Cirque Extravaganza Comes to Town

by Brooke Wagner

Billings, prepare to be dazzled by the Cirque Italia Water Circus, headed next to the Rimrock Mall on October 10th. The show runs through Sunday, October 13th, and promises to enchant audiences with a breathtaking display of acrobatics, artistry, and music. Inspired by the element of water, the Cirque Italia features a custom-designed water stage that holds over 35,000 gallons of H20. The entertainment company started in 2012 and has been wowing audiences nationwide ever since. This show is described as a “vivid, dramatic, and moving experience under a customized traveling tent.”

The show begins with the story of a young dreamer, captivated by the magic of the 1950s, who falls asleep and is transported in a dream to this iconic era. He awakens to find himself surrounded by hula hoops and soda fountains, with poodle-skirt-clad dancers jiving to jukebox tunes. The 50’s theme transports spectators into a world of wonder, blending traditional circus acts with imaginative storytelling. The event features stunning aerial performances, where skilled artists dance gracefully in the air, suspended from colorful silks. The choreography was complemented by a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Audience members were left in awe as performers executed jaw-dropping stunts that seemed to defy gravity.

One of the highlights of the evening is sure to be the crossbow segment, where a performer aims at balloons and other targets placed around a human subject. Lights flash, and the music crescendos to a pulsating beat, creating a thrilling atmosphere that keeps the crowd on the edge of their seats. The show also features a variety of unique acts, including a breathtaking contortionist and a thrilling trapeze duo who execute daring flips and catches high above the audience. Each performance showcases not just individual talent but also the hard work and dedication of the entire cast as they push the boundaries of human ability.

If audiences notice an international flair to the show, they would be correct. Founder Manuel Rebecchi is the nephew of Moira Orfei, the “queen of the Italian circus,” and proudly brings his interpretation of his family’s legacy to a modern stage. The element of water pushes the boundaries of creativity in entertainment, as curtains of rain and shooting jets crisscross in time to the performer’s movements. Onlookers of all ages will be delighted by the mythical and mystical elements of the show, as mermaids and even dinosaurs make an appearance. The whimsical antics and playful interactions brought laughter and joy, bridging the gap between performers and spectators. Families share smiles and laughter, reinforcing the event's mission to create a sense of community and connection. Whether you’re a circus aficionado or a first-time attendee, the Cirque Extravaganza offers something for everyone, ensuring that the magic of Cirque continues to captivate hearts and minds long after the final curtain call.

Visit www.cirqueitalia.com for more information and showtimes.

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Brooke Wagner

is a Southern girl at heart, but a Montanan by choice. She lives just outside of Billings with her husband and three children, ages 13, 11, and 6. She is a board-certified music therapist who enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and hiding under the covers with a good book.