I was once a Cirque du Soleil sceptic but over the past two decades the world-famous circus outfit has won me over.
When I was poking fun at them for being airy fairy and lacking what I really wanted in a circus – elephants and a lion tamer, at least – I hadn’t actually been to one of their shows. I was critiquing them from ads I saw.
Then, one day, I went along, mainly because my young son wanted to see them, and they got to me. I was a changed man. I went from a naysayer to a happy clapper in one fell swoop.
So, like you, I am excited the thrilling, internationally acclaimed Cirque du Soleil production KOOZA is coming to Melbourne, Sydney and yes, my hometown, Brisbane.
From August 1 to September 6, 2026, we can see them under the much-loved iconic Big Top. Tickets on now on sale, so book early and book often, as they say in the classics.
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Following the phenomenal success of LUZIA in 2024, which broke Australian sales records and captivated audiences across five cities, and this year’s triumphant national tour of CORTEO, Cirque du Soleil returns in 2026 with KOOZA to once again deliver a spectacular, laughter-filled celebration of traditional circus.
They may not have elephants or lions but they do have clowns and everyone loves clowns … except for Kramer on Seinfeld. You know the episode?
Featuring death-defying acrobatics and the art of clowning, KOOZA invites audiences into a world bursting with surprises, thrills, chills and delight, a true “circus in a box”.
Described as one of Cirque du Soleil’s most daring touring productions, KOOZA takes audiences on a thrilling ride with its nail-biting, mind-boggling acrobatics. Between strength and fragility, laughter and smiles, turmoil and harmony, KOOZA explores themes of fear, identity, recognition and power. And there cool music too – played live.
Duncan Fisher, chief show operations officer, touring shows, at Cirque du Soleil, says: “Australia has always welcomed Cirque du Soleil with open arms.”
“After the record-breaking success of LUZIA under the Big Top in 2024 and the hugely popular arena tour of CORTEO this year, it’s clear that audiences in Australia have an enduring love for Cirque de Soleil,” Fisher says.
“KOOZA is one of our most breathtaking productions, a pure celebration of acrobatics and humour that reconnects us with the origins of Cirque du Soleil. Audiences can expect heart-stopping stunts, incredible artistry and the kind of joyful energy that makes Cirque du Soleil so special.”
KOOZA delivers a signature Cirque du Soleil experience in its most exhilarating form. High-flying acrobatics, whimsical characters, lavish costuming, colourful sets, hilarious clowning and a powerful live score. Acclaimed worldwide since its 2007 debut, KOOZA has mesmerised almost eight million spectators with more than 5000 performances in more than 70 cities across 23 countries.
Around 25,000 people a night will see the show and it will take a whole week to set it up.
KOOZA premiered in Montreal in 2007 and is the company’s 20th original touring production since its creation in 1984. The name KOOZA comes from the Sanskrit word “koza” meaning “box” or “treasure”, symbolising the concept of “circus in a box”. A treasure box in this case.
The show travels with a touring team of more than 120 people. Having been behind the scenes at previous shows I can tell you it is a military operation.
I’ll be there again next year, which will surprise some of my former workmates who will remember me when I was a Cirque du Soleil denier. But I have seen the light and I am now a believer. Go figure.
KOOZA will run August 1 to September 6, 2026, under the Big Top at Eagle Farm.