Cirque du Soleil kicks off the new year in spectacular style as OVO returns to London this January, bringing its vivid, high-energy insect world back to the capital.
Running from 9 January to 1 March, the refreshed production transforms the iconic Royal Albert Hall into a buzzing ecosystem of colour, movement and imagination – a welcome jolt of joy in the depths of winter.
First created in 2009, OVO (Portuguese for “egg”) opens with the arrival of a mysterious oversized egg in the middle of a lively insect community. From there, a tender love story unfolds between a curious fly and a bold ladybird, played out through Cirque du Soleil’s trademark blend of acrobatics, theatre and humour. Expect crickets launching skywards on trampolines, ants juggling with their feet and a mesmerising spider contortion act – all delivered with a playful charm that delights audiences of all ages.
This London run introduces a reinvigorated version of the show, featuring updated set design, reworked musical arrangements and new acrobatic acts and characters. While the production feels fresh, it remains true to the spirit that has made OVO one of Cirque du Soleil’s most family-friendly and joyful shows. The scale is as impressive as ever, with more than 100 cast and crew from 25 countries, including 53 acrobats and musicians, creating a truly global performance.
Adding a local connection, two British creatives return to the London stage. Hammersmith-born Robin Beer appears as The Voyager, a gentle clown figure who guides audiences through the eccentric insect world. Behind the scenes, London-based Artistic Director Lydia Harper – a former acrobat with Cirque du Soleil since 2015 – plays a key role in shaping this refreshed version, bringing clarity and cohesion to its many moving parts.
Since its debut, OVO has toured more than 40 countries and entertained over seven million people. Its enduring appeal sits within Cirque du Soleil’s wider legacy: last year the company marked its 40th anniversary, having captivated more than 400 million spectators worldwide since 1984 with productions that seamlessly blend athleticism, theatricality and visual spectacle.
For those looking to elevate the experience, two VIP hospitality packages are available at the Royal Albert Hall. Options include access to the 1871 Bar with themed cocktails, gourmet street food and artist photo opportunities, or a fine dining experience with Champagne, a two-course meal at Coda restaurant, premium seats and interval desserts.
A limited run and a lively reimagining, OVO offers London audiences a colourful, uplifting way to start the year!
