Three new mind-blowing acts raise the bar.
Wynn’s must-see exclusive production, Awakening, continues to wow audiences with thrilling acrobatics, intricate costumes, larger-than-life puppetry, and mesmerizing illusions — all set inside a custom-built, 360-degree theater with head-level speakers embedded in each seat.
The 80-minute spectacle combines high-tech staging, daredevil performances by an international cast, and the voice of two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins to follow a girl named IO on a hero’s journey through the realms of water, earth, and air.
Since its debut in late 2022, the show has been continually reimagined, with ongoing updates designed to deliver an even more immersive experience for audiences of all ages.
“Awakening is a constantly evolving show,” says Baz Halpin, the production’s producer and director.
Recent updates include reimagined dance sequences by La La Land choreographer Mandy Moore, new costumes by three-time Emmy Award winner Soyon An, and refinements to Hopkins's narration. But the most awe-inspiring additions are three new acts — shoulder ballet, slackline, and Russian bar — performed by elite athletes from around the world.
“Adding these incredibly exciting performances to one of the most technologically advanced stages on the planet truly blends the pinnacle of both human and technological artistry,” says Halpin. “We have a team of incredible talent scouts that scour the globe with the sole mission of finding the most talented performers who can bring a new level of excitement to the Awakening stage.”
Here’s what to expect from each.
Shoulder Ballet
The shoulder ballet sequence is a stunning display of strength and balance, as Chinese ballerina Li Chen performs en pointe atop the rock-solid shoulders of her partner, Long Yunxia.
In one breathtaking moment, she balances on his head on a single toe, arches backward, and lifts her free leg skyward — a feat that feels as impossible as it is effortless.
Slackwire
Award-winning slackwire artist Tang Zhe makes the nearly impossible look easy. Balancing on a flexible, swinging suspended wire requires extraordinary precision and control.
Throughout the performance, Zhe leaps, flips,s and hand-walks as the wire shifts in height and angle, creating an ever-changing challenge. The act builds to a dramatic finale that leaves audiences holding their breath.
Russian Bar
“Precision,” “balance,” and “absolute trust” define Awakening’s Russian bar act — a high-flying tumbling routine performed on a narrow, flexible springboard.
Watch as one acrobat launches another high into the air — at times reaching nearly 20 feet — executing flips before landing back onto the slender, six-inch-wide beam. It’s a moment that captures the show’s blend of risk, artistry,y and spectacle.
“Adding these performances truly elevates the show,” Halpin says. “They have to be seen to be believed.”
Show Information
Friday, Saturday, Monday, Tuesday: 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Sunday: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Children must be 5 years old.
- Groups of 10 or more are eligible for discounts with at least 48 hours’ booking.
- Tickets start at $109
Key Takeaways
- Awakening at Wynn Las Vegas continues to evolve. The production has been refreshed since its 2022 debut, with new choreography, costumes, and narration.
- Three new acts raise the bar. Shoulder ballet, slackwire, and Russian bar bring world-class athleticism and visual spectacle to the stage.
- The theater is part of the experience. A custom-built, 360-degree venue with seat-level audio creates a fully immersive environment.
- Elite global talent drives the show. Performers are sourced from around the world, blending technical precision with theatrical storytelling.
- The show appeals to a wide audience. With its mix of technology, acrobatics, and narrative, Awakening is designed for guests of all ages.
- Flexible showtimes make planning easy. Multiple nightly performances and a Sunday matinee offer options for different schedules.
