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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
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E X P A N D E D I S S U E
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VOLUME 7, NUMBER 1 JAN/FEB 2007 ISSUE #51e
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Bonjour et bienvenue! Welcome to another exciting edition of
Fascination!, the Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter.
While I hate to sound like a broken record, this issue is yet another
"special" one for us here at Fascincation! While our last release was
distinctive because it celebrated our fiftieth issue, and the one
before that trumpeted our fifth birthday, this one is also special to
us for various similar reasons. First and foremost, it's our fifty-
first publication since our inception back in 2001 and to us that is
a milestone, but it's also a new beginning. There's only forty-nine
more to go before we reach the next milestone - one hundred - and
we've just only started. To help us reach that milestone, we've
switched from Quarterly distribution to bi-monthly starting with
this very issue. So you'll hear from us a little more often in
2007!
Inside this issue we have all the latest news and sightings posted
to the Fascination! Web throughout the months of January and
February. You'll find some great information on the "Revolution
Lounge" at the Mirage, Quidam in the UAE, the Cirque 2007 creative
team, and about CirqueCon's 2007 and 2008 in Orlando and Tokyo
respectively!
In our Features, Keith Johnson takes a look at those Delirium tour
numbers and answers the question, is Delirium really ranked near the
top of the tour charts? And Ricky Russo takes a look at the website
developed for Quidam's stop in Seoul, South Korea. There's also four
wonderful entries in the DidyaKnow and CirqueTech columns to enjoy,
and our Cirque milestones and birthday listings. Be sure to check out
the Itinerary section for any last-minute changes to tour stops and
extensions -- especially the new information pertaining to "Winter
Tale," Cirque's newest "resident" show at Madison Square Garden
in New York City!
And now for the obligatory ending...
I invite you to visit our website for the latest news, rumors and
information about Cirque du Soleil. What you're reading here is only a
collection of what was posted daily on the Fascination website for a
specific period of time (in this case July, August and September.) For
more current information about Cirque du Soleil's activities, please
visit < www.cirquefascination.com >.
And if you're interested in having our daily postings sent directly to
you, don't hesitate to take advantage of our Really Simple Syndication
(RSS) feed! Simply use the following URI with your favorite email/news
program: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 >.
/// EXPANDED ISSUE: For this issue we have two news items that were
expanded: "Quidam an Overwhelming Success!" and "The Big Uh-"O"?"
Both have "[EXPANDED]" in their titles to make them easier to find. ///
- Ricky "Richasi" Russo
===========
CONTENTS
===========
o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings
o) Compartments -- Information on Tour, Online & on-Screen
* Télémagik -- Cirque du Soleil on Television
* On the Web -- Cirque du Soleil Online
* Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information
o) Columns -- Behind the Curtain
* Birthday Wishes! -- Happy-Happy Birthday!
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History
* CirqueTech -- The Technical Side of Cirque
o) Fascination! Features
* "Delirium Ranks Near the Top... Sort Of"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
* "Quidam in Seoul: A Website Review"
By: Ricky Russo - Orlando, Florida (USA)
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
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CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
The Beatles' REVOLUTION Lounge Opens Soon
{Jan.05.2007}
------------------------------------------
TORONTO, Jan. 5 /CNW/ - Inspired by the spirit of The Beatles
and created by Cirque du Soleil, The Beatles REVOLUTION LOUNGE
is now open inside The Mirage, Las Vegas. Opening its doors only
six months after the high-profile launch of The Beatles LOVE,
REVOLUTION offers an extended experience before and after the
show.
Revolutionary in design and atmosphere, this ultra-lounge
features cutting edge, interactive experiences to create a
psychedelic sensory environment and a contemporary
interpretation of The Beatles era. Each night will be an
evolutionary journey, where both the music and interior
transform, resulting in an eclectic nightlife adventure at The
Mirage.
"The inspiration for REVOLUTION began with The Beatles' message
of love but the atmosphere is a modern twist on their era of
freedom, self-expression and free-love," Jean-Francois Bouchard,
Creative Director, Cirque du Soleil Experience.
Scott Sibella, president and COO of The Mirage, said "The
Beatles REVOLUTION Lounge is the next dynamic step in the
continuing transformation of The Mirage. REVOLUTION will bring
an even higher level of energy and excitement to the resort."
This is the first time Cirque du Soleil draws upon their
innovative talent to create a unique nightlife experience in Las
Vegas. REVOLUTION will be operated by Canadian business mogul,
Charles Khabouth.
Affiliated with some of the most successful venues in Canada,
TheGuvernment and Kool Haus Entertainment Complex, Pantages
Hotel Suites & Spa, Ultra Supper Club, Kindred Spirits
(Catering), Hugo (BOSS), Lux, This is London, Dragonfly
(Fallsview Casino); Charles Khabouth has now entered the
international market with a global partnership between INK and
Cirque du Soleil.
As part of the venture, Khabouth and his parent company INK,
will assume partnership, marketing, as well as all operational
responsibilities in joint projects; the first being The Beatles
Revolution Lounge in The Mirage Las Vegas.
REVOLUTION facts:
o) Capacity: 350
o) Hours: The Abbey Road Bar, located in front of the main
entrance of REVOLUTION, will be open from 11 am daily.
The REVOLUTION Lounge is open seven nights a week from
5 pm until 5 am.
o) Music: Each night will have a specific musical
direction. DJs will make a musical progression through
the evening from strictly Beatles music, to funky
lounge remixes, house, rock, electro, new wave and Brit
pop.
Media Opening: January 17, 2007
VIP Opening: January 18, 2007
Public Grand Opening: January 19, 2007
< www.thebeatlesrevolutionlounge.com >
Quidam opens in Dubai
{Jan.05.2007}
----------------------
Cirque du Soleil's Quidam opens in Dubai
Dubai is set to be dazzled as Cirque du Soleil will perform for
the first time in the Middle East with the live touring
production Quidam.
Special guests, VIP's and dignitaries from around the Middle
East will join senior Cirque du Soleil tomorrow night at the
exclusive invitation-only premiere of Quidam, which will be
performed for a limited season under the trademark blue-and-
yellow Grand Chapiteau at Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai.
'This is truly the day we've all been waiting for - the premiere
of Quidam in the Middle East and on behalf of the performers and
crew, I'd just like to say that we are delighted to be here and
cannot wait to entertain the residents of this city with the
magic, imagination and beauty of Cirque,' said Rob Mackenzie,
Tour Manager, Quidam.
Quidam, pronounced 'key-dam,' is a Latin word for an anonymous
passerby, a solitary figure lingering on a street corner, a
person rushing past, living lost amidst the crowd. Directed by
Franco Dragone, Quidam transforms an anonymous world into a
place of hope and connection.
Presented under a state-of-the-art Grand Chapiteau that seats
more than 2,500, Quidam turns gravity on its head. One of the
production's most spectacular features is a 120-foot overhead
conveyor whose five imposing rails take up the entire interior
surface of the Grand Chapiteau. This system is used to bring
artists onto the stage and to create a multitude of special
effects.
With more than 50 performers from 13 different countries, the
production is a thrilling combination of acrobatic artistry,
technical expertise, extravagant design and exceptional musical
inspiration, woven into a seamless whole by an emotional
dramatic thread. Quidam features the German wheel, banquine,
Spanish webs, diabolos, aerial contortion in silk, and of course
the acclaimed crazy clowns. A haunting live score draws from a
wealth of eclectic cultural blends, classical strings and
synthesizers, samplers and guitars.
Quidam is the vision of the same creative team that conceived
Cirque du Soleil's Las Vegas-based 'O' and Mystère, La
Nouba at Walt Disney World in Orlando, and the award-winning
Alegría and Saltimbanco. Led by Director Franco Dragone, the
team includes Gilles Ste-Croix (director of creation), Dominique
Lemieux (costumes), Michel Crête (set design), Debra Brown
(choreography), François Bergeron (sound design), Luc Lafortune
(lighting design), Benoit Jutras (musical director and composer)
and Serge Roy (artistic director).
{Source: AME Info, Jan.04.2007}
And... Quidam in Seoul
{Jan.05.2007}
---------------------
Quidam, the acclaimed show presented by world-famous Canadian
circus troupe Cirque du Soleil, hits the stage on March 29 at
Jamsil Sports Complex, southeastern Seoul.
With a cast of 54 performers, the show involves breathtaking
circus acrobatics such as juggling, contortionists and aerial
acrobatics, featuring an inspirational character "Quidam" which
leads audiences to an unknown, mythical but adventurous world.
Quidam, Latin for anonymous passerby, describes a mysterious
character in an alienated world. The show, led by the gothic
character, was created in 1996, inspired by the people of New
York City - walking past each other with their heads down - not
communicating - not connecting - the company said.
Artists for "Quidam" showcase their aerial acrobatic
performance.
The show begins through the eyes of 12-year-old girl Zoe, who
takes audiences on a journey through her imagination where she
meets many amazing characters along the way. The circus troupe,
introducing themselves as an original circus team, stresses the
genuineness of the show created by passionate artists with their
outstanding talents.
