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Fascination Issue 020 expanded
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T h e U n o f f i c i a l
C i r q u e d u S o l e i l N e w s l e t t e r
------------------------------------------------------------
E X P A N D E D I S S U E
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=======================================================================
Issue #20e "Live to Cirque; Cirque to Live" April 2003
=======================================================================
Bonjour et bienvenue! Spring is definitely in the air and what a
season to be celebrating our 20th issue. Of course the celebratory
efforts might be more exciting if it weren't for the fact that the
world is largely engrossed in the Middle East conflict. The
"Fascination! Newsletter" offers no opinion on the conflict, but as
Editor I have to wonder about the sanity of people who rename
things like "French Fries" to "Freedom Fries" just because there is a
French connection. Don't people realize that French Fries are actually
Belgian?
But I don't bring that up to poke fun or even sensationalize the whole
affair. I bring it up because Cirque du Soleil is in a position to be
faced with a backlash from those it depends upon. Cirque du Soleil is
French for "Circus of the Sun," and as many fans know things French
are being touted as objects of disgust and contempt. How will this
affect Cirque du Soleil, a French-Canadian (and I emphasize the
CANADIAN part) company, I wonder? At this stage no one can say for
sure but my observations of Cirque conclude that they are largely
unaffected.
The world of Cirque du Soleil continues to be ever active with the
premiere of Quidam in Japan, Saltimbanco throughout Europe, and
Alegría, Dralion and Varekai snaking their way across the United
States. We've seen two big premieres since our last issue: Celine Dion
had her "new day" in Las Vegas and Cirque 2003 got a name -
"Zumanity." This month you might want to take note of the recent
changes to Dralion's itinerary as Tampa, Nashville and Cincinnati were
removed in favor of Columbus, Ohio and Mexico City. And tickets are
now on sale for Alegria's Northwestern stops in Vancouver, Seattle and
Portland. But that's all inside, plus more!
/// EXPANDED ISSUE: Originally appearing as a link in the ON THE WEB
section this month, an article by Sonya Padgett of the Las Vegas
Review-Journal that describes what goes on under the water at "O" and
how the divers are featured in the show. Thankfully, we've been able
to rescue the text and present it in this issue of Fascination. You'll
find it under the EXPANDED SELECTION column in our monthly FEATURES
section. ///
- Ricky
============
Contents:
============
* Cirque Buzz: News, Rumours & Sightings
* CirqueTV: Cirque du Soleil On-Screen
* Oyez, Oyez!: Cirque Online
* Itinéraire: Tour/Show Information
* Historie: This Month in Cirque History
* Anniversarie: Birthday Wishes to Cirque Alumni
* Le Spectacle:
"O, the 'Zumanity'" (By: Ricky Russo)
* Cirque Musique:
"Composers du Cirque" (By: Paul Roberts)
* Behind the Curtain:
"The Techie Geek: New Title? And Stuff? What?"
(By: Jen Waldman)
* Le Spectateur:
"Congratulations! You Are Already a Winner!
(By: Steve Gordon and Bonna Nicholson w/Keith Johnson)
* Beyond the Big Top:
"Illustration!" -- Série Part 4 (By: Ricky Russo)
* Expanded Selection:
"Divers Help Entertainers Make a Big Splash in
Cirque du Soleil's 'O'" (By Sonya Padgett)
* Parting Quote
* Next Issue
* Subscription Information
* Copyright & Disclaimer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ: NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
"O"-No! Ticket Prices Raised
----------------------------
It is heralded as being "beyond circus, beyond theater," but
soon it may be beyond the reach of some fans. In preparation, it
seems, for the debut of Zumanity at New York-New York Hotel
Casino, Cirque du Soleil has modified the performance schedule
and ticket prices for the aquatic production "O."
Effective June 27th the ticket prices for the show will be
higher and representative of a three-tiered system (all prices
in U.S. Dollars):
Orchestra Section 103: $136.00 ($150.00 w/tax)
Orchestra: $113.00 ($125.00 w/tax)
Balcony: $90.00 ($99.00 w/tax)
Limited View: $85.00 ($93.50 w/tax)
Current ticket prices for "O" are $110.00 ($121.00 w/tax) for
all Orchestra sections, $90.00 ($99.00 w/tax) for all Balcony
sections, and $85.00 ($93.50 w/tax) for Limited view seats.
Fans coping from the steeper ticket prices must also contend
with a change in performance schedule. Beginning June 30, 2003
performances will be from Wednesday through Sunday at 7:30pm and
10:30pm. There will be no performances on Monday and Tuesday.
This represents a change from its current performance schedule
of Friday through Tuesday at 7:30pm and 10:30pm with no
performances on Wednesday and Thursday.
The schedule modifications also bring a few special notices. The
first, a change to the "Dark Days" calendar -- August 10-
13,2003, October 12-15,2003, December 1-16, 2003. The second, a
special notice that there will be some Tuesday performances --
August 5, 2003 and October 7, 2003 at 7:30pm and 10:30pm.
[Source: Bellagio; Roderick; Ricky Russo]
Cheval Theatre Liquidation
--------------------------
Cheval Theatre, the tented touring show featuring horses created
by former Cirque Director of Creation Gilles Ste-Croix, is now
being liquidated. The show stopped operating after its Las
Vegas engagement citing current US economic conditions. They're
selling everything, the tents (holds 2000 people, perfect for
some small circus startup), costumes, props and sets, lights,
sound equipment, even the horses! Too bad. Check out the
inventory at < http://vvv.cirai.com/cevaltheatre/ >. [Source:
Cheval, Roderick; Keith Johnson]
La Nouba Online
---------------
You can get La Nouba Online! Tickets, that is... It seems that
Cirque du Soleil and Ticketmaster (who has teamed up to provide
tickets for their permanent shows in Vegas) will soon be
presenting online ticket options for La Nouba. While you can't
actually buy tickets yet (at press time) it appears they are
testing the system. Find out more information at La Nouba's
Ticketmaster page: < http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/
0D00366BA5F8CDA9 >. [Source: Ticketmaster; Ricky Russo]
Rumors on Tour
--------------
We haven't seen an official press release about negotiations
between Cirque du Soleil and MGM Mirage, but rumor has it that
Mystère has had its contract renewed for six years, which will
extend the show until 2009. This extension, however, may come
with some changes. Rumors have hit Cirque du Soleil fandom that
the energetic High Bar act, first seen in Alegría, may soon be
replaced with a Flying Trapeze act and that the Aerial Cube,
performed by Paul Bowler, will be replaced by the Flying Man,
performed by Alexandyr Dobrynin from Alegría. (Fans may remember
that in 1993 Mystère opened with a Flying Trapeze act and that
Michel Matorin previously performed Aerial Cube.)
The new word from Alegría is that after the second North
American Tour, which is still scheduled for another year, it's
rumored to be visiting the Land of the Rising Sun - Japan. And
it might have a new "Power Track" act to go with it. Rumor has
it that Cirque wishes to replace the current Fast Track with a
Power Track act. Alegría's current itinerary is taking it
through the Northwestern corner of North America, but it should
be heading back out east soon!
