Cirque Du Soleil

Production Design: A new sun rises in Hawai’i

We had the unique opportunity to co-create ‘Auana, an original Cirque du Soleil production developed exclusively for Honolulu, Hawai‘i. On a two year journey, from the initial concept through to production design, branding, and marketing, we played a central role in shaping every facet of the show.

‘Auana transports audiences into a dreamlike realm where Hawaiian myths and legends unfold through music, dance, comedy, and breathtaking acrobatics. It’s a vibrant celebration of Hawai‘i’s cultural richness, brought to life with the visual innovation and storytelling flair that defines Cirque du Soleil.

Cultural authenticity was at the heart of our process. We collaborated closely with Hawaiian cultural advisors to ensure the show wasn’t simply inspired by local heritage it was fully grounded in it. This dialogue informed every creative decision, from narrative structure and choreography to costume design and visual storytelling. The choreography itself, rooted in traditional Hula, but reimagined with a contemporary edge, set the tone for a broader fusion of tradition and modernity that ran through the entire project.

What I Did

Production Design

Art Direction

Motion

Industry

Media and Entertainment

Client

Cirque Du Soleil

Project

'Auana - Production

Visually, ‘Auana drew heavily from kapa, the traditional Hawaiian bark cloth. Its organic textures, hand-printed patterns, and symbolic geometry served as the foundation for the show’s aesthetic. The rainbow, highly symbolic in Hawaiian culture, inspired the colour direction for the show. Each scene was built around a specific hue, creating distinct visual moments that, together, spanned the full spectrum. This cohesive design language extended seamlessly across set, costume, props and video projection creating a strong and unified identity.

Cirque Du Soleil - 'Auana - Russian Swing

Cirque Du Soleil - 'Auana - Voyager Guidelines

We were responsible for storyboarding the full show and producing detailed creative guidelines for all key departments, including costume, set, and props. We led the art direction across the entire production, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic from the early development stages to the final execution.

It’s just awesome, you should really be so proud to be part of something so powerful. A beautiful piece of art that really transcends, and brings everyone together.

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Nicole Scherzinger

It’s just awesome, you should really be so proud to be part of something so powerful. A beautiful piece of art that really transcends, and brings everyone together.

-

Nicole Scherzinger

It’s just awesome, you should really be so proud to be part of something so powerful. A beautiful piece of art that really transcends, and brings everyone together.

-

Nicole Scherzinger

Cirque Du Soleil - 'Auana - Golden Age - Guidelines

Cirque Du Soleil - 'Auana - Icarian Games

A key element in defining the show’s visual identity was the projection and LED design. We concepted, storyboarded, designed, and animated all projection content, creating atmospheric digital environments that brought each act to life. These visuals served as dynamic backdrops—evoking shifting landscapes, celestial elements, and surreal scenes—that elevated the emotional and narrative impact of the performance.

Cirque Du Soleil - 'Auana - Golden Age - Postcards

Cirque Dul Soleil - 'Auana - Hina Guidelines

Cirque Dul Soleil - 'Auana - Hina - Moon

Cirque Dul Soleil - 'Auana - Mamala Deck

With ‘Auana, we helped craft more than a show—we helped create a cultural event. One that honoured the traditions of Hawai‘i while pushing creative boundaries, merging authenticity with innovation in true Cirque du Soleil style.