Circus has had a renaissance. Cirque du Soleil pioneered the modern form; now there are companies pushing the boundaries of acrobatics, aerial arts, and narrative. Cabaret — from the classic variety show to the burlesque revival — offers a different kind of night out. Here are the shows worth your time.
Cirque du Soleil
Still the standard. Multiple touring shows and resident productions in Vegas and beyond. O and Kà in Vegas are the spectacles; the touring shows vary in quality. Check reviews for the specific production. The acrobatics are consistently extraordinary.
Pippin
The Broadway revival blended circus arts with musical theatre. The touring production carries that legacy. Acrobats, contortionists, and a story that holds up. Worth seeing if it comes to your city.
Cabaret Revivals
Burlesque has made a comeback. Cities like London, New York, and Berlin have thriving cabaret scenes. The best shows blend classic variety — comedy, song, dance — with contemporary sensibilities. Look for established venues with regular programming.
Contemporary Circus
Companies like Circa (Australia) and Les 7 Doigts (Canada) are pushing the form. Less spectacle, more artistry. Often touring to arts festivals and dedicated circus venues. Follow them if you're in a city with a circus scene.
