Copy Link
Add to Bookmark
Report
Fascination Issue 001
=======================================================================
Fascination! Newsletter
Issue #1 - September 2001
=======================================================================
Bonjour! And welcome to the first newsletter of the brand new
Cirque du Soleil fan club: Fascination! There is plenty for us to
share in this this issue: News and Rumors, Cirque History and the
features about this month's theme - Mystère. So, let's get started,
shall we?
============
Contents:
============
* Introduction / Who are We?
* News, Rumors & Tour Information
* This Month in Cirque History
* Feature: Mystère - A Mountain Tale (by: Ricky Russo)
* Mystère: Tidbits
* Feature: Musique du Mystère (by: Paul Roberts)
* Mystère: Cast of Characters
* Cirque du Film - New VHS/DVD Releases! (by: Keith Johnson)
* How to attend Cirque's Mystère
* BONUS: Interview with John-Paul Gasparrelli - The new
Musical Director for "O"!
* Parting Quote
* Next Issue
* Subscription Information
* Copyright & Disclaimers
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
=======================================================================
INTRODUCTION -- WHO ARE WE?
=======================================================================
The "Fascination! Newsletter" is a production of the Cirque du Soleil
fan club of the same name. Created by Yuki and Richasi, it is our hope
that this club will blossom into something great. First, a little
about us and how we came to be.
A Vision
----------
The creation of a Cirque fan club is not an original idea. There is,
of course, an official club for Dralion online, but not one for all of
Cirque's creations. That's where this club, Fascination! comes into
play. And how it got started... well, was actually quite by accident.
Both Yuki Nakano (Yuki) and Ricky Russo (Richasi), began discussing
some topic through AOL Instant Messenger (AIM). Sometime during the
conversation, Yuki mentioned that it would be neat to have an online
fan club. Ricky quickly agreed (he had been harboring such an idea
himself). But, creating such a fan club would require the backing of
the entire Cirque fan community.
Thus Ricky set out to unify the Cirque du Soleil mailing list on
Yahoo! Groups and the Cirque du Soleil Webring (Yes, there is one. See
the links at the bottom of this newsletter to place your web site on
the Ring.). Once that was accomplished, everything fell into place
Currently, the club is small but ambitious. The Club's official web
site can be found at this address: < http://fanclub.seisouso.net >,
this newsletter has a home at the following address:
< http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CirqueFascination > And now, with
everything in place, Yuki and Ricky present to you -- Fascination!
The Fan Club Staff
--------------------
A handful of Cirque du Soleil fans have banded together to give birth
to the "Fascination!" Cirque du Soleil fan club. We'd like to take a
moment and introduce:
Yuki Nakano: Fan Club Co-Founder. She is from Tokyo, Japan and
is the Fan Club's Web Designer. She runs the Cirque related
Seisouso.net.
Ricky Russo: Fan Club Co-Founder and the Chief, Conjurer and
Director of Creation for the "Fascination!" Newsletter. He
supplies his writing talents and knowledge of the many creations
of Cirque du Soleil. Online, Ricky is known by the name Richasi
and hails from Orlando, Florida USA. He runs Le Grand Chapiteau
- a Cirque site at this address:
< http://www.azlance.com/~richasi/Cirque/ >
Jen Cassity: Mailing List Moderator. She hails from Canada and
has many talents - one of them the art of writing.
John Lewis: WebRing Owner/Moderator. He runs his own Cirque du
Soleil fan site at: < http://www.erlking.com >.
Paul Roberts: Newsletter Staff. The Supporter; Paul is a writer
for the Newsletter and is a wonderful addition to the staff.
He hails from Hamilton, Ohio USA and has seen many of Cirque's
shows.
Keith Johnson: Newsletter Staff. The "Urban". Keith hails from
Seattle, Washington USA and specializes in news tidbits and
other bits of research (like our video release information). He
loves making phone calls and working his way through phone trees
to chase down those neat bits of information.
Though we'll have others supplying us with material for these pages,
our best "Eyes and Ears" are you! Feedback is essential and we welcome
it all: news, rumors, or any thing you would like to send to us.
Together, we can bring a quality, informative Newsletter to everyone!
=======================================================================
NEWS, RUMORS & TOUR INFORMATION
=======================================================================
We all know that anything can happen in the world of Cirque du Soleil.
This section highlights Cirque du Soleil news and rumors that have
brought themselves to light over the past month.
News
------
Is Nathalie Gauvin back?:
It was reported that Nathalie, one of the original singers from
Mystère had left the show. This is both true and false. Nathalie
did take a leave of absence from the show, citing personal
reasons, but has returned. It was Stacey Beth Sanford who left
and was replaced by Dina Emerson.
New Videos to be Released Soon!:
Journey of Man will be released this October, but did you know
that Cirque is re-releasing other videos? You can read more in
our feature article - "Cirque du Film".
"O" has a new Music Director:
Beginning October 26, 2001, "O" will have a new Music Director,
Conductor and Keyboardist: John-Paul! You can see his web site
at:< http://www.gasparrelli.com/ > for further information about
him. And check out our Bonus Interview inside this issue!
Saltimbanco in Europe?:
Saltimbanco is scheduled to go on another European Tour? Check
it out, the show is booked for Amsterdam on February 14th 2002!
It is not entirely certain there will be further European tour
dates. More when we know.
Francesca Gagnon Returns!:
After leaving the show in 1997, Francesca has returned to
Alegría as one of its singers. Alegría is currently on an Asia-
Pacific Tour.
New Singers for La Nouba:
It has been reported on Cirque du Soleil's casting page that
they are looking for new singers for La Nouba, are Dessy Di
Lauro and O'Neill Langlois leaving the show? Time will tell.