"The shows are not about special effects, they are about the
power that can be generated by human beings, either individuals
or people working together as a team," said Ryan Sandilands,
corporate alliances director of the global entertainment
franchise at a news conference recently held in Seoul.
"Our shows also feature live music and singing, but we sing in
our own made up language, which means that we do not alter the
performance for local audiences.
"The show you will see here in Korea is exactly the same as
those that have been performed in many cities around the world
such as New York, Tokyo or Berlin," said Sandilands.
The circus troupe also confidently expected success in Seoul.
"We are thrilled to show 'Quidam' in Korea. Shows of Cirque du
Soleil are very special. I believe that (the show) will
definitely have success in Korea," he added.
"We will have another series of shows in two or three years and
specifically we will build a theater exclusively for the show in
Seoul," Michael Bolingbroke, Senior Vice President of Cirque du
Soleil.
The circus troupe was founded by Guy Laliberte, a former street
performer playing an accordion and breathing fire, in 1984 in
Baie-Saint-Paul, a small town near Quebec City in Canada.
Since then, the circus company has performed in over 100 cities
on four continents.
In 2006 Cirque du Soleil will have 13 different shows performing
simultaneously around the world. Cirque du Soleil recently
launched shows in Dubai and is scheduled to come to Seoul March
and Shanghai in June.
Tickets are 55,000 won to 200,000 won ($60-240). For more
information and ticket reservation visit www.quidam2007.co.kr or
call 1544-1555 or1588-7890.
The show runs for two and half hours. Children aged under five
are advised not to attend the show.
The performance runs from March 29 to June 3.
{Source: The Korea Herald, Jan.05.2007}
Benefit Performance of Alegría set for February 1, 2007
{Jan.06.2007}
--------------------------------------------------------
Oxfam is delighted to announce the annual benefit performance of
Alegria, by Cirque du Soleil on 1st February 2007 at the Royal
Albert Hall, London.
The benefit night will raise vital funds to launch a new
initiative to bring workshops into schools.
In 2007, this special show will be supporting Circo del Mundo in
Santiago, Chile, supported by both Cirque du Soleil and Oxfam
for some time. The benefit night will raise vital funds to
launch a new initiative to bring circus and clowning workshopps
into schools to help some of Santiago's poorest children to
develop their self-confidence, self-esteem, and responsibility.
Be part of this wonderful night and help to spread the magic!
Tickets are available through:
The Royal Albert Hall
www.royalalberthall.com or
020 7838 3128
Ticketmaster
www.ticketmaster.co.uk or
0870 4000 701
{Source: Oxfam}
Cirque at the Superbowl (Part 2)
January 11th, 2007
---------------------------------
NEW YORK, Jan. 9 /PRNewswire/ - CIRQUE DU SOLEIL and Miami-based
artist ROMERO BRITTO will team to celebrate South Florida and
football in an unprecedented performance in the Super Bowl XLI
pregame show on CBS at Dolphin Stadium in South Florida on
Sunday, February 4, the NFL announced today.
The Super Bowl is annually the nation's highest-rated TV
program. More than 141 million viewers watched last year's game
in the U.S. Super Bowl XLI will be broadcast to a potential
worldwide audience of 1 billion in more than 230 countries and
territories.
Inspired by Brazilian street theater, 60 professional performers
and hundreds of other participants will participate in the
pregame show which will be a high-energy extravaganza of music,
dance, gymnastics and circus arts linked by a multi-colored
football theme. The Cirque du Soleil performers will be a
living, breathing canvas for Britto, whose signature pop-art has
come to define the color and vibrancy of South Florida.
Grammy(R) Award Winner LOUIE VEGA will supply an original
musical score and will perform with his Elements of Life
Orchestra featuring vocalist Anane while the Cirque du Soleil
performance comes to life.
The Cirque du Soleil team will include Fernand Rainville,
Director of Creation, Patricia Ruel, Creator of Costumes and
Accessories, Genevieve Dorion-Coupal, Choreographer and Daniel
Cola, Acrobatic Coach.
Don Mischer Productions and White Cherry Entertainment will
produce the Super Bowl XLI pregame show as part of their season-
long marquee entertainment agreement with the NFL. The two
companies produced the NFL Opening Kickoff 2006 special from
Pittsburgh and the Thanksgiving special from Kansas City on NFL
Network. In addition to the pregame show, they also will produce
the Pepsi Super Bowl XLI Halftime Show. Don Mischer Productions
will serve as executive producer and director, while White
Cherry Entertainment, led by Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss,
will serve as executive producers. The NFL has worked the past
three years with both Don Mischer Productions and White Cherry
Entertainment on Opening Kickoff and Super Bowl shows.
David Saltz of Red Eye Flight Productions will also serve as
producer of the pre-game show. Saltz has worked with Cirque on
their Beatles inspired LOVE production and has brought them
together with Britto for this original Super Bowl performance.
Saltz has worked with the NFL on Opening Kickoff and Super Bowl
Halftime the past three years.
{Source: PRNewswire}
Quidam in UAE an Overwhelming Success! [EXPANDED]
January 15th, 2007
-------------------------------------------------
According to a recent press release from ameinfo.com, More than
40,000 tickets have already been sold for Cirque du Soleil
production Quidam making it the most successful single event
ever to be staged in the Middle East, it was announced today.
Wow!
"Cirque du Soleil's production of Quidam is the most ambitious
live event ever staged in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC)
and with a choice of ticket sales outlets including a dedicated
booking hotline and transactional website plus a number of
retail outlets located throughout Dubai eager fans have
responded in force buying close to 100 tickets an hour."
'To say that we've surpassed expectations would be an
understatement -- clearly consumers in the UAE had already made
up their minds that Quidam is a must-see experience, a testament
to the vision of Istithmar, management expertise of RetailCorp
and the reputation of Cirque du Soleil,' said Marvin Shaire,
CEO, RetailCorp.
Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid
Al Maktoum, Chairman of the TECOM (Dubai Technology and Media
Free Zone Authority), the Dubai season of Quidam is being
produced in partnership with RetailCorp, a subsidiary of
Istithmar, and in association with Nakheel and The Palm.
{Source: AME Info}
Quidam Extends UAE Run
{Jan.16.2007}
-----------------------
Promoters of Quidam, Cirque du Soleil inaugural production in
the Middle East's have been overwhelmed by the record-breaking
response to the show and today announced that the show will be
extended to February 10, adding twenty additional performances
to the Dubai season of Quidam.
{Source: AME Info}
Dralion in Japan
{Jan.24.2007}
-----------------
The itinerary for the 2007-2008 Japanese Tour of Dralion has
been announced. It is as follows:
o) Tokyo, Japan - Feb 7, 2007 to May 6, 2007
o) Sendai, Japan - May 23, 2007 to Jul 8, 2007
o) Osaka, Japan - Jul 25, 2007 to Sep 9, 2007
o) Nagoya, Japan - Oct 31, 2007 to Jan 6, 2008
o) Fukuoka, Japan - Apr 23, 2008 to Jun 15, 2008
You can learn more about the Japanese tour by visiting the
tour's website at: www.dralion.jp.
Super Cirque
{Feb.01.2007}
-----------------
Once again, Cirque du Soleil will be participating in another
great event! This time, we have the honor to be part of the
Super Bowl pre-game show that will air February 4. For this very
special event, we have teamed up with renowned pop-artist Romero
Britto, and Grammy Award composer/performer Louie Vega to create
a unique celebration.
Inspired by Brazilian street theatre, sixty professional
performers and hundreds of students that will invade the stadium
with a high-energy extravaganza of music, dance, gymnastics and
circus arts linked by a splashy, multicolored football theme.
Check out our special webpage for complete details.
Tune in this Sunday on CBS for unprecedented performance!
{Source: CirqueClub}
Press Release: Cirque in Shanghai
{Feb.05.2007}
----------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil, Canada's biggest entertainment empire, is
expected to debut in Shanghai on June 28.
Shanghai is the only city in China listed on its Asia tour,
which involves only human performers.
As a major countdown event of the Shanghai 2010 World Expo, the
circus will stage more than 70 shows in its air-conditioned
pavilion in Pudong, which can seat 2,500 spectators at a time.
"Quidam," one of the most popular shows of the circus, will
appear on the premiere stage in the city.
Spectators will see more than 50 top acrobats from 15 countries
performing in the program, which has shown in 23 cities of 10
European countries in four years.
{Source: Shanghai Daily}
Press Release: iShares Sponsors Cirque 2007-2008 US Tours
{Feb.05.2007}
----------------------------------------------------------
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - (MARKET WIRE) - February 05, 2007 - Barclays
Global Investors (BGI) announced today that it signed an
agreement for iShares to become the first-ever presenting
sponsor of the U.S. Touring Shows of Cirque du Soleil. The two-
year partnership agreement features the troupe's iconic "Big
Top" performances held under its famous blue and yellow "Grand
Chapiteau" tent.