Stéphanie Gasparoli will soon join the cast of Varekai to
perform an Aerial Hoop/Contortion act. Gasparoli's "Duplex
Swinging Trapeze" act has won three awards: Bronzes at the Piste
aux Espoirs in 1996 and Wuqiao Festival in 1997, and Silver at
the Festival du Cirque de Demain in 1998. She studied five years
at the École Nationale de Cirque, having graduated in 1998.
Gasparoli's Aerial Hoop will be a back-up act to Olga's Hand
balancing. And while we're discussing Olga, rumors continue to
spread about her leaving. It is suggested she will be leaving
Varekai after the Los Angeles run.
Quidam is soon to get a new Cloud Swing artist and, the rumor
mill says, the show is now being seriously considered to make
stops in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Hong Kong.
And, last issue we reported that Saltimbanco was going to
journey to Paris to reintroduce Cirque du Soleil there. It seems
the winds have changed and Saltimbanco will not be the show to
represent Cirque to the Parisians. The last time Cirque du
Soleil had a presence in Paris was with Le Cirque Reinvente in
1990. [Sources: Anonymous'; Ricky Russo]
Entertainment Engineering at UNLV
---------------------------------
In response to the growing need to give their graduating
students the necessary skills to apply complex machinery to
theatrical shows, the University of Las Vegas (UNLV) has created
an Entertainment Engineering course program to meet those needs.
New and in pilot for the Spring 2003 semester, UNLV is taking up
the challenge to break out in a new field.
The program, a dual listing between Theater and Mechanical
Engineering, is described as "[involving] exploration of the
application of technology to enhance the entertainment values of
venues. Most of the required work will focus on learning about
design tools and processes, or it will involve actual design
experiences for a variety of venues."
Students attending the Entertainment Engineering course at UNLV
will still be responsible for attending lectures and creating
formal presentations (both oral and written) but will also have
the opportunity to go on-site with companies and productions in
Las Vegas that specialize in a variety of technology-based
theatrics - including a tour of Cirque du Soleil's "O."
"What we have tried to do is marry the theater with engineering
and technology, which has really taken Las Vegas by storm," said
Brackley Frayer, as quoted in the Las Vegas Sun. Frayer is an
associate professor for theater at UNLV and will be taking the
reigns of the course.
Interested? Sign up for the credited classes at the University
of Las Vegas (www.unlv.edu) using course numbers: THA-410X, THA-
793 within their Theater program or MEG-495, MEG-795 in their
Mechanical Engineering program. [Source: Las Vegas Sun; UNLV;
Ricky Russo]
Cirque does Region 02
---------------------
Since Cirque du Soleil's back catalog was re-released on VHS and
DVD back on October 31, 2001, fans around the world have asked
for DVDs to be released in other regions besides Region 01
(USA/Canada). On February 7, 2003, three titles were released to
Region 02 DVD in Japan:
Saltimbanco:
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TSDD-27265
Quidam:
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TSDD-29380
Dralion:
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TSDD-29404
The releases are in NTSC video format and contain the same
programming as their Region 01 counterparts. The Region 02
encoding on these DVDs will allow them to function in Japan,
Europe and the Middle East. Cirque du Soleil has previously
released part of its catalog in other regions: Region 02:
Dralion (June 6, 2002) and Quidam (December 27, 2000); Region
04: Quidam (1999) and Dralion (2001) [Source: CD Japan; Ricky
Russo]
Performance: Illegal?
---------------------
Did you know that when Cirque du Soleil stopped in Minnesota to
present Alegría the spectacle was illegal? That's right!
Minnesota has a statue that bans circuses anywhere in the state
while the State Fair is on (from late August through Labor Day)
and Alegría happened to be visiting Minneapolis-St Paul at the
same time.
"Well, technically, it would be illegal," said Jerry Hammer, the
Fairs General manager in an article by the Associated Press.
"Maybe they're only half a circus," he said, in apparent
reference to Cirque's theatrical flair and absence of animal
acts.
A year in jail and a fine of up to $3,000 awaits violators, but
don't despair, a committee in the state House is considering a
repeal of the 1933 "anti-circus law" so that "Cirque du Soleil
can rest assured its next Minnesota performance will be strictly
legal." [Source: Associated Press; Ricky Russo]
=======================================================================
CIRQUE TV: CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ON-SCREEN!
=======================================================================
* CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: FIRE WITHIN
-----------------------------
Network: BRAVO
Footprint: United States
Website: www.bravotv.com
Note: Times Eastern/Pacific
General Schedule:
Monday: 8:00pm & 8:30pm
Tuesday: 12:00am & 12:30am
Wednesday: 7:00pm & 7:30pm
Thursday: 1:00am & 1:30am
Saturday: 12:00pm @ 12:30pm
Odd Times:
April 1st (Tuesday): 7:30pm
April 6th (Sunday): 12:00pm
April 14th (Monday): 11:00pm & 11:30pm
April 20th (Sunday): 5:00am & 5:30am
April 21st (Monday): 11:00pm & 11:30pm
May 4th (Sunday): 4:30am
* VAREKAI IN LATIN AMERICA
------------------------
Network: HBO Latin America
Footprint: South America, Central America
Website: http://www.hbo-la.tv/sinopsis.asp?prog=GMG081540
April 12th: 6:30pm HBO East
8:30pm HBO West
April 15th: 4:00pm HBO East
6:00pm HBO West
April 21st: 6:30pm HBO East
8:30pm HBO West
April 24th: 12:15pm HBO East
2:15pm HBO West
April 28th: 1:00pm HBO East
3:00pm HBO West
* UPCOMING
--------
- Run Away with Cirque Week (Bravo): June 2nd through 5th
- Fire Within Marathon (all 13 episodes) - June 14th!
- Varekai US Premiere (Bravo): June 14th at 8:00pm
=======================================================================
OYEZ, OYEZ(*)!: CIRQUE ONLINE
=======================================================================
This Month at Cirque Club
(By: Keith Johnson)
-------------------------
There hasn't been too much activity that we've seen at CirqueClub this
month. The only new news items discuss openings of shows in Tokyo,
Atlanta, and Houston. Other than that, all we were able to find this
month was a small but welcome addition to the Multimedia-Music-Varekai
information, a track-by-track breakdown of what music on the Varekai
CD goes with which acts in the show. Though the fans had this figured
out on discussion boards months ago, it's good to see Cirque
acknowledging this need for information about their CD's. We hope
they add this information to their other soundtrack CD's.
On the Web
(By: Ricky Russo)
----------------------
1) < http://www.clownaction.com/ >
You've seen them in Alegría and "O" - they're Dima and Iyrna, long
time Cirque du Soleil clowns who have run amok! While they are no
longer with Cirque du Soleil their website is full of information
regarding the duo that has been together for more than 10 years. Check
out their bios, pictures and even some of their current projects!
2) < http://www.portfolios.com/zoom.wga?User_number
=bjackson&imagecount=10 >
From illustrator Barry Jackson comes this surreal image depicting
characters and themes from Quidam.
3) < http://www.jimbevan.com/ >
Who is Jim Bevan? Why he's the current bandleader for Quidam! Check
out his site to learn more about him, past gigs and what he's
currently doing (as if we didn't know!)
