If a Cirque du Soleil show is a pulloutallthestops extravaganza, a surroundsound stereo spectacle, Cirque Le Masque’s Carnivale is an unplugged acoustic show. Just as mesmerizing in its performers’ display of grace and athletic elasticity, this European circus is an intimate, upclose affair. See contortionists, aerialists, jugglers, Belle Époque–esque comedians, and jump ropers converge to tell the story of a young girl in Rio de Janeiro who dreams of running away and joining the circus. The European acrobats spin, balance on body parts you may not realize existed, and impersonate gummy bears. Get spellbound at the Cutler Majestic Theatre (219 Tremont Street, Boston.) For tickets ($35 to $60) call 800.233.3123 or visit www.maj.org.