"We were attracted to Cirque du Soleil because it is a highly
regarded, unique and creative company that we feel matches well
with the innovative iShares Exchange Traded Funds we offer
investors," said Lee Kranefuss, CEO of iShares at Barclays
Global Investors. "iShares has revolutionized the investment
landscape, becoming the world's largest family of exchange
traded funds, while Cirque has revolutionized their own
category, creating one of the world's most admired brands."
Added Mario D'Amico, Vice President, Marketing at Cirque du
Soleil, "Cirque du Soleil welcomes iShares as the presenting
sponsor of our 2007-08 U.S. Tour. As we travel around the
country presenting engaging and energetic shows, we will reach
many of the forward-thinking investors and financial advisors
that iShares serves."
The 2007-08 Cirque du Soleil U.S. Tour - comprised of two shows
- will visit 20 markets and is expected to reach nearly 3
million people. The Big Top shows, which take place in each
market for an average of 50 individual shows over 5-6 weeks,
reaches eight major markets this year, with the iShares
sponsorship kicking off this Friday, February 9, in Dallas.
Other markets in 2007 include Houston, Denver and Los Angeles,
with an additional 12 major markets planned for 2008, including
stops in New York, Chicago and Boston.
Cirque Presents 2007 Creative Team
{Feb.07.2007}
-----------------------------------
Montreal, February 7, 2007 - Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to
present the creative team of its all-new touring show to open in
Montreal on the Quays of the Old Port this spring. Cirque 2007
(working title) is the 20th production from Cirque du Soleil
since its beginnings in 1984.
Directed by David Shiner, Cirque 2007 will be an energetic,
compelling, funny and somewhat provocative show. It tells of the
encounter between characters living in two parallel worlds,
plunging the audience into a wild universe that will move them
and make them laugh.
David Shiner started out as a street mime in Paris. His career
really took off in 1984 when he was discovered at the renowned
circus festival Cirque de Demain. He went on to perform with a
succession of well-known companies including the German troupe
Circus Roncalli and the Swiss National company Circus Knie.
Between circus engagements he toured with Cirque du Soleil
veteran René Bazinet, performing the two-man show they created.
David's first formal association with Cirque du Soleil came in
1990, when he performed as a clown in Nouvelle Expérience.
Cirque 2007 calls on the talents of 13 creators, including a few
who are working with Cirque du Soleil for the first time.
The Creative Team:
o) David Shiner - Creator and Director
o) Serge Roy - Director of Creation
o) Stéphane Roy - Set Designer
o) Marie-Chantale Vaillancourt - Costumes Designer
o) Jean-François Côté - Music Composer
o) Clarence Ford - Choreographer
o) Martin Labrecque - Lighting Designer
o) Jonathan Deans - Co-Sound Designer
o) Leon Rothenberg - Co-Sound Designer
o) Rogé Francoeur - Props Designer
o) Danny Zen - Acrobatic Equipment and Rigging Designer
o) André Simard -Acrobatic Performance Designer
o) Florence Cornet - Makeup Designer
"Cirque 2007 is about human connection and the world of duality,
good and bad," says David. "The tone is fun and funny, light and
open. The show doesn't take itself too seriously, but it's very
much about ideas, too. As it evolves we are exploring concepts
such as fear, identity, recognition and power. "
Close to 100 creators from around the world have contributed
their artistic vision to the Cirque du Soleil shows during the
past 22 years.
Cirque 2007 will premiere on May 3 in Montreal on the Quays of
the Old Port. Performances in Quebec City will begin on July 5th
at Les Galeries de la Capitale and in Toronto on August 9 at the
Port Lands. Tickets can be purchased online for all shows at
www.cirquedusoleil.com.
Desjardins Group is the presenting sponsor of the 2007 Canadian
tour of Cirque 2007. CGI, Delta Air Lines and Celebrity Cruises
are the official sponsors.
{Source: Cirque du Soleil}
Summit Rigs Alegría at RAH
{Feb.08.2007}
-----------------------------------
According to a recent press release, Summit Steel of the United
Kingdom, is once again supplying the rigging infrastructure to
Alegría's setup at London's Royal Albert Hall, a production
Summit rigged when Alegría first played the hall back in 1998.
From their release:
The 2007 project involved the preparation of over 100 points of
rigging, for which Summit has supplied 40 of their own Lodestar
hoists in addition to using the house hoists. Summit also
designed and installed truss mothergrids, lighting and drape
masking trusses, utilising nearly 400m of James Thomas
Supertruss. This is needed for Cirque to produce their daring,
highly acrobatic production in a Grade One listed venue, as
opposed to staging it in their own purpose-built big top.
{Source: Entertainment Technology Press and Summit Steel UK}
Cirque and Orange in Business
{Feb.12.2007}
------------------------------
MONTREAL & PARIS-(BUSINESS WIRE)-Orange Business Services, the
global business communications solutions and services arm of
France Telecom, and Cirque du Soleil, the world-renowned
entertainment provider, have entered into an exclusive
partnership agreement, whereby Orange Business Services is now
an Official Supplier of Cirque du Soleil's North American and
European touring shows.
Both Cirque du Soleil and Orange Business Services focus on
delivering a great customer experience. This shared commitment
to the customer, combined with similar brand values, such as
innovation, make the partnership a natural fit. As an Official
Supplier, Orange Business Services will have a presence in major
cities throughout North America and Europe where Cirque du
Soleil tours, and collaborate with Cirque du Soleil on a series
of integrated marketing efforts, including hospitality events
and other entertainment opportunities.
"Cirque du Soleil seeks partnerships with companies who value
the things that make Cirque du Soleil great," said Ryan
Sandilands, corporate alliances director at Cirque du Soleil.
"These include a commitment to excellence and attention to the
people behind the scenes. That is why we are thrilled Orange
Business Services has signed on to be one of our Official
Suppliers."
"A customer for the past eight years, Cirque du Soleil relies on
Orange Business Services to provide global connectivity for
their worldwide touring operations," said William Priest, senior
vice president of strategy, marketing and external
communications, Orange Business Services. "We are very excited
to be involved in bringing the magic of Cirque du Soleil to
millions of spectators throughout Europe and North America."
{Source: Orange Business Services / Business Wire}
Cirque Partners with Champ Car
{Feb.15.2007}
-------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil will be centre stage for the relaunch of Champ
Car at Circuit Mont Tremblant this summer.
The world-renowned circus company is partnering with Montreal
promoter Normand Legault, track-owner Lawrence Stroll and the
U.S. based open-wheel racing series in an effort to ensure its
long-term success in the province and, specifically, at the
historic track in the Laurentians resort area.
For the Cirque, it could be the start of major participation in
motorsports.
Daniel Lamarre, president and chief operating officer of the
Cirque - speaking on behalf of Cirque founder Guy Laliberte, a
fan of auto racing - said the company has been involved with
projects related to sporting events, but the move to join Champ
Car's debut at Circuit Mont Tremblant June 29 to July 1 is the
most significant to date.
"The success we've had with (shows) at the Super Bowl and events
we created in the motorsport industry, like the launching of the
new Formula One car with McLaren recently in Spain, and having
been involved with the F1 Grand Prix party here for many years,
convinced us there is a linkage between motorsports and Cirque
du Soleil and sports in general," Lamarre said.
"Guy has travelled around the world to different racing events
and always thought something was lacking. There was not enough
glamour. Not enough of an experience," Lamarre added. "He wants
to prove at Mont Tremblant that it can be a happening."
{Source: The Montreal Gazette, Feb.15.2007}
The Big Uh-"O"? [EXPANDED]
{Feb.15.2007}
--------------------------
Last week, Cirque du Soliel, which has several popular shows on
The Strip, filed legal papers against Jeff Beacher, of
Beachers Madhouse claiming that a new promotion hes staging
for his return to the Hard Rock Hotel infringes upon their name
and reputation. Beacher fired back that he has no idea what
theyre talking about and wants them to publicly apologize.
The cease and desist order, filed Feb 5, claims that Beacher has
been using Cirques name and images to advertise an "orgasm
contest" that will take place during Beachers new shows
starting March 31.
Only Beacher claims he has never done any such thing.
According to the documents, Cirque is basing their court filing
on information posted on two obscure Indian websites,
IBNlive.com and theHimalayanTimes.com. Both sites published
stories that claimed Beacher was calling the event the "Cirque
du Soleil Contest" quite possibly misinterpreting the term
"The Big O" for Cirque's popular Vegas show, "O".
Neither story is currently online, but screencaps are included
in the full court document PDF file that is available online,
which you can find here: http://www.aolcdn.com/vegaspop/cirque-
du-soleil.pdf
In a press statement, Beachers lawyer Mike Heller said, "Mr.
Beacher appreciates Cirque du Soleil and would never use their
name in vain. We ask for a total retraction and apology from
Cirque du Soliel."
Cirque has not yet responded to Beachers request.
{Source: Las Vegas Logue}
CDS enlists The Cimarron Group for new KÀ Trailer
{Feb.20.2007}
--------------------------------------------------
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ - Cirque du Soleil
recently unveiled new creative for its popular Las Vegas show
"KA." A new trailer, television commercial and key art capture
and dynamically convey the show's adventurous journey in an
engaging, highly entertaining manner and style that is typically
reserved for a major motion picture launch.
