Cirque Sings Songblazers in San Antonio
Songblazers–one of the newest experiences from Montreal-based performance troupe Cirque du Soleil–has been moseying across the country since July. Paying homage to the musical greats among America’s country canon, the western-themed show is unique even for Cirque, featuring a heretofore untapped genre, and their most musician-forward cast to date.
The story focuses on two young country artists looking for their first hit song. Initially beset by self-doubt, the pair go on an expansive journey to discover their voice, their aesthetic, and that one great track. Along the way they encounter a colorful cast of characters, who in turn inject the performance with humor, heart, and some serious ability; both musical and physical. Many of the cast already singing and playing instruments also have dazzling physical components. Boots scoot, the belts are all buckled, and the music is thoughtfully-curated, including an original contribution from country artist Sam Williams, grandson of country music pillar Hank Williams.
While music is the beating heart of Songblazers, it wouldn’t be Cirque without the acrobatics though, right? Incredible feats of human athleticism abound, and at times it can be just as fun watching onstage as listening to the audience’s reactions to what they’re witnessing (including my own). At one point early in the show, as the strongman–dressed as a railroad worker–bent thick metal rods over his head into railway ties to help fix a train issue, I came to appreciate the imagination and creativity necessary to facilitate the scene before me. Much like the strongman, Cirque du Soleil has managed to take hold of the music, the varied aesthetics of country and Americana, and a truly stunning array of physical performances, and shape them into an incredibly engaging experience.
San Antonio is the last stop on the Songblazers tour–for a moment–before Cirque du Soleil pull up stakes and continue regaling the rest of America with their latest, excellent production.
Find more information on Songblazers or Cirque du Soleil at www.cirquedusoleil.com
Editor: Nick Blevins
Photographer: Torry Sledge
