Circque du Soleil - Zumanity

Of the handful of Cirque du Soleil shows I've seen either in person or on video, Zumanity is unquestionably my favorite.

This is not a show for everyone. Zumanity has far less acrobatics than most of their offerings, and focuses instead on provoking the audience with explicit themes. It's rather risque - yes, there is nudity - and those who would prefer a more traditional show would do well to see one of the four other Cirque shows in Vegas at the moment. It's no seedy strip show, but it's not for the whole family, either.

On the other hand, it's an incredibly beautiful and heart-warming show. The first several rows of seats are actually red velvet couches and armchairs, and the soft lighting and inviting "parlor" room add to the allure. The characters are alternately seductive, hilarious, and provocative, and there's a level of interaction with the audience that you don't find in most large-scale shows. As an audience member, you feel very safe and welcome, which is important for a show so unflinchingly bold to succeed. The pieces are beautifully executed, devilishly clever, and at times simply awe-inspiring. It might be some of Cirque's best work yet.

I don't want to describe the acts here, as I think they're better experienced than explained. If you have the time and the money, and you're not shy about some tasteful sexuality on stage, then Zumanity might be the show for you.