4) < http://www.stevenragatz.com/ >
This is the online home of Steven Ragatz. Fans of Cirque will remember
him as 1/3 of a manipulation act created by Michael Moschen for
Mystère and Quidam. Learn about where he's has been, where he's going
and just where to find him!
5) < http://www.janswinkels.com/theatre/circus/cirque_du_soleil/
main.html >
I implore you to paste this in your browser window, for you will be
rewarded with some wonderful photography by Jan Swinkels, who actually
did some spots for the Quidam programme! Want to see more of Jan
Swinkel's work? Visit her index page at www.janswinkels.com! [Thanks
to Katie Valadez!]
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE: TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
[Touring Shows]
Alegría:
* Houston, Texas -- at George R. Brown Convention Center
Dates: Mar 6, 2003 to Apr 13, 2003
* Austin, Texas -- Next to George R. Brown Convention Center
Dates: Apr 24, 2003 to May 11, 2003
* Calgary, Alberta -- Currie Barracks on Parade Square
Dates: June 4, 2003 to June 29, 2003
* Vancouver, BC -- On Concord Pacific Place
Dates: July 10, 2003 to July 27, 2003
* Seattle, Washington -- Next to Renton Boeing Plant
Dates: August 21, 2003 to September 14, 2003
* Portland, Oregon -- SW Moody Avenue (South of Marquam Bridge)
Dates: October 2, 2003 to October 26, 2003
* San Francisco, California: Fall 2003
Dralion:
* Raleigh, North Carolina -- at Triangle Town Center Lot
Dates: Mar 13, 2003 to Apr 5, 2003
* Baltimore, Maryland -- at Harbor Point
Dates: Apr 11, 2003 to May 4, 2003
* Montreal, Quebec -- at Jacques-Cartier Pier
Dates: May 15, 2003 to Jun 15, 2003
* Hartford, Connecticut -- Market Street (I-84 and I-91)
Dates: June 24, 2003 to July 6, 2003
* Columbus, Ohio: Summer 2003
* St. Louis, Missouri: Summer 2003
* Mexico City, Mexico: Fall 2003
* London, United Kingdom: Royal Albert Hall
Dates: January 9, 2004 to February 1, 2003
Quidam:
* Tokyo, Japan -- at Yoyogi Stadium in Harajuku
Dates: Feb 7, 2003 to May 5, 2003
* Nagoya, Japan
Dates: May 21, 2003 to Jul 6, 2003
* Osaka, Japan
Dates: Jul 19, 2003 to Aug 31, 2003
* Fukuoka, Japan
Dates: Oct 22, 2003 to Dec 7, 2003
Saltimbanco:
* Bilbao, Spain -- at Zorrozaurre
Dates: Feb 26, 2003 to Apr 6, 2003
* Geneva, Switzerland -- at Plainpalais
Dates: Apr 18, 2003 to May 18, 2003
* Cologne, Germany -- at Cologne-Deutz
Dates: June 5, 2003 to June 29, 2003
* Oostenade, Belgium -- To Be Determined
Dates: Jul 24, 2003 to Aug 17, 2003
* Zürich, Switzerland -- Glatt Shopping Center
Dates: Sep 19, 2003 to Oct 19, 2003
Varekai:
* Atlanta, Georgia -- at Cumberland Galeria
Dates: Mar 6, 2003 - Apr 13, 2003
* New York, New York -- at Randall's Island Park
Dates: April 24, 2003 to June 15, 2003
* Chicago, Illinois -- at the United Center
Dates: July 17, 2003 to August 17, 2003
* Los Angeles, California: Fall 2003
* Orange County, California: Fall 2003
[Resident Shows]
La Nouba:
* Two shows Nightly - Tuesday through Saturday.
* Times: 6:00pm and 9:00pm
* Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando.
* No performances Sunday and Monday.
* 2003 Dark Dates:
- March 23rd through 25th
- May 11th through 25th
- July 13th through 16th
- September 7th through 9th
- October 26th through 29th
- December 7th through 15th
Mystère:
* Two shows Nightly - Wednesday through Sunday.
* Times: 7:30pm and 10:30pm
* Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas.
* No performances on Monday or Tuesday.
* 2003 Dark Dates:
- March 2nd through 5th
- April 13th through 15th
- June 2nd through 10th
- August 3rd through 6th
- October 5th through 8th
- December 1st through 16th
"O":
* Two shows Nightly - Friday through Tuesday.
* Times: 7:30pm and 10:30pm.
* Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas.
* No performances on Wednesday or Thursday.
* 2003 Dark Dates:
- April 21st through 24th
- June 18th through 26th
- August 10th through 13th **UPDATED**
- October 12th through 15th **UPDATED**
- December 1st through 16th **UPDATED**
* NOTE: Beginning June 30, 2003 - performances will be from
Wednesday through Sunday at 7:30pm and 10:30pm. There will
be no performances on Mondays and Tuesdays.
=======================================================================
HISTORIE: THIS MONTH IN CIRQUE HISTORY
=======================================================================
* April 04, 2001 -- Dralion opened in New York
* April 05, 1996 -- Saltimbanco opened in Amsterdam (again)
* April 05, 2001 -- Quidam opened in Antwerp, Belgium
* April 06, 2000 -- Dralion opened in San Jose, California
* April 08, 1988 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened San Francisco
* April 08, 1998 -- Quidam opened New York City
* April 11, 1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened New York City
* April 11, 2003 -- Dralion opened Baltimore, Maryland
* April 18, 2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Geneva, Switzerland
* April 13, 1989 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Miami, Florida
* April 18, 2002 -- Dralion opened San Diego, California
* April 20, 2001 -- Saltimbanco opened Nagoya, Japan
* April 21, 1994 -- Alegría premiered in Montréal
* April 22, 1999 -- Dralion premiered in Montréal
* April 22, 2003 -- Zumanity Officially Announced
* April 23, 1992 -- Saltimbanco Premiered in Montréal
* April 23, 1996 -- Quidam premiered in Montréal
* April 24, 2002 -- Varekai premiered in Montréal
* April 24, 2003 -- Varekai opened New York City
* April 24, 2003 -- Alegría opened Austin, Texas
* April 26, 2002 -- Saltimbanco opened Barcelona, Spain
* April 27, 2000 -- Mystère performed 3000th Performance (10:30pm)
* April 29, 1997 -- Quidam opened in Santa Monica (again)
* April 30, 1999 -- Alegría: Le Film Premiered in Québec
=======================================================================
ANNIVERSAIRE: BIRTHDAY WISHES TO CIRQUE ALUMNI!
