Amaluna is a touring show by Cirque du Soleil, created and directed by Diane Paulus. It premiered in Montréal, Canada, on April 19, 2012. Loosely inspired by William Shakespeare's The Tempest, the story takes place on an island governed by goddesses. During a storm, a group of men are washed up on shore. The queen's daughter falls for one of the young men, and the trials of their love are the basis of the show's main narrative through-line. The show is notable for having a cast that is 70% female.
The title, Amaluna, is the combination of two words. "Ama" which refers to mother in many languages, and "luna" which means moon. The moon is a symbol of femininity, which is part of the reason it was chosen for this production.
Scott Pask created a set that was inspired by nature, using branches resembling bamboo that frame the set and reach out to the audience. The set is open yet immersive at the same time. Trees tower near the edge of the central stage and lower, denser flora are visible further upstage. The trees are handcrafted and are not treated to look like wood, yet still suggest a natural look.
When nothing matters now and you're not sure if it ever did
When life is grey or black or whatever color it is
When the sound of his voice screaming in your ear
Melts with the tender vision the noise disappears
You're letting him back in
To break you once again
You're crawling in your skin
You're forgiving him
You hold it in
Her mascara draws his picture on her face
And all these pictures that he's framed take up his space
These awkward elevator moments of happiness
Just keep her open to the cycles of viciousness
Letting him back in
To break you once again
You're crawling in your skin
You're forgiving him
You hold it in
Letting him back in
To break you once again
You're crawling in your skin
You're forgiving him
You hold it in
Holding on
For a little happiness
Holding on