BALTIMORE – From the Judeo-Christian account in the book of Genesis to the “Big Bang” theory, the fallen “Sky Woman” of the Iroquois to Nyx, the golden-egg-bearing originator of the Greeks, cultures and generations of people the world over have attempted to explain the evolution of mankind.
Now, in one of its latest productions, Cirque du Soleil captures the mystery and wonder of that age-old story. TOTEM, a two-hour show marked by Cirque’s signature blend of awe-inspiring acrobatics, fantastical costume, makeup and set design, premiered this week under the Grand Chapiteau at the Westport Waterfront in downtown Baltimore.
“Inspired by the foundation narratives of the first peoples, TOTEM explores the birth and evolution of the world, the relentless curiosity of human beings and their constant desire to excel,” said writer and director Robert Lepage in the show’s production notes. “The word TOTEM suggests that human beings carry in their bodies the full potential of all living species, even the Thunderbird’s desire to fly to the top of the TOTEM.”
TOTEM comes to Baltimore on its one-year anniversary. Spokeswoman Amelie Hamel said patrons—especially those who have not yet had a Cirque du Soleil experience—are in for a treat.
“The show has evolved itself. It was a good, strong show at the start, but now that we’ve been touring, artists are more comfortable in their roles, so it’s tighter and it flows better,” she told the AFRO.
Hamel said this show is different from others in that it is “very organic and natural-looking,” an effect that, ironically, is fostered by the enhanced use of technology such as live projections.
“In terms of technology it’s a higher level, so it makes it very different from other shows; it’s very visually interesting,” she said.
Set in a swamp, the first scene depicts various amphibians and fish “evolving” around the carapace of a giant turtle, the symbol of creation in ethnic lore. From there the show depicts different facets of man—his interaction with animals and the world around him, love and romance, his use of science to provide enlightenment and efforts to defy gravity.
Creating TOTEM took three years and “a lot of talent,” Hamel said. There are 53 artists of 18 nationalities in the show.
“We use a lot of people and a lot of cultures, but that’s what makes it interesting,” Hamel said. “Everyone can recognize themselves in the Cirque du Soleil shows…. Everyone can find something they appreciate and enjoy watching.”
“TOTEM” can be seen in Baltimore from April 7-May 1. Tickets can be purchased online at www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/totem/tickets/baltimore.aspx or by calling 1-800-450-1480.