=======================================================================
* April 02, 1973 -- Dessy (Singer/La Nouba)
* April 02, 1979 -- Elena Shapornaya (Fast Track/La Nouba)
* April 04, 1972 -- Sheetal Gandhi (Character/Dralion)
* April 04, 1973 -- Carlos Marcio Moreira (Character/La Nouba)
* April 04, 1982 -- Isabeau Prolx Lemire (Singer/La Nouba)
* April 08, 1972 -- Colin Gee (Clown/Dralion)
* April 11, 1975 -- Cinthia Beranek (Triple Trapeze/Varekai)
* April 17, 1982 -- Justin Sullivan (Fast Track/Alegría)
* April 18, 1962 -- Valery Kleft (Clown/"O")
* April 18, 1978 -- Amrapali Ambegaokar (Character/Dralion)
* April 20, 1967 -- Marco Lorador (Hand to Hand/Mystère)
* April 21, 1961 -- Gabriel Chamé Buendia (Clown/Quidam)
* April 23, 1963 -- Matthew Baker (Fritz/Quidam)
* April 26, 1955 -- Rene Bazinet (Clown/Saltimbanco)
* April 26, 1962 -- Virginia Imaz Quijera (Cleaning Lady/La Nouba)
* April 26, 1976 -- Raquel Karro (Triple Trapeze/Varekai)
* April 27, 1962 -- Karl Sanft (Fire-Knife/Alegría)
* April 29, 1969 -- Andrezej Piechota (Hand to Hand/Saltimbanco)
* April 30, 1980 -- Colette Morrow (Aerial Pas de Deux/Dralion)
=======================================================================
LE SPECTACLE:
"O, the 'Zumanity'" (By: Ricky Russo)
=======================================================================
For months fans have been speculating about the new Cirque du Soleil
production at the New York-New York Hotel-Casino on the Las Vegas
strip. Now at least some of the speculation is over - what to call it?
"Zumanity!"
The fervor began on the evening of March 17th when an article appeared
in USA Today (< http://www.usatoday.com/usatonline/20030317/
4952750s.htm >) came to light featuring the title of the show, amongst
the gifts that would be handed out to the presenters at the Academy
Awards. The gift was an "invitation for two to the international gala
premiere of Zumanity ... on Sept. 20 and a two-night stay at the [New
York-New York Hotel Casino]."
Zumanity [zü'manite] is described as "an intense visit to a world
where human inhibitions are both unveiled and discarded, where style
and intense sensual passion share an uncommon stage." Cirque recently
offered this definition of the word: "n. n. Neologism dating from
2003, contraction of the words "zoo" and "humanity." 1. A human zoo.
2. A new form of eroticism which blends dance movement, acrobatics and
beautiful bodies with the sensual caress of the human voice and the
pulse of exotic rhythms. 3. An exploration that awakens the most
primal urges in human beings."
On February 27th, Cirque du Soleil registered the domain <
http://www.zumanity.com/ > and placed a dual English/French language
teaser site online. You can sign up to be on a mailing list to receive
updates about the show in either HTML or Text format, however you must
be 18 years old to participate (if you're not, you'll be directed back
to the CDS website). The 18-year age limit has caused quite a stir
within Cirque du Soleil fandom, dividing the age groups for the first
time since Cirque's debut. What will this mean for Cirque du Soleil
and its fans is not yet known, but the discussion is a heated one.
So, what can we expect out of Zumanity?
An interesting array of performances that may include Rhythmic
Gymnasts (to perform in a duo act), a Middle Eastern dancer (for an
exotic dance act), a Drag Queen (transvestite), a Body Builder (strong
man) and "virile" male and "voluptuous" female dancers - with clowns,
singers, and a sensuous atmosphere. One of the acts, we believe, will
be a solo-contortion act performed in water. The artist, Natalia
Vasyliuk, recently performed at the Festival du Cirque de Demain in
2002. Nicolai Tchelnokov (Adagio Trio, Saltimbanco) is the artistic
counselor of this act.
Spymonkey, the Brighton(UK)-based theater group, may be providing
their talents to place their writer/director Cal McCrystal in the
directors' seat for the show's clown acts. McCrystal recently worked
with Cirque du Soleil on Varekai, producing and creating the clown
acts seen in the show. Four Spymonkey regulars will provide the
storyline for the acts: Aitor Basauri, Stephan Kreiss, Petra Massey
and Toby Park, with the assistance of Andrew Watson (Director of
Creation for "Zumanity") and René Richard Cyr (Writer/Director).
Consequently, Spymonkey is also working on a new TV series in
conjunction with Cirque du Soleil Images that is to be filmed this
spring.
Word comes from Chartattack, a Canadian musical website/magazine, that
Cirque du Soleil has chosen homegrown Kinnie Starr (<
http://www.kinniestarr.com/ >) to vocalize Zumanity. Starr is
described as a "hip-hop slam poet/freaky beatnik dance rocker" and
seems rather perfect for this production. Learn more about Canadian
sensation Kinnie Starr at her website (link above).
The costumes for Zumanity had remained a mystery until fans received
their first look at sketches on April 4th. Zumanity's alert mailing
list emailed out two items: a definition and a link. That link
produced four interesting and provocative sketches of what costumes
may look like when the shows premiere. There is a strong man, bare-
chested wearing a fuzzy-pink stole; a Drag Queen, which resembles Erik
Karol (the ex-singer from Dralion) in a way; a leggy young woman in a
trench coat; and Cher (*grin*). You can see these sketches (if you're
over 18) at: < http://zumanity.com/en/costumes/index.html >. And don't
forget to sign up for Zumanity's mailing list for future updates!
Cirque du Soleil took over a theater at the New York-New York Hotel
Casino previously built for Michael Flatly's Lord of the Dance
production (that has since moved on to the Venetian). For months
Cirque du Soleil has been working on re-creating the theater in their
image. "We took over the theatre 18 months ago," explains Ménard as
quoted in the Toronto Star, "and tore everything out to rebuild it in
cabaret style. The theatre is always a key element in our resident
shows, almost a character. And this one will be much more intimate."
And they mean it. Seating for Zumanity will include a wide variety of
options from "love seats to barstools". "We want to offer people
options," said Ménard You can sit way back high up a stool and be a
voyeur, or you can be a participator right down in front. Maybe you
want to lounge in the middle with your partner, letting it inspire
you. Very warm, very cozy."
Zumanity, a provocative exhibition of human sensuality, arousal and
eroticism, opens July 31st at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino in
Las Vegas. An official announcement by Cirque du Soleil is scheduled
for April 22nd.
"We're here to evoke, invoke and provoke," says Cirque du Soleil, and
that's exactly what they're doing. Continue the discussion on
www.cirqueforum.com or through our sister Cirque du Soleil Yahoo!
Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cirquedusoleil/
[Sources: Cirque du Soleil, USA Today, Spymonkey, Toronto Star,
Svetlanta, Wayne Leung, Martin Frenette; Ricky Russo]
=======================================================================
CIRQUE MUSIQUE:
"Composers du Cirque" (By: Paul Roberts)
=======================================================================
The soul of Cirque du Soleil is its music. The audiences' emotions
are subliminally controlled by the sounds that accompany the
performances. In Cirque du Soleil's near twenty-year history, there
have mainly been three composers, who are as much alike as they are
different.
In the very beginning, Cirque featured a traditional circus-like band
with a multitude of brass instruments and percussion, but they wisely
felt the need for something different. Composer and keyboardist René
Dupéré began writing what many consider to be a New Age score using a
lot of synthesizers and rarely any vocals. In the second production,
"La Magie Continue," a hint of the future appeared in the
accompaniments to the ballerina-contortion act with its dainty near-
classical music piece and the trapeze act with an upbeat pop-rock
song.
As each new production matured, so did the music. "We Invent the
Circus" added guitars and "Nouvelle Experience" added bass guitar
(previously played on synthesizer), cello, and even the first song
using an imaginary language. But the turning point occurred with
"Saltimbanco" when a vocalist became not only a featured aspect in the
music, but also the show. Francine Poitras became Cirque du Soleil's
first lead singer and the influences of this show remain today.
