HONOLULU — The Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group will embark on a unique Hawaiian journey this December with its first resident production in the state, appropriately titled “Auana.”

Auana, loosely translated as “to wander, veer off the beaten path or embark on a journey,” will bring the company’s famed artistry and acrobatics to the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel in a 784-seat theater custom designed for the show.

“Our vision for Auana faithfully connects us all to the islands of Hawaii through innovative and engaging storytelling, using hula dance, music, comedy and incredible acrobatic performances,” said director Neil Dorward. “It is my hope that our audiences will be transported into a world where stories can live unconstrained by reality, honoring the land and the people of this place.”

Several noted Hawaiian performers and artists had a hand in developing the production, including singer and Gravitas Pasifika president and CEO Aaron Sala, who serves as cultural creative producer; costume designer Manaola Yap and kumu hula Hiwa Vaughan, who is choreographing the show.

A release announcing the production stated that the Auana is still under development but promises to “meld the poetic and nuanced Hawaiian worldview with Cirque du Soleil’s signature style of breathtaking acrobatics, dramatic storytelling and flair.”

Tickets for Auana are available at www.cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii for performances starting on Dec. 15, 2024. Ticket prices start at $69 plus taxes and fees with a 30% discount for kama‘āina.

Auana will run Wednesdays through Sundays at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Show schedules are subject to change.

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.