SOUTHWEST FAMILY VACATION DAY 4 :: LAS VEGAS, NV :: Tonight we took my parents to see Cirque du Soleil's KA playing at the MGM Grand. Unlike most Cirque shows, KA presents a linear story and emphasizes theatrics over acrobatics. That's not to say the actors were not performing unbelievable, breathtaking stunts - they were - but the amazing theater with its transforming stage and incredible sets was so astounding; it almost stole the show.

The story involves separated twins struggling to find their way back home and save their family. We watched each of the twins travel through their fantastical world, battling from one magical environ to the next. The performers dance, swing, swim, climb, fly and warp familiar perspectives thanks to a futuristic stage that rises, rotates, inclines and transforms with the grace of the human actors. Add to this the "ninjas" that fly by wire over the audience, shooting arrows over our heads while giant fireballs and other pyrotechnics explode on stage. There were some very intimate and touching moments as well - one involving the young twins and shadow puppets that I never wanted to end. I'm willing to admit I may have shed a couple tears by the time it did.

The show fully saturated our senses and was thoroughly entertaining. Of the nine Cirque shows we've seen, KA is definitely a favorite!