Clowns Run-amok:
Two of the three clowns featured in Alegría during its Biloxi
run have left the show and have been featured in "O". The clowns
are Valery Kleft, and Leonid Leykin. They perform acts different
from the Biloxi engagement of Alegriía and from the previous "O"
clowns. "Ay, Ay, Ay!"
Statue Act Changes:
Camita Lorador and Richard Jecsmen, who performed the Statue Act
during the first leg of the European Tour of Quidam, have left
and were replaced with the original duo: Yves Décoste and Marie-
Laurie Mesnage. They were seen during the North American Tour
from 1996-1998.
Headquarters to Close:
All of Cirque du Soleil's regional divisions (Orlando,
Amsterdam, Singapore) close this month. There are now two
divisions: Permanent Shows (headquartered in Las Vegas), and
Touring Shows (in Montreal).
Emmy Nominations for Dralion:
Dralion, Cirque du Soleil's 12th creation has been nominated for
3 Emmy Awards (presented for excellence in US Television
programming) to be given out on September 16 at 8:00pm Eastern
Time during the 53rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards telecast on
CBS. The categories the show was nominated in are:
* Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special
Competition: The Oscars, Bruce Springsteens
Live Special, Ellen De Generes "The Beginning"
on HBO, and SNL's Presidental Bash 2000.
* Outstanding Directing for a Variety or Music Program
Competition: The Oscars, Bruce Springsteens
Live Special, The Tonys, and Late Night with
David Letterman.
* Outstanding Costumes for a Variety or Music Program
Competition: Mad TV, Peter Pan starring Kathy
Rigby, Saturday Night Live, and Scott Hamilton's
Farewell to Stars on Ice.
Here's hoping Cirque wins with Dralion! For further
information, please visit < www.emmys.com >
Rumors
--------
* Mystère contract ends in 2003, but sources say that may not be
the last of Mystère in Vegas.
* Cirque 2002 (which is scheduled to premier on April 24, 2002
in Montreal), is being produced with an all-new production
team, different from any previous show (including Dralion).
The latest rumor is that it has a Gypsy theme.
* Quidam in Japan for 2003?
* Cirque 2004 - A special 20th Anniversary show?
Tour Information
------------------
Alegria:
* Currently in Brisbane (Since August 21st)
* Next stop: Adelaide on October 10th
Dralion:
* Currently in Boston
* Begins Philadelphia run on September 27th.
* Tickets on-sale now for the Dallas run
that begins on November 16th!
Quidam:
* Performs in Zurich beginning September 14th
* And, returns to London on November 22nd!
Saltimbanco:
* Begins Yokohama, September 21st.
"O", La Nouba, and Mystère:
* No "Dark" periods in September scheduled other
than normal "off" times.
NOTE: If you have any information, news or rumors, please let us know
and we'll try and post it to the next issue!
=======================================================================
THIS MONTH IN CIRQUE HISTORY
=======================================================================
The days pass by so quickly sometimes it is hard to keep up with
anniversaries. This column will illuminate some important dates for
the company:
* September 09, 1993 - Saltimbanco opened in Boston, Massachusettes
* September 09, 1999 - Saltimbanco opened in Perth, Australia
* September 14, 2001 - Quidam opened in Zurich, Switzerland
* September 21, 2001 - Saltimbanco opened in Yokohama, Japan
* September 23, 1999 - Dralion opened in Santa Monica, California
* September 25, 1996 - Quidam opened in Santa Monica, California
* September 27, 2001 - Dralion opened in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
=======================================================================
FEATURE: MYSTÈRE - A MOUNTAIN TALE (By: Ricky Russo)
=======================================================================
On a relatively cool Las Vegas winters eve, patrons, fans and the
curious assembled on the Las Vegas Strip to take part in something new
and extrodinary: A new creation from Cirque du Soleil. After months of
preparation, a new show was about to be unveiled but, unlike previous
shows, this one was not to travel, it was not to be performed in a
tent, and it would be unlike anything that had ever been seen from
Cirque du Soleil to date.
Instead of touring in a bigtop, the show bowed inside a brand new
theater specifically built for Cirque. The theater itself sits inside
a brand new casino-hotel on the Las Vegas strip - Treasure Island. And
here you are, imagine now, front row-center looking over the darkened
stage. On this stage, in mere moments, a new production - never before
performed - will take place. Imagine you are seated inside the show
theater on that December day in 1993 and wonder...
What brought Cirque du Soleil to this place in time? And, what were
they about to give birth too?
The answer to those questions lies in the past, just like the story
about to be unfolded onstage. We must look at the history of Cirque du
Soleil in relation to Las Vegas to provide those answers, and, to do
so we must visit Cirque's first production to be seen outside of
Canada: "Le Cirque Reinvente".
By today's standards, "Le Cirque Réinventé" (or, "We Reinvent the
Circus" in English) is a quaint little show with little fanfare
surrounding it. However, at the time, accolades were abundant and it
was that show which first caught the fancy of the then Mirage Resorts
Chairman: Steve Wynn. He was in the bigtop for one performance and was
absolutely in awe. After seeing that nights show- he knew the
acrobats, contortionists, and artists he had seen on stage must be
showcased at his new resort.
In 1992, following a successful North American tour, "Nouvelle
Expérience" - Cirque's 4th Production - rolled into Las Vegas and took
the strip by storm. Nobody cared that the show was performed inside a
white and golden tent. Nobody cared that the show was performed on the
grounds of the Mirage. All they could see was a spectacular
performance by one of the most interesting circus troupes in the
world.
The year-long extravaganza proved one thing: Las Vegas could handle a
sophisticated production. And thus, when Steve Wynn decided to build
an extension to his hotel property (called "Treasure Island at the
Mirage"), he turned to Cirque du Soleil to provide the entertainment.
