OAKLEY — Audiences and critics in North America, Europe and Australia agree – Africa’s Cirque Zuma Zuma is unlike anything they have ever seen before. Many describe it as an African-style Cirque du Soleil; such is the standard for the performers and the quality of the show’s live musical score. Among many accomplishments, the group has even competed as a 2011 finalist on America’s Got Talent. Today, approximately 120 performers in troupes of various sizes amaze audiences across the globe. Promising young Africans are trained at company schools in both Kenya and Tanzania.

Western Plains Arts Association is bringing internationally renowned Cirque Zuma Zuma to the Oakley High School Auditorium, at 3 p.m. CST, Sunday, Feb. 10. Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door. This season’s performances are made possible through generous gifts by businesses and individuals throughout the area, including a special grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, Kansas.

African Acrobats International, Inc., has established the ultimate African circus: the source for music, dance and ritual for all humanity. The thought of this rich continent brings in mind at once mysticism, magic and excitement. Some of the amazing entertainment audiences can expect from Cirque Zuma Zuma is: tribal dances, hula hoops, human pyramids, chair balancing, hoops diving, hand-to-hand balancing , foot juggling, poles, contortionist, tumbling and so much more. For additional information visit the group’s website: zumazuma.com.

One critic, Chris Griffin of DC Metro Theater Arts, wrote in April 2016: “As scientists continue to seek out new forms of alternative energy I would suggest they check out Cirque Zuma Zuma. From the time the troupe hits the stage they are dancing and don’t stop until their final bow….one of the things I really love about circus is when mere mortals do the seemingly impossible.”

— Submitted