Cirque du Soleil: Auana Brings Ocean-Themed Acrobatics to Waikiki for Three-Night Run

Cirque du Soleil is bringing its ocean-themed spectacle “Auana” to Waikiki’s shores for an intimate three-night engagement at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, May 20-22. The production marks a rare opportunity for Honolulu audiences to experience the renowned circus troupe’s artistry in a boutique setting, steps from the beach that inspired the show’s aquatic choreography.

“Auana,” which takes its name from the Hawaiian word for “to wander” or “drift,” weaves together acrobatic performances with oceanic themes that pay homage to Hawaii’s deep connection to the sea. The 90-minute production features aerialists, contortionists, and dancers performing against a backdrop of flowing fabrics and lighting designed to evoke underwater currents and coral reefs.

Unlike the massive tent productions Cirque du Soleil typically stages, “Auana” was specifically crafted for smaller venues, allowing audiences at the Beachcomber’s poolside amphitheater to experience the performers’ artistry up close. The setting creates an immersive environment where the sounds of nearby waves blend with the show’s original score.

Island-Inspired Performances

The production incorporates elements of Hawaiian culture and mythology throughout its seven acts, including performances inspired by traditional hula movements and the legends of ocean spirits. Aerial silks artists perform sequences designed to mirror the movement of sea anemones, while ground-based acrobats execute formations reminiscent of schools of tropical fish.

“We wanted to create something that honored Hawaii’s relationship with the ocean while showcasing our artists’ incredible abilities,” said Creative Director Marie Lalonde in a recent interview. “The intimate venue allows us to tell this story in a way that feels personal and connected to the place.”

The show’s costume design draws heavily from marine life, with performers donning flowing garments in blues, teals, and coral hues that transform throughout the performance. LED technology integrated into select costumes creates bioluminescent effects that mirror the glow of deep-sea creatures.

Ticket Information and Venue Details

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. nightly from May 20-22, with an additional 5 p.m. matinee on Saturday, May 21. The poolside venue at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel accommodates approximately 300 guests, making this one of Cirque du Soleil’s most exclusive Honolulu engagements in recent years.

Ticket prices range from $85 for standard seating to $150 for VIP packages that include premium seating, complimentary cocktails, and a post-show meet-and-greet opportunity with select performers. Hotel guests receive a 15% discount on all ticket categories.

The venue offers full bar service and light pupus during the performance, with locally-sourced options including poke bowls and tropical fruit selections. Guests are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early to enjoy the pre-show atmosphere and take advantage of photo opportunities with the ocean-themed set pieces.

Cultural Collaboration

Cirque du Soleil collaborated with local cultural practitioners during the show’s development to ensure respectful representation of Hawaiian themes. The production includes consultation from hula masters and marine biologists from the University of Hawaii to create authentic connections between performance art and island culture.

The show’s musical score incorporates traditional Hawaiian instruments, including ipu and ‘ukulele, alongside contemporary orchestration. Several local musicians contributed to the recordings, adding authentic island sounds to complement the circus arts.

For many attendees, “Auana” represents a unique fusion of international circus artistry with local cultural elements, creating an experience that speaks to both tourists seeking world-class entertainment and residents interested in seeing their island home celebrated through performance art.

This limited engagement follows Cirque du Soleil’s successful 2023 run at the Blaisdell Concert Hall, which sold out all six performances. The shift to Waikiki’s more intimate setting reflects the company’s interest in creating destination experiences that complement Hawaii’s tourism offerings while providing meaningful cultural exchange.

Tickets are available through the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel’s concierge services and online platforms. Given the limited seating capacity and Cirque du Soleil’s popularity among both visitors and kamaaina, advance reservations are strongly recommended for this distinctive celebration of ocean artistry in paradise.