He would build them a theater, complete to their specifications
(designed by Scéno Plus and envisioned by Michel Crête.) He would also
do something quite unheard of for a production at his hotel: Mr. Wynn
allowed Cirque complete control over their creation.
Their visions coalessed with the juices of creation. The result: a
unique story. A blend of circus and theater; of dance and darkness;
and, of life and death. Their vision existed of a mountain and a bird
-- a story so bold and yet so fragile, exploring the human condition
in a sense that had not been done before.
That vision brought forth: Mystère.
But, it was almost not to be.
Blasphemous, you may say now, but when the show was still in its
conception stage, where nothing was yet final, Steve Wynn decided to
take a gander at his gamble, and watched a rehearsal. When the house
lights returned, the expression on his face must have been controlled
terror - he was not enthused. Mr. Wynn was quoted as saying something
like: "It is too much opera." And he wanted the show changed. The
creators, Franco Dragone (Director) and Gilles Ste-Croix (Creation)
jumped to the defense of the show. And, thankfully, Steve Wynn allowed
the two to continue uninhibited and in full control. That decision was
a fateful one, because who could guess at this day and age, what
Mystère would have been... or if it would have been at all!
The black baby carriages on stage catch your eye and again you wonder:
What is to come?
The $7 Million production of Mystère tells a story-- It is an amazing
story of time, beauty and memory. A ballet without gravity and a
theater performance without actors. "Mystère is a voyage to the very
heart of life where past, present and future merge and all our
emotions converge," Franco Dragone says in the show program. "Mystère
is the enigma of time, the bearer of hopes and dreams, but also of
tragedy. It is above all the remembrance of time past, memories of
life unfolding, following its course and ultimately surviving against
all odds."
Its storyline is somewhat surreal as well. To once again quote the
show's program: "A thousand years from now, the sun sets for the
billionth time in the Nevada desert. The Ancient Bird stands witness,
standing on a single gnarled leg. As the warmth of the day ebbs away,
he turns his sand- scarred beak to the Ancient Mountain and croaks
mischievously, 'Do you remember, friend?' The wind sighs down the
slopes, whispering a fond memory..."
The Mountain and the Ancient Bird tell us a story of humanity that is
on the brink of a new Century. It is December 31st, 1999 and the
universe is filled with the cries of three enormous babies. In
thirteen brief seconds it will either be the dawn of a new millennium
"fraught with the hopes and fears of humanity", or the beginning of
the apocalypse doomsayers of the world had predicted. And still, as
all eyes watch the desert skies, time seems to stand still, never
moving forward. And, in these briefest of moments, time actually
becomes circular.
Thus is the stage that sets Mystère.
Soon, the heart of the mother, the beat of a Taïko drum, washes the
cries of the babies away. And with that, the creatures that inhabit
the desert come out to play and tell us their story. Mystère's dark
overtones become contrasted with the performances of these creatures:
The, Flying Trapeze (conceived by Pavel Brun), Chinese Poles, Hand-to-
Hand (performed by Yves Décoste and Mario Pontbriand), Bungee, Korean
Plank/Trampo/Fastrack, and the Manipulation Act (created by Michael
Moschen, and performed by Jean Besnard, Patrick McGuire and Steven
Ragatz). In the 1995-1996 season, the story of the human condition
turned tragic as a storm blew across the desert and engulfed Mystère.
When the sand cleared away and the Ancient Bird could once again catch
a glimpse, he found a change in the narration - and with it, a change
in the production. Gone were the Flying Trapeze, Hand-to-Hand,
Manipulation and many of Mystère's original characters- including
Belle, the third Baby, and Le Prince.
"What caused this sudden change?" the bird wondered as he looked down
the slope of the Mountain once again.
"Quidam." In 1995, Cirque du Soleil began preparations for yet another
touring show to follow the very successful tour of "Alegría" in the
United States. "Quidam," taking its name from the Latin term for "a
nameless passer-by", featured many acts and performers previously seen
in Mystère. For instance, Yves Décoste provided his talents for
Quidam's Statue Act, and was replaced by Paulo and Marco Lorador (from
Saltimbanco). Steven Ragatz and Patrick McGuire came onboard with the
Manipulation Act and were replaced with the Aerial Cube, or Flying
Cube (or just known as the Cube Act) from "Alegría". The Flying
Trapeze was replaced with an exciting new performance; The Aerial
High-Bar, which was also created by Pavel Brun and Andrei Lev. A
version of the High-Bar had been and continues to be featured in
"Alegría"!
With these new cast members came drastic changes to the show. These
changes are what you see of Mystère today. Sure, the tone of the show
has lightened, but the heart is still there, beating strong. The
story? Oh, still filled with the tale of the Ancient Bird and the
Mountain, and of two hungry babies on a quest, and a little snail
called "Alice" who symbolizes the pace of life. Everything is in
place.
Looking back over its short history, Mystère has certainly evolved
since its original inception. And, it will continue to do so as the
sands of time continue to flow. The show is still performing to
capacity crowds 8 years later and shows no signs of letting up. And
while ticket prices are $88.00 compared with the original price of
$52.00, it is still a must see show and worth every penny spent.
=======================================================================
MYSTÈRE - TIDBITS
=======================================================================
* On December 20, 2000, the price for tickets rose from $75.00
to $80.00.
* Mystère has played to capacity crowds since inception.
* On April 27th, 2000 (the 10:30pm performance), Mystère had its
3000th performance!
* Mystere's tickets have jumped in price since its debut. From
$52.00 to $68.00 to $75.00 to $88.00!
* The show performs 475-478 shows a year!
* The performers get 4 day breaks every 8 weeks, and larger
breaks during the summer and December.
* Karl Baumann ("Fritz", Quidam North American Tour) was once a
Mystère dancer.
* And so was Mark Ward! ("John", Quidam European Tour).
