By Jason Gonzalez
‘Zumanity’ brings sexy back everytime
When on stage and under the bright lights in the entertainment capital of the world, famed drag diva Christopher Kenney portrays the character of Edie the Mistress of Sensuality in the Cirque du Soleil production of Zumanity.
Throughout the duration of the show, Mistress Edie [narrator/host] is often heard uttering the phrase “sex is beautiful”. Obviously, this statement isn’t too revealing, if you were to ask around most would agree with her. But for the small minority that may disagree with the notion, the stage actors in Zumanity dismiss their belief by expanding on the theme and concept during the 1.5-hour presentation.
Launching 16 years ago, Zumanity brings its audience on a brilliant voyeuristic journey, in which the topics of sexuality, sensuality, passion, and seduction are celebrated collectively.
Zumanity is a resident cabaret-style show at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino located in Las Vegas. The initial production was unveiled on September 20, 2003, becoming the first adult themed Cirque du Soleil show. Zumanity deviates from the traditional Cirque blueprint. And due to its strong language, brief nudity, and overt sexual undertone, Zumanity is intended for a mature audience [18+].
Last weekend, while in Vegas, in between fight week activities [Canelo-Jacobs], The Bronx Chronicle squeezed in its schedule, an opportunity to both witness a performance of Zumanity.
There is no spoiler disclaimer needed. Without giving away too much information, as is expected with any Cirque du Soleil spectacle, Zumanity gives you circus, theatre, live music and the Summer Olympics in one. The only difference is it’s done without the political correctness you may observe in any of the five other resident Cirque du Soleil shows that are showcased on the strip. Yes Zumanity is naughty, yes it is raunchy, nonetheless it’s originality combined with the creative freedom make it a timeless showpiece worth watching.
The musical score was on point, the swagger of the performers [acrobats, aerialists, dancers, as well as the trapeze artists] were unequaled. The detailed staging, unique lighting, and complex costuming was exceptional.
If you will be in the Las Vegas metro area, give Zumanity a try. Occasionally, it’s a good idea to break away from the everyday monotony. There is nothing wrong with going against the grain and doing something out of the ordinary.
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