UPDATE: A groundbreaking performance titled Mortal Leap into Xib’alb’a is captivating audiences in Mexico City, merging ancient Maya mythology with stunning circus artistry. Just announced, the show, directed by Jorge Díaz, brings the legendary tale from the Popol Vuh to life, showcasing the epic journey of the hero twins Ixbalanqué and Hunahpú.
The performance debuted in 2023 and has re-emerged this month, drawing families and children into a world where myth meets acrobatics. “Recalling these stories is crucial,” said Díaz, who was inspired by bedtime tales shared by his grandmother. This artistic endeavor not only revives these ancient narratives but also highlights their relevance today.
The show features breathtaking circus techniques that intertwine with the narrative, creating an immersive experience for audiences. Díaz emphasizes, “We sought to blend the techniques with the story and characters, creating atmospheres rather than just showcasing skills.” This innovative approach has garnered attention, with new performances making waves in late November.
Founded two decades ago by Díaz and fellow artist Jessica González, the troupe Tránsito Cinco initially focused on theater before evolving into a circus arts company. Their diverse repertoire includes a total of 16 productions, each with a distinct storyline that tackles various themes, including social issues. González shared, “Circus arts can also convey powerful messages.”
The production highlights the duality of life and death through the twins’ journey, illustrating how in the Maya worldview, death is a gateway to rebirth. As Díaz notes, “Under the Mayan worldview, death is not an ending, but a chance to be reborn.” This profound message resonates deeply, especially as audiences witness the twins’ transformation into celestial bodies.
One striking element of the performance is the hair suspension act by Yareli Reyes, who plays one of the twins while Díaz oversees her safety. This personal connection to the performance adds emotional depth, as Díaz envisioned once performing alongside his brother in this sacred narrative.
The demand for the show has been overwhelming, with audiences praising the unique blend of traditional storytelling and contemporary circus elements. Marketing strategist Alba Vida stated, “I love circus arts because they shift the frontier with entertainment.”
As the show continues to enchant viewers, it serves as a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Maya and the importance of preserving and reinterpreting these narratives for future generations. “Many elements from pre-Hispanic Indigenous traditions can be brought into circus performance,” Díaz insists, underscoring the art form’s potential for cultural storytelling.
The next performances are set to captivate audiences once again, encouraging families and children to explore this ancient myth anew. Mortal Leap into Xib’alb’a is not just a show; it’s a revival of a timeless tale, reminding us all of the beauty and depth of Indigenous storytelling traditions.
Stay tuned for more updates on this compelling production that bridges the past with the present through the magic of circus arts.