* There are only a small handful of original cast members left:
Pierre Dubé (Taïko drummer) is one is Nathalie Gauvin
(Singer) is another. Can you name others?
* The Mystère theater is haunted! A spirit named "Sparky" has
enhabited the Mystère theater for quite some time now.
Many have felt his presence and come away screaming. Just
talk to the cleaning staff!
* You can purchase a unique momento of Mystère. Treasure Island
features a $5.00 casino chip with the Mystère "mask" logo
upon it!
* A Clown nose from Mystère actually flew on the Space Shuttle
(on STS-96). Consequently, a clown nose from Alegría also
few on the Space Shuttle.
=======================================================================
FEATURE: MUSIC DU MYSTÈRE (By: Paul Roberts)
=======================================================================
In 1996, I booked a trip to Las Vegas. Upon telling my mother and
sister about my plans, they both insisted that I see a show called
"Mystère". I thought: "Missed what?" and reluctantly agreed to listen
to the cassette tape soundtrack that Mom handed me. Even though my
musical tastes at the time included Dave Matthews Band, Letters to
Cleo, and Phish, I found the soundtrack taking me back a decade; when
I played in a progressive rock band that covered Genesis (the Peter
Gabriel-led version), King Crimson, and Yes. The next day- I ordered a
ticket to Cirque du Soleil's Mystère.
Upon entering the Treasure Island theatre, a cloud-shaped, stretch-
fabric ceiling and multi-colored lighting invoke the illusion of
dreaming. There is a serene silence, interrupted only by the
occasional subtle chatter or an usher guiding guests to their seats.
But, every thirty seconds or so, a sound - like a bird tweet or an
insect or a human baby - lasting just a split second. Is that
subliminal chirp a figment of the stimulated imagination?
After the zany pre-show (arrive early!) and the introduction by
puppeteer- Moha-Samedi, dainty bells chime, and in the distance, drums
along with screams that sound like battle cries, fill the theatre. The
right-side stage door opens and a gang of fat bug-like creatures run
out banging flat drums while bouncing and screaming. The "Ouverture"
begins with a howling from a primeival conch shell: a human fog horn
surrounded by a mysterious mist. Vocalists- Nathalie Gauvin and Dina
Emerson, adorned in flowing white robes, sing a melody line in an
imaginary language that celebrates the dawning of Mystère.
Just as the senses begin to overload, from up above four drums descend
from the theatres ceiling. The suspended drummers, scantily-clothed
and painted with fluorescent colors, pound away with body and hand
rhythms reminiscent of an ancient tribal ritual. The band soon joins
in with "Ramsani" that features a short passage of sustained electric
guitar notes over a lush orchestration. Then silence; and onto a
chime-laced lullaby signifying man's birth.
The first act takes place as a chiseled Herculean of a man twirls a
huge aluminum cube in the palm of his hand. The song, "Misha" is named
after original cube aerialist, Mikhail Matorin (the act is now
performed by Paul Bowler), and has a modern classical feel. On the
"Mystère Live" CD, the dreamy bridge features one of my favorite
musicians, Geneviève Dubé, playing with such passion that the notes
roll off her violin like tears. Geneviève left Mystère and joined the
Cirque du Soleil show, "Quidam". Her replacement, Lise Nadon, is also
a splendid musician, but Madame Dubé remains dear to my heart since
she graced my first Cirque du Soleil experience. Marc Solis' clarinet
then picks up the tender melody line while a keyboard with subtle
choir-like sounds enriches the classical chord progression.
The first Cirque du Soleil song I ever heard, "Égypte," sets up the
next act. With a snake charmer-like theme, the artists who are about
to perform the Chinese Poles act come slithering from all parts of the
theatre, which includes climbing down the walls. They appear to be
looking at the audience through ghostly masks that unexpectedly turn
out to be on the backs of their heads.
An echoing double-time bass line signals the beginning of the Chinese
Poles act, this transforms to a military march-like feel. Two
accompanying songs switch back and forth between René Dupéré's "Rondo"
and Benoît Jutras' "Double Face." The straight 4/4 time signature
follows the performers steady pace of climbing and jumping between the
poles.
One of the most famous Cirque du Soleil acts is the hand-to-hand. In
Mystère, the Lorodor Brothers: Marco and Paulo, exhibit incredible
feats of strength with the chilling song- "Ulysse" mimicking their
moves The slow-paced theme features meditative harmony vocals, laced
with violin and woodwinds. A conquering guitar solo embellishes the
song's closing pinnacle. Then a troupe of alien-looking life forms
guides the strong men through a sparkling mist during the subtle and
spacey sounds of "Dôme."
The theatre fills with insect chirps and bird calls to announce the
coming of nature's aerial beings. On an acoustic guitar - Bruce
Rickerd - plucks the next song's chord pattern while towering rain
sticks bestow the sounds of a rain forest. The vocalists begin singing
my favorite song from the original soundtrack: "Kalimando," which, on
the studio recording, includes a choir singing the chorus as insects
and birds provide an organic atmosphere. Above, golden bird-like
creatures soar through the air attached to bungee chords. Their
costumes-designed by the talented Dominique Lemieux - feature metallic
streamers that reflect a spectrum of lights. A mystifying aerial
ballet ensues.
Continuing with the bungee act, drummer - John Abraham - picks up the
pace that triggers the energetic song, "Kunya Sobé." The frantic bass
line, performed by Jean-François Brissette, emanates from an
instrument called "Stick". I had first been exposed to this unusual
instrument in 1981 upon hearing King Crimson's Tony Levin's opening
line to the song, "Elephant Talk." Stick, originally called "Chapman
Stick" (named for its inventor), is a difficult instrument to master
as it is part guitar and part bass, but played almost like a keyboard
with two hands tapping the fret board without the need to pluck or
pick the strings. Monsieur Brissette is shown holding the ten-string
Stick in the "Mystère Live" CDs inner sleeve.
