a detailed overview of theater, machinery, and
backstage operations for the Ka show by Cirque
du Soleil at MGM Grand in Las Vegas:
Ka, resident Cirque du Soleil production show at
MGM Grand in Las Vegas, stands as one of the most
technologically advanced and grand-scale stage shows ever produced.
$200 million theater was custom-built to house
massive moving stages, theatrical rigging, and
special effects that bring show’s acrobatic spectacle to life.
Since its premiere in 2004, Ka has dazzled over 10 million audience members with a dazzling display of acrobatics, martial arts, puppetry, projections, pyrotechnics, and mechanical automation.
Ka show follows epic journey of imperial twins who become separated during an attack on their kingdom. separate coming-of-age journeys of brother and sister feature themes of love and conflict represented through show’s signature acts. All aspects of production, from intricate backstage choreography to the grand machinery floating massive set pieces across cavernous stage, work in harmony to create a completely immersive experience for audience.
Scale and complexity of the production require extensive behind-the-scenes engineering, design, and operations. The $220 million renovation of Ka Theater involved enormous rigging installations, moving stages of unprecedented size, and technological effects to bring Ka by Cirque du Soleil Show’s imaginative world to life. Coordinating the onstage performers with intricate backstage machinations is no small feat. The result is a breathtaking fusion of theatrical artistry and technical wizardry that has cemented Ka as one of the preeminent stage spectacles at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and around the world.
1. Custom-Engineered ka Theater
The Ka theater itself was constructed over 2 years specifically to house multi-million dollar production. The immense space spans 120 feet across and 149 feet from ceiling grids to lowest orchestra pit level. The stage machinery, automation systems, and safety equipment fill cavernous vertical space.
Engineering firm McLaren was brought on to handle the extensive rigging throughout the reconstructed theater space. This involved seismic upgrades to support massive new rigging loads of up to 300,000 pounds for the moving set pieces. The rigging installations alone required renovating entire audience and performance areas of original theater.
The 1,951-seat auditorium features state-of-the-art sound with speakers embedded in each seat for surround sound effects. Lighting grid above stage houses over 3,000 lighting fixtures to illuminate expansive stage.
The theater’s crown jewel is massive Sand Cliff Deck stage at center. This 40-ton movable platform is 25 feet wide by 50 feet long and is controlled by the giant gantry crane sitting above. The total height from the stage floor to top of crane is 98 feet. The unique gantry crane structure has two support columns running along the sides and cross beams spanning the width of stage.
The enormous hydraulic cylinder pistons affixed to crane are capable of lifting the Sand Cliff Deck as high as 72 feet in air. At the same time, Deck can rotate a full 360 degrees and tilt between completely flat and 110 degrees vertical. This allows the deck to transform into a hillside, cliff face, wall, and more, all while supporting performers.
2. Stage Machinery & Automation of ka Theater
The complexity of Ka-stage machinery requires extensive programming and automation technology. show’s production manager estimates there are over 100 cues programmed just to handle all movements of lifts, decks, and stages.
The five movable stage lifts allow platforms to raise and lower 25 feet during ka show. Each lift operates on its own timed cues and schedule managed by the automation systems. The lifts smoothly transition scenery, props, and performers on and off stage in sync with ka by cirque du soleil story.
Massive rear Tatami Deck slides out 48 feet over orchestra pit during key scenes. Weighing 75,000 pounds, it is moved slowly in and out by a robust drawer slide mechanism. The graceful, floating movement of deck as it extends and retracts adds to spectacle.
The main Sand Cliff Deck is undoubtedly star attraction in Ka’s mechanical repertoire. And 300,000 pound payload gantry crane hovering above provides power to move deck in all directions. Five high-output hydraulic pumps drive crane’s movements through a reservoir holding 4,000 gallons of hydraulic oil.
twin support columns on the sides each contain eight 75-foot hydraulic cylinders. Each cylinder has a 250-horsepower electric pump to quickly lift, lower, and tilt deck. Computer systems monitor and control the pumps and cylinders in real time during performances.
On top of smooth movements, Sand Cliff Deck has integrated video projection capabilities. Its surface acts as a giant controllable screen through infrared cameras mounted above that detect and track performers’ movements. This allows video projections to interact with artists and story.
Underneath the main deck, acrobatic nets and giant airbags provide safety support. Airbag, one of the world’s largest ever made, is overlaid on top of nets to cushion artists and stuntmen. Technical crew can rapidly switch these out between acts as needed through underground levels beneath stage.
3. Backstage Operations ka theater
Behind the scenes, it takes an army of technicians, engineers, and performers to successfully run Ka’s production each night. There are approximately 110 crew members backstage along with 80 on-stage performers.
The backstage areas span multiple tiered floors connected by ladders, stairs, and elevators. This allows quick access to all levels, from the upper catwalks to lifts descending 50 feet down into sub-basements below the stage.
Choreographed dance occurring behind curtain is just as intricate as that happening on stage. Technicians operate automation systems, move props and scenery, run pyrotechnics, and handle rapidly changing safety equipment just out of sight.
Stage right area houses the main elevators used to move performers and equipment up and down. Lifts in pit access lower levels where the airbags are inflated and nets are rigged prior to acts.
Higher up, catwalks intersect over ka stage with ladders and staircases connecting the tiers. Railings and fencing line catwalks for safety of crew members moving sets, lights and other equipment overhead during performances.
In wings, the Sand Cliff and Tatami Decks are prepped from adjacent levels. Performers and props are loaded on and off, with some appearing through hidden trapdoors. Scenic elements like coverings to represent forest are added here before and after use.
An enormous winch system with cables feeds backstage to help move set pieces like large scenic columns during transitions. The cables are routed through a intricate network of sheaves and pulleys across full height of backstage area.
The upper levels house equipment rooms, costume storage, and quick-change areas to support various acts. This allows performers to access needed props, tools, and outfits in close proximity right before they go on stage.
The cleanliness and order of backstage workings also help show operate smoothly. Sand used in beach scene is meticulously filtered to remove debris. Metal contaminants are removed to avoid any potential issues with the stage automation equipment.
Accessories and costume pieces are kept in meticulously organized storage areas. Props like Wheel of Death are stored on the Tatami Deck when not in use. Any clutter or disorganization backstage presents safety risks in very active environment.
Technical crew undergoes 10-14+ days of intense training to learn all operating procedures. This covers duties, safety protocols, and contingency plans for different roles. Thorough preparation and knowledge of ka production is critical for the flawless coordination required.
In the end, it takes entire cast and crew – both front and back of house – to successfully immerse audience into Ka’s imagination world. harmony of artistry, athleticism, and technical mastery combine to create a powerful and unforgettable experience for every person who enters ka by cirque du soleil theater.