A Mexican circus company has brought ancient Maya mythology to life through a captivating performance that blends circus arts and theater. Artistic director Jorge Díaz has adapted the sacred stories of the Popol Vuh into a vibrant stage piece titled Mortal Leap into Xib’alb’a, which explores the adventures of the hero twins, Ixbalanqué and Hunahpú. The performance debuted in 2023 and has been showcased in Mexico City as recently as late November.
Díaz recalls his childhood, where bedtime stories often featured elements from his Indigenous heritage, particularly the tales told by his grandmother. He emphasizes the importance of remembering these narratives: “We have plenty of beautiful, pre-Hispanic tales. But we sometimes forget.” The story of the hero twins, who journey to the Maya underworld and confront death, serves as a powerful backdrop for the performance.
The piece incorporates acrobatics and ritualistic elements, intending to create an immersive atmosphere rather than relying solely on spectacular tricks. “We sought to give the piece its own identity through circus,” Díaz stated. “The techniques blend with the story and characters, creating atmospheres rather than just showcasing skills.”
Founded two decades ago by Díaz and fellow artist Jessica González, the troupe, Tránsito Cinco, originally focused on theater before evolving into a circus arts company. González, who also narrates the Maya myth, highlighted their mission to connect various art forms: “We wanted to find something that could connect theater with dance, and the circus became a meeting place.” The company’s repertoire now features 16 productions, each centered around a clear narrative theme.
The transformative nature of circus arts is a key focus for Díaz and González. Their documentary, titled Somnia, delves into the history and vision of Tránsito Cinco. Director Arely Cantellano noted, “This is one of the most influential art forms I’ve ever witnessed. It opens those doors to many different arts and invites us all to take part.”
In addition to directing, Díaz plays a crucial role in ensuring performer safety during high-risk acts. For instance, during a hair suspension act performed by Yareli Reyes, he oversees her safety while she embodies one of the Maya twins. “I love that fragment of the Popol Vuh,” he expressed, reflecting on his initial aspiration to perform in the role alongside his brother, who plays the main character.
The performance of Mortal Leap into Xib’alb’a is designed to captivate audiences of all ages. The show begins with the twins’ origin story, depicting their birth following a symbolic act involving their father’s skull. Their journey explores themes of life, death, and rebirth, integral to the Maya worldview. “Under the Mayan worldview, death is not an ending, but a chance to be reborn,” Díaz explained.
As the twins navigate the challenges presented by the Xib’alb’a lords, they face death and ultimately return transformed. “Even as they throw themselves into the fire as a sacrifice, they become the Sun and Moon,” he added, emphasizing the importance of conveying these ancient beliefs through modern performance.
Díaz is committed to integrating pre-Hispanic Indigenous traditions into contemporary circus arts. “There are many elements from pre-Hispanic Indigenous traditions that can be brought into circus performance,” he noted. This dedication to cultural representation enriches their productions, offering audiences a unique perspective on ancient stories.
The fusion of various art forms in Mortal Leap into Xib’alb’a not only entertains but also serves to educate audiences about Maya mythology and its significance. With a runtime of one hour, the show invites families and children to experience the depth of these narratives. The performance ultimately stands as a reminder of the power of storytelling, bridging the gap between ancient traditions and modern artistic expression.
As Díaz’s son, now 14, reflects on those early bedtime tales, the legacy of the Maya myths continues to inspire new generations through the dynamic medium of circus arts. “It’s fantastic,” remarked marketing strategist Alba Vida after a recent showcase of the documentary. “I love circus arts because, within them, the frontier with entertainment shifts.”
Through their work, Tránsito Cinco invites audiences not just to witness a performance, but to engage with the rich tapestry of Maya culture and storytelling, ensuring these ancient voices resonate in today’s world.