In the middle of the song, a remarkably complicated event takes place.
The right-side stage door flies open and the Big Baby character darts
out driving a golf cart. The band ceases playing the Irish jig-like
passage of "Kunya Sobé," but as the cart speeds through the theatre-
the song is heard emitting from its tiny speakers. The band stands at
attention until the cart disappears into the left-side stage door,
then the musicians pick the song right back up without missing a beat.
I marvel at how they can time this so perfectly. It could one of the
jobs for the bandleader.
Each Cirque du Soleil band includes a leader, or as I prefer: a
conductor, who is usually a keyboardist. "Stick"man Brissette,
however, is currently the Mystère conductor and has an important job.
He must pay attention to the acts in case of technical problems,
performer difficulties or...surprising improvisations. On one of my
visits, two bungee performers missed each other for the flying-across-
the-whole-theatre-and-catching-each-other climax. They bungeed back to
their perches to try again and the band picked up the cue for
continued accompaniment. The crowd cheered the flyers on their
successful reattempt; I cheered the musicians for-once again-not
missing a beat.
A pseudo three ring circus event takes place next. It starts out with
the Korean Plank - also known as the teeterboard - then evolves into a
near-miss trampoline routine; followed by an acrobatic fast track
spectacle. The combined songs of "En Ville/Frisco" accompany these
highly energetic and dangerous performances. Like the performers
rapidly swapping places, the jazz-influenced instrumental allows the
band to shine. The two songs switch throughout featuring a jam session
that begins with a melodious saxophone solo. Afterwards, the full band
provides a furious multi-note passage that is followed by a couple
measures of a drum beat that introduces a thumb-induced bass slap. And
finally, the guitar and violin trade improvisational licks that,
unfortunately, go unnoticed because of the action on stage.
The energy level remains high as the band performs a short and rocking
song titled, "Gambade" that ends with sudden silence. The time has
arrived for the dark side of Mystère, as ominous clanging and
industrial noises beckon the Mephisto Stilt Demon to rise from the
depths, exposing a mysterious crate. Soon, the dark side becomes comic
relief as prankster - Brian Le Petit - instigates the shenanigans of
forcing a male audience member into the crate. He then fixes up the
man's girl with another man, who ends up partaking in a picnic-basket
meal complete with candlelight. All the while- an early twentieth
century-like theme plays that sounds like it belongs in a Charlie
Chaplin film.
Like many acts in Cirque du Soleil, the music enhances the stage
performance. For Mystère, the "High Bar" is not only the name of the
act, but also the name of the accompanying song. Keyboardists Brigitte
Leclerc and Marc Delorme provide the multi-layering orchestrations
that include a myriad of synthetic sound changes. The act features
gymnasts flying and catching each other with extreme precision; the
music matches the intricate moves with an assortment of crescendos,
diminuendos, and staccatos. The climax of the song builds as the
vocalists' pitch rises with ringing, metallic synthesizer patches
providing an offbeat backdrop. Then it ends with a thunderous crash.
And one of Mystère's trademarks is about to begin.
Whenever I ask someone what they remember most about Mystère, the
answer is usually- "The drums." Mystères' percussionist, Pierre Dubé,
traveled to Japan to learn the fine art of Taïko drumming technique
from Kodo, a Taïko performing group from Sado Island. Pierre returned
todevelop the act, also called "Taïko," in which he coached a troupe
of twenty-plus cast members the drumming complexities. The result is a
thunderous poly-rhythmic delight that features Monsieur Dubé soloing
on a drum the size of a VW mini-bus. The climax of his solo is a
hushed drum roll that requires complete concentration while his
wrists pulsate with incredible nimble action. He then pounds like
thunder and the troupe rejoins the ritual.
The four-beat, triumphant finish summons the entrance of a giant
human-faced Escargot, and the band joins the Taïko troupe with the
ending song fittingly titled, "Finale." With an upbeat, hand-clapping,
celebratory number, the entire cast circles the stage. You can see
pride in their faces as they reveal their true identities. I, however,
find it difficult to celebrate, as "Finale" in any language signals:
The End.
For me, the music of Cirque du Soleil is the most important aspect of
their shows. While you are astonished watching the high bar gymnasts
or the trampoline artists or the bungee flyers or the clowns, the
orchestra is unknowingly controlling the inspirited excitement. No
matter what visual splendor is occurring, the soundsof Cirque du
Soleil influence your conscious and subconscious emotions.
=======================================================================
MYSTÈRE - CAST OF CHARACTERS
=======================================================================
There are many characters to inhabit the universe of Mystère. Some,
however, have passed away through the sands of time. Taken directly
from the Mystère program, we showcase them now to provide a better
background into the history of the show.
* Les Épouvantables:
Three enormous babies on a quest for nourishment embark on
an odyssey of discovery.
* Deus Ex Machina:
The machine, which regulates the existence of everything,
living or inanimate. Inevitably it tyrannizes and grinds
down the independent.
* Monsieur Benny Le Grand:
The grain of sand in the gears of the well-oiled machine.
* La Belle:
Through her fear of ugliness she seeks to avoid pain at
all costs.
* The Pets:
Birds who have forgotten how to fly, they are la Belle's
constant companions.
* Le Prince:
A man of noble birth who hides a terrible secret.
* Gabriel:
The finest of the Archangels, he is ready to sacrifice
everything, including the love of the one he secretly
adores.
* Archangels:
They are the terrestrial guardians of the happiness and
safety of others, even at the cost of their own lives. A
tragic chorus.
* Init X:
A comic chorus, a tribe of virus, ready to contaminate
everybody.
* Inti Y:
The male virus, even less predictable than their mates.
* The Tribe:
The primitive, tragic ghosts of modern humanity.
