The House of Dancing Water is the headline show on the Cotai Strip, staged in a purpose-built theatre at City of Dreams. The production combines aerial acrobatics, high diving, dramatic storytelling and elaborate stage technology around a vast pool that holds about 17 million litres of water, more than five Olympic-size swimming pools. The stage sets rise and fall, boats appear from below the surface and performers dive from heights, so the whole show feels more like a theatrical spectacle than a conventional stage play. The show first opened in 2010 and has been refreshed since, with the same purpose-built theatre. It lasts around 90 minutes, which makes it a satisfying centrepiece for an evening on Cotai. Tickets are sold in several seating categories, so you can choose between lower-priced and premium views.
How to visit
The theatre is inside City of Dreams on Cotai, and free shuttle buses run from the Macau airport and the Taipa ferry terminal to the resort. The show does not run every night, and recent schedules show performances from Wednesday to Sunday, with two shows a day at around five and eight in the evening. Schedules can change, so check the dates on the City of Dreams website before you book. Tickets are sold by seat category, and a premium seat gives a closer view of the pool and the stage action.
What to expect
The spectacle is visual and does not rely on language, so it works well for international visitors. Expect strong lighting, music, aerial acts and dramatic dives, with a few moments of spray from the pool in the front rows. The show lasts about an hour and a half, so plan dinner before or after. Younger children may find the length and the volume demanding, although many families go.
Making the most of it
Book a few days ahead, particularly for weekends and holiday periods, and arrive early to find your seat. If you want to see how the show works, the theatre has run a backstage tour for visitors aged 12 and over, which is sold separately and runs on set days after performances. Combine the show with a meal at City of Dreams or a night walk through the neighbouring resorts.
Good to know
There is no strict dress code, but the theatre can be cool, so a light layer is useful. The theatre is accessible to most visitors, but contact the venue ahead if you have specific access needs.
What to expect
The experience
A seated theatre show of acrobatics, diving and stage effects around a large pool, lasting about 90 minutes.
Best time
Book an evening performance a few days ahead, particularly for weekends and holidays.
How long
About 90 minutes for the show, and two hours or more with arrival and a meal.
Tips
Check the current schedule, since the show does not run every night, and take a light layer because the theatre can be cool.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants one big evening spectacle in Macau, whatever language they speak.
- Families
- Children who enjoy acrobatics and effects will love it, although the running time and volume can tire the youngest.
- Couples
- A memorable date-night centrepiece, followed by a drink in one of the Cotai resorts.
- Pair with
- A gondola ride in the afternoon and dinner at City of Dreams before the show.
- Time needed
- Allow two to three hours including dinner and getting there.
Good questions
Does The House of Dancing Water run every night?+
No, it is not a nightly show, and recent schedules list performances from Wednesday to Sunday. Check the City of Dreams website for the current calendar before you plan.
How long is the show?+
The show lasts around 90 minutes with no need to understand any language. Arrive a little early to find your seat.
Where is the theatre and how do I get there?+
It is inside City of Dreams on the Cotai Strip. Free shuttle buses link the resort with the airport and the Taipa ferry terminal.
Is it suitable for children?+
Many families go, and the visuals and music hold the interest of older children. The length and noise can be tiring for very young ones.
Is there a backstage tour?+
Yes, the venue has offered a backstage tour for visitors aged 12 and over, run on set days after performances. It is booked separately, so check the details with City of Dreams.
