Doha News took its seats last night for the first of Cirque du Soleil’s performances of Saltimbanco at the Aspire Dome.

Actually, the seats (uncomfortable utilitarian plastic, we’re not rich or important enough for VIP seats) were for us the only low point of the performance.

It’s a joyous, impressive show performed by 51 talented cast members from 15 different countries. All its script and songs are in a made-up language that makes sure no-one is excluded from the fun, which is particularly lovely for Qatar’s multicultural community.

Our highlights included the Chinese poles (cue gasps from the audience) the elegant trapeze artist and one of the final acts, two ludicrously talented men dressed in green who performed what the circus calls “hand to hand” – incredible feats of strength and contortion using each other’s bodies to balance. 

We could see why Saltimbanco is Cirque du Soleil’s longest running show. It’s well worth the ticket price (and the uncomfy seats.)

A few practical points:

• We parked beside the stadium and walked round to the Aspire Dome, which only took us a few minutes. It was all very civilised. There are buses on hand, though, if you don’t want to walk. 
• You’re not allowed to bring drinks or snacks in from outside, but there are ample concession stands with reasonably priced drinks and snacks on offer (we bought an apple juice for 5 QR).
• We saw several families with very small children leave at the interval. The evening performance doesn’t finish until around 2240, so bear that in mind before bringing little ones to see the show.

Were you at last night’s show? What did you think?

Credit: Photo courtesy of Cirque du Soleil.