The Cimarron Group, based in Hollywood, was tapped to create a
campaign that would engage consumers and communicate the visual
magnificence, awe-inspiring staging and experiential dimension
of the show.
"The Cimarron Group was respectful of our brand and the creative
team really got inside of the show and successfully brought our
brand strategy to life," said Cheryl Khaner, Director of
Marketing & PR for Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas. "The new
creative communicates the KA experience in a captivating and
exciting way."
Conceived by a team under the direction of Robert Farina, Chief
Executive Officer of The Cimarron Group, the campaign embraced
the agency's strengths in crafting a creative vision and taking
it from storyboards to screen with cinematic-style quality.
"We were blown-away by the grandeur and spectacle of KA and its
incredible theater and stage," said Nigel Williams, Executive
Vice President and Executive Creative Director for The Cimarron
Group. "Our mission was to create advertising that truly
reflects the emotion and experience of seeing the show and
delivers on the high artistic standard of Cirque du Soleil."
Since the production's premiere in February 2005, more than 1.5
million guests have seen KA at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. KA
unfolds on a colossal, 360 degree rotating stage, which forms
the dynamic landscapes for this heroic journey of adventure,
love and conflict. Featuring 80 artists from around the world,
KA is a gravity-defying production featuring perpendicular
acrobatics, Capoeira dance, projections, puppets and martial
arts.
"The new campaign delivers the right balance of strategic
thinking and creative firepower," said David Van Kalsbeek,
Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing, MGM Grand Las Vegas.
The new KA creative can be seen in rooms and on video screens
throughout MGM Grand and at McCarran International Airport in
Las Vegas, on television, online and in print and outdoor
advertising efforts. To view the trailer, visit
http://www.thecimarrongroup.com/.
# # #
The Cimarron Group is a Hollywood-based, award-winning global
marketing firm recognized for its strategic prowess and creative
excellence. For nearly 30 years, the 180-person agency has
successfully developed and executed innovative campaigns for
leading entertainment, automotive, and travel and leisure
businesses, including more than 600 major motion picture
launches, major attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood theme
park and the US re-launch of Lotus Cars. Current agency clients
include Cirque du Soleil, Coca Cola, Fox, Lieberman Research
Worldwide, Santa Barbara Convention and Visitor's Bureau and
Sony Corporation among others. The Cimarron Group can be reached
at (323) 337-0300, or visit the company at
http://www.cimarrongroup.com/.
CirqueCon's 2007 & 2008 Announced!
{Feb.21.2007}
-----------------------------------
Early Tuesday Afternoon, members of the CirqueCon mailing list
were privy to the following announcement regarding not only the
event for 2007 but also 2008!
# # #
As you might guess, we were very grateful for the outstanding
turnout for CirqueCon 2006, and the unbelievable access provided
by Cirque du Soleil.
Like all of you we had an amazing time. As organizers it was
humbling and gratifying that so many people joined us for the
incredible experience that was CirqueCon 2006: Las Vegas. It's
inspiring to have so many new friends!
Since then, we've been working and planning behind-the-scenes.
Because the possibilities are so exciting, we wanted our Mailing
List members to be the first to get the "head's up" info about
our current plans and initial time frames while we finalize the
actual dates and other details.
Not only are we pleased to announce an Event for 2007, we're
doubly excited to announce our Event for 2008 at the same time!!
* * *
We've been to Las Vegas, seen all their Cirque du Soleil shows,
and had a fabulous time. So what should we do now? "We're going
to Disney World!"
o) WHAT! - CirqueCon 2007: Orlando!
o) WHY! - Experience LA NOUBA
o) WHERE! - Orlando, Florida, USA
o) WHEN! - August, 2007 (Actual Dates TBA Soon!)
o) MEMBERSHIP COST - $15.00 by check / $16.00 via PayPal
to Orlando@cirquecon.com
And after Walt Disney World? Travel to the Land of the Rising
Sun to view a brand new show!
o) WHAT! - CirqueCon 2008: Tokyo!
o) WHY! - NEW resident show!
o) WHERE! - Tokyo, Japan (Tokyo Disneyland)
o) WHEN! - Fall/Autumn 2008
o) MEMBERSHIP COST - $20.00 by check / $21.00 via PayPal
to Tokyo@cirquecon.com
* * *
We're talking with Cirque about specific dates in these
timeframes that might work best for them (and as we always say,
nothing is guaranteed). So we don't have exact weekend dates
quite yet. But when we do you'll of course be the first to know.
Memberships are available now! Check out the website,
www.cirquecon.com, for information on how to purchase and what a
membership includes. We also have some information about our Las
Vegas event, including pictures of our badges and Program Book.
We'll be keeping in touch over the coming weeks and months as
our plans come together. Thanks for staying interested in
CirqueCon. You'll be hearing from us soon!
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- INFORMATION ON TOUR, ONLINE, AND ON-SCREEN
=======================================================================
o) ITINÉRAIRE - Tour/Show Information
================
ITINÉRAIRE
================
NOTE: The information presented below is for historical purposes only.
For current, up-to-the-moment information on Cirque's whereabouts,
please visit our website < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >.
[Touring Shows]
Alegría:
London, UK -- Jan 5, 2007 to Feb 11, 2007
Barcelona, Spain -- Feb 22, 2007 to Apr 29, 2007
Saint-Denis, France -- May 10, 2007 to July 15, 2007
Gijon, Spain -- Jul 26, 2007 to Aug 26, 2007
Corteo:
Atlanta, Georgia -- Dec 15, 2006 to Jan 28, 2007
Dallas, Texas -- Feb 9, 2007 to Mar 11, 2007
Houston, Texas -- Mar 22, 2007 to Apr 22, 2007
Columbus, Ohio -- May 11, 2007 to May 27, 2007
Denver, Colorado -- Jun 22, 2007 to Jul 8, 2007
Los Angeles, California -- Aug 23, 2007 to Sep 23, 2007
Orange County, California -- Nov 8, 2007 to Dec 9, 2007
San Diego, California -- TBA
Dralion:
Neuss, Germany -- Dec 7, 2006 to Jan 7, 2007
Tokyo, Japan - Feb 7, 2007 to May 6, 2007
Sendai, Japan - May 23, 2007 to Jul 8, 2007
Osaka, Japan - Jul 25, 2007 to Oct 14, 2007
Nagoya, Japan - Oct 31, 2007 to Jan 6, 2008
Fukuoka, Japan - Apr 23, 2008 to Jun 15, 2008
Quidam:
Dubai, UAE -- Jan 4, 2007 to Feb 28, 2007
Seoul, South Korea -- Mar 20, 2007 to Jun 3, 2007 (*)
Shanghai, China -- Jun 28, 2007 to Aug 26, 2007 (*)
Monterrey, Mexico -- Sep 27, 2007 to TBA (*)
Mexico City, Mexico -- Nov 5, 2007 to TBA (*)
NOTE (*): Unconfirmed Dates
Varekai:
Auckland, New Zealand -- Jan 5, 2007 to Feb 18, 2007
Canberra, Australia -- Mar 15, 2007 to Apr 8, 2007
Melbourne, Australia -- Apr 19, 2007 to Jun 3, 2007
Adelaide, Australia -- Jul 5, 2007 to Jul 22, 2007
Perth, Australia -- Aug 17, 2007 to Sep 16, 2007
Antwerp, Belgium -- TBA
London, UK -- Jan 10, 2007 to Feb 3, 2008
Amsterdam, Netherlands -- TBA
Cirque2007:
Montreal, Quebec -- Apr 19, 2007 to Jun 10, 2007
Quebec City, Quebec -- Jul 5, 2007 to Jul 22, 2007
Toronto, Ontario -- Aug 9, 2007 to Sep 2, 2007
Minneapolis, Minnesota -- TBA
San Francisco, California -- TBA
San Jose, California -- TBA
[Arena Shows]
Delirium:
Detroit, Michigan - Jan 24, 25 & 27
Grand Rapids, Michigan - Jan 31, Feb 1 & 2
Moline, Illinois - Feb 7 & 8
Minneapolis/St-Paul, Minnesota - Feb 9 & 10
Fort Wayne, Indiana - Feb 14 & 15
Chicago, Illinois - Feb 17, 18 & 19
Kansas City, Missouri - Feb 21, 22 & 23
Ames, Iowa - Feb 24 & 25
Green Bay, Wisconsin - Feb 28
Peoria, Illinois - Mar 1 & 2
Madison, Wisconsin - Mar 4
Indianapolis, Indiana - Mar 7, 8 & 9
Wichita, Kansas - Mar 12, 13 & 14
Oklahoma City, Illinois - Mar 15 & 16
Charlotte, North Carolina - Mar 21 & 22
Birmingham, Alabama - Mar 24 & 25
Shreveport, Louisiana - Mar 27
Batton Rouge, Louisiana - Mar 28
New Orleans, Louisiana - Mar 29 & 30
Raleigh, North Carolina - Apr 1 & 2
Miami, Florida - Apr 4, 5, 6 & 7
San Antonio, Texas - Apr 20, 21
Corpus Christi, Texas - Apr 22
Monterrey, Mexico - Apr 27, 28 & 29
Saint Louis, Missouri - May 4 & 5
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan - May 11, 12 & 13
Spokane, Washington - May 16 & 17
Salt Lake City, Utah - May 19 & 20
Colorado Springs, Colorado - May 27 & 28
Richmond, Virginia - Jun 12 & 13
[Resident Shows]
NOTE: (*) Prices are in United States Dollars (USD) unless otherwise
noted.
