PORTLAND

Deep within a forest, at the summit of a volcano, exists an extraordinary world — a world where something else is possible. A world called Varekai.

From the sky falls a solitary young man, and the story of Varekai begins. Parachuted into the shadows of a magical forest, a kaleidoscopic world populated by fantastical creatures, this young man sets off on an adventure both absurd and extraordinary. On this day at the edge of time, in this place of all possibilities, begins an inspired incantation to life rediscovered.

The word Varekai means “wherever” in the Romany language of the gypsies the universal wanderers. This production pays tribute to the nomadic soul, to the spirit and art of the circus tradition, and to the infinite passion of those whose quest takes them along the path that leads to Varekai.

Cirque du Soleil returns to Portland for this special traveling show this weekend. Performances will take place Friday at 7:30, Saturday at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets are still available for all shows.

Cirque du Soleil, for those who haven’t seen it, is an ethereal presentation of acrobatics, drama, comedy, music sung in languages that do not exist, and dance, set in otherworldly environments. This presentation will take place at the Cross Insurance Arena, formerly the Cumberland County Civic Center, on Middle Street in Portland.

This is the 30th anniversary of Cirque du Soleil. Over their long history, they have produced dozens of shows, some for specific venues, and others to be taken on the road. Varekai was first produced in 2002 and is being restaged for the traveling show this fall and winter.