"Saltimbanco" has many energetic songs that director Franco Dragone
referred to as Barock music, a combination of Baroque and Rock, but
the performers' passion created a surprising warmth.
"Mystère" features a global feeling with influences from all over the
world. René enlisted Luis Perez to provide "Sound Illustrations" that
provide the sensation of nature. The meshing of synthesizers and
ancient instruments became a standard in Cirque du Soleil's music.
The next production, "Alegrìa," is Cirque du Soleil's most successful
soundtrack, nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Instrumental
Arrangement with Accompanying Vocal(s) category. René Dupéré's Cirque
du Soleil swan song combines Old World charm with New World
enchantment. Many songs possess the tenderness of sixteenth century
waltzes while other songs provide the powerful thrust of modern-day
sonatas. Even though Mr. Dupéré left Cirque du Soleil in 1994, his
influences remain to this day.
The composing reigns were turned over to the capable hands of Benoit
Jutras, who played keyboards in early shows and then "Mystère."
Benoit had actually composed previously. The first CD included four
songs written by Benoit, but his first large project occurred during
the revamping of "Mystère" in the mid-nineties that resulted in a
"Mystère Live" CD. This CD combined songs from the original
soundtrack (composed by Dupere) with his new compositions.
An early Cirque du Soleil song, "Entracte," featured an operatic
vocalist named Martine Brisson. Martine and Benoit have another
collaboration that appears in Benoit's first full project: "Quidam."
These two are mother and father to the first "Quidam" singer, Audrey
Brisson-Jutras! "Quidam" offers a glimpse of the versatility in
Benoit's writing. There are classical influences, pop-music
impressions, electronic gyrations, and even Zydeko (Cajun) grooves.
To me, the quintessential soundtrack of Cirque du Soleil is "O."
Benoit created some of the most incredible music in existence that
combines Kora (African Harp), Erhu (Chinese Violin), Cello, Medieval
Woodwinds, Bagpipes, and Colombian Guitar along with traditional
keyboards, percussion, and bass. The expressive vocals of Toumany
Kouyaté and Roxane Potvin, who is Benoit's sister-in-law, enhance the
heavy World Sound. The soundtrack is a perfect liquid complement.
"La Nouba" is one for the urban youngsters. With hip-hop beats and
even some rap, Benoit provided a great score to accompany the
"Generation-X" show in Disney's Downtown. The band is mostly a Cirque
du Soleil standard with keys, percussion, violin, bass, and guitar;
but bandleader Benoit Glazer also plays trumpet quite a bit. "La
Nouba" is the first show to include a countertenor male vocalist.
Benoit Jutras' final two Cirque du Soleil projects catered to the big
screen. "Alegría le Film" includes songs from the original soundtrack
and pop songs that could easily be radio airplay hits. Vocalist Irene
Marc sang several tunes in English, which is an unusual format for
Cirque. It's a shame that marketing never tried to pursue any
commercial outlets. The IMAX film "Journey of Man" soundtrack featured
a more orchestrated side of Benoit's writing and once again
the title song should have received airplay.
The last song on "Journey of Man," "Trip Hop," is a microcosm of what
Benoit Jutras provided in his Cirque du Soleil career. With its
Gregorian chants, electronic noises, sitars, hip-hop, and Taïko drums,
Mr. Jutras left his mark in the end.
As the century came to a close, the world of Cirque du Soleil came to
an abrupt change. Nearly the whole creative team for the last six
shows departed along with a few key high-powered executives.
President Guy Laliberté had a lot of hiring to do, and to his credit
the new composer fit in nicely. Violaine Corradi took over the
writing chores and as her rare solo CD, "Passages" proved, she had the
necessary surreal ambience to fulfill her destiny. I was skeptical
until I bought "Dralion" the day of its release.
Upon hearing the opening percussion, sitar, and voice of Cirque du
Soleil's second countertenor, Erik Karol, in "Stella Errans" I became
excited and enjoyed the "new direction." Even though "Dralion"
features a lot of Asian aspects, Middle East overtones are present
throughout the soundtrack. But then the closing song "Kamandé" jumps
out with Scottish-like bagpipes. Like Rene and Benoit, Violaine
digresses from the common theme.
With the latest production, "Varekai," Violaine continues with many
Middle Eastern themes, but she also throws in several Latin-beat
songs. The CD featured the first "outsider" as British
producer/musician, Nitin Sawhney, came aboard. The breeding of
European Electronica and World Music provides the most unusual Cirque
du Soleil CD to date. Ms. Corradi took bold steps to go beyond
anything heard before and it worked.
The three composers' similarities are revealed in ballad songs such as
Rene's "Querer," Benoit's "Rêve Rouge," and Violaine's "Ballare";
upbeat danceable songs such as Rene's "Saltimbanco," Benoit's
"Rivage," and Violaine's "El Pèndulo"; and traditional circus-like
songs such as Rene's "Irna," Benoit's "La Nouba," and Violaine's
"Gitans." Their differences - Rene's early European influence,
Benoit's modern pop influences, and Violaine's various Middle East
influences - represent the diversity found in all aspects of the world
of Cirque du Soleil.
With Cirque's twentieth anniversary approaching, maybe all three
composers could unite to create an extraordinary tribute to the
musical history of Cirque du Soleil.
=======================================================================
BEHIND THE CURTAIN:
"The Techie Geek: New Title? And Stuff? What?" (By: Jen Waldman)
=======================================================================
The Techie Geek talks about something that isn't technical at all.
Hi! I've received several excellent technical questions and am in the
process of researching the answers to them, but this month's column is
in response to a question that many of my friends asked me. As many
of you probably know, Dralion is coming to Baltimore, and several of
my friends were interested in ushering. I couldn't participate due to
schedule conflicts, but as I used to be a "professional usher" (yes, I
made my living from it), my friends asked me for suggestions, and I
thought it might be a useful column as well. This is not a "How To
Ace the Cirque Interview," just some general pointers on the ushering
process.
During the interview process: Be completely truthful about your
existing schedule. This seems like an obvious one, but sometimes
people want the jobs so much that they will keep quiet about their
classes on Wednesday nights. When I applied, the employers at Adecco
were looking for people who could do three eight-hour shifts per week.
I asked them if it was okay to do twice as many four-hour shifts (for
instance, if every morning is busy but every evening is free) and they
agreed that such a plan was also acceptable. The employers also
encourage you to interview even if your schedule is more restrictive,
for if the pool of "good" potential ushers is small in any area, they
may be willing to accept a different type of working schedule.
A note about customer service: ""The Customer is Always Right" is a
good adage, but isn't always applicable to a given situation. If you,
as an usher, are dealing with a patron who insists that you compromise
or ignore those rules which your employer has given you (i.e. someone
insists that a few flash photographs of the aerialists won't hurt) and
is unwilling to cooperate with you at all, contact your supervisor.
As an usher, you also should not have to put up with any sort of
"abuse" from patrons. I put that word in quotes because it should go
without saying that just as you are not allowed to hit patrons,
patrons should not be allowed to hit you! Ushers should also not have
to put up with patrons screaming at them, calling them names, etc.