(*) Price reflected in brackets [] is inclusive of 10% Las Vegas
Entertainment Tax where applicable, but does not include
Sales Tax.
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tue through Sat, Dark: Sun/Mon
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2007 Ticket Prices (adults) / (child 3-9):
o Category 0: $112.00 / $90.00
o Category 1: $97.00 / $78.00
o Category 2: $79.00 / $63.00
o Category 3: $63.00 / $50.00
2007 Dark Dates:
o January 14 to 22
o March 18 to 20
o May 30 to June 4
o July 29 to July 31
o September 23 to October 1
o November 25 to 27
Mystère:
Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 20, 2007 (for performances January 21st on)
Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday
Two shows Nightly -
o Saturday: 7:00pm & 9:30pm
o Sunday: 4:30pm & 7:00pm
o Monday - Wednesday: 7:00pm & 9:30pm
2007 Ticket Prices:
o Category 1: $95.00 [$104.50]
o Category 2: $75.00 [$82.50]
o Category 3: $60.00 [$66.00]
2007 Dark Dates:
o January 4 to 19
o February 4
o March 21
o May 3 to 11
o July 11
o September 1 to 7
o October 31
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm
2007 Ticket Prices:
o Orchestra: $150.00 [$165.00]
o Loggia: $125.00 [$137.50]
o Balcony: $99.00 [$108.90]
o Limited View: $93.50 [102.85]
2007 Dark Dates:
o April 9 to 17
o June 10 to 12
o August 6 to 14
o October 7 to 9
o December 3 to 18
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm
2007 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!):
o Sofas: $129.00 USD [$141.90 USD] (Sold in pairs)
o Seats: $99.00 USD [$108.90 USD] (Lower Orcestra)
O Seats: $79.00 USD [$86.90 USD] (Upper Orchestra)
o Balcony: $69.00 USD [$75.90 USD]
o Stools: $69.00 USD [$75.90 USD]
2007 Dark Dates:
o February 4
o April 2 to 10
o June 4 to 6
o August 1 to 7
o October 15 to 17
o December 4 to 19
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday Tue, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 10:30pm
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 23, 2007 (for performances January 24th on)
Performs: Fri through Tue, Dark Wed/Thu
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2007 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12):
NOTE: Category locations change based on Early vs Late Show
o Category 1: $150.00 [$165.00] / $75.00 [$82.50]
o Category 2: $125.00 [$137.50] / $62.50 [$68.75]
o Category 3: $99.00 [$108.90] / $49.50 [$54.45]
o Category 4: $69.00 [$75.90] / $34.50 [$37.95]
2007 Dark Dates:
o January 9 to 22
o March 20
o May 15 to 19
o July 17
o September 11 to 15
o November 13
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 10:30pm
2007 Ticket Prices:
o Lower Orchestra: $150.00 [$165.00]
o Upper Orchestra: $125.00 [137.50]
o Lower Balcony: $99.00 [$108.80]
o Middle Balcony: $93.50 [$102.85]
o Upper Balcony: $69.00 [$75.90]
2007 Dark Dates:
o January 18
o February 11 and 12
o March 5
o April 19 to 23
o June 14
o August 16 to 20
o October 11
o November 29 and 30
o December 1 to 10
Winter Tale:
Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark Monday/Tuesday
Multiple Shows Daily -
Wednesday: 2:00pm, 7:30pm
Thursday: 11:00am, 7:30pm
Friday: 2:00pm, 7:30pm
Saturday: 11:00am, 3:00pm, 7:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am, 3:00pm, 7:00pm
2007/2008 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 2-12):
Wednesday & Sunday:
o Category 1: $99.00 / $89.55
o Category 2: $65.00 / $59.95
o Category 3: $40.00 / $36.45
Thursday, Friday & Saturday:
o Category 1: $200.00 / $180.45
o Category 2: $110.00 / $99.45
o Category 3: $75.00 / $67.95
o Category 4: $50.00 / $45.45
Previews for the 2007 season will be presented from
November 1 to 4. The official season will run from
November 6, 2007 to January 6, 2008.
=======================================================================
COLUMNS - BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
Within...
o) BIRTHDAY WISHES - Happy-Happy Birthday!
o) DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History
o) CIRQUETECH - The Technical Side of Cirque
=================
BIRTHDAY WISHES
=================
[January]
01/01/1980 Wieslaw Haczkiewicz Poles/Swing/Bungee Saltimbanco
01/02/1970 Robert Fertitta Singer Dralion
01/02/1973 Magalie Drolet Bungee/Poles Mystère
01/02/1979 Andrei Roublev Flying Trapeze La Nouba
01/02/1989 Yashi Zhao Handbalancing Dralion
01/02/1991 Batjargal Batmunkh Character Alegría
01/03/1971 Vadim Bolotskyy Trapeze/Korean Plank Mystère
01/03/1975 Bei Wang Chinese Poles Saltimbanco
01/03/1983 Olena Durnyeva Slipery Surface/Icarian Varekai
01/04/1975 Justin Osbourne Fast Tack/Character Alegría
01/04/1975 Pavel Taramykin Flying Trapeze La Nouba
01/05/1974 Marcos Casuo Russian Bars / Clown Alegría
01/07/1975 Suzie Gagnon Musician (Accordion) Corteo
01/07/1978 Olena Khomenko Slipery Surface/Icarian Varekai
01/07/1985 Ge Yi Diabolos Quidam
01/07/1988 Gu Lijiang Multiple Acts Dralion
01/08/1969 Valeri Sytchev High Bar Mystère
01/08/1973 Anja Wyttenbach Washington Trapeze "O"
01/08/1976 Norihisa Taguchi Skipping Ropes Quidam
01/09/1972 James Clowney Character (Ringmaster) Saltimbanco
01/09/1973 Filipa Filipova Manipulation Fascination
01/10/1969 Stéphane Drouard Character Fascination
01/10/1969 François Ducharme Chinese Poles/Bungee Saltimbanco
01/10/1971 Sandra Feusi Swing/Poles/Bungee Saltimbanco
01/10/1974 Iana Sotirova Manipulation Fascination
01/10/1976 Carla Maruca Dancer Mystère
01/10/1979 Dmitro Sidorenko Ropes/Banquine Quidam
01/10/1979 Robert Thompson Musician (Violin) Dralion
01/10/1981 Rui Ling Aerial Straps Delirium
01/10/1982 Dmitry Drevin High Bar Mystère
01/10/1986 Liu Dongliang Multiple Acts Dralion
01/11/1964 Ève Montpetit Singer Alegría
01/11/1976 Marylène Hickok Cradle / Dancer La Nouba/KÀ
01/11/1976 Tony Melvius Webs / Ropes Quidam
01/13/1971 Wang Yong Multiple Acts Dralion
01/14/1964 John-Paul Gasparrelli Director / Musician "O"
01/14/1966 Gonzo Muñoz Ferrer Clown Dralion
01/15/1960 Stéphane Allard Musician (Violin) Varekai
01/15/1969 Gabriel Manta High Bar / Poles Mystère
01/15/1978 Li Yang Teeterboard / Lights Dralion
01/15/1979 Xu Feng Chinese Poles Mystère
01/15/1988 Tian Yunlong Multiple Acts Dralion
01/16/1962 Alain Picotte Musician (Bass Guitar) Alegría
01/16/1967 Alexandre Leontiev Ropes/Banquine Quidam
01/16/1970 A. Daniltchenko Trampoline La Nouba
01/16/1976 Jailton Carneiro Webs / Ropes Quidam
01/16/1991 Wei Yi Wang Diabolos La Nouba
01/17/1964 Marc Gillett Musician (Keyboards) Alegría
01/17/1970 Brian Beech Power Track Alegría
01/17/1976 Stepanie Gasparoli Aerial Hoop Varekai
01/17/1986 Xin Zhao Diabolos Quidam
01/19/1971 Vladislav Lissenkov Plank/Poles/Fast Track Mystère
01/19/1975 Hong Hai Teeterboard / Lights Dralion
01/19/1977 Elena Solodovnikova Barge/Swing/High Dive "O"
01/20/1958 He Lan Hua Chinese Poles Mystère
01/20/1972 Leijka Sievert Character/Dancer Mystère
01/20/1976 Dmitri Koukva Ropes/Banquine Quidam
