Hawai’i’s Iconic Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana Marks One Year Of Cultural Innovation And Global Recognition

Published on December 6, 2025

Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana has reached a significant milestone by celebrating its first anniversary since launching in Hawai’i. This achievement marks a year filled with successful performances and cultural partnerships between Cirque du Soleil and Outrigger Resorts & Hotels, the show’s hosting partner. Since opening in 2024 at the OUTRIGGER Theater at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel, ‘Auana has become Hawai’i’s first resident Cirque du Soleil show, enchanting both locals and tourists with its fresh take on combining top-notch entertainment with the island’s rich cultural heritage.

The show combines Cirque du Soleil’s signature acrobatics with Hawaiian traditions and has received considerable attention for its authenticity and dedication to showcasing the spirit of aloha. The anniversary celebration also honors the show’s recent recognition as Best New Attraction by HONOLULU Magazine, highlighting its cultural importance and its attraction to a global audience.

A Year of Success and Cultural Collaboration

Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana’s success is built on deep cultural partnerships with local leaders, practitioners, and artists. The show pays tribute to Hawai’i’s traditions through performances that emphasize hula, live Hawaiian music, and artistic storytelling. This collaborative method is evident in the production’s creative integrity, allowing a strong connection with the community while introducing Hawai’i’s cultural heritage to audiences around the world.

The show has welcomed nearly 275,000 visitors over the past year. This number reflects its appeal and connection with both the local community and international visitors. Dr. Aaron J. Sala, the Cultural Creative Producer for ‘Auana, spoke about the meaningful impact of the show, noting that every performance serves as an opportunity to share Hawaiian stories with sincerity and respect while engaging diverse audiences.

Community Engagement and Embracing the Aloha Spirit

Over the year, Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana has become an important part of the Waikīkī community, contributing not just through entertainment but also through community involvement. The production has participated in various initiatives to support the local community, including volunteering with organizations like Pāhonu Fishpond in Waimānalo and Ka Papa Lo’i o Kānewai at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Additionally, the cast has performed for ‘Iolani School and Shriners Children’s Hospital, sharing their passion and skills with local children and families.

Sean Dee, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Outrigger Resorts & Hotels, praised the show’s success. He highlighted that it has woven itself into the fabric of Waikīkī, showcasing the power of working together. He added that both visitors and kama’āina (residents) have come to see ‘Auana as a beloved part of Hawai’i’s entertainment scene.

Special Anniversary Events and Performances

To celebrate ‘Auana’s first anniversary, a series of special events and activities will happen throughout the week. These events aim to reflect the show’s core values of cultural integrity, community appreciation, and sharing the Aloha Spirit with the world. This celebration provides locals and tourists a chance to experience the show’s magic and significance in a more personal and engaging way.

The show has gained broad media attention, including features on The TODAY Show and The Jennifer Hudson Show, which helped raise awareness of ‘Auana and its cultural importance. Celebrity guests, such as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Pierce Brosnan, Nicole Scherzinger, and Gabriel Iglesias, have also shown their support by attending the show over the past year.

An International Cast Bringing Global Flavor

The cast of Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana consists of a diverse group from 11 different countries, reflecting Cirque du Soleil’s global spirit while honoring Hawai’i’s unique culture. This international mix enhances the show, offering a blend of global artistry and local cultural stories. The cast and crew continue to innovate in live entertainment, ensuring that every performance is a one-of-a-kind and breathtaking experience for all attendees.

The collection of diverse and talented performers, along with Cirque du Soleil’s imaginative choreography and design, continues to captivate audiences night after night. The anniversary celebrations highlight ‘Auana’s broad appeal and its growing legacy within Hawai’i’s cultural scene.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana

As ‘Auana enters its second year, plans are in place to expand its reach while deepening its connection to Hawai’i’s traditions. The production aims to remain a leader in Hawai’i’s entertainment scene, ensuring that its cultural stories are honored while introducing new elements of creativity and imagination.

The success of Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana has shown that merging world-class entertainment with local culture can create impactful experiences for both residents and tourists. As the show begins its second year, it will continue to be a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and the beauty of Hawaiian culture.

Conclusion: A Year of Magic and Community for Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana

The first anniversary of Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana marks a significant achievement for both Cirque du Soleil and Hawai’i. The show’s ability to blend top-tier entertainment with local cultural storytelling has resonated with audiences, making it a key part of Hawai’i’s entertainment scene. The anniversary celebrations are just the start of what promises to be a long and successful journey for ‘Auana, as it continues to honor Hawaiian culture, community values, and the Aloha Spirit for many years to come.