An exciting new era of entertainment has arrived in Hawaii with Cirque du Soleil's "Auana," an original 80-minute live show staged at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel. Offering a high-caliber alternative to luaus and traditional attractions, this production blends Hawaiian mythology with the acrobatic flair that defines Cirque. Since its debut, the immersive experience has become a standout attraction in Waikiki, setting a new benchmark for cultural performance in the islands.
Key Points
- Why it matters: Cirque du Soleil's "Auana" adds world-class entertainment to Waikiki.
- Highlights Hawaiian myths through music, dance, acrobatics, and visual storytelling.
- Held in a 784-seat custom-built theater at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel.
- Shows run twice nightly, Wednesday through Sunday.
- Tickets commissionable for travel advisors, with group and vendor packages available.
Snapshot
"Auana" is a vibrant new production from Cirque du Soleil that reimagines Hawaii's cultural stories for a modern audience. Performed in a purpose-built theater on Kalakaua Avenue, the show captures the natural beauty, mythology, and humor of the islands through awe-inspiring acrobatics, original music, and visually dynamic sets. The performance includes acts like water acrobatics in a cocktail glass, a surfer balancing on towering cylinders, and a high-flying finale that defies description. With two performances each night from Wednesday through Sunday, "Auana" delivers a distinctly Hawaiian spectacle without resorting to cliché.
Background
Historically, live entertainment in Hawaii was largely limited to luaus and small-scale musical performances. While these remain important cultural fixtures, visitors seeking more theatrical experiences had few options. That began to change in recent years with new music venues and now culminates in "Auana," which brings Cirque's global prestige to Waikiki. Outrigger Hotels & Resorts invested in building a 784-seat venue specifically for the production, a bold move that positions the hotel and Waikiki as leaders in modern island entertainment.
Latest Developments
Cultural storytelling reimagined with Cirque's signature style
"Auana" reinterprets Hawaiian legends using acrobatic artistry and original musical scores. The production highlights natural elements like oceans, rainforests, volcanoes, and waterfalls through kinetic stage design and costumes. With nods to historic figures and familiar island motifs, the show remains rooted in culture while offering contemporary appeal. Audiences are treated to scenes that move from serene to electrifying, always delivered with Cirque's flair for the unexpected.
Humor and audience participation heighten the experience
Comedy plays a memorable role through a character portraying a well-meaning visitor navigating humorous misadventures in Hawaii. Audience participation is woven into several acts, enhancing the immersive quality of the experience. One popular moment includes a tribute to the iconic television series "Hawaii Five-0," drawing laughs and nostalgia from the crowd.
Venue
The Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel's theater balances comfort and spectacle, with a layout that feels both intimate and immersive. In addition to individual ticket sales, Outrigger partners with Maui Brewing Co. to offer group packages suitable for celebrations and events. Tickets are commissionable for travel advisors and are also available through platforms like Pleasant Holidays, Expedia, and Viator. Guests can enjoy drinks and light fare from any of the theater's three Maui Brewing Company bars.
Analysis
The addition of "Auana" marks a turning point for Hawaii's visitor economy, offering a new dimension of experience beyond natural beauty and traditional culture. For travelers, it means deeper engagement with the islands' stories through a medium that's dynamic, accessible, and visually stunning. For travel advisors, the show represents a fresh product to incorporate into itineraries, with clear revenue opportunities via commissions and group sales.
The production also speaks to a broader evolution in Hawaii's tourism strategy: providing sustainable, high-quality cultural offerings that respect and celebrate native Hawaiian heritage. "Auana" doesn't attempt to replace cultural traditions but rather amplifies them through artistic innovation. Its early success signals demand for experiences that blend authenticity with spectacle-especially those that can be enjoyed indoors, year-round, and in the heart of Waikiki's tourist corridor.
Final Thoughts
"Auana" at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber offers travelers a rare mix of Cirque-level entertainment and authentic Hawaiian storytelling. As tourism in Hawaii continues to evolve, this show stands out as a must-see for those looking to experience the islands in a deeper, more theatrical way.