If you’re a fan of America’s Got Talent but wish that network show could be a bit more edgy in nature, Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil is the show for you. The acts on display at this tribute to the energy and excitement of New York City are all worthy of winning the million dollars on AGT, and the framework in which they are presented is distinctly adult.
What really sets Mad Apple apart from other variety shows is the setting: It really feels like you’re entering a nightclub. There are two bars that serve drinks 30 minutes before the show begins, one along the front of the stage and one onstage for VIPs. While at the bar, don’t be surprised to find yourself hobnobbing with a cast member—they walk among the crowd to help everyone get in a festive mood. Not having to go to the lobby to get your drink (and possibly missing some of the show in the process) is a seriously cool element.
Another aspect that adds to the nightlife vibe is the live band and backup singers, who deliver atmosphere to spare with songs like “Boogie Wonderland” and “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now.” But the band pulls out some New York-tinged surprises too, like the opening clarinet of “Rhapsody in Blue.”
Entertainment here includes balancing acts (you won’t breathe until it’s over), aerialists (we dare you to keep your mouth closed), basketball acrobats (your hands will hurt from clapping) and contortionists (we won’t blame you for putting your hands over your eyes). Weaving this all together is a real air of comedy, extremely adult in nature, we might add. It comes not only from the overall tone of the show, but from actual stand-up comedians, some of whom have actually appeared on—you guessed it—America’s Got Talent. But now they aren’t on network television, so … you might hear some slightly different material that’s for adult ears only.
New York-New York, 18+. 866.606.7111 or newyorknewyork.mgmresorts.com
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