Legendary Show Watched by 10 Million People Arrives in Kazakhstan: What Makes This Show Unique?

The premiere of the world-famous Cirque du Soleil show, OVO, has taken place in Astana, marking the first time Kazakhstan has been included in the production's global tour itinerary. Running for 17 years, the show has been presented in nearly 50 countries worldwide, capturing the admiration of more than 10 million spectators.

Hosted at the Barys Arena, the production narrates stories from the world of insects. The program is characterized by its extraordinary acrobatic numbers. The audience witnessed stunts performed atop a massive moving leaf, displays pushing the absolute limits of human flexibility, a unique ultraviolet light show, and breathtaking aerial acrobatics.

More than 100 specialists from 25 countries are involved in the production, featuring 53 artists performing on stage. Among them are Olympic Games participants, international champions, professional acrobats, and musicians.

Olaf Triebel, the Artistic Director of Cirque du Soleil, shared that each show requires several years of preparation:

"Usually, three years pass from the moment a new production idea emerges until its premiere. First, the director and the creative team develop the concept and storyline, followed by the integration of lighting designers, set designers, and composers. Casting begins approximately one year prior, after which the artists undergo intensive training in Montreal. Every costume and set element is custom-made specifically for that show. This is the culmination of years of labor by hundreds of specialists."

According to the organizers, the OVO show will run in Astana until June 7. Following this, the production will travel to Almaty for the first time, where it will be performed at the Almaty Arena from June 11 to June 14. A total of 14 performances have been scheduled across Kazakhstan, with organizers expecting to draw an audience of over 70,000 spectators.

This year, Cirque du Soleil, which boasts a history of more than 40 years, plans to simultaneously run 17 shows in various countries around the world. Since the company's inception, its productions have been attended by over 400 million people globally.