This sort of thing does not happen often, but it can happen. In such
cases notify your supervisor immediately.
I mentioned above patrons taking photographs. Many people bring
cameras into the Theater under the assumption that they will not get
caught snapping photos. Be vigilant and catch them. Not only is it
dangerous for the performers, it violates copyright laws. If a person
is caught taking pictures, sometimes a warning is sufficient to deter
them. Sometimes the camera needs to be confiscated until the end of
the show. This goes for video cameras and audio recording devices
too. Ushers have the right to put a stop to such recording at the
shows. Exercise that right.
Know what is going on in the audience. If someone suddenly leaves,
they may be ill or need help. Pay attention to the audience so if
something does happen, the proper supervisors can be notified
immediately. When an elderly patron falls and it is a half-hour
before anyone notices, this doesn't reflect well on the Front of House
staff. Cirque du Soleil's shows are amazing, but don't get so caught
up in them that you forget your duties. You have a job to do, that's
why you're there.
Another note about customer service: Leave your bad day at the door.
You do not have to be best friends with every patron you see, but a
bit of friendliness goes a long way. Smile. Be gracious and helpful.
Show the patrons to their seat. Answer any questions and address any
concerns they might have. If you don't know the answer, find out or
refer them to a person that does know. Even if you hear the same
question 26 times in 10 minutes, each patron who asks it deserves
respect. After all, it is a new question to them.
These are just a few things that I learned in my years of ushering,
but I found them extraordinarily helpful. If the ushering service is
done well and with a good attitude, the supervisors may remember you
positively and hire you again! Even if they don't you can take pride
in the fact that you did your job well. Ushering is not always an
easy job, but it can be a very rewarding one both professionally and
personally. Enjoy!
P.S. And don't pet Guide Dogs. Just a reminder.
=======================================================================
LE SPECTATEUR:
"Congratulations! You Are Already a Winner!
(By: Steve Gordon and Bonna Nicholson w/Keith Johnson)
=======================================================================
In these days of "millions will enter, one will win" contests and
lotteries, it's nice when someone you know actually wins a contest.
Especially, in our case, if the contest involves Cirque du Soleil.
Steve Gordon and wife Bonna Ncholson are just such Cirque winners, and
here they let us in on their experience.
We had never seen Cirque du Soleil live until we took our first trip
from Miami to Walt Disney World in September of 2000. The four-night
package we had purchased included (in addition to Disney passports and
other assorted knick-knacks) two "Flex Features" for each of us. With
the Flex Features we could choose two attractions or activities from a
specially-selected list of Disney World's features. A number of them
looked attractive, but which to choose? The front desk clerk knew
just what to say when we queried him. "Why don't you go see the
Cirque du Soleil?" Being intrigued, the next day we found ourselves
outside the Cirque ticket office with tickets to that nights 6pm show.
We had seen a few Cirque shows on TV and thought them spectacular, but
until that Friday night's performance had never been able to
comprehend the magnificence of Cirque. 90 minutes of La Nouba later
we were totally freaked out! We just couldn't believe how great it
all was, the music and acts blending together into one incredible
experience. Upon our return home we searched for more information on
Cirque and their other shows. We were surprised to find out they also
had shows in Las Vegas. But how could they be better than "La Nouba?"
we wondered. Little did we know we were soon to find out!
In October of 2000 we were overjoyed to learn that one of Cirque's
touring shows, Dralion, was coming to Miami early in 2001. Of course
we immediately got tickets the moment they went on sale. Then, on
Sunday, December 4th, the Miami Herald announced "The Cirque Du Soleil
Holiday Fantasy Contest!" The prizes made us salivate. Third prize
was VIP tickets and a limo ride to see the Dralion Miami premiere.
Second prize was even better, a 2-night stay at Disney World and
tickets to La Nouba. But the Grand Prize was the best; 2 nights at
Treasure Island in Las Vegas, VIP tickets to Mystère, and round-trip
airline tickets! The contest was simple - find three small Dralion
Dragon stamps hidden throughout the Sunday edition of the Herald and
send them in along with an entry blank. My wife Bonna found them
easily and we quickly sent it in, both believing we had a winning
entry.
Saturday morning December 23rd, Bonna received an early morning call
from a lady at the Miami Herald, announcing that we to be the
recipients of an early Christmas present. Not only did were we
winners in the Holiday Fantasy Contest, we had won the Grand Prize,
the Las Vegas vacation! We were flabbergasted!! But now that we had
won we needed to decide on when we wanted to go, and start making
arrangements. This we did after the first of the year, and told the
Herald lady we wished to leave on March 22, 2001. But could we stay a
few extra days in Vegas (paid for at our own expense of course) so we
would take in more of Vegas (and Cirque's "O")? This sounded like a
possibility to the Herald lady, so she arranged the flights while a
woman from Cirque headquarters in Montreal arranged the hotel and
tickets.
Once those arrangements were made, it was time to get tickets for "O".
But unfortunately, for the nights we were there the show was Sold Out.
What to do? A quick call to our contact at Cirque Montreal; could she
help us get seats that we would pay for? She assured us it was no
problem and that seats would be waiting.
March was our "Cirque Month." We marveled at our second show,
Dralion, and noted it closed on March 21st, the day before we were to
leave for Las Vegas. Finally the big day arrived, and we anxiously
walked the concourse of the airport on the way to our 8am flight. In
the waiting area we spied a man wearing one of those black and orange
Cirque T-shirts only Cirque employees get. We just had to ask him his
name and what he did for them. He very politely introduced himself as
Richard Oberbacher, Musical Director for Dralion! He was on his way
to Vegas for a short break before Dralion opened in New York City. We
had to laugh when he asked us (now die-hard Cirque fans) if we had
seen Dralion during our Miami run. We then regaled him with the tale
of winning the contest and our Grand Prize trip.
Upon arriving in Vegas we checked into the Treasure Island and picked
up our tickets, "O" on Friday night and Mystère on Saturday. We were
heady with anticipation when we entered the "O" theater and took our
seats, which thanks to our Montreal Cirque contact were 12th row
center! A few minutes before the show started, a tall but strangely
familiar figure passed in front of us on the way to his seat. It was
Richard! He was seeing "O" for the fourth time, and sat right next to
us. What are the odds of that? We had a fun time catching up with
our "old friend" Richard.
We'll never forget our "Cirque Month." Three Cirque shows in three
weeks, Cirque overload! The real Cirque du Soleil Experience! See,
real people DO win.
=======================================================================
BEYOND THE BIGTOP:
"Illustration!" -- Série Part 4 (By: Ricky Russo)
=======================================================================
Michael-Thomas Poulin.
You might not recognize the name but you've seen the work, even if you
don't recognize it as his. This month we continue our efforts to
investigate the treasures that lie within classic Cirque du Soleil
programmes by taking a look at Cirque's one time illustrator: Michel-
Thomas Poulin.
Poulin, skilled in design, pencil drawing and painting, studied at the
Universite Laval in Quebec City. Throughout his career he's taught
graphic design and photography. In 1988, collaboration between Poulin
and Cirque produced a series of twenty paintings inspired by the
onstage and backstage antics of Cirque and its performers. These
paintings were exhibited in Los Angeles and Montreal. But it isn't
his teaching skill, nor his studies at the Universite that interest
me; it's what he's created for Cirque.
