“Duel Reality” by The 7 Fingers, also known as Les 7 doigts de la main, makes its highly anticipated debut at the Ahmanson Theatre, treating audiences to an enthralling mix of circus, theatre, illusion, music, and dance. Inspired by the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet, this acrobatic spectacle aims to capture the essence of the classic story in a fresh, contemporary way. The troupe’s boundless energy and remarkable talent are unmistakable as they perform feats that defy gravity and showcase their incredible flexibility and strength on stage.

Despite the impressive acrobatics and physical prowess, “Duel Reality” faces several challenges in its storytelling. One notable issue is the audience’s presence on stage, which sometimes becomes distracting, drawing attention away from the performers. Additionally, using microphones seems unnecessary and detracts from the immersive experience. The actors, while physically expressive, often deliver their lines with a lack of emotion, making it difficult to fully engage with the narrative. This fusion of circus acts and storytelling creates confusion about what elements should be prioritized – the dialogue, the connections between characters, the singing, or the acrobatic performances.

While some of the tricks and acrobatic sequences are breathtaking, the production occasionally falters with repetitiveness and lengthy numbers. The repeated battle scenes resonate with the story’s theme but feel overdone, leaving one wishing for a more innovative interpretation of Romeo and Juliet. Furthermore, the interactive aspect involving colored wristbands to separate the audience into factions based on the warring families fails to work seamlessly, as it results in some audience members being misplaced.

Despite these shortcomings, there are moments of brilliance that shine through “Duel Reality.” The chemistry between the two leads, representing Juliet and Romeo, is palpable, and their heartfelt performances add depth to the production. Same-sex dance sequences also enhance inclusivity and diversity, providing a modern twist. However, the climax falls short of its potential with a rushed and altered ending, leaving some audience members feeling dissatisfied. The musical elements, while appreciable, seem unnecessary and could have been omitted to maintain focus on the dance and acrobatics, which naturally drive the narrative forward. In summary, “Duel Reality” offers electrifying moments but struggles with coherence, blending various artistic forms into a sometimes convoluted portrayal of a beloved classic.

‘A Duel Reality’ a production by The 7 Fingers is now playing at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles until September 22.