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Cirque Du Soleil’s ‘Crystal’ features Lehigh Valley native

“Crystal,” Cirque Du Soleil’s first-ever acrobatic performance on ice, returns to the PPL Center, Allentown, Jan. 30 - Feb. 2.

The extravaganza includes Nate Cooper, who grew up in Easton.

”I love performing in the Lehigh Valley,” says Cooper.

“This is my second time performing at the PPL Center. I love that people come to see the show in any kind of weather.

“The show schedule allows some time off to visit family and friends, and connect with my roots.” Cooper’s father lives in Martin’s Creek, Northampton County.

Since 2017, “Crystal” has dazzled more than 1.9 million in more than 135 cities worldwide, blending the art of skating with adrenaline-inducing acrobatics and aerial feats, pushing the boundaries of the circus arts.

“Roughly one hundred people are part of the ‘Cirque on Ice’ tour, half performers and half support staff. The larger Cirque de Soleil organization provides technicians and support,” says Cooper in a phone interview.

The show travels with “mostly the same crew,” Cooper says. “The show has been touring for the last seven years, all over the world. The show is always performed on ice, which is challenging, but makes it unique. It is the first show of its kind Cirque has had, and it’s a testament that it has continued.”

Cooper’s skills set includes roller-skating, slapstick tap dancer and clown.

For more than 20 years, he has used his style of physical comedy to delight and entertain audiences around the world, including a three-time appearance at the World Buskers Festival, Christchurch, New Zealand, where he won the coveted Iron Chicken award in 2015 for his solo show, “Cooper.”

“Performing on ice presents unique challenges, including staying warm! We use skates and crampons for acrobatics. Aerials, projections and lighting are all a little more work to set up, but all the more wonderful when it all comes together,” Cooper says.

“Crystal,” created by Shana Carroll and Sebastien Soldevila, uses larger than life visual projections on ice (a Cirque du Soleil first) and a soundtrack that seamlessly blends popular music with the signature sound of Cirque du Soleil.

“I think that for me, I hope the audience goes home with a lighter heart. This show is about enduring challenges and coming out on the other side. I hope people come out happier and with a different perspective,” says Cooper.

“We are not changing the world, but entertaining people for two hours. The show offers a beautiful story in a unique setting, with talented skaters, aerialists and acrobats. It is worthwhile for anybody to see.”

The show is suitable for all ages.

“Crystal,” Cirque de Soleil, 7 p.m. Jan. 30, 31; 3 p.m., 7 p.m. Feb. 1; 1 p.m. Feb. 2, PPL Center, 701 Hamilton St., Allentown. Tickets: 610-224-4625; https://www.pplcenter.com/

Nate Cooper, Cirque Du Soleil, “Crystal,” Jan. 30 - Feb. 2, PPL Center, Allentown. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO BY WIDE-EYED STUDIO