Eric Jamison
“KÁ” performers battle during the final scene on the Sand Cliff Deck.
Tuesday, July 3, 2018 | 2 a.m.
The stage has always been the star of Cirque du Soleil’s “KÁ,” a technical marvel that moves and shifts fluidly to form different environments and alignments, a creative canvas for the show’s skilled performers. Known as the Sand Cliff Deck, it weighs 80,000 pounds and measures 50 by 25 feet, yet it seems like it’s floating on air when it moves up and down 72 feet and rotates 360 degrees while tilting to angles of up to 100 degrees.
But the cast and crew of “KÁ,” which has performed more than 6,000 shows over 13 years in its $100 million theater at MGM Grand, consider the Sand Cliff Deck just one of 10 stages that make up the production. There’s also the Tatami Deck, the rear stage space that measures 30 by 30 feet, weighs 75,000 pounds and slides forward up to 46 feet. There’s also the area where the viewer sits, which isn’t one of the seven moving stages but you never know when one of the warriors of “KÁ” will take a trip into the audience.
These are just some of the facts and behind-the-scenes bits you’ll learn at the recently updated free open house viewings every Tuesday and Saturday at noon and 12:30 p.m., a quick and exciting presentation also know as KÁ 360. Guests get to spend some time in one of the most elaborate production theaters ever built and enjoy a demonstration that details the art and inspiration behind the show. All ages are welcome.
Check out KÁ 360 and you’ll also discover the massive Earth Harp, designed by New York artist and musician William Close, which is played by two artists in the theater’s lobby 15 minutes before each show. “KÁ” also boasts one of the largest indoor archery displays for theatrical purpose in the world, with around 70 arrows fired by 11 archers and 60 other arrows fired by air cannons in each show.
The presentation doesn’t diminish the wonders of the show, and if you’ve never seen “KÁ” before your curiosity is sure to be piqued. Of course, KA 360 offers incentives and discounts to get you to the box office right after the demo. Tickets usually start at around $69 but thanks to a summer special, many shows are available for $55 plus tax and fees. For more information, visit cirquedusoleil.com.