At the age of 30, Poulin put his background in graphic arts and silk-
screening to work for Cirque du Soleil, then an upstart circus that
was a collection of street performers who came together to put on a
show. His affair with Cirque began in 1985, when he created the
standard poster for that year's tour, and it continued through to 1994
with Alegría's tour. Michel-Thomas Poulin may not be a household name,
or even be recognized by Cirque fans, but he has arguably created some
of the most recognizable Cirque du Soleil images and illustrations to
date. Let's explore them!
"Le Chapeau Vert"
-----------------
Simply known as "The Green Hat," this illustration was created in 1985
and became the standard poster for that year's tour of Cirque du
Soleil in Quebec. Like its name, the illustration features as its main
image an artist with a red nose and a white-painted face wearing a
green hat, that I must say is similar in style and shape to Peter
Pan's hat! To the left is another breathing fire; that I assume is to
illustrate Guy Laliberte's Fire Breathing Act. Joining these artists
is a woman walking across a tightrope on her tiptoes using a blue
umbrella for balance, and a set of musicians. The image was featured
in various places - as a poster, a button and the front/back cover
images of the 1985 tour programme.
"Boule de Cristal"
------------------
The "Le Magie Continue" tour is captured in color by a presentation
named "Crystal Ball." This illustration appeared as the standard
poster for the 1986 tour, yet, it did not appear as the cover of its
programme. The "Crystal Ball" painting features the likeness of clown
Ben La Barouette in his trademark red hat holding out his left hand as
if beckoning us to come see the show. Hovering just above his left
hand is a small blue crystal ball, which is featured throughout the
tour, if only briefly. Ben La Barouette is set against a dark
background of blues and whites with a blue and yellow stripped big top
of Cirque du Soleil far off in the distance (in the lower left of the
image).
"Le Roi des Fous"
-----------------
The "King of Fools" graces the standard poster of the 1987 tour.
Sometimes referred to simply as the "Jester," this painting is
probably the most recognizable of all classic Cirque posters. It
features a rendition of the King of Fools character from Le Cirque
Reinvente clad in one of Michel Crete's multicolored costumes. The
character is rendered as if the artist just leapt in the air! The
image is dominated by a darkened sky with the blue and yellow striped
big top off in the distance, in the lower left of the image (in fact,
this is roughly the same image and placement of the big top that
appeared on the 1986 tour poster.) The "King of Fools" illustration
could be seen on a variety of items throughout the tour, from buttons
to hats to stationary, but you'll also find it as the cover of the
original VHS and Laserdisc releases of "We Reinvent the Circus" and on
the original 1987 CD from NAGA Productions. It never officially became
the programme cover for the US Tour; however, it did appear as the
standard image for "Fascination," the 6-month special tour that
combined Reinvente with Nouvelle Experience for Japanese audiences in
1992.
"Éléphant"
----------
An illustration, called "Éléphant, appeared on the 1987 tour programme
and at first glance it has absolutely nothing to do with elephants, or
Cirque du Soleil. But after taking another look one finds that the
background image is indeed a poster that represents a series of images
from a more traditional circus, which includes elephants. The
foreground, however, is an energetic looking clown dressed in a white
suit with his face covered in white and yellow paint. Putting the two
together wouldn't seem to make much sense but what is actually
happening in the image is relatively simple: the clown of the new
circus is bursting through the poster of the traditional circus and
thus creating a wonderful image of what Cirque du Soleil is all about.
You'll find this image on the 1987 programme.
"Nouvelle Experience"
---------------------
The 1990s brought Cirque into a new realm with a show that was
destined to push the realm of circus arts and theatrical presentation.
The illustration features images of clowns of all shapes and sizes;
many of them you'll recognize as representations of the Flounes,
Madame Corporation and Le Grand Chambellan. For the longest time I
couldn't understand why the image is blurred the way it is - artistic
license? In fact, while artistic license is part of the solution, my
eyes (and thus yours) haven't been able to see the full poster Poulin
created in many years. The full poster not only features the blurred
images of the mentioned characters but the device used to illustrate
WHY they're blurred to begin with - they're in motion! The full image
features at its bottom left a fiery yellow-orange sun (representing
Cirque du Soleil) with the artists rocketing from the brilliance of
the sun at breakneck speed. This is seen when you open one of these
old programmes; the point-of-view of the original poster is more or
less head-on with the four characters speeding away from the sun. The
original poster image made its way onto the 1990 programme for
Nouvelle Experience. The cropped image, however, has been seen on all
other merchandise to date - including the CD, original VHS, and the
1991 and 1992 (at the Mirage) programmes.
"Saltimbanco"
-------------
Michael-Thomas Poulin attended some of the very first rehearsals and
meetings, which he used as inspiration to create six different
illustrations. In 1992, he signed the colorful poster that serves as
Saltimbanco's figurehead - the Cavalier, which is inspired by the
rosace in Michel Crete's set design. Saltimbanco's rosette is a
colorful disk that appears as the design for the floor space as well
as the relief that appears overhead. The final version, which we now
enjoy today, was created using acrylic inks and crayons and featured
the famous big yellow and blue big top and the remote-controlled
chair. Poulin also provided other colorful images of the many
characters seen throughout the show. These illustrations were
sprinkled within the 1992 and 1993 programmes of the show. The image
of Saltimbanco has changed slightly through the years to a poster
design that is all yellow, but it still features the famous
illustration by Poulin.
"Chambellan, Jr"
----------------
For Mystère, Mr. Poulin is credited with multiple designs. The first
is the original pink mask that adorned both the programme and T-shirt
designs from 1993 to about 1996. This mask is reminiscent of the
Asticot characters, the Chinese Poles artists, who are double-faced.
This image also appears on the original Mystère studio CD that was
released in 1994. The second design also appeared about the same time
the double-face mask was used, it is referred to as "Chambellan, Jr.".
Chambellan, Jr. exist in two varieties, which I classify by the
direction his nose points. He is a colorful figure adorned in blues,
yellows, greens, and reds. His is somewhat an enigmatic face, unsure
and unknown. His eyes are piercing and bear into our very soul. The
first rendition of this image is seen from 1993 until 1996 and feature
his nose pointed to the right. The second, and most current, rendition
of Chambellan has his nose pointed to the left. He has also gotten a
bit more colorful through the years, but there's still no mistaking
the purpose of this image - it is as mysterious as the show it
represents, and that's what Mystère is all about.
"Alegría"
---------
Poulin's last work for Cirque du Soleil came in the form of Alegria's
thought-provoking bird-like image. Who can mistake the wonderful image
of a bird in flight. But unlike most birds, this angelic character is
adorned with two human eyes in the center of its wings. It's a simple
design and yet very very complex in meaning. This image has appeared
on everything associated with Alegría from its original CD to its
programmes. Only recently, like Saltimbanco before it, has Alegría's
standard image changed to incorporate a new feature that only serves
to enhance the overall image. To me, the cream colored "floor" on
which the Alegría mask rests on reminds me of a white sandy beach, and
the first image that comes to mind when I see it is Alegría at Beau
Rivage. But, did you know the image predates the 2000 release? I have
been able to track the illustration as far back as 1996, as it
appeared as the template for a 500-piece puzzle released for the show
in Hong Kong. Today, you'll find this new illustration everywhere -
including the new programme, CD, and VHS/DVD of the show. It has
officially become the 2002 tour poster and more important, the new
image of Alegría.
