This is London Magazine New Year Edition 2026 - Flipbook - Page 4
4
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL RETURNS TO
THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
The critically acclaimed OVO by
Cirque du Soleil is returning to the
Royal Albert Hall this month. The joyful
and acrobatic celebration of the insect
world will open on 9 January, with
shows running until 1 March.
Created in 2009, the famous
show OVO (egg in Portuguese) by
Cirque du Soleil returns to the venue
with reimagined set design, new
acrobatic acts, original characters,
added costumes and reinvented music.
OVO dazzles more than ever with its
fascinating insect colony, bringing
together 53 acrobats and musicians in a
show that delights both adults and
children.
Seen by over 7 million people in
more than 40 countries, the 53 worldclass performers from 25 countries
includes two incredible British talent
who will have a special homecoming at
the Royal Albert Hall. Robin Beer, who
was born in Hammersmith, is a rare
Cirque du Soleil British clown and plays
the character The Voyager. With a
background in music, mask work, and
devised theatre, Robin brings humour,
warmth, and a uniquely British spirit to
the show. Additionally, Lydia Harper,
originally from Warwick and now based
in London, returns as Artistic Director
of OVO. A former circus acrobat and
actress with a strong foundation in
physical theatre and movement
direction, Lydia has been a creative force
within Cirque du Soleil since 2015.
Featuring over 100 cast and crew
members, the show brings to life a
colourful world of crickets, ants,
butterflies, spiders, beetles, and more,
set against a striking visual backdrop of
giant flowers and a towering 19-meter
climbing wall.
At its heart is a charming love story
between a quirky fly and a spirited
ladybug, unfolding around a mysterious
egg that sparks curiosity and
transformation. Combining breathtaking
acts like aerial silks, Chinese poles,
trampoline wall, contortion, foot
juggling, cradle, and slackwire, the show
celebrates biodiversity, community, and
the joy of discovery through dazzling
acrobatics, surreal costumes, and a
high-energy Brazilian-inspired
soundtrack.
Since premiering in 2009, OVO has
captivated audiences young and old with
its warmth wonder and spectacular
circus artistry. This London run
promises a fresh take on a fan favourite
offering a playful story, unforgettable
music and awe-inspiring artistry in an
immersive theatrical experience suitable
for all ages.
Royal Albert Hall is one of London’s
most famous landmarks, renowned for
its striking Victorian architecture and
exceptional acoustics. Opened in 1871,
the hall was commissioned by Queen
Victoria as a tribute to Prince Albert.
Over the decades, it has hosted
classical concerts, rock performances,
film premieres, charity events, and
prestigious ceremonies. Welcoming
millions of visitors each year, Royal
Albert Hall remains a symbol of British
culture, artistic excellence, and the
enduring power of live performance in
the heart of London.
Tickets: www.cirquedusoleil.com/ovo
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