Nouveau Cirque

Canadian circus company Cirque du Soleil brings its production Alegría to the Sprint Center (1407 Grand, 816-949-7050) for five days, affording Kansas City the opportunity to witness spectacular feats of physical accomplishment and avant-garde theatricality on a level far beyond what the Ringling Bros. have been calling a “circus” all these years. No, Cirque du Soleil performances don’t feature motorcyclists roaring around the inside of caged spheres, juggling clowns, or the dispiriting smell of elephant shit. Instead, Cirque’s three-act performances tell a story set to a live musical score, culminating in show-stopping finales. Traditionally, the performers themselves change out the props, obviating the need for traveling stagehands. Alegría includes synchronized trapeze performances, aerial acrobatics and a darker theme than most of the company’s productions. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. See it again at 7:30 May 13, at 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. May 14 and 15, and at 1 and 5 p.m. May 16. Tickets cost $40-$79 for adults; $32-$64 for children; and $36-$67.50 for seniors, military and students. For more information, see sprintcenter.com.

Wed., May 12; Thu., May 13; Fri., May 14; Sat., May 15; Sun., May 16, 2010