Known for its innovative fusion of acrobatics, theatre, storytelling and cutting-edge multimedia, Cirque du Soleil has captivated audiences around the globe. Now, the acclaimed Canadian-based contemporary circus has brought its magic to the Hawaiian islands with ‘Auana — its first resident production in Hawai‘i — making a spectacular debut at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel last December.
Meaning “to wander” or “to veer off the beaten path”, ‘Auana invites audiences on a visually stunning journey through eight dreamlike chapters inspired by Hawaiian history and mythology. Rooted in mo‘olelo — the traditional stories of the islands — the show captures the essence of the Hawaiian worldview with a flair only Cirque du Soleil can deliver.
The creative heartbeat behind ‘Auana includes an all-star team of cultural and artistic visionaries: cultural creative producer Dr. Aaron J. Salā (who is also president and CEO of Hawai‘i Visitors & Convention Bureau), director Neil Dorward, costume designer Manaola Yap and choreographer Kumu Hula Hiwa Vaughan. Together, they’ve woven a rich narrative tapestry that fuses traditional Hawaiian language, music and hula with awe-inspiring acrobatics and theatrical delights.
The show’s set design transforms the theatre into an immersive dreamscape, where the natural beauty of Hawai‘i is personified through colour, movement and sound. Audiences are transported from ocean waves to lava flows and from lush rainforests to starry skies in a cinematic experience powered by stunning visuals and a deeply emotive soundtrack.
“This project represents a rare opportunity: a globally recognised platform creating a Hawaiian story with our Hawaiian worldview at its centre,” Salā said. “This production is not a tourism showcase — it is a deep collaboration designed to celebrate — not appropriate — and that has made for an incredible testament to the potential of this kind of work to elevate our roles as community members and culture carriers while we elevate the power of the industry.
“The only English you hear is the safety announcement at the start of the show and only as a translation of its Hawaiian version, which precedes it. The lyrics are in our native language; hula is forefront and ever present, the music, while absolutely Cirque du Soleil, showcases both Hawaiian (and sometimes greater Pacific) instruments and vocal stylings.
“What I am most proud of, ultimately, is that the show celebrates Hawaiian culture not through spectacle but through a sense of authenticity. It honours our cosmology, our wayfinding legacy, our love for ‘āina (land), and our deep belief in pilina (connection). The storytelling is lyrical, the movement is inspired by hula, and the music draws from ancestral and contemporary Hawaiian influences.”
The custom-built theatre at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel offers an intimate 784-seat setting, giving each guest a front-row view into this revolutionary performance. ‘Auana brings back the magic and majesty of Waikīkī nightlife, reigniting the spirit of celebration in one of the world’s most storied destinations.
Salā said the show surprises people, with visitors and kama’āina (locals) alike leaving the theatre awestruck. “They come expecting beauty, no doubt, and they certainly get that, but they leave having felt something much deeper: a recognition of humanity, of belonging. I also love that it offers our keiki (children) a mirror—to see their culture reflected back with excellence, dignity and innovation,” he said
‘Auana is on at the OUTRIGGER Theater at OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel at 5.30pm and 8.30pm Wednesday to Sunday. Tickets start at USD$85, including fees and taxes. You can also book the ‘Auana VIP Experience, which includes a 90-minute reception in a private open-air lounge at Maui Brewing Co. Waikīkī and the chance to meet ‘Auana cast members, take photos and see exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
For more information or to book, visit cirquedusoleil.com/auana
