Cirque du Soleil ʻAuana
2300 Kalākaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815
Only offered at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, Cirque du Soleil ʻAuana takes everything you know and love about the well-known act and imbues it with fiery Hawaiian–Polynesian flavor. Hawaii’s first resident Cirque show, ‘Auana showcases acrobats, hula dancers, musicians, singers, and more, all alongside the incredible sets and backdrops associated with the world’s finest re-envisioned circus.
The basics
Cirque du Soleil’s ʻAuana blends Hawaiian artistry (think hula, fire, and Indigenous-inspired costumes and make-up) with the circus company’s signature acrobatics and intricate aerial performances, impossible choreography, and live music—in this case, featuring traditional instruments and singers. The name ʻAuana (roughly translated as “to wander”) refers to a modern, freestyle form of hula dance, which speaks to the show’s contemporary interpretation of Hawaiian storytelling and mythology. Catch the show Wednesday–Sunday at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel; the on-site, 784-seat theater feels surprisingly intimate for such a glorious spectacle.
Things to know before you go
- While you can get tickets the day of, it’s best to purchase them online in advance.
- On-site valet parking is only available to hotel guests.
- Cirque du Soleil ʻAuana runs 80 minutes, typically has two shows a day, and is suitable for all ages.
How to get there
The OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel is right off Waikiki Beach. If you’re not already in the area—many resorts are within walking distance—your best bet is to hail a taxi or rideshare, since no on-site parking is available. If you do have your own wheels, public parking is available at the nearby International Market Place or Waikiki Parking Garage.
When to get there
‘Auana performs Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30pm and 8:30pm (there are no performances on Mondays and Tuesdays). If you’re just coming for the show, it’s suggested you arrive 15–30 minutes early to get situated, find your seat, use the restrooms, etc. However, many guests like to come earlier to have time for a drink and to take in the hotel’s “aloha” vibe, beating the crowds and taking it easy.
The Vegas strip, island-style
Waikiki’s best hotels and resorts have developed a theater scene that’s akin to the Las Vegas strip, with resident shows you can’t catch anywhere else—just like Cirque du Soleil ʻAuana. The Magical Mystery Show! at Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel and the Paina Waikiki Luau at Waikiki Beach Marriott are just two examples of shows to catch, if and when you need a break from the beach.
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