The experience of transforming from a spectator to a performer in a Cirque du Soleil production is both exhilarating and challenging. This was the reality for one individual who took on the ambitious task of embodying a giant cricket in the show OVO, currently running at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall until March 1, 2024.
This unique journey began with a commitment to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Rather than engaging in traditional New Year’s resolutions that often involve giving things up, the participant resolved to say “yes” more often. This included rigorous training with professional acrobats from Cirque du Soleil, leading to the decision to don a vibrant green costume and face paint to portray a cricket.
Upon arriving at the iconic venue, memories flooded back of previous performances witnessed there. The Royal Albert Hall has hosted numerous high-profile events, including concerts and theatrical productions. The excitement was palpable as the participant prepared to step onto the same stage where so many celebrated artists had performed.
During initial rehearsals, the atmosphere was electric. Young acrobat Ramarni Levena, a world champion tumbler, showcased remarkable agility, executing spins and flips with apparent ease. His enthusiasm was infectious as he shared the dream-come-true experience of performing with Cirque du Soleil, saying, “You grow up watching it, and suddenly you’re part of it — performing in front of thousands of people.”
As preparations progressed, the task of transforming into the cricket took on a life of its own. The makeup process proved to be a fun yet intricate challenge, with Ramarni skillfully applying the required colors. The costume itself, a handmade piece taking around 75 hours to create, was a complex assembly of components that required assistance to put on.
Training sessions took place in a fully equipped gym constructed within the Royal Albert Hall, where acrobats train daily. Ramarni detailed his commitment to daily practice, revealing that he only took Christmas Day off last year. The training focused on various acrobatic skills, including aerial straps and foot juggling, with the participant quickly becoming enamored with the exhilarating freedom of flying through the air.
The session progressed to foot juggling, a skill demonstrated by a team of exceptional Chinese gymnasts. Despite initial struggles, the participant received positive feedback, boosting confidence. The vibrant energy of the ongoing OVO production, which explores the life of an insect colony, added to the excitement.
At the helm of this production is Lydia Harper, one of Cirque du Soleil’s youngest artistic directors at just 33 years old. Her journey began with a childhood experience at a Cirque show, and she has since dedicated her career to the art of acrobatics. Lydia emphasized the importance of passing on her passion, inspiring a new generation of performers.
The OVO show is a visual feast, filled with breathtaking acrobatics that celebrate the beauty of biodiversity. Each act seamlessly connects to the next, creating a rich narrative that captivates the audience. The vibrant performances include crickets leaping and tumbling, fiery dancers displaying precision, and an enormous inflatable egg that serves as a focal point.
The production features impressive technical elements, including a climbing wall measuring 19.5 metres wide and 9 metres high, and an acrobatic structure hanging 14 metres above the ground. The participant’s aspiration to gracefully embody the spirit of a cricket culminated in a thrilling experience, marked by moments of laughter and joy.
As the event concluded, the participant reflected on the transformative journey from observer to performer. The experience of performing as a fluorescent green cricket alongside the talented cast of OVO was a significant milestone, illustrating the power of embracing challenges and saying “yes” to new adventures.
For those interested in experiencing the magic of Cirque du Soleil, tickets for OVO are available online at www.cirquedusoleil.com/united-kingdom/london/ovo/buy-tickets.
