Cirque Du Soleil's Saltimbanco in Manila: A First Look

They say after the rain, there's always a rainbow. And for millions of Filipinos here in Manila, I guess this is one rainbow we've been waiting for after the devastating effect of rain this past few days in our town. Get ready to smile and be amaze as this year, Cirque Du Soleil comes back with one of their longest running show, Saltimbanco.

Thousands of pieces of costumes, more than 90 cast and crew members, and one grand stage is about to give colors back to Manila tonight, August 9, 8 p.m., as Saltimbanco sets their first show at SM Mall of Asia Arena.

A Cirque du Soleil signature production and longest running touring show, Saltimbanco is a remarkable combination of thrilling and colorful acrobatics acts. Inspired by the urban fabric of the metropolis and its colorful inhabitants, it features awe-inspiring acrobatics and astonishing athleticism during solo spotlights and epic ensembles.

I was able to witness their rehearsal earlier, a rare opportunity to anyone, and I was simply amazed as to how each of them prepares for this show tonight, including the stage setup, makeup, costume preparation, and of course the stunts.

Saltimbanco comes from the Italian “saltare in banco,” which literally means “to jump on a bench” and is set to amaze audiences with its eclectic cast of characters and colorful acrobatics. Travelling with the show are 50 performers from 21 different countries who come together and tour the world, rehearsing many hours each day to showcase astonishing acrobatics and athleticism.

And just so you know, a Pinoy is also a part of the show and his name is Adrian Andres. A Fil-Canadian, Adrain joined Saltimbanco three-and-a-half years ago in the U.S. Coming from a musical band, he grabbed the opportunity of joining Saltimbanco in the hopes of broadening his musical talent and at the same time travelling. As far as he remember, according to him, this is his second visit in the country. He is expecting his relatives from Alabang to come and watch them, and he said that he'd be gladly tour them around to meet the cast and crew.

Adrian Andres

Saltimbanco is said to end its long journey this coming December 2012, so if you are a big fan of Cirque Du Soleil performances or you just wanna have some smile on your face after the traumatizing rain that hit us, you can catch the show starting tonight at 8 in the evening at SM Mall of Asia Arena.

For tickets and show schedule, you can visit cirquedusoleil/saltimbanco or hoopla.com.ph, or you may call (02) 320-1111. Hoopla Inc. is the official promoter of Cirque du Soleil in Manila.