Is Waikiki’s New Cirque Du Soleil Show ‘Auana Worth The Splurge?

Cirque du Soleil has officially landed in Hawaii with its new show, ‘Auana which means “to wander.” BOH editors were there for the show’s final preview performance and attended Tuesday evening’s red carpet arrivals. This is a spectacle unlike any we have seen in Hawaii before.

Located at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber in the heart of Waikiki, ‘Auana combines the artistry of Cirque’s signature performances with beauty, culture, and stories unique to Hawaii. This is Cirque’s first resident production ever in Hawaii—and here is what it delivers.

An intimate venue with a big theater wow.

The show is performed at the just refurbished 20,000-square-foot theater, three-quarters in the round, offering 784 seats. Unlike the enormous Cirque Las Vegas productions we’ve seen, this intimate setting creates an immersive personal experience.

Before entering the theater, you can purchase drinks and enjoy them from the second-floor lanai or at your seat. We found the seats comfortable, with plenty of leg space. Non-flash photography is allowed during the show, making it possible to share photos with you.

We were seated three rows up from the stage on the extreme side.

That meant we never had a front-stage view of the show. Most performers worked all sides of the stage. The most noticeable one that didn’t was a guitar player who performed 15 minutes before the show started and always had his back to us. If we did this again, we would opt for seats more in the center.

During the 90-minute performance without intermission, performers move in the air, on stage, and through the audience. There are eight acts, each moving seamlessly from one to the other, with hula as the central element.

From the very first act, the visuals scream Cirque. Hula dancers hired in Hawaii emerge from the stage as if rising from the sea, and acrobats float through the air in breathtaking aerial displays customary to the 40-year-old company based in Montreal. Each show’s act builds on the last, alternating between and incorporating high-energy feats of daring and serenity with mele and hula that reflect Hawaii’s natural beauty. It’s a fascinating blend of Cirque traditional magic and Hawaiian-style culture.

“More than anything, this show is a celebration of the spirit of Hawai‘i through the lens of Cirque du Soleil…we have created this spectacular world for audiences to enjoy, but more importantly, for the community of Hawai‘i to be proud of.”

Neil Dorward, Director of ‘Auana.

‘Auana seems like it shouldn’t work, but it does.

While the production features everything for which Cirque is renowned, the cultural touches of Hawaii make the show a standout.

One amazing act pays tribute to the Hawaiian Moon Goddess with an indescribable aerial hoop show. Other scenes honor the show’s Waikiki home through hula and games. The show features the work of Kumu Hula Hiwa Vaughan with Hawaii costume designs by Manaola.

The live music is via John Signor’s band—including compelling, original music by composer Evan Duffy. The music is a unique blend of Hawaiian and Cirque’s own traditional style.

‘Auana highlights that stand out.

Many of the show’s most complex elements left the audience gasping and applauding. The aerial performances were mesmerizing, like the one pictured below in the final act.

Meanwhile, a Cirque-style jester added lighthearted comedic flair to the show, pulling guests from the show onto the stage that left the audience laughing with enjoyment when least expected. BOH Editor Jeff was one of those who performed on stage with trumpet and danced for some ten minutes.

Everything including the set design, costumes and the music felt in some way connected to Hawaii while maintaining the unique and world-class production quality Cirque du Soleil is known for.

Ticket prices and parking.

Standard seating starts at $85 and goes to about $250. There is a VIP experience option that begins 90 minutes before the show. That includes food, libations, a VIP lounge, and photo opportunities with some cast members.

Performances run Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., with Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday shows sometimes offering slightly lower pricing.

There is no dedicated parking lot or validation at the Waikiki Beachcomber. Nearby options include the International Marketplace, where a $25 purchase offers discounted parking. If you’re not in walking distance, try Uber or Lyft. Early show attendees can also use the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center for validated parking before the desk closes at 8 p.m.

Why ‘Auana is worth seeing.

For Hawaii visitors and residents alike, ‘Auana is a decidedly fresh way to experience Hawaii’s stories through a new lens. The show honors the islands’ cultural heritage while delivering Cirque du Soleil’s artistry. It’s a rare blend of entertainment and cultural celebration that feels familiar and extraordinary at the same time.

With Hawaii’s winter visitors arriving and holidays approaching, ‘Auana has already become one of Waikiki’s must-see, in-demand attractions. This production offers a different journey through Hawaii’s beauty and spirit—one you definitely won’t forget.

Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Auana isn’t just another show in Waikiki. It’s a great celebration of Hawaii that stays with you long after the final bow.

All photography by Beat of Hawaii. As customary, we paid for our tickets in order to give this unbiased review.

We welcome your thoughts on this new show.