‘Duel Reality’ comes to Ahmanson Theatre Sept. 11-22

“Duel Reality” from The 7 Fingers, also known as Les 7 doigts de la main, making their Center Theatre Group debut at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles, features their signature mix of circus, theatre, illusion, music and dance.

The circus troupe’s latest presentation is an acrobatic extravaganza for all ages inspired by the star-crossed tale of Romeo and Juliet, set for a limited 15-performance engagement from Sept. 12-22.

“’Duel Reality’ asks the audience to imagine a world where star-crossed lovers are circus stars, and their love story unfolds through graceful and death-defying acrobatics,” according to event organizers. “In an epic, cirque-infused performance, the two feuding families engage in a battle of skill while the pair of star-crossed lovers struggles to escape the showdown. They are fierce players, but do they care who wins or loses if playing the game can bring them closer together?

“’Duel Reality’ delivers a thrilling adventure for all ages with romance, integrity — and deceit — through death-defying acrobatics. The show received a Seoul Arts Award in 2023.”

The show is directed by Shana Carroll, who is the co-founding artistic director of The 7 Fingers and co-designer of the first segment of the Sochi Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony.

The 7 Fingers currently are on Broadway with The New York Times Critics’ Pick “Water for Elephants” and are renowned for the troupe’s Tony Award-winning 2013 revival of “Pippin.”

Elodie Marriott of the Edinburgh Festival Magazine wrote, “Round after round, the opposing sides exhibit their abilities with hula hoops and diabolos, showcasing their incredible strength and balance. The stakes are high, with the cast climbing eye-wateringly tall poles and pausing for applause, before dropping swiftly headfirst, coming to an abrupt stop less than an inch away from the floor. ‘Duel Reality’ is a spectacle that will truly astonish all who experience it.” 

Tickets for ‘Duel Reality’ are available through CenterTheatreGroup.org 213-972-4400 or in person at the Ahmanson Theatre located at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave. in downtown Los Angeles.