Varekai | Inside the Tapis Rouge

The circus is in town! Cirque du Soleil has finally made their way to Manila with Varekai. It's the fifth show from the troupe that I've managed to see, and certainly quite the spectacle.

Premium tickets to Varekai come with the privilege of access to a VIP area called the Tapis Rouge, a place to repair to prior to the show and during the twenty-five minute intermission.

So what awaits inside the Tapis Rouge?

First, a rather nice photowall, and a complimentary souvenir photo opportunity (one per person!).

As to be expected, there's a private area where one can peruse and purchase a variety of souvenir items

Perhaps the best part: there's free-flowing drinks and a fairly generous buffet -- canapes, some sushi and light dimsum, and dessert (during the intermission) -- catered by Manila Hotel. The fare isn't the sort that can replace dinner, considering that Varekai runs long and ends rather late, but it's certainly good enough to tide one over. That is, unless one prefers the hotdogs and popcorn for sale right outside, which is perhaps better suited to the carnival atmosphere.

Personally, I found the Tapis Rouge decor quite interesting. Everything kept with the Cirque du Soleil motif, including the table centerpieces that took the shape of acrobats and performers.

Arguably the only drawback to Tapis Rouge access (besides the steep ticket price) is that it keeps one insulated from the festival atmosphere within the main tent. Few would argue that the gathering crowd and growing anticipation are as much a part of the show as the performers and stunts are.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is what you'll find inside the Tapis Rouge at Varekai.