Cirque du Soleil Brings Its Magic to Moda with “Corteo”

If you’ve ever seen a Cirque du Soleil show, you know how absolutely spectacular they are. From the sets to the music and the wardrobe to the lighting, every aspect of their productions beautifully captures the mood of the story and showcases the awe-inspiring skill, talent and athleticism of the performers. Of course, Corteo (at Moda Center through Sunday), is no exception.

My family and I had the chance to visit Moda on Wednesday as the team and the performers were preparing for last night’s opening. We learned a bit about the production itself and about what sets it apart from many other Cirque shows. The way that the team is able to transform a stadium venue into an intimate cabaret-like feel is incredible and this particular set is open on both sides with the stage in the center. In short, there are no “bad seats” for this performance. The music is performed live as well with the performers right between the stage and the audience, which really adds to the feeling of intimacy at the show.

My family arrived last night at Moda Center for the 7:30pm show and the entire process of getting through security and finding our seats was effortless. The crowd ranged from dates to groups of friends to full families with small children. Without giving away too much of the story (or spoiling the surprise elements), Corteo is the story of Mauro, the Dreamer Clown who is envisioning his own funeral and looking back at various stages of his life. The show opens with three magnificent chandeliers, each holding one of his former loves, and a breathtaking aerial show. From there, we move through 15 additional scenes. Some have the audience on the edge of their seats…

…while others (such as the Golf act) are just pure fun and whimsy. There are plenty of giggles for the younger kids and, as is the norm with Cirque shows, plenty of playful flirtatiousness that will go over the heads of the little ones but will give the grown ups a laugh. The Cyr Wheel act and the Ladder act will have you wondering how the human body can possibly be capable of such impossible movements and skill, and possibly making you rethink canceling your gym membership.

If your family is in need of an afternoon or evening where you can step away from the cares of your daily life and enter into a world of magic, whimsy, beauty and breathtaking artistry, Corteo is not to be missed. If you have been to larger performances or shows at Moda Center and you’re picturing the chaos that can come with that many people all entering and exiting at one time, do not let that deter you. This is a smaller, more intimate event and we were able to easily walk right out to a waiting Lyft ride home, daydreaming about the wonder that we had just experienced all the while.

Tickets: cirquedusoleil.com/usa/portland-oregon/corteo

*The show runs for 1 hour 45 minutes, with one 20 minute intermission.