Cirque du Soleil: Alegría – In A New Light will leave you mesmerised with 100 minutes of circus extravaganza

IT'S clear to see why Cirque du Soleil is so popular among celebrities and fans - and this year was no exception with 100 minutes of jawdropping performances from some of Europe's best acrobats.

A host of famous faces returned to the Royal Albert Hall last month to celebrate the European Premiere of Alegría - In A New Light.

TV presenter Alan Carr, pop stars Ella Eyre, Hannah Spearitt, actress Joanna Page, TV legend Sir Lenny Henry, boxing star Ricky Hatton and popular telly hosts Denise Van Outen, and Jeremy Vine were just a few of the celebs to attend the star-studded event.

Sir Lenny Henry told The Sun: "I've been a big fan since 1989, I saw them in LA for the first time on Santa Monica pier in a circus tent and it was a brilliant show.

"I loved the way they do comedy, it's usually very visual.

"It's not slapstick actually, it's more clowning, so I loved that.

"I love the fact that it's all speciality acts coming together in one place and under one roof."

Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, this all-time classic has been reimagined for new generations to fall in love with.

The combination of storytelling, laugh out loud moments, theatrical elements and acrobatic extravagance is perfectly balanced.

It's an enjoyable evening out for all ages and the whole family.

There are so many magical moments that the show beautifully shares with its audience - from the Grammy-nominated soundtrack, to the surreal costume designs, vibrant sets, and playful humour.

The performers made use of the stunning venue, with even a special showstopping finale that will leave you looking up at the ceiling in amazement.

If you're hoping to spend an evening belly laughing then there is plenty of clown action for the little ones and the big kids too - it's more than just a circus, you'll be left in stitches by the very clever artistry.

With some of the most flexible contortionists in the world - you'll be blown away by their body-bending tricks as they swing between each others legs and then thrown to the ceiling in somersaults.

There are many flips, human towers, jawdropping landings, as well as juggling and a big ticket number at the end.

There are many big moments throughout the show, so don't worry, you won't be limited to just one big finale performance.

The show is topped off with a live band, phenomenal singers and visual poetry peppered throughout the show.

Originally performed from 1994 to 2013, Alegría has become one of the most beloved Cirque du Soleil shows that has greatly contributed to establishing the company’s signature performance style internationally by mesmerising over 14 millions spectators in 255 cities across 40 countries.

It is brought to life by an international cast of 64 acrobats, clowns,
musicians, and singers.

At the heart of a once-glorious kingdom that has lost its king, Alegría witnesses the power struggle at play between the old
order and the youth in strive for hope and renewal.

As the court jester clumsily tries to take the throne, a growing desire for change emerges from the street to shake the status quo and bring joy to the world.

It's a brilliant immersive visual universe - with the first Flying
Trapeze act to ever be performed at the Royal Albert Hall, Alegría lives up to its global reputation of quintessential Cirque du Soleil spectacle.

Duncan J. Fisher, President of Touring Shows, Cirque du Soleil
Entertainment Group said: "There would be no better way to kick start our 40 th anniversary celebrations than with the revival of our all-time classic Alegría in a venue that has been intimately connected to the history and success of Cirque du Soleil.

"Since 1996, our annual residency at the Royal Albert Hall has become a staple of entertainment in London; a tradition that our fans and cast & crew alike look forward to with excitement.”

The limited series of performances will run until 3 March 2024. Tickets are on sale now via the Cirque du Soleil .

Keep up to date with the latest news, gossip and scandals on our celebrity live blog