* The Asticots:
Each one is a segment of the whole and would die if alone.
Their double-face hides the corruption of their state.
* Moha-Samedi:
Named after the first day of the new millennium, he is the
narrator no one listens to.
* The Black Virgin:
A praying mantis who destroys the illusions and dreams of
her victims.
* The Birds of Prey:
The Virgin's coven of lost souls, seeking revenge for
their fall from the sky.
* Vache A Lait:
Bearer of every illusion, he always stays just beyond
reach.
* The Mountain:
A geological oddity of trembling flesh who craves to be
human.
* The Firebird:
A jewel sailing through the sky on a stream of song.
* Mephisto:
A thwarted, twisted creature from the deepest of
nightmares.
* The Giants:
A gentle frivolous race of futile feathers and long legs.
* Stas:
A mischievous imp, a thousand years old.
* Escargot:
Born from a spring rain, carrier of the souls of the
ancestors and herald of the future.
* The Toy:
A doll that is the inseparable companion of one of the
babies but who unwittingly breaks his heart.
This character list represents the show as performed in 1994. Many of
the characters listed here are no longer featured in subsequent prints
of the Mystère program and many have a new role in the narrative.
Wow... the show HAS changed... drastically.
Characters and Text Copyright (c) Cirque du Soleil, Inc.
=======================================================================
CIRQUE DU FILM - NEW VHS/DVD RELEASES (by: Keith Johnson)
=======================================================================
We're all aware Cirque du Soleil has had a distinguished series of
videos chronicling their history and productions. Unfortunately,
several of them have long been "unavailable" through video stores and
websites.
That's about to change!
In a distribution deal with Cirque, Columbia TriStar Home
Entertainment (part of Sony) will be re-releasing five of their
previous videos on both VHS (NTSC) and DVD (Region 1) on Tuesday,
October 30, 2001. All of the programs are in Color with Stereo sound,
with the videos retailing for $19.95 USD and the DVDs for $24.95 USD.
The DVDs will not feature bonus material, however - just the standard
Menus and Scene Selection capabilities.
Here's the rundown of titles and catalog numbers:
LE CIRQUE RÉINVENTÉ - The "Cirque Du Soleil: We Reinvent The Circus"
video. 56 minutes. VHS Catalog # 07209 (UPC 0-43396-07209-1), DVD
Catalog # 07073 (UPC 0-43396-07073-8).
LA NOUVELLE EXPÉRIENCE - 85 minutes. VHS Catalog # 07210 UPC 0-43396-
07210-7), DVD Catalog # 07074 (UPC 0-43396-07074-5).
SALTIMBANCO - 78 minutes. VHS Catalog # 07208 (UPC 0-43396-07208-4),
DVD Catalog # 07070 (UPC 0-43396-07070-7).
A BAROQUE ODYSSEY - The "10th Anniversary" video "documentary". 56
minutes. VHS Catalog # 07211 (UPC 0-43396-07211-4), DVD Catalog #
07075 (UPC0-43396-07075-2).
Along with these four titles, the fifth seems to be something new to
the Cirque video canon!
LA MAGIE CONTINUE - 50 minutes. VHS Catalog # 07207 (UPC 0-43396-
07207-7), DVD Catalog # 07071 (UPC 0-43396-07071-4).
Based upon the 1986 "La Magie continue" tour of Canada, as far as we
can tell this video has never been released in the United States! (Of
course, if someone out there has evidence to the contrary, we'll
happily revise our opinion.) Our sources state it has been "re-edited"
though we don't know by how much.
All of the above will be hitting the stores on October 30th. While
we're at it, let's not forget to mention that "Journey Of Man" (39
minutes) is coming out on VHS ($19.95 USD, Catalog # 05060, UPC 0-
43396-05060-0) and DVD ($24.95 USD, Catalog # 07069, UPC 0-43396-
07069-1) on Tuesday, October 9th. Though the video/DVD is NOT in 3-D,
the DVD includes the movie's trailers and some multi-angle
performances (similar to the "Dralion" DVD).
As of press time, Amazon, as well as Barnes and Noble
http://www.barnesandnoble.com (or http://www.bn.com) are taking pre-
orders, and only for the videos. Note that Barnes and Noble has no
shipping charges if you order two or more items (sent to US addresses
via regular shipping). We had assurances from B&N they would also
allow DVD pre-orders, but they haven't been listed yet.
For those that are absolute completists who may not have gotten all
the videos in their previous incarnations (or for those that just
can't wait), we've found a source for you.
These videos (Except for "La Magie Continue") used to be available at
the Cirque website, but were recently removed. We called around and
found that: "Nouvelle Expérience," "Saltimbanco," and "Baroque," and
also "Alegría-The Truth Of Illusion" (making of), and "Full Circle-The
Making Of Quidam" (22 minutes, $12.00 USD - neither are included in
the re-release) are available at the Cirque store in Treasure Island
in Las Vegas! The lady we spoke with there was very helpful, and
offered to send videos (with a small shipping charge, but no tax) to
anyone who called with a credit card. Phone 702-894-7754 and ask for
Christina; the best times to contact her are Sunday between 8am and
4pm, and Monday between 12 noon and 8pm.
And finally, just so we're completist; "Quidam," "Dralion," and
"Alegria-Le Film" are available on VHS and DVD almost everywhere. You
can order the "Inside La Nouba" video (45 minutes, $30.00 USD) from
the Cirque website, or from the "La Nouba" merchandise store at 407-
934-8961.
=======================================================================
HOW TO ATTEND CIRQUE DU SOLEIL -- MYSTÈRE
=======================================================================
To quote the Treasure Island web site, "Cirque du Soleil's Mystère is
a perfect blend of intrigue, athleticism and entertainment. This
example of performance art without boundaries features an
international cast of 72 champion caliber acrobats, gymnasts, dancers,
singers, musicians and clowns from 15 countries. Honored four times as
the best show in Las Vegas, Mystère has forever changed the face of
Las Vegas entertainment.
