As anticipation builds for the December 12 premiere of Cirque du Soleil LUDÕ at VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta, the creative energy behind the scenes is nothing short of electric.
“LUDÕ is the most extraordinary Cirque du Soleil show ever created,” says Joël Bergeron, Company Manager. “Guests can expect to find a remarkable evolution and elevation of what has thrilled audiences and Cirque du Soleil fans for decades.”
“It’s not just a show,” he continues. “This is a true spectacle that blends gravity-defying moments with fantastic underwater feats, gourmet cuisine, and immersive storytelling.”
Here’s a peek at how this groundbreaking production is coming to life.
Designing a World of Water
Every Cirque du Soleil show begins with a spark of imagination. During the conception phase, creators, and designers shape the story, visuals, music, and acrobatics. Then, through production, artists, technicians, and specialists bring the vision to life, turning an idea into an extraordinary live experience.
And the Cirque du Soleil theater delivers. This lotus flower-shaped structure, seemingly rising up from the depths of Wonder Bay, is unlike anything else in the world. Its curved stage sits within massive wraparound aquariums, making aquatics part of the narrative. Set designers are layering in lighting effects, projections, and custom-built apparatuses. Together, these allow performers to emerge seamlessly from the water.
“The theater was designed and built just for this project, so everything is tailored to make the show shine,” says Bergeron, who also participated in the creation of JOYÀ, the wildly popular Cirque du Soleil production now in its 11th year at VidantaWorld Riviera Maya.
“What I love most about LUDÕ is how close the audience will feel to the action,” he continues. “With only about 700 seats arranged in a 360-degree layout, you’ll never be far from the performers and the action. That intimacy makes it really powerful—you see every detail, every expression, every movement.”
A Captivating Story
In a mystical underground cavern deep within the jungle of Mexico, Ludovico, the show’s main character, rediscovers the power of imagination while reliving key moments of his own life that connect him to the Universe.
“Water is a limitless element—it holds memory, transforms shape, and defies gravity. With LUDÕ, we dive into these possibilities and push creative boundaries like never before,” says Michel Laprise, Show Writer & Director, Cirque du Soleil LUDÕ.
Culinary Delights
The show’s culinary team is crafting a menu that evolves alongside this story. Think bright, playful flavors for whimsical scenes and rich, layered dishes for moments of drama. Each course is plated to match the artistry onstage, elevating dinner into an extension of the storytelling.
“The cuisine will be intertwined deeply into the experience,” says Bergeron. “In line with VidantaWorld’s values, every detail—from flavor and presentation to service—is held to the highest standard. True to the Cirque du Soleil spirit, the culinary journey will also reflect the show’s themes, creating harmony between stage and table.”
Rehearsals in Full Swing
A team of 44 international artists representing approximately 20 nationalities has been cast for the project. This global ensemble reflects the universality of play—the very heartbeat of LUDÕ.
To bring this one-of-a-kind spectacle to life, rehearsals have been underway in the theater since July and will span approximately 14 weeks.
During this period, every element of the show must be refined before the first guests arrive. Acrobatic acts require daily practice, while costumes and makeup are seamlessly integrated without hindering movement or choreography. Lights and live music cues are being carefully adjusted and synchronized to the performance. Even the actions of the operational staff are meticulously choreographed.
And then there’s the whole guest experience that must be crafted to perfection. Between now and opening night on December 12, every detail—from the way the sound echoes in the space to the aroma of a dish as it’s served—is being polished. The goal? For every guest to feel like they’ve stepped into another world where food, performance, and atmosphere flow together like water.
“Ultimately, it’s the seamless harmony of countless details that makes the magic possible,” says Bergeron.
A Spectacular Setting
The theater’s surroundings make the journey even more remarkable. Nestled within the upcoming BON Luxury Theme Park at VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast, LUDÕ is the centerpiece of a vacation you’ll never forget. Spend your days exploring golden beaches, indulging in acclaimed dining, and discovering everything VidantaWorld has to offer—then end the night transported into an underwater dreamscape only Cirque du Soleil could imagine.
