Awakening

Awakening stretches the boundaries of what's possible with entertainment and performance art on the Las Vegas Strip. The multimillion-dollar production at the Wynn takes over the theater previously home to Le Reve, retaining an in-the-round stage design to ensure everyone in the house has a good seat.

Like its predecessor, Awakening will be frequently mistaken for a Cirque du Soleil production. While there are similarities with a large cast, extravagant performances, otherworldly settings, and a format that stresses spectacle over story, Awakening sets itself apart with special effects that dazzle with creativity and ingenuity.

It's hard to discuss the show without giving too much away. The loose narrative follows three heroes and two protagonists representing light and darkness with the power of magic (represented by a red light) as the driving theme. The real star, however, is a circular, LED-enhanced, 60-foot stage that rises and rotates while breaking off into different sections. The main characters are backed by a talented ensemble of dancers and acrobats along with imaginative use of lights, illusion, large-format puppetry, and sound, featuring high-tech speakers between each seat for a 3D-like audio effect.

The production unravels in a series of environments with an "undersea" segment especially impressive. An erotic dream-like sequence is provocative, but shouldn't be too much for any teenager to handle. It's recommended to use discretion when bringing kids.

No expense was spared on the development of Awakening, brought to life by creative minds previously involved in Broadway's The Lion King, Marvel films, and concerts by artists such as Harry Styles and Taylor Swift. Even two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins was enlisted to record the narration.

The final result is a spectacular success that impresses on nearly all levels, bringing a fresh breath of air to the Las Vegas Strip, where similar shows can feel repetitive after a while. Tickets are higher than much of the competition, but not unexpected when noting the considerable investment into the production. As always, check with Lavish Vegas for the best prices. Performances are Friday - Tuesday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Dark on Wednesday and Thursday.