It also "reunites many of Cirque du Soleil's acclaimed creators from
past productions, including director Franco Dragone, director of
creation Gilles Ste-Croix, set designer Michel Crête, costume designer
Dominique Lemieux, composers René Dupéré and Benoît Jutras,
choreographer Debra Brown, lighting designer Luc Lafortune and sound
designer Jonathan Deans."
If you are interested in catching a performance of Mystère, please
contact the Treasure Island box office by calling 1-800-392-1999 or
locally in Las Vegas: (702) 796-9999. You can also order tickets
online, 90 days in advance, by pointing your browser to this address:
< http://ti.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN&C=US >.
=======================================================================
BONUS: INTERVIEW WITH JOHN-PAUL GASPARRELLI
======================================================================
Just as we were putting this issue "to bed" we were surprised by an
"introductory" message from the newly-hired Musical Director
/Conductor/Keyboardist for "O", John-Paul Gasparrelli, which appeared
on the Cirque Mailing List. Of course we couldn't let such an
opportunity pass!
We're quite pleased to bring you our first interview - an introductory
chat with John-Paul! He'll be starting his Cirque career in late
October, so here we discuss a little of his life pre-Cirque and how he
got the job.
The interview was conducted by Ricky via Email within the last week.
We were so excited we just had to include it in our premiere issue, as
a special bonus! We'll check back in with him after he's "settled in"
to his new position, so stay tuned...
Q: "I see many performances before Las Vegas were in Los Angeles, is
that where you are originally from?"
Yes, I was born in Los Angeles, grew up in the Bay Area of California
and Sacramento, went to the Berklee College of Music in Boston (with
others like pianists Diana Krall and Makoto Ozone - both were in
school there when I was)...I then moved to Los Angeles after leaving
Berklee, and started playing in various groups in the Southern
California area... One thing led to another, and 15 years later, it
seems as though I had racked-up a number of good credits, so I guess I
was doing something right with regards to my playing and honing my
craft...
Q: "What made you choose music as a career, instead of other
professions -- any one single thing?"
Well, at 10 years of age, I wanted to be a musical-theater performer,
so my mother enrolled me in the San Jose Children's Musical Theater.
We discovered within four shows there, that I had a natural singing
ability. After awhile, I was starting to get calls from Broadway
agents asking if I would go to New York to do Broadway productions,
but my mother didn't want me to be a "child-star"... Soon, my voice
changed, and I lost the "show" quality of singing, but my focus then
turned to the piano, which I was able to teach myself how to play. As
I entered high-school, I was becoming stronger and stronger of a
player... I guess to answer your question - I never had anything else
in my heart that I wanted to pursue... I have always been passionate
and totally consumed with being involved with performing music. It's
something that, to this day, I think about non-stop - how to get
better, how to keep growing as a musician... If I were to say what the
"single thing" was that made me pursue a career in music, I'd have to
say "passion of expression"...
Q: "Your travels have taken you to the Fontana Bar inside the Bellagio
Hotel where you ave been performing since June 2001, what brought
you to Las Vegas?"
Actually, in April 2000, (living in L.A.), I was hired to play
keyboards with original Tower of Power guitarist Bruce Conte, at
various casino lounges. While here with Bruce, I heard from a friend
that Cirque du Soleil was advertising in the newspaper and various
musician-referral services on the Internet for keyboardist openings in
their various productions. So I sent them my promo package (my newly-
released CD, resumé, and a photo). At the end of April, I got a call
to come and audition for "Mystere". They sent me a CD of some of the
"Mystere" music, and two days later, I auditioned...I then moved to
Vegas in May, as I was offered the gig with singer Dian Diaz
(coincidentally - at the Bellagio), and was still hopeful of the CDS
happening... It's pretty ironic that "O" and Dian Diaz are both at the
same hotel... It made it that much easier, once I got the spot with
"Denny Diaz", to get to know the band members and staff of "O"... The
whole thing couldn't have happened any better if it had been planned!!
Q: "How do you like it at the Bellagio/Las Vegas?"
Vegas is great, and I love the Bellagio. Working and spending so much
time there really can spoil you when going to another casino. When I
first started working there in June with Dian Diaz, it was so
impressive to be in such a luxurious place on a daily basis... Now
that I've been there so often, it's become "normal" to be in such an
environment - but... it makes the other Vegas hotels and casinos look
["not as nice as others"]... Not to sound insulting to the others, but
Bellagio, I have to say, is in a class by itself, and in my opinion,
is the best place to work in Las Vegas...
Q: "What decision did you make to pursue Cirque du Soleil? Did they
come to you or did you go to them?"
Not only was I impressed with the performance aspects of CDS, I was
also impressed with how they demand the highest standards of
excellence in everything they do. They just seem to do everything
"right"... They always insist upon the best, regardless of the money
costs, and it shows in everything they do. In wanting to work with
Cirque, I've always been striving to surround myself with the best
possible people, as I take great pride in my work and the quality of
performance of which I put out. Cirque seems to have the same concept,
and I felt as though I would be very happy in an environment of "like-
thinking" people... Creatively, it seems as there is no limit on what
is possible with Cirque, and throughout my career, I was constantly
tiring of working with people that always thought "small", and never
wanted to go any higher than they were. So many people can "talk"
about what they want to do, but very few ever really put it into
action. It seems that CDS really does take action. They're not just a
bunch of "talkers", which is so prevalent these days in this industry.
When they do something, they really follow-through, and I really like
that. A class organization, all the way around. Initially, when CDS
advertised for keyboardists, I sent them my promo package in hopes of
getting an audition.
