Waz, the hero of the show, realizes that what makes him different also makes him extraordinary. 

Thanks to the intimate setting, there isn't a bad seat in the house. The two-hour performance, which includes a 25-minute intermission, pairs exhilarating acrobatics and extreme sports with a narrative exploring the story of Waz, a blue-haired man, who was taunted for his unusual looks during his childhood. While initially isolated and yearning for the days he spent in the meadow with his mother and his bicycle, Waz later embraces his difference and realizes he's extraordinary.

This storyline feels a bit contrived and forced, and it may go over the heads of pre-teens and younger audience members. But that doesn't take away from the enjoyment of the breathtaking routines that stay with you for hours after the grand finale.

Kids will be amazed by the fiery jump roping performance.

Beginning with a rope-skipping act that takes double Dutch to new heights, the energy is palpable and infectious. You and the kids will find yourselves wondering where you left those jump ropes while recognizing it would take years of practice to even come close to the level of skill these fantastically flexible artists display.

If VOLTA had a subtitle it might be, "Don't try this at home." As performers leap and bound between dual trampolines and bounce off a gray building, parents may hope this doesn't give the kids any ideas to test out in the backyard. Still, it's pure joy to watch the endless and seemingly effortless barrage of somersaults. 

While the show will have most audience members awestruck for the entire performance, it's VOLTA's finale that's the true standout. The stage is transformed into a transparent BMX park where riders perform simultaneous stunts. Spinning and crisscrossing in midair, each biker tops the previous rider with his daredevil acrobatics. Both my son and I found this to be the highlight of the show, and no doubt a big part of what earned the cast a solid standing ovation just moments later. 

Some of Volta's acts are literally hair-raising.

Other highlights include a unicyclist balancing his partner in precarious positions while circling the stage, showcasing the mind-boggling athleticism of both performers. Later in the show, a woman, suspended only by her hair, twists, turns, and spins from the pinnacle of the Big Top in a hypnotizing routine that had jaws dropping. A clown struggling with a trio of devilish washing machines drew giggles from kids and grown-ups alike throughout the tent.

Overall, the show moves quickly and will appeal to ages 8 and older.

Look into your particular venue, but at the Meadowlands, parking is $20, and cash or credit are accepted. After parking, you'll board a shuttle bus that delivers you about 200 yards to the Big Top. There were plenty of port-a-potties, including well-kept family restrooms.

Good To Know Before You Go

• You may want to dress warmly, as some audience members noted feeling a draft under the Big Top.
• While the music is beautiful, it is loud. If you have a child with a sound sensitivity, earplugs are advisable. Strobe lights are also used briefly during the performance. 

Tickets are available starting at $55 via the website or by calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783).

All photos courtesy of the production