Nine years after it last captivated Singapore audiences, KOOZA returns under the Big Top at Bayfront Event Space with all the spectacle, danger, and wonder that have long defined Cirque du Soleil at its very best. First seen here in 2017, the production arrives in 2026 as a reaffirmation and reminder that the simplest elements of circus, when executed at the highest level, remain the most powerful. With its blend of high-risk acrobatics, mischievous clowning, and a loose but heartfelt journey of self-discovery led by the Innocent and the Trickster, KOOZA continues to resonate in a world that feels increasingly distant from live, unfiltered performance.

Ahead of its highly anticipated return, we speak with Jamieson Lindenburg, Artistic Director of KOOZA, and a representative from Lushington Entertainments, the team behind bringing the Big Top back to Singapore. From preserving the spirit of a show that has toured the world for nearly two decades, to staging a production of this scale in a purpose-built tent by the Marina Bay skyline, they share insights into what it takes to keep KOOZA feeling fresh, relevant, and above all, magical for a new generation of audiences discovering the circus for the very first time.

Jamieson Lindenburg, Artistic Director, KOOZA

Bakchormeeboy: KOOZA is a tribute to traditional circus – why do you think audiences still crave this kind of “pure circus” live storytelling?

Jamieson Lindenburg: The circus is about the human connection. Its foundation relies on the audiences, the artists and the connection that comes in between. One that doesn’t go without the other. Cirque du Soleil recently celebrated its 40^th anniversary, and KOOZA returns to its roots which pays homage to traditional circus. KOOZA represents a traditional circus to the core, featuring simple acts with a contemporary twist. Audiences want to feel emotions whether it is laughter or chills – KOOZA represents in its own way an escape where everything is possible. 

Bakchormeeboy: The show balances extreme physicality with more light-hearted elements. How do you design moments that make audiences laugh one second and hold their breath the next?

Jamieson: Audiences come to the circus for the connection and for emotions. It has always been in the show’s identity to have the clown make you laugh, and the acrobats take you on a roller coaster of emotions. It’s the essence of what the circus is fundamentally and KOOZA is no different. 

Bakchormeeboy: KOOZA has been touring for many years now. How has the show evolved creatively since its 2007 premiere while still staying true to its original spirit?

Jamieson: My role as Artistic Director is to keep the original vision of the show alive but also help KOOZA grow. In 19 years, the world has changed, the artists have evolved, and it is important to me to continue pushing boundaries to keep surprising audiences. A good example of this is our clown acts that have been completely re-created in 2022 to reflect the current reality. Local influences are always special with our clown acts as we try and incorporate local idioms and slang into the act.  When we have new artists arrive on tour – it’s always fun for us to adapt new music choreography and changes to the acts, depending on the new artist, skills and personage. 

Bakchormeeboy: The Trickster is such a compelling presence in the show. What does this character represent for you, and how does it shape the audience’s journey?

Jamieson: The Trickster represents the unforeseen and astonishing moments in the everyday life. The light and darkness of the human experience. The Trickster teaches us life lessons and is there to remind us to “expect the unexpected”. 

Bakchormeeboy: Singapore hasn’t seen Cirque du Soleil in seven years. Is there anything about performing here, whether the space or the audience, that influences how the show is experienced?

Jamieson: Singapore is the perfect reflection of the diversity within circus. There is a little bit of something for everyone. We are so happy to be back in Singapore after time way. A place so rich in culture, diversity and art. 

Bakchormeeboy: Cirque du Soleil performers are known for pushing human limits. What’s something audiences might not realize about the level of training or discipline behind KOOZA’s acts?

Jamieson: All 53 artists on KOOZA have different backgrounds, level of skills, but one thing they all have in common is their dedication, discipline and joy performing every day. As KOOZA pays homage to traditional circus, we have multigenerational circus artist who started working on their craft at the age of 4-years old, while some come from circus training school programs, acrobatic sports and acting. Frequently, I would walk in the Artistic Tent seeing performers working together in perfecting their skills and even working on completely different apparatus. It is always inspiring to see the devotion and love that everyone as for this show. 

Bakchormeeboy: Music plays a huge role in KOOZA. How does the live score interact with the performers, and how important is that connection in creating emotional impact?