01/21/1974 Natasha Hallett Character (Green Bird) La Nouba
01/21/1980 Maryia Ushenka Swings/Poles Saltimbanco
01/22/1966 Martin Marcotte Musician Alegría
01/23/1970 Calvin Braxton Singer Dralion
01/23/1973 Kelly Tucker Bungee/Poles Mystère
01/23/1977 Darin Good Poles/Swings Saltimbanco
01/24/1959 Luc Tremblay Cycles Fascination
01/24/1971 Elsie Adelia Smith Duo Trapeze Saltimbanco
01/24/1971 Serenity Forchion Duo Trapeze Saltimbanco
01/24/1981 Huan Huang Ropes/Bamboo/Hoop Dralion
01/25/1975 Marina Trouchina Handbalancing Quidam
01/25/1977 Helen Ball Slipery Surface/TripTrap Varekai
01/26/1963 K. Besstchetnyi Ropes/Banquine Quidam
01/26/1978 Meghan Cox Trampoline La Nouba
01/27/1965 Zbigniew Bachor Poles/Swings Saltimbanco
01/27/1970 Yaijing Huang Foot Juggling Nouvelle
01/27/1989 Tian Gan Handbalancing Dralion
01/28/1970 Gypsy Snider Russian Swing Saltimbanco
01/28/1980 Jesus "Jesse" Villa Character (Satyr) Zumanity
01/28/1994 Viktor Chamanaev Character Saltimbanco
01/29/1973 Roni Bello Icarian Games Varekai
01/29/1974 Kris Burley FastTrack Alegría
01/29/1996 Maxsim Vintilov Adagio Trio Saltimbanco
01/30/1964 Evgueni Ivanov Character (Fleur) Alegría
01/30/1993 Du Xue Handbalancing/Ropes Dralion
01/31/1981 Belinda Schmid Synchro Swimming "O"
01/31/1992 Gao Siwen Diabolos Quidam
[February]
02/01/1955 Jim Bevan Musician (Keyboards) Quidam
02/01/1967 Andrei Ridetski Poles / High Bar Mystère
02/01/1968 Pierrette Arseneau Singer Alegría
02/01/1969 Wilhelm Penzes High Bar Mystère
02/02/1951 Oleg Kantemirov FastTrack/ Russian Bars Alegría
02/02/1965 Ben-Amar Djalal Clown Dralion
02/02/1966 François Jutras Musician (Drums) "O"
02/02/1973 Jean-François Bédard Musician (Bass) La Nouba
02/03/1962 Elisabetta Commare Boleadoras Saltimbanco
02/04/1969 Fabrice Garcia Dancer Mystère
02/04/1973 Albena Loukanova Manipulation Fascination
02/04/1977 Caroline Therrien Synchro Trapeze Alegría
02/04/1979 Vasyl Besha Slippery Surface/Icarian Varekai
02/05/1962 Carine Karkour Singer Alegría
02/05/1965 Alain Bradette Musician La Nouba
02/05/1967 Alexei Novozhilov High Bar Alegría
02/06/1962 Alexandre Ivanov Korean Plank Mystère
02/06/1964 Eric Newton Spanish Webs Quidam
02/06/1968 Jean-François Giguère Musician (Guitar) Saltimbanco
02/06/1978 Josianne Levasseur Bateau/Cadre "O"
02/06/1982 Elise Ray Bateau/Cadre/Swings "O"
02/06/1982 Kanako Kitao Synchro Swimming "O"
02/07/1970 Vladimir Sisov High Bar Mystère
02/07/1975 Éric Saintonge FastTrack Alegría
02/07/1981 Xue Wang Teeterboard/Ropes Dralion
02/08/1959 Wu Xinge Chinese Poles Saltimbanco
02/08/1969 Zheng Wei Chinese Poles Mystère
02/08/1974 Maxim Vlassov Ropes/Banquine Quidam
02/09/1955 Yongxi Li Drums Dralion
02/09/1976 Viatcheslav Volkov Russian Bars Alegría
02/09/1986 Katherine Samman Singer Quidam
02/10/1964 Michel Rice Plank/Poles/High Bar Mystère
02/10/1969 Wang Bing Poles/Hoops/Dralions Dralion
02/10/1976 Oleksandr Bogulya High Bar Alegría
02/11/1958 Bogdan Zajac Hand to Hand Mystère
02/11/1958 Denis Vachon Musician (Keyboards) Nouvelle
02/11/1975 Erin Michie Webs/Hoops Quidam
02/11/1980 Marie-Ève Bisson Aerial Hoop Quidam
02/11/1980 Olga Pikhienko Handbalancing Quidam
02/13/1965 Antón Valén Clown Alegría
02/13/1980 Kristen Powell Flying Trapeze La Nouba
02/14/1974 Martin Riesner Poles/High Bar Mystère
02/14/1977 Hao Desheng Multiple Acts Dralion
02/14/1977 Sharon Gruenert Poles/Swing/Bungee Saltimbanco
02/14/1979 Kristy Lee Wilson Trampoline/Cradle La Nouba
02/15/1977 Geneviève Bessette Aerial Hoops Quidam
02/16/1974 Jade Kindar-Martin High Wire La Nouba
02/16/1977 Olesya Shulga Straps/Chandeliers Corteo
02/16/1977 Rares Iulian Orzata Acrobat/Korean Rope LOVE
02/16/1979 Tyna Agostinelli Synchro Swimming "O"
02/16/1983 Namchinkhand Damba Contortion "O"
02/17/1981 Lisa Skinner Power Track Alegría
02/18/1973 François Lefebvre Swings/Barge "O"
02/19/1970 Shelly Mia Kastner Character Mystère
02/19/1971 Becky Dyroen-Lancer Synchro Swimming "O"
02/19/1972 Trevor Nassler Plank/Poles/Trampo Mystère
02/19/1976 Huang Hailing Teeter/Spirits/Lights Dralion
02/19/1978 Shan Jiang Teeterboard Dralion
02/20/1972 Julia Parrot Acrobatic Dancer KÀ
02/20/1981 Yi Wu Multiple Acts Dralion
02/22/1962 Ryszard Ostrowski Korean Plank Nouvelle
02/22/1964 Philippe Delaitre Clown Dralion
02/22/1969 Nicky Dewhurst Character (Christian) Zumanity
02/23/1972 Aleksandre Kourako High Bar Alegría
02/23/1980 Yvonne Tousek Trampo Beds/Tournik Corteo
02/23/1982 Yu Wang Diabolos Quidam
02/23/1993 Xu Yaxuan Diabolos Quidam
02/25/1971 Jean-François Gloux Fast Track Alegría
02/25/1979 Romech Mourtazov Russian Swing Varekai
02/25/1993 Ulziibuyan Mergen Contortion Alegría
02/26/1948 James Keylon Character ("Alfredo") Mystère
02/26/1957 Devin Streator Musician (Keyboards) Mystère
02/26/1980 Pavel Korechkov Ropes/Banquine Quidam
02/27/1948 Thomas Harris Musician (Drums) Dralion
02/27/1962 Daniel Cola Fast Track/Old Bird Alegría
02/27/1980 Isabelle Thomas Character "O"
02/27/1981 Tang Dan Chinese Poles Mystère
02/28/1972 Natalya Bashkatova Dancer La Nouba
02/28/1981 Liu Jing Lights/Ropes/Spirits Dralion
02/28/1987 Zhao Jian Multiple Acts Dralion
{Source: The CirqueTribune Database}
=================================
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
=================================
Didyaknow? - Alegría's Costumes
{Jan.05.2007}
--------------------------------
For this edition of <i>DidyaKnow</i> we've rummaged through
Fascination's archives to pull together a few interesting tidbits
about Alegría's costuming:
o) More than 90 costumes and numerous headpieces, masks, shoes
and garments were created in the initial production.
o) Designer Dominique Lemieux led a team of more than 80 people
to construct the intricate and baroque costumes for Alegría.
o) Each costume went through at least 10 drafts before the final
draft.
o) Alegría travels with more than 200 costumes, 300 pairs of
shoes, 100 wigs and 22 Old Birds masks.
o) Fabrics used come from all over the world and include silk
jersey, Lycra moleskin, Lycra miliskin, metallic and nylon
thread lace, natural silk and leather.
o) Approximately 500 balls of knitting yarn, 1,094 yards of
braid, 1,586 yards of lace, 22 pounds of glitter and 2,515
yards of silk jersey are used for the production of the
costumes.
o) 1,000 buttons, jewels and pearls and jewels are used for the
two singers' costumes alone!
o) Each "Old Bird" Mask is custom-made and worth about $10,000
CDN.
o) Alegría travels with its own Laundromat: 4 Maytag commercial
washers and dryers.
o) ERA detergent was reported to be used to wash the costumes.
o) $1 Million is spent each year in maintaining Alegria's
costumes.
Didyaknow? - Are Cirque du Soleil Volum 1 and 2 CDs Different?
{Jan.26.2007}
---------------------------------------------------------------
(From the CirqueFAQ)
[4.5.2] Are Cirque du Soleil Volume 1 and 2 different?
