Engineering the Impossible
When Cirque audiences and fans look under the Big Top, what they see is like magic. When Cirque artists and technicians look under the Big Top, what they see is a merger of art and innovation, and nowhere is that fusion on display better than the legendary Acronet in KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities.
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Reimagining a Problem as a Performance
The idea for the Acronet–a wildly original trampoline concept capable of launching performers 40 feet above the stage–was actually inspired by a technical issue.
When engineers were examining the flying trapeze net from a separate show, it led them to wonder: Instead of adding more absorption, what if we amplified this problem and used advanced materials to improve the net’s bounciness and rebound?
For Cirque du Soleil, the idea of a massive tensioned net that performers can leap, flip, and fly over may not seem so far-fetched, but for its creators, executing such a vision would take a monumental effort.
Rebounding From Doubt
During development, achieving the perfect balance of tension across the net proved challenging. "None of us really believed in it," shares Boris Verkhovsky, former Director of Performance Design and Development at Cirque du Soleil.
"I mean… look at the rigging, look at the automation," reflects Boris. The Acronet’s functionality depends on a complex system of 15 axes of motors and winches that adjust the net’s tension to performers in real-time.
Despite head-spinning complexities, the KURIOS creation teams pushed through an intense period of prototyping, workshopping, adaptation, and doubt, all in the pursuit of something new. Because as Boris says, "The wow factor is non-negotiable... The notion of technology and evolution of materials… it’s essential in order to support the human performance.”
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Beyond the technical aspects, the Acronet also demands seamless teamwork from performers. Unlike solo trampoline acts, up to 6 performers must synchronize their jumps, using combined momentum to send each other sky-high. It's these jubilant acts–these moments of awe–that are a direct result of creative engineering and human collaboration.
The Magic is in Taking the Leap
While awe-struck fans might see the KURIOS Acronet performance as a visual spectacle, the team on stage and behind the scenes see it as a testament to the power of persistence and creative problem-solving.
"It’s not about formula," Boris reminds us. "It's magic. And magic is not predictable. Magic is not scheduled. It comes in when it comes in."
Stories like these remind us that even when our destination isn’t so clear, we can achieve something brilliant if we’re just brave enough to take the leap.
Are you ready to take the leap and explore your career with Cirque du Soleil? Create or update your casting profile today.
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