Beyond Cirque
-------------
After Alegría, Michel-Thomas Poulin and Cirque du Soleil parted ways,
but he's turned up over the years to illustrate some art for three
albums that are non-Cirque related:
* "Intuition" by Francois Carrier, a 1998 release where Poulin
worked on the paintings that appeared in the CDs booklet.
Interestingly enough, the Bass player on the album, Pierre Côté,
appeared on the Cirque albums for Quidam and Alegria: Le Film.
* "La Musique de mon disque" by Pierre Tanguay ("The Music of my
Disc"), a 2000 release that is described as "Heavy New Age"
music. UPC: 771028107926
* "Plinc! Plonc!" by Jean Derome, Pierre Tanguay ("Live aux
Soirées de musique fraîche de Québec"), a 2001 release featuring
live renditions of the music of Quebec. UPC: 771028109228
It is safe to say that Michel-Thomas Poulin's legacy with Cirque du
Soleil is secured. He has created some of the most striking artwork
for Cirque, most of which is still seen today! Not bad for a boy from
Sherebrooke (Quebec) who put the finishing stroke on his first
painting by age 12.
And, for the record, Quidam and "O" were illustrated by François
Chartier, La Nouba by Graphème Communication-Design (photo
manipulation), Dralion byHeïdi Taillefer and Varekai by Michael Dalpé
(photo manipulation).
=======================================================================
EXPANDED SELECTION:
"Divers Help Entertainers Make a Big Splash in 'O'"
(By: Sonya Padgett, Las Vegas Review-Journal)
=======================================================================
Originally appearing as a link in the ON THE WEB section this month,
an article by Sonya Padgett of the Las Vegas Review-Journal that
describes what goes on under the water at "O" and how the divers are
featured in the show. Thankfully, we've been able to rescue the text
and present it in this expanded issue of Fascination.
# # #
On the surface, Mike Neff the scuba diver seems to be a complete
opposite of Mike Neff the theater lover. One requires a body of water
while the other needs a more solid medium. But for more than three
years, the Utah native has reconciled these different elements of his
personality to do what is undoubtedly the most unique job on the
Strip: artist taxi. Five nights a week, Neff, 32, combines two of his
greatest passions to earn a living as an underwater stage technician
for Cirque du Soleil's "O" at Bellagio. "I'm primarily responsible for
the safety of the performers while they're in the water," Neff says.
It's a difficult concept to grasp for those who haven't seen "O," an
entire production taking place in, on and under 1.5 million gallons of
water. One could say, accurately, that Neff works as a stagehand in
the theater but that doesn't come close to what he actually does. One
could say he's a scuba diver but again, some important information
would be missing from that job title.
Neff is among 12 divers who stay underwater throughout every 90-minute
performance of "O," directing the traffic of equipment, lifts,
performers and props essential to the smooth running of the show. The
divers have different responsibilities, including rigging the safety
nets to catch errant acrobats who miss their water landing; pulling
props, such as a clown house, to center stage; or what Neff does,
assisting artists.
The water, a 25-foot-deep pool listed in Guinness World Records as the
largest underwater moving stage, is the star of the show. Seven
hydraulic lifts raise and lower parts of the stage to varying levels,
making it appear as though performers walk on water, then vanish into
an abyss. All of the performers enter the 88-degree water at some
point. When they do, sometimes at speeds up to 40 mph, Neff and five
other artist handlers are waiting with regulators to give the
performers oxygen and taxi them "offstage."
Neff can have up to 10 people breathing off of his apparatus at a
single time. Performers require large amounts of oxygen -- often 30
tanks per show -- because they breathe harder with exertion, Neff
says. So much goes on underwater that the cast and crew refer to it as
a whole other show, separate from the one on the surface.
"The audience sees a world that the show's creators want them to see,"
artistic director Rob Bollinger says, referring to the colorful
costumes, makeup and the endless feats of acrobats, gymnasts, swimmers
and fire-handlers who dominate the production. "But there's an
underwater spectacle going on that's just as amazing to see."
What takes place often looks like a cross between an underwater
invasion and an intricate dance that, if off a slight second, can
upset the rhythm of the entire show, Neff says, and potentially put
cast and crew in danger. Lighting and bubbles, constant bubbles,
interfere with visibility, making divers' jobs even more difficult.
Currents caused by some of the water effects slow their efforts,
forcing the divers to use more energy than what they use during a
regular dive. To ensure the safety of all involved good communication
is necessary, Neff says. Two divers wear communication devices
throughout performances while the remaining divers communicate with
hand signals. Still, the job is not without its hazards.
Once, a performer dove into the water, kicking Neff in the chest.
Other divers have been landed on, he says. Luckily, nothing has ever
resulted in serious injury. The bubbles and lighting mask most of the
below-surface activity, so Neff and his fellow divers are invisible to
the audience and out of earshot of their delighted applause. But
that's all right by him, because if audiences are cheering the
performers, they are unknowingly cheering the technicians. Without
them, there would be no "O," Neff says.
"Actually, the show relies on these technicians," Bollinger says. "The
show would not be possible without the divers."
As far as Strip jobs that combine theater and scuba, Neff's is one of
a kind. Neff, who is single, had been working as a carpenter for
"Siegfried & Roy" for four years when he saw "O." He was already
diving for fun, having received his scuba certification in 1995.
Some friends of Neff's were working on "O" when a position for a
carpenter-diver opened in 1998. Knowing of his scuba and theater
background, they encouraged Neff to apply. They were looking for
someone with stagehand experience who could weld or build sets. Neff
had been developing that experience as a stagehand since his college
days in Utah in the early '90s.
His scuba experience gave him a slight edge.
Now he's one of six scuba instructors who certify "O" cast and crew
members at Lake Mead. Everyone who works on the set has to be scuba
certified, Neff says. Neff also goes diving in his spare time, taking
trips to California, Australia and other scuba hot spots.
Many audience members who catch sight of the occasional diver's fin or
the shape of one pulling a piece of scenery never realize there are
people underwater throughout the show, says diver-rigger Riccardo
Canestrelli. But there's a moment during each performance in which the
director reveals the secret. "One of my favorite moments is when the
divers come up and get applause from the audience," Bollinger says.
"They deserve that moment onstage to be recognized."
Don't worry, Neff says, knowing the secrets doesn't take anything away
from the show. "It adds to it for me because I know what's going on.
Some things look more impressive under water. We could probably sell
tickets to it," Neff says. "I love it. I'm just really proud to be
part of a quality show."
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PARTING QUOTE
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"Failure can be just as big as success"
- Luc Lafortune (Nouvelle Experience 1990)
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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"Fascination!" is Ricky Russo, Keith Johnson, Paul Roberts, Jen
Waldman and Wayne Leung.
"Fascination! Newsletter" Copyright (c)) 2003 Ricky Russo, published
by Vortex/RGR Productions, a subsidiary of Communicore Enterprises. No
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