This summer, Cirque du Soleil brings one of its most celebrated productions to the capital for the very first time. Corteo arrives at Etihad Arena on Yas Island in June, marking the culmination of a 21-year journey on stage.
A fan favourite that has captivated audiences worldwide, Corteo is packed with Cirque du Soleil’s signature acrobatics, live music, comedy, and moments of pure wonder. The show is produced by Ethara and SES Live! in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi.
Corteo works just as well for first-time Cirque visitors as it does for long-time fans. Audiences can expect gravity-defying feats, playful clowning, flying chandeliers, bouncing beds and unexpected moments that keep the entire arena buzzing from start to finish.
At the heart of the show is a dreamlike world imagined by a clown, where humour, imagination and emotion come together in a vibrant theatrical parade. Rather than following a traditional storyline, Corteo unfolds as an engaging parade of scenes and characters, blending big, show-stopping moments with quieter scenes that linger long after the show ends.
The production will be presented in a rare two-sided arena format, with the stage positioned at the centre of Etihad Arena and the audience seated facing one another. This unique setup offers a fresh perspective on the performance, giving audiences a glimpse of the show from the performers’ point of view. Hand-painted curtains inspired by European theatre traditions complete the setting and shape the visual identity of Corteo.
After more than two decades on stage and performances in over 150 cities worldwide, Corteo now enters its final chapter, offering audiences in Abu Dhabi a rare chance to experience the production live. Since its debut in 2005, the show has been seen by more than 12 million spectators across 150 cities worldwide, including landmark runs at London’s Royal Albert Hall, The O2 Arena and Paris’ Accor Arena. It now arrives in Abu Dhabi as the largest Cirque du Soleil production the capital has hosted. The touring production brings together a 117-strong international troupe, with music performed live on stage throughout the performance.
Corteo was most recently recognised with a Pollstar Award 2024 for Best Family & Event Tour of the Year. Abu Dhabi will host Corteo for a limited run at Etihad Arena from 12-21 June.
Tickets – starting at AED 150 - are on sale now from Etihad Arena, Ticketmaster and Platinumlist