In 1987, Cirque du Soleil released the music for Le Cirque Réinventé on
their own in-house label - Nâga - and titled the CD/LP release "Cirque
du Soleil", as the show had yet been titled. In 1989, Cirque du Soleil
released a second version of the show's music and subtitled the release
"Volume 2" so as to avoid confusion between the two different albums.
In 1992, when Cirque du Soleil music interests were released through
the RCA/Victor label in the United States and Canada, only Volume 2 was
selected; therefore Volume 2 is the more widely known issue. But to
confuse matters, the RCA/Victor release did not include the "Volume 2"
notation.
To answer the question outright; yes both Cirque du Soleil Volume 1 and
2 are different. Volume 1 has a few selected tracks that were not
remixed for Volume 2 and Volume 2 features a few tracks from Volume 1
remixed as the show evolved.
Cirque du Soleil (Vol 1)
01: "Ouverture"............. (1:45)
02: "Personnages"........... (3:12)
03: "Chaise Musicale"....... (4:21)
04: "Bicycles".............. (4:00)
05: "Masha"................. (5:12)
06: "Les Pingouins"......... (4:20)
07: "Tango"................. (5:52)
08: "Trapeze"............... (6:02)
09: "Charivari"............. (4:01)
Cirque du Soleil (Vol 2)
01: "Ouverture"............. (2:27)
02: "Bulgares".............. (5:03)
03: "Boule 4"............... (1:06)
04: "Tango"................. (5:10)
05: "Trapeze"............... (5:58)
06: "Cadres"................ (4:27)
07: "Fil de Fer"............ (4:18)
08: "Bicyclettes"........... (3:51)
09: "Boules 1 à 3".......... (6:12)
10: "Les Chaises"........... (3:22)
11: "Entracte".............. (6:05)
12: "Pingouins"............. (3:25)
Neither album is currently available in the Cirque du Soleil Musique
label catalog.
Didyaknow? - The Poem of Zoë
{Feb.09.2007}
-----------------------------
DidYouKnow that besides early photo shots and music queues of Quidam's
many acts, the enhanced interactive features on Quidam's CD
encompasses "hidden" gems such as "the Poem of Zoë" and "The Poem to
Joe?"
Yes! Buried within the 256-color realm of Quidam's enhanced
interactive CD program are two recited poems, which give us a few
minor details of Zoë's state of mind and how the world we see is
created around her. One encapsulates the world as she sees it and
becomes the basis for the imagined realm of Quidam in which we see.
The other is a poem to "Joe" (which we'll explore another time) that
describes the physical stage on which Quidam will be performed.
I would like to thank fan G.M. Grena from Redondo Beach, California
for the inspiration for this week's column. It came thanks in part to
a comment made to our feature review of the Quidam in Seoul website.
The Poem of Zoë
Written by: Loch Ness / Read by: Liz MacRae
When Mommy & Daddy don't listen to me,
I can suspend them for a minute, or 2, or 3
Cuz after all, I'm busy too,
I've got a million things to do.
All my Quidams are on the go,
Ready to move & give a show.
Like there's Johnny & my friend, Karl,
When they grumble, never snarl,
If I don't tell them very soon,
Which one I'll take on my honeymoon.
So I consult my shamanitas in blue,
They tell me Johnny's a giant too big for me,
And one day he might be untrue.
Now Karl is a sweet, but frantic romantic,
He'll fly with ease from the highest trapeze,
to prove his love, for a turtledove.
The truth is, I'm not quite ready for Karl or John,
This is no time for me to marry,
When the world is in such a terrible mess.
S.O.S. to every Quidam!
To Mommy & Dad & all my friends,
Like Funny Bunny, who's a genius in ecology,
lovey-dovey & astrology.
Where's my Robin Hood with stripes forever,
So we can get our act together?
When Quidams go marching in,
rump-pa-ba-bump with a jolly din,
You'll wanna be in that number,
Out of the deep, mysterious slumber.
And far from human astronauts,
You shall become true argonauts,
Kiddy-Quidams, & beautiful forget-me-nots!
{Source: Cirque du Soleil, GM Grena}
Didyaknow? - The Poem of Joe
{Feb.23.2007}
-----------------------------
DidYouKnow that besides early photo shots and music queues of Quidam's
many acts, the enhanced interactive features on Quidam's CD
encompasses "hidden" gems such as "the Poem of Zoë" and "The Poem of
Joe?"
Yes! Buried within the 256-color realm of Quidam's enhanced
interactive CD program are two recited poems, which give us a few
minor details of Zoë's state of mind and how the world we see is
created around her. One encapsulates the world as she sees it and
becomes the basis for the imagined realm of Quidam in which we see (we
explored this last time in DidyaKnow.) The other is a poem to "Joe"
(which we'll explore in more detail this round) that describes the
physical stage on which Quidam will be performed.
I would like to thank fan G.M. Grena from Redondo Beach, California
for the inspiration for this week's column. It came thanks in part to
a comment made to our feature review of the Quidam in Seoul website.
The Poem of Joe
Written by: Loch Ness / Read by: Loch Ness
Look at this, Joe, now that's what I call a stage:
a gleaming stage, a beaming stage, a spinning stage,
29,000 beautiful square feet of bright aluminum,
color-coated with thousand [sic] pounds of liquid urethane.
The stage is set; the set is staged: the world of Quidam.
And that's you, Joe; that's me. We are Quidams!
They built an arch across the universe.
Built & bent 120 feet of shining steel, across the skies of the
big top,
big & bold in our sunset strip, 35 feet up in the air. What d'
ya say, Joe?
We can zoom up an armada of 10 computer-guided trolleys along those
giant tracks.
Hang in there, Joe! Standing up or upside-down like bats,
we can swing & twirl in space & never lose face.
It's our golden gate to glory, Joe!
Some day you'll understand.
Some day you'll know just where you stand.
You'll see. This is your odyssey.
One day, Joe, you'll be a great Quidam!
{Source: Cirque du Soleil, GM Grena}
====================================
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
====================================
[January]
* Jan.04.2007 -- Quidam opened Dubai, UAE
* Jan.05.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened London
* Jan.05.1999 -- Alegría opened London
* Jan.05.2006 -- Alegría opened London
* Jan.05.2007 -- Alegría opened London
* Jan.05.2007 - Varekai opened Auckland, New Zealand
(Asia-Pacific Tour Begins)
* Jan.06.2003 -- Premiere of Fire Within on BRAVO
* Jan.06.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Manchester
* Jan.06.2005 -- Varekai opened Houston
* Jan.06.2005 -- Dralion opened London
* Jan.07.1998 -- Alegría opened London
* Jan.07.1999 -- Saltimbanco Asia-Pacific Tour Began (Sydney)
* Jan.07.2003 -- Saltimbanco Euro Tour II began London
* Jan.07.2003 -- Varekai CD Released in US (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Jan.09.2004 -- Dralion opened London
* Jan.09.2004 -- Alegría opened Miami
* Jan.10.1999 -- Alegría: Le Film showcased in Palm Springs
* Jan.10.2001 -- Alegría opened Auckland, Australia
* Jan.13.2006 -- Saltimbanco opened Mexico City
* Jan.14.1997 -- Quidam CD Released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Jan.16.2003 -- Varekai opened San Jose
* Jan.16.2004 -- Saltimbanco opened Seville
* Jan.16.2004 -- Varekai opened Costa Mesa
* Jan.17.1999 -- Banquine Act awarded in the 23rd Festival du
Cirque de Monte-Carlo.
* Jan.17.2002 -- Dralion opened Houston, Texas
* Jan.19.2006 -- Quidam opened San Diego
* Jan.19.2006 -- Dralion opened Seville
* Jan.19.2006 -- Corteo opened San Jose
* Jan.20.2000 -- Quidam opened Barcelona
* Jan.20.2006 -- Varekai opened Miami
* Jan.23.2003 -- Alegría opened Dallas
* Jan.24.1995 -- Alegría opened Costa Mesa
* Jan.25.2000 -- Saltimbanco opened Hong Kong
* Jan.26.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened San Diego
* Jan.27.2004 -- Order of Canada bestowed upon Guy Laliberté
* Jan.28.1999 -- La Nouba Premiere Gala (Previews End)
* Jan.29.1997 -- Quidam opened Orange County
* Jan.30.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Costa Mesa
[February]
* Feb.02.2001 -- La Nouba celebrated 1000th performance [Friday, 6:00pm]
* Feb.03.2000 -- Dralion opened San Francisco, California
* Feb.03.2005 -- KÀ Premiere Gala (Previews End)
* Feb.04.1988 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Santa Monica (again)
* Feb.04.2007 -- Cirque du Soleil performs at Super Bowl XLI.