Jamieson: With rhythm influence from around the world, KOOZA features six musicians and two singers. Each musician plays more than one instrument, which feels at times like you are listening to an orchestra. But the live music is like the gate keeper of the story by connecting each element together. It also serves what you see on stage by highlighting some key moments throughout the show. 

Bakchormeeboy: If someone is seeing Cirque du Soleil for the very first time with KOOZA, what do you hope they walk away feeling?

Jamieson: KOOZA delivers a message of self-discovery and empowerment. We hope our audiences leave the Chapiteau feeling inspired and ready to take on the big, beautiful world. 

Lushington Entertainments Representative

Bakchormeeboy: Cirque du Soleil’s return after seven years feels like a big moment for Singapore’s live entertainment scene. Why was now the right time to bring KOOZA back?

Lushington Entertainments Representative: With Cirque du Soleil KOOZA’s last show here back in 2019, the timing felt right to bring back one of its most daring productions to Singapore. Audiences are eager for world-class, immersive live experiences again, and KOOZA’s high-energy acrobatics, humour, and visual spectacle make it the perfect show to reignite that sense of wonder for both families and adults alike.

Bakchormeeboy: Bayfront Event Space is a striking location that requires a lot of effort to set up from scratch. Does it remain the ideal location to stage Kooza?

Lushington Entertainments: Yes, the venue located right next to Marina Bay Sands sits right in the heart of the city, with accessibility to trains, retail and dining. The Big Top set against the backdrop of the dazzling Marina Bay landscape is a sight to behold.

Bakchormeeboy: From a promoter’s perspective, what makes KOOZA particularly appealing to Singapore audiences compared to other Cirque du Soleil productions?

Lushington Entertainments: KOOZA is one of the most daring productions at Cirque du Soleil bringing two forms of circus traditions together, the art of clowning and defying gravity acrobatics. With its high energy, fast pace and roots in classic circus artistry, KOOZA is instantly engaging, even for first-time Cirque du Soleil audiences, making it ideal for audiences of all ages, including families. Its vibrant visuals and Big Top format also create a true event experience.

Bakchormeeboy: Lushington is known for bringing major international events to the region. How does partnering on a production like KOOZA fit into your broader vision for live entertainment in Singapore?

Lushington Entertainments: Partnering on KOOZA aligns perfectly with our vision of bringing world-class experiences to Singapore that includes concerts and other large-scale productions.

Bakchormeeboy: Large-scale touring shows come with complex logistics. What are some behind-the-scenes challenges audiences might never think about when bringing a Big Top production into the city?

Lushington Entertainments: From transporting 2,000 tonnes of touring equipment and set pieces, to assembling the Big Top, rigging, lighting, and sound, every detail has to be carefully coordinated. There’s also the challenge of scheduling performers, technical crews, and rehearsals while adapting to local regulations and venues. All of this happens behind the scenes to ensure that when the audience arrives, the magic appears effortless.

Bakchormeeboy: KOOZA is often described as family-friendly, but it also appeals strongly to adults. How do you position the show to reach such a wide audience beyond families alone?

Lushington Entertainments: KOOZA is a breathtaking spectacle that splendidly showcases jaw-dropping acrobatics, comedy and vibrant visuals. It is the ultimate shared experience — a must-see event whether it’s a family outing, a date night, or a memorable trip with friends.

Bakchormeeboy: What has the response been like so far from Singapore audiences, especially given the strong demand for pre-sales and early-bird tickets? Why do you think this is so? 

Lushington Entertainments: The opening weekend drew near-capacity crowds, marking the start of an extended 2026 season, with the production now playing until March 29, 2026. Tickets for the performances are on sale now via the Fever and Sistic websites.

Bakchormeeboy: Looking ahead, how do you see Singapore’s appetite for large scale, live experiences evolving over the next few years?

Lushington Entertainments:Singapore’s appetite for large-scale live experiences is likely to continue growing, but in a more considered and selective way. Audiences are increasingly discerning, which means they’re prioritising events that offer clear quality, originality and a strong overall experience.

Photo Credit: Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil: Kooza runs at the Bayfront Event Space from 6th February to 29th March 2026. Tickets available from SISTIC. Read our review of KOOZA here