From Waikīkī to the World: Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana’s Groundbreaking First Year Brings Cultural Storytelling and World-Class Performances to Hawai’i!

Published on December 5, 2025

Hawai’i is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, but now, a new force has emerged that draws both visitors and locals alike into its cultural embrace—Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana. This one-of-a-kind show, which celebrated its first anniversary in 2025, has redefined the entertainment landscape in Hawai’i. A blend of Cirque du Soleil’s renowned acrobatic brilliance with the rich cultural fabric of the Aloha Spirit, ‘Auana is not just a performance; it’s an experience that touches the heart and soul of every viewer. From its debut at the OUTRIGGER Theater at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel in 2024, ‘Auana has captivated nearly 275,000 guests and achieved immense success, including being crowned Best New Attraction by HONOLULU Magazine. This sensational achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Hawai’i’s entertainment industry, combining traditional island artistry with world-class acrobatics in a way that has never been done before.

Honoring Hawai’i’s Spirit Through Art and Performance

The secret behind the overwhelming success of ‘Auana lies in its dedication to cultural authenticity. The show is more than just entertainment; it’s a deep, heartfelt tribute to Hawai’i’s heritage. Dr. Aaron J. Sala, the Cultural Creative Producer, emphasizes that ‘Auana was built upon a foundation of genuine cultural collaboration. The show’s focus on blending Cirque du Soleil’s iconic theatricality with the Hawaiian tradition of hula, live local music, and artistic expression ensures that every performance is a heartfelt homage to the islands. Guests are not merely spectators—they are participants in a cultural journey that connects them to the heart of Hawai’i. Each act tells a story, every movement is infused with the spirit of aloha, and the music resonates with the history and soul of the islands. It’s an emotional journey that brings Hawai’i’s rich traditions to life, offering a connection to the islands that many visitors never expected to find.

Celebrity Appearances and International Recognition

The magic of ‘Auana has not gone unnoticed in the entertainment world. Celebrities from across the globe have flocked to the OUTRIGGER Theater to experience this groundbreaking production. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Pierce Brosnan, Nicole Scherzinger, and Gabriel Iglesias have all been spotted at the show, adding to the buzz and intrigue surrounding this phenomenal performance. With its growing popularity, ‘Auana has even been featured on high-profile platforms like the TODAY Show and The Jennifer Hudson Show, securing its place as a cultural icon in Hawai’i’s entertainment scene. ‘Auana’s rise to fame also signifies a monumental shift in the global recognition of Hawai’i as a cultural powerhouse. The show has become a beacon of Hawai’i’s artistic and cultural narrative, symbolizing how the islands are embracing their heritage while sharing it with the world. With such high-profile celebrity endorsements and media exposure, it’s clear that ‘Auana is here to stay.

A Collaborative Effort Between Locals and Global Creators

What makes ‘Auana truly stand out from other performances is its collaboration between Cirque du Soleil’s visionary creators and local Hawaiian artists and cultural leaders. Every aspect of the production, from the choreography to the music, was shaped with respect for Hawai’i’s traditions. This collaboration ensures that the show remains faithful to the islands’ cultural identity while delivering the high-octane entertainment that Cirque du Soleil is famous for. Duncan Fisher, the Chief Show Operations Officer, reflects on the collaborative spirit behind the show, stating that ‘Auana was created to celebrate Hawai’i through a blend of local and global artistry. This partnership has resulted in a show that speaks not only to tourists but also to Hawai’i’s locals, who have embraced it as their own. The show’s creators, performers, and cultural consultants work hand in hand to ensure that every performance pays homage to the islands’ history, culture, and community.

Community Engagement: ‘Auana’s Heartbeat in Hawai’i

In addition to its artistic success, ‘Auana has become deeply rooted in the local community. The production has consistently engaged with the people of Hawai’i through volunteer work and performances outside the theater. ‘Auana’s cast and crew have contributed to local projects like Pāhonu Fishpond in Waimānalo and Ka Papa Loʻi o Kānewai at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. The show’s performers have even brought the Aloha Spirit to schools and hospitals, such as performing at ‘Iolani School and Shriners Children’s Hospital. This commitment to community engagement underscores ‘Auana’s role as more than just a tourist attraction. It’s a living, breathing part of Hawai’i’s cultural landscape, one that continues to honor the local community and give back to the islands that have given so much.

Special Events and Celebrations: Marking a Milestone

To celebrate its one-year anniversary, ‘Auana has planned a series of special events and activations throughout the week. These celebrations reflect the show’s core values of cultural integrity, community appreciation, and the sharing of the Aloha Spirit with the world. These events aim to engage both local residents and visitors, ensuring that ‘Auana’s cultural impact continues to grow and evolve. These activations have included exclusive backstage tours, cultural workshops, and limited-edition merchandise that ties into the themes of the show. For both tourists and locals, it’s an opportunity to dive deeper into Hawai’i’s traditions and connect with the show on a more personal level.

Hawai’i’s Bright Future in Cultural Tourism and Entertainment

As ‘Auana continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of visitors from all over the world, it’s clear that Hawai’i is positioning itself as a global hub for cultural tourism and entertainment. The collaboration between OUTRIGGER Resorts, Cirque du Soleil, and the local community has opened new doors for the tourism industry in Hawai’i, one that is grounded in cultural authenticity and artistic expression. In the coming years, Hawai’i can expect to see even more groundbreaking performances and shows that blend the islands’ rich cultural heritage with world-class entertainment. ‘Auana is only the beginning of this exciting new era for Hawai’i, and it sets a high bar for future productions that seek to honor and celebrate the islands’ traditions.