Mad Apple

Mad Apple is the latest Cirque du Soleil production to hit Las Vegas and is a change of pace for the Toronto-based entertainment company, celebrating the culture, style, and music of the Big Apple in – appropriately enough – the New York-New York casino on the Strip.

While most Cirque presentations are overloaded with large casts and extravagant sets, Mad Apple is more efficient, taking place on a centralized stage that allows the individual talent of the performers to command attention at a nonstop pace. The entertainment ranges from street acrobats to freestyle rapping and live stand-up comedy. A five-piece band with five singers showcases music from New York's finest, including Billy Joel, Lady Gaga, and more.

The energy of the show contrasts sharply with Cirque's last attempt at an all-new production in Las Vegas. The dark tone of R.U.N. a big-budget flop at the Luxor, failed to resonate with audiences or critics and closed after just a few months in early 2020. By comparison, Mad Apple feels like a colorful celebration with the audience encouraged to cheer, dance, and enjoy craft cocktails before the performers take the stage.

The show is in the same theater that hosted the risque Zumanity for years before closing for good during the pandemic. Expect Mad Apple to carve out its legacy and become a Las Vegas favorite for years to come. Performances are 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Thursday-Monday. Check with Lavish Vegas for the best prices on tickets when planning a Las Vegas visit.