, Corteo "highlights the strength and fragility of the clown, as well as his wisdom and kindness, to illustrate the portion of humanity that is within each of us."

The Cirque du Soleil company travels on tour with its own stage, seating and equipment.

The tent-style theatre is called the Grand Chapiteau, which is French for Big Top; it is specially designed so that every spectator will have a great seat. The stage is circular, and you won't have to worry about looking at performer's backs. The performers are constantly moving and ensuring that everyone in the audience is treated to the optimal performance. This particular show, Corteo has a lot of action on a wide stage, and quite a bit up high. First row seats might not be an advantage here. Even though the stage is circular, I'd stick with category 1 or 2 tickets if you aren't going for the VIP package.

My favorite parts of Corteo: the large human rings, the jugglers, the male acrobats tossing the women (similar to trapeze without the swings!) and, although not acrobatic, the special musical performance by the Ringmaster--I won't give it away--was amazing.

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