Cirque Du Soleil - #Corteo

School ended this week, and we decided that a family outing would be a great way to celebrate.  When I was contacted by Cirque du Soleil and offered tickets to opening night in Ottawa, it seemed like the perfect fit.

A photo of the stage from our seats!

Hubby and the kids had never been to a Cirque performance before.  I have seen one, although it was many years ago.  When we arrived, I picked up our tickets from the box office and we headed to our seats.  We were sitting in the 2nd row of the 100 level. The view was great.  I did not know exactly what to expect from the show. I had read the description (which is below for you to read) but I did not realize just how funny it was going to be.  There was so much comedy and laughter through the night.  I looked over at my boys and husband a few times to see huge smiles on their faces, and sometimes surprise. Some of the performances had me holding my breath with worry....but definitely was not needed. Everyone did such a terrific job. And laughter, so....much....laughter!

A night out at Cirque du Soleil Corteo really was an amazing way to celebrate the end of school and start of summer  vacation.  If you have a chance to go, do it! It is great for all ages, young and old! Family outing, date night, with friends or even by yourself!  I was too engrossed in the show to worry about photos, but I did snap one.  A highlight of the event was the interactive portion with Valentina!

Valentina! A delightful surprise during the show

Some tips for those that are going or considering it:

- Parking is $20

- Doors open 1hr prior to the show start

- Arrive slightly earlier than planned to get through security. Bags are only allowed if they meet the size guidelines, and will be searched. Also, phones and keys and belts or anything with metal need to be removed before walking through the scanner.

- The show runs for approximately 2 hours, with a 20 minute intermission

- No flash photography is allowed

- Drinks, snacks, and food are available for purchase, but are expensive. Also, Canadian Tire Center is cashless now, so you will need a debit or credit card to make your purchase

Corteo is in Ottawa until July 2nd, and tickets can be purchased here. Corteo will also be in Kingston from July 6-9, and those tickets are available here.

I would love to here from you if you have seen any Cirque du Soleil shows before! The kids were a little hesitant about going (they really did not know much about it) but both were very glad they came, and would love to see more shows!

For 7 performances only,

Cirque du Soleil’s festive and theatrical show

CORTEO

in OTTAWA, from June 28 to July 2, 2023, at the Canadian Tire Centre!

 

“Corteo, which means cortege in Italian, is a joyous procession, a festive parade imagined by a clown. Combining acrobatic feats, comedy and acting, the show plunges spectators into a theatrical world of fun and spontaneity situated in a mysterious space between heaven and earth.

 In a carnival atmosphere, the clown pictures his own funeral taking place, watched over by quietly caring angels. Juxtaposing the large with the small, the ridiculous with the tragic and the magic of perfection with the charm of imperfection, the show highlights the strength and fragility of the clown, as well as his wisdom and kindness, to illustrate the share of humanity within each of us. The music sometimes turns lyrical, sometimes playful, carrying Corteo through a timeless celebration in which illusion teases reality”

5 Family Oriented Day Trips Near Ottawa

If you are planning on visiting Ottawa this summer, or live here and are wanting to plan a few day trips, then this post is for you. There are many options for day trips in the Ottawa area, these are five that I think are fun. All of these are within 90 minutes or so of downtown.

1. Upper Canada Village - fun for all ages. I went many times growing up, and have been twice with the boys. Plan to spend 3-5 hours at the village to see everything and immerse yourself in what life was like in the 19th century. Pack a picnic and enjoy their picnic area, or purchase food from the cafeteria, cafe or restaurant.

2. Parc Omega - we haven't had the chance to visit, but everyone raves about it. (You can read what Becky from A Little Bit Of Momsense thought and if you want to read in french, you can check out Entre 2 Escales for their thoughts) Stock up on carrots (costco is a good place to go) and feed some of the animals as you drive along.

3. Saunders Farm - outdoor family fun! Splash pad, jumping pillows, mazes, tractor ride and play structure.  Pack a picnic (or purchase food onsite - cash only) and spend the day. Remember to reapply sunscreen or you may come home with a burn. We always have a blast when we visit.

4. Mill of Kintail - I haven't been here since I was in elementary school, it's a popular place for field trips. Hike the trails or visit the museum and see works of art from Canadian artists. Just a short drive West from Ottawa.

5. Go hiking - Gatineau park is a great place to put on your hiking shoes and get out in nature. A short drive from Ottawa. In addition to hiking, you can bike, camp or check out the Mackenzie King Estate.