With only "obstructed view" seats remaining, I attended the fabulous Cirque Du Soleil. I'd never purchased this type of seat before and just assumed that there was a cable or (at worst) small pole somewhere between my seat and the stage. I'd have never expected a show with such an esteemed name to sell tickets to a bad seat. I was wrong. Even at a 30% discount, there's no value in buying a rotten view. Admittedly, I'm somewhat appalled that this great event sells these types of tickets for money. Now, of course, with such an unimpressive perspective on things, it's quite likely my review of the experience will be tainted ... with that in mind read on.

The music was magnificent! (I want the soundtrack.) The costuming, flamboyant and the first two acts (modern-dancing juggler and arm-balancing woman) were so radiant, and religiously intense that I gasped, dewy tears misting my eyes. But these were only 2 of 7 or so acts. The rest, while very good and even entertaining, where standard circus routines -- nothing deserving of the Cirque Du Soleil name, certainly nothing worth crying over. Additionally, I was surprised to see raised performers securing themselves with safety cable. While I'd hate for them to fall (I'd be mortified); eliminating the element of danger makes for a dull edge on what I'd hoped to be an edgy presentation.

Needless to say, I simply was disappointed. Perhaps I've come to expect too much from Soleil -- intensity, eroticism, wonder, a swelling in my heart, unprompted awe, unabashed creative genius. I shouldn't have gone home saying ... "I had a better time watching 'The Waterboy.'"