Icarus lands in "Varekai" at BB&T Center

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Explore the Fantastic World of “Varekai” Through Cirque du Soleil

By Skip Sheffield

In Greek mythology, Icarus flew too close to the Sun in defiance of his father, and his fabricated wings, made of wax and feathers, melted, and he plummeted to Earth.

“Varekai,” the latest Cirque du Soleil production to hit South Florida, images what happens to Icarus after he fell from on high. “Varekai” has an exclusive 15-performance run at the BB&T Center in Sunrise Aug. 12-23.

As with all Cirque du Soleil shows, “Varekai” features fantastic sets and costumes and a story that offers hope for humanity.

“Once Icarus falls to Earth, other creatures help him learn to walk again,” explains Cirque spokeswoman Julie Desmarais. “This production has one-of-a-kind acrobatics, and it has a more intimate setting because we only use half of the arena.”

The setting is deep within a forest at the summit of a volcano. The forest is a magical, kaleidoscopic world filled with fantastical costumed creatures. All join to help Icarus rediscover the wonders of the world and mind.

“A guide oversees Icarus, like a great-grandfather,” Desmarais continues. “The music is all original and organic to the action. It mixes traditional French and Armenian style.”

The seating is restricted to just 3,000 seats, so it is limited, for this, the only appearance of “Varekai” in Florida. Tickets are $40 to $100 and parking is extra. Call 800-745-3000 or go to www.cirquedusoleil.com/varekai.