* Feb.06.2003 -- Dralion opened New Orleans
* Feb.07.2002 -- Quidam opened Miami, Florida
* Feb.07.2003 -- Region 2 DVDs released: Saltimbanco, Quidam, Dralion
* Feb.07.2003 -- Quidam opened Tokyo
* Feb.07.2007 -- Dralion opened Tokyo
* Feb.08.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Hambourg
* Feb.09.2001 -- Saltimbanco opened Fukuoka, Japan
* Feb.09.2005 -- Alegría opened Fukuoka, Japan
* Feb.09.2007 -- Corteo opened Dallas
* Feb.10.2006 -- Cirque announced/launched Fashion Line
* Feb.11.1998 -- Quidam opened Dallas
* Feb.14.2001 -- Dralion opened Miami, Florida
* Feb.14.2002 -- Saltimbanco opened Amsterdam
* Feb.15.2005 -- Cirque Music available on iTunes
* Feb.16.2001 -- Quidam opened Manchester
* Feb.17.2005 -- Saltimbanco (2005) CD Released (CDS Musique)
* Feb.19.1998 -- Alegría opened Madrid
* Feb.19.2002 -- Quidam Extended CD Released (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Feb.19.2004 -- Alegría opened St. Petersburg
* Feb.22.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Cosa Mesa
* Feb.22.2000 -- Alegría: Le Film CD Released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Feb.22.2007 -- Alegría opened Barcelona
* Feb.23.2006 -- Alegría opened Milan
* Feb.24.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Birmingham
* Feb.24.2005 -- Varekai opened Austin
* Feb.25.1988 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Calgary
* Feb.25.2001 -- Quidam opened Manchester
* Feb.26.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Bilbao
* Feb.27.2005 -- Dralion opened Amsterdam
* Feb.28.2000 -- La Nouba celebrated 500th performance [Monday]
* Feb.28.2002 -- Alegría opened Singapore
==========================================
CIRQUETECH: The Technical Side of Cirque
==========================================
CirqueTech - Illuminating "O", Part I
{Jan.12.2007}
---------------------------------------
In 1999, LiveDesign Media took a "plunge" into the underwater world of
Cirque du Soleil's "O", and in the process uncovered a great many
secrets about how this technical marvel functioned. In this
installment of CirqueTech, we're going to take a look at some of the
material LiveDesign published; specifically, the equipment used to
help illuminate the show night after night.
Illuminating "O", Part 1 of 2:
(2) Strand 550 lighting consoles
(3) Strand 520 consoles
(2) Flying Pig Systems Wholehog IIs
(1) Dell dimmer feedback PC
(1) Dell WYSIWYG system complete with PC
(1) Dell DMX patching computer
(1) Gray Interfaces Pathfinder DMX Router
(1) Strand SN 100 ethernet distribution
(2) Strand SN 104 ethernet distributions
(15) Strand 96-space dimmer racks
(6) Strand 48-space GFCI dimmer racks
(1) Strand 12-pack CD-80
(3) Strand Outlook stations
(350) Altman PAR-64s
(50) Altman 200W PAR-46s
(40) Altman outdoor PAR-64s
(12) Altman PAR-64 ACL bars, four 60? units per bar
(350) ETC Source Fours-50, 36, 26, & 19-degree
(75) ETC 5-degree Source Fours
(75) ETC 10-degree Source Fours
(24) ETC Source Four jrs.
(50) ETC Source Four PARs
(24) Altman single-cell Far Cycs
{SOURCE: "The Wizardry of O: Cirque du Soleil Takes the Plunge Into
an Underwater World" - Feb 1, 1999 12:00 PM, Ellen Lampert-Greaux -
LiveDesign Media}
CirqueTech - Illuminating "O", Part II
{Jan.19.2007}
---------------------------------------
In 1999, LiveDesign Media took a "plunge" into the underwater world of
Cirque du Soleil's "O", and in the process uncovered a great many
secrets about how this technical marvel functioned. In this
installment of CirqueTech, we're going to take a look at some of the
material LiveDesign published; specifically, the equipment used to
help illuminate the show night after night.
Illuminating "O", Part 2 of 2:
(6) Strand Beamlite 1000s
(18) Altman Nine Lights
(92) Uni-Parclear PAR-64s
(30) Clay Paky Stage Scans
(42) High End Systems Studio Color(R) automated wash luminaires
(44) Robert Juliat 2,500W HMI D'Artagnans
(2) Strand SuperNova 40/25 4kW HMI fresnels
(4) Robert Juliat Heloise short-throw 2,500W HMI followspots
(4) Robert Juliat Aramis long-throw 2,500W HMI followspots
(2) Pani1kW parabolic followspots
(12) Wildfire UV 401fs with douser
(24) High End Systems Dataflash(R) AF1000 strobe units
(100) GAM Products Star Strobes
(8) Altman outdoor UV units 1120' Tokistar 7.5W stringlights
(12) Remote Source Lighting fiber-optic projectors
(99) Wybron Coloram 7? scrollers
(60) Wybron Coloram 10? scrollers
(3) Wybron Coloram large-format scrollers
(33) Wybron Aquaram 7? scrollers
(24) GAM Products Twin Spins
(108) Hydrel 1kW pool fixtures
(24) Hydrel 75W 12V MR-16s
(192) Altman PAR-64s
(141) Altman 6' three-circuit ZipStrips
(14) Altman 3' three-circuit ZipStrips
(32) ETC Source Fours 50-degree
(32) Wybron Coloram scrollers
{SOURCE: "The Wizardry of O: Cirque du Soleil Takes the Plunge Into
an Underwater World" - Feb 1, 1999 12:00 PM, Ellen Lampert-Greaux -
LiveDesign Media}
CirqueTech - KÀ Tech Specs, Part 1/4
{Feb.02.2007}
---------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil has been, over the years, very guarded about the
technical aspects of its productions and in the past it was quite rare
to receive a glimpse into what made each show tick. But no longer.
Today we can explore the many facets of these shows, from its theme to
the brand of speaker or light shining overhead; including this list
provided by Cirque du Soleil. In this edition of CirqueTech, we
explore the second of four of these KÀ Tech Specs: the Sand Cliff Deck
and Gantry Crane, the Tatami Deck and the Stage Lifts.
KÀ Tech Specs, Part 1:
SAND CLIFF DECK AND GANTRY CRANE
o) The Sand Cliff Deck is an enormous performance space
measuring 25x50 feet with a six-foot depth and weighing
80,000 pounds.
o) It is supported and controlled by an inverted gantry crane,
which is essentially a giant mechanical arm attached to four
75-foot long hydraulic cylinders, that run along two support
columns.
o) The gantry crane can lift the sand cliff deck up and down,
rotate 360 degrees and tilt from flat to 110 degrees--all at
the same time.
o) The gantry crane and Sand Cliff Deck are powered by five
250hp pumps and a 3500 gallon oil reservoir.
o) The Sand Cliff Deck and gantry crane have a combined weight
of approximately 350,000 pounds.
TATAMI DECK
o) The Tatami Deck is another major performance space used in
KÀ. It measures 30x30 feet and weighs between 75,000 to
100,000 pounds.
o) The Tatami Deck can slide forward almost 50 feet at full
travel, like a giant sliding drawer. At its full extension,
it appears to float over the abyss.
o) It runs on two electric motors and uses hydraulic brakes.
STAGE LIFTS
o) There are five stage lifts used to create the performance
space and move props and artists during the show.
o) Each lift is raised or lowered by four to seven spiral lifts,
depending on its size.
o) The stage lifts move a maximum of 25 feet from bottom to top.
o) Four of the lifts have a maximum speed of 20 feet per second,
and the fifth can move at 60 feet per second.
o) The largest lifts cover 1400 square feet each.
{Source: Cirque du Soleil Press Room}
CirqueTech - KÀ Tech Specs, Part 1/4
{Feb.16.2007}
---------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil has been, over the years, very guarded about the
technical aspects of its productions and in the past it was quite rare
to receive a glimpse into what made each show tick. But no longer.
Today we can explore the many facets of these shows, from its theme to
the brand of speaker or light shining overhead; including this list
provided by Cirque du Soleil. In this edition of CirqueTech, we
explore the second of four of these KÀ Tech Specs: Dimensions of the
Theater, Scenic Elements, and the Video Projections.
KÀ Tech Specs, Part 2:
DEFINING DIMENSIONS
o) 149 feet From the high grid (ceiling) to lowest floor
level.
o) 98 feet From stage level (boardwalk) to high grid
(ceiling).
o) 51 feet From stage level to the lowest floor level.
o) 120 feet The width of the performance area.
o) 120 feet From the front of boardwalk to the back wall of
the theatre.
SCENIC ELEMENTS
o) The boat in the Storm scene weighs almost 1800 pounds and is
completely manipulated onstage by the artists.
o) For the Wash-up on the Shore scene, the beach is created
using 350 cubic feet of granular cork from Portugal.
o) The Climb scene runs the Sand Cliff Deck through a sequence
of moves that have it rotating up to 12 degrees per second,
tilting through 60 degrees, as well as showing off its
lifting motion. Artists are falling 60 feet into air bags
below.
o) There are 14 trees in the Forest scene made of corrugated
steel tube. Each has a diameter of four feet and is up to 80
feet tall.
o) The Wheel of Death in the Slave Cage scene is comprised of
two independent sets of circular cages that rotate around a
common axle. The movement is completely controlled by the
artists in the cages.
o) In the Battle scene, the artists walk on the Sand Cliff Deck
at