A new chapter in the history of the American stage begins with Cirque du Soleil's Ka Show. Attempts to compare this production to any other form of performance diminish the genius of Robert LaPage's masterpiece, but in the interest of giving some idea of what it's like, I'll try nevertheless. Ka is a story told in movement but not in words, but so different from traditional ballet that it could easily be classified as a new genre of performance art altogether.

The title Ka is inspired by the ancient Egyptian concept of the "ka", an invisible spiritual duplicate of the body that accompanies every human being through this life and into the next. In thving ocean storms, meeting fantastic creatures and conquering evil opponis show, the Imperial Twins and their accompanying ka go on an epic journey, survients, and are finally reunited.

Ka bears the hallmarks of Cirque du Soleil: Impeccable attention to detail, design and audience experience paired with performances by talented acrobats and trapeze artists, but transformed and integrated so that everything serves the story of the Imperial Twins, separated by war.

Ka is one of the most innovative stage productions ever mounted, and it's impossible to separate Ka the show from Ka the theater, for one would be useless without the other. The multi-million-dollar facility was built for the production, and the set designers' innovative thinking creates radical stage elements and special effects that include flying warriors, huts transformed into birds and battles viewed from above.

Ka transcends place and time, with a theatrical landscape, scenic elements and costumes inspired by an array of diverse cultures.

Brought to life by 80 artists from around the world, Ka is a gravity-defying production featuring a powerfully emotive soundtrack that enhances the innovative blend of acrobatic feats, Capoeira dance, puppetry, projections and martial arts.