Mexican Circus Revives Ancient Maya Myths Through Performance

In a creative fusion of ancient mythology and modern artistry, a Mexican circus company has brought the sacred tales of the Maya to life through its performance, “Mortal Leap into Xib’alb’a.” Directed by Jorge Díaz, the show draws on the rich narrative of the Popol Vuh, an essential text in Maya literature that recounts the adventures of hero twins Ixbalanqué and Hunahpú. The performance, which premiered in 2023, recently returned to the stage in Mexico City with new shows in late November.

Díaz’s inspiration stems from personal experiences, particularly bedtime stories shared with his son. “Recalling those stories is important,” he remarked, recalling his grandmother’s tales from her Indigenous lineage. The narrative of the twins, who journey to the Maya underworld to outsmart death, resonates deeply with him. He aims to convey the richness of pre-Hispanic stories that often go unrecognized in contemporary culture.

The adaptation blends circus arts with theatrical elements, utilizing acrobatics and ritualistic performances to reimagine this ancestral story. “We sought to give the piece its own identity through circus,” Díaz explained. “We didn’t want it to rely solely on tricks or spectacle. The techniques need to merge with the story and the characters.” This approach allows the performance to create immersive atmospheres rather than merely showcasing skills.

Founded by Díaz and fellow artist Jessica González two decades ago, the company, originally a theater group named Tránsito Cinco, evolved into a circus arts troupe. “Fresh out of university, we searched for tools that would allow us to grow as actors,” González noted. “We wanted to find something that could connect theater with dance, and the circus became a meeting place for us.” Currently, the company boasts a diverse repertoire of 16 productions, each with a distinct narrative focus.

The collaborative spirit is evident in their documentary “Somnia,” which explores the history and vision of Tránsito Cinco. Documentarian Arely Cantellano reflected on the influence of circus arts, stating, “This is one of the most influential art forms I’ve ever witnessed. It opens doors to many different arts and invites us all to take part.”

Díaz plays multiple roles in the production, including overseeing safety measures during a particularly challenging performance involving aerialist Yareli Reyes, who performs hair suspension. “Watching the performance from a distance provides me with a fresh understanding of my art,” he said. He originally envisioned taking on the role of one of the twins himself, but he chose to step back to focus on directing.

The performance, which lasts for an hour, begins with a powerful scene depicting the twins’ birth, symbolically linked to the transfer of life through their father’s skull. As they grow, they become embroiled in a pre-Hispanic ritual sport that angers the lords of Xib’alb’a, leading to their demise and eventual transformation. The narrative emphasizes the Maya belief that death is not an end but a path to rebirth.

“Under the Mayan worldview, death is not an ending, but a chance to be reborn,” Díaz explained. “So even as they throw themselves into the fire as a sacrifice, they become the Sun and Moon.” Through this lens, he strives to reinterpret pre-Hispanic Indigenous traditions, infusing them with new meanings on stage.

The energy of the performance is palpable, with the interplay of music, light, and the performers’ movements creating an engaging environment for the audience. Marketer Alba Vida praised the work, stating, “I love circus arts because, within them, the frontier with entertainment shifts.”

While Díaz’s son is now 14, the production remains accessible and appealing to families. The story of “Mortal Leap into Xib’alb’a” serves as a striking reminder of the beauty and complexity of Maya mythology, ensuring that these ancient tales continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.