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Cirque du Soleil Shakes the Tree with Outrageous 'MAD APPLE'

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Cirque du Soleil Shakes the Tree with Outrageous 'MAD APPLE'

Adults-only salute to NYC is a hip, satisfying, and surprisingly raw bite of entertainment.

The tidal wave known as COVID-19 wiped out dozens of Las Vegas shows, both small and large. Two of the biggest shockers were the permanent shuttering of Cirque du Soleil's ZUMANITY and LE REVE at Wynn Las Vegas. While the water spectacular's closing was entirely unexpected, the same can't be said for Cirque's first venture into the adult market. While the risque ZUMANITY ran for nearly seventeen years in New York NY Hotel Casino, it was never a huge hit or critical darling. Then Spiegelworld's ABSINTHE came along twelve years ago and cornered the market on acrobatic burlesque. That may have sealed the fate of ZUMANITY, which suddenly seemed tame by comparison. Maligned ventriloquist Terry Fator made a poor attempt to rebound in the abandoned Zumanity theater. Protests against his dated, offensive act ensued, ticket sales were poor, and the former AGT winner was exiled to a more-deserving second-floor banquet room. Then Cirque du Soleil returned home, promising a fresh take on the lush venue with an entirely new concept MAD APPLE, now celebrating its first year in Las Vegas, could have been a desperate attempt to regain audiences smitten by OPM, ABSINTHE, and ATOMIC SALOON SHOW. Instead, it's a satisfying cocktail that stands quite solidly on its own. Built on the foundation of Cirque acrobatics and visuals, it evokes the spirit of its namesake city through various artistic mediums. The fact that it's performed in a heavily NYC-themed resort only enhances the New York state of mind.

Arrive early and you'll be treated to a freewheeling nightclub atmosphere. A portion of the stage is designed to be a pres-show walk-up bar. Sip your choice of cocktails as strolling entertainers take you to the city that never sleeps. You might even be one of the lucky few selected for an intimate backstage experience by close-up illusionist TJ Salta.

Irritatingly handsome TJ Salta was born and raised in NYC. Holding the record for the youngest professional magician appearing regularly on the Strip, Salta exudes coolness, charisma, and humor that makes his close-up illusions that much more captivating. An expert at mentalism, TJ injects new energy into his craft, making him worth the price of admission alone. He recently had the honor of performing for Neil Patrick Harris, who attended MAD APPLE just a few weeks ago.

Neil Patrick Harris (center) and the cast of MAD APPLE

The cast of characters, singers, musicians, athletes, and specialty acts is uniformly excellent. Unlike most shows created by the Montreal troupe, MAD APPLE features a rotating roster of artists and acts that make every performance unique. The current line-up includes an outstanding team of world-class aerialists, hand-balancing musclemen, the gasp-inducing "Wheel of Death", and a super-cool team of basketball acrobats known as "The Game".

It may be unfair to choose a standout, but prolific comedian Harrison Greenbaum warrants a mention. Greenbaum takes Cirque du Soleil in a new direction, infusing MAD APPLE with sometimes shocking humor. Greenbaum's fans will be pleased to know that the America's Got Talent alumnus has clearly been given an artistic license that allows him to be true to New York-style standup. Hold on tight, because nothing and no one is spared!

Headlining comedians like Harrison Greenbaum are a first for Cirque du Soleil

Another departure for Cirque is the choice of music. A live house band, singers, and freestyle dancers frequently become part of the show, crossing the stage, surrounding performers, and jamming throughout the audience. Recognizable songs are presented in a jazzy style that evokes the spirit of New York streets. Attractive young talent turns every moment into a block party.

MAD APPLE's local standout musician is Isaac Tubb. The towering trumpet player, who's performed with Human Nature, David Tatlock's The Soul Juice Band, Matt Goss, Vegas! The Show, and numerous events at The Space, is as exciting to watch as he is to hear. His moves may rival those of famed dancing brass player Kevin Mullinax, also from The Soul Juice Band.

You may have noticed the exorbitant rates being charged not just for headliner residencies, but ongoing production shows. Cirque du Soleil has attacked that trend head-on with really low prices. Tickets for most of their shows start at a very low $69 (plus taxes/fees). MAD APPLE does that one better, with a base price of $59. Onstage seating for some performances is an outrageous $25 (not a mistype).

So if you're tired of being raked through the coals for live entertainment, are ready to rediscover Cirque du Soleil, or just yearning for an evening in New York City. grab a taxi and take a bite out of MAD APPLE. It's all here!

Stick around after the show for free meet-and-greets in the lobby.

MAD APPLE performs at New York NY Hotel Casino. Showtimes are 7 pm and 9:30 pm, Friday through Tuesday. Audience members must be 16+, under 18 requires an adult companion. Tickets start at $25 (plus taxes/fees) and are available here. Photos: MAD APPLE, Harrison Greenbaum via Facebook, VEGAS 411