Q: "What was the interview process for you like? Nerve wracking?"
Actually, the only thing you could consider "nerve-wracking", was that
I learned the audition material on my equipment, and then at the
audition, had to instantly learn their equipment setup, and perform
the material on a very different setup. As a keyboardist, you learn a
particular way of accessing sounds, etc., and every player has a
different way of thinking and doing it. So I think that it was a test
to see how a person could perform "under pressure". It made sense, but
obviously wasn't the most "comfortable" initiation into the
situation... But it worked out just fine, and the CDS staff
auditioning me couldn't have been any nicer or more helpful. Also,
they video-taped the audition, so that can add to the pressure... So -
I received the audition material on a Thursday, spent the weekend
learning the four pieces, and then had the audition on Monday morning.
It seems to have gone just fine... ;-)
Q: "Had any other people applied for the position? And, if so, how did
you hear the news that you were in?"
I never knew if and who the others were, that were also being
considered. Actually, getting the "O" show and the conductor's spot,
was a pretty big surprise. I thought that I was being considered for
the keyboardist for the "Mystere" show, as that's what I had
auditioned with... I didn't hear from CDS for about three months after
my audition, and I figured that they had chosen someone else. Out of
the blue, I get a call asking if I am available to work, and that I
would be offered the MD / Conductor position for "O". I was very
pleasantly surprised, and of course, accepted the offer. Just goes to
show you that you _never_ know what life is going to give you, if you
just "hang in there", and keep following your dream !
Q: "Being the new Musical Director, the Conductor and the Principal
Keyboardist of the show, "O", how big a step is that up from
previous engagements?"
Although I've played keyboards for some pretty big names and amazing
musicians, and _have_ been conductor / MD on a very big-scale
production show in the past, I would have to say that this is indeed
the " crown-jewel " of my musical credit list.
Q: "How excited are you to be joining Cirque du Soleil?"
I'm very excited and flattered, I just can't tell you. It feels like
such a great match to me; I've worked so long and hard on being the
best musician and player I can possibly be, and it's such a treat to
be given an opportunity like this to realize your potential. It's a
big job, but I've done so many things and played for so long, that I
am indeed ready for a challenge such as this. I feel like I have a lot
to bring to the show, and to the company. And I know that they have a
lot that I can learn from and grow even more as an artist. The
educational aspect of this will be the true value of the opportunity.
That is what I am most excited about - the learning experience of this
amazing company. And the other exciting thing, is the chance to give
to them, everything that I can, to make this the best show in the
world...
Q: "How long do you expect to be with the show, "O"?"
Honestly, I can see myself being with CDS and the MD of "O" for as
long as they'll have me. I never take _anything_ for granted or as
being " permanent ", and treat every situation as such. I'd like to do
this as long as it's mutually beneficial for both of us, and if CDS is
the company that I suspect that it is, I see myself being with them
for many years to come...I would love to build a long-lasting
relationship with them, as they seem to be really integrity-filled
people...
Q: "Just to switch gears, you have a debut CD, entitled 'Moonlight',
can you tell us a little about the album - the style of music?"
I'm very proud of my first solo CD effort; I learned so much from the
experience, as aside from the guest performances, it something that I
did completely alone, from start-to-finish... I think it sounds great,
given the limited budget that I had, and seems to really capture my
life-state of the time I recorded it. I'm influenced very greatly by
artists such as David Foster, David Benoit, Bruce Hornsby, Toto,
Earth,Wind,and Fire, Chicago, Michael McDonald, and many jazz players
as well... You definitely can hear these influences on my CD, and I've
gotten many compliments from people on it... I hope your readers will
want to get a copy and enjoy it themselves... That's what really makes
it all worthwhile - if I can give something of value to someone, and
learn the most I can in the process...
More information about John-Paul (including how to order his CD) can
be found at his website, www.johnpaulmusic.com (you can also use
www.gasparrelli.com).
Our special thanks to John-Paul for being so friendly and open!
- The "Fascination! Newsletter" Staff
=======================================================================
PARTING QUOTE
=======================================================================
"Only when the questions become more important than the answers
will the solutions emerge."
- Mystère Program
=======================================================================
NEXT ISSUE...
=======================================================================
Our next issue will break from the Las Vegas air and feature "Journey
of Man" which will be released on Video/DVD in the month of October.
We will feature "O" in Issue #3 - November 2001. Next issue, look for
more news items, definitely more rumors and maybe other surprises!
Thank you for reading!
Please tell us what you think! Email us at either richasi@azlance.com
or the Yahoo Groups email address: CirqueFascination-
owner@yahoogroups.com. We do listen and are anxious to hear your
comments!
=======================================================================
SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION
=======================================================================
Fascination! is a monthly newsletter, available only through sub-
scription. If you wish to unsubscribe, please send an email to:
< CirqueFascination-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com >. To re-subscribe in
the future, you can do that automatically by emailing us again at:
< CirqueFascination-subscribe@yahoogroups.com >. If you have any
questions, feel free to email us at: richasi@azlance.com.
=======================================================================
COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
=======================================================================
"Fascination! Newsletter" Copyright (c) 2001 Ricky Russo, published by
Vortex/RGR Productions, a subsidiary of Communicore Enterprises. No
portion of this newsletter can be reproduced, published in any form or
forum, quoted or translated without the consent of the "Fascination!
Newsletter". By sending us correspondence, you give us permission
(unless otherwise noted) to use the submission as we see fit, without
remuneration. All submissions become the property of the "Fascination!
Newsletter". "Fascination! Newsletter" is not affiliated in any way
with Cirque du Soleil. Cirque du Soleil and all its creations are
Copyright (c) and are registered trademarks (TM) of Cirque du Soleil,
Inc., and Créations Méandres, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No copyright
infringement intended.
{Issue 1a: August 01, 2002}
