If you are looking for a spectacular show that combines the magic of Disney animation, the wizardry of Imagineering, and Cirque du Soleil artistry, you will love “Drawn to Life” at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. This show celebrates the power of imagination and storytelling through stunning acrobatics, music and visuals.
And now, “Drawn to Life” has become even more amazing with three exciting new additions to its show. Here is what to expect:
- Witness a breathtaking new act called Icarian Games, where two Ethiopian artists perform incredible feats of strength and agility. They will toss each other in the air using only their legs and feet, As part of a new a tribute to Disney’s animated forests and their mysterious creatures, the act features acrobatic feats in which one performer lies on their back and uses their legs and feet to toss the other performer in the air
- Marvel at the new aerial hoop artists who soar through the air during the Dream of Colors act. This act honors the ink and paint animation artists who brought Disney characters to life and features trapeze artists on a suspended wheel creating dramatic splashes of color with their movements.
- Enjoy the live music from a ‘flying’ guitarist who joins the rhythmic gymnastics act. He will play his guitar while flying above the acrobats who flip through the air with grace and precision.
In addition, new musical compositions will be woven into the existing soundtrack for the show.
What are Icarian Games?
Icarian Games was a part of the “Mad Apple Las Vegas” Cirque du Soleil show. Cirque has been known to move acts around from time to time. They previously performed in “Joya Mexico,” another Cirque du Soleil show.
Icarian Games is not just an act, it’s a form of acrobatics where one performer lies on their back and supports one or more people or objects using only their feet. The form was primarily practiced in the Middle East and Asia for centuries.
The acrobatic art is also known as a Risley act named after an early circus performer who first imported the act to the United States and is sometimes considered part of a foot juggling act.
As the name Icarian Games suggests, it’s believed the act of propelling someone into the air with one’s feet reminded viewers of the Icarus myth and the dangers of flying too close to the sun.
You can see a little of Tomas and Tomrat, two acrobats who performed the act in 2019 for Cirque du Soleil, training in this video:
While performing as part of “Ka” in Las Vegas, the act featured two pairs of performers, but it looks like just one pair will be joining “Drawn to Life.”
Limited Time Florida Resident Deal
Florida residents can now enjoy a special offer to see Drawn to Life with up to 15 percent off on select seats. This offer is valid until March 12, 2023 for shows until May 7, 2023. You can buy tickets online at www.cirquedusoleil.com/drawn-to-life or at the Disney Springs box office.
Review all of our “Drawn to Life” related Cirque du Soleil coverage, including our full review of the show following its debut following the unexpected pandemic related closure.
Honestly, it’s nice to see Drawn to Life getting some enhancements. The show always felt a little light on the number of acts, perhaps to give room for the Disney-themed storytelling that’s unique to Drawn to Life. If you’ve seen Drawn to Life before, now’s the chance to come back and experience something new.