Cirque du Soleil: TORUK - The First Flight

The thought of Cirque du Soleil teaming up with James Cameron to produce a live sequel to one of the great films of all-time is an exciting one.

Cirque du Soleil is a name that guaranteed quality, or at least it was until TORUK - The First Flight was conceived.

There was a collective excitement as fans shuffled into a nearly unrecognisable Perth Arena; the massive floor space consumed by an immersive set that promised big things.

The stage resembled Pandora, home of the Na’vi, except this time we’re introduced to characters in a time thousands of years before Cameron’s Avatar.

Unlike other Cirque du Soleil, TORUK utilises an English-speaking narrator, which is where one of a few issues comes into play. While the theatre company usually tells powerful stories through mind-blowing acrobatics, the Avatar prequel is driven by a simple story; one that feels clichéd, predictable and leaves little room for any real stunning choreography.

The only redeeming feature of the production is its stunning set, which transforms throughout via a projection space larger than five IMAX screens, and the props used throughout. The immersive set pulls you in and takes you on a journey with three young Na’vi on the brink of adulthood who are on a mission to save their home, but it’s not enough to carry a production associated with Avatar, Cameron and Cirque du Soleil to victory.

If you’re yet to experience the wonders of Cirque du Soleil, TORUK – The First Flight will likely be an engaging and enjoyable show, but those with high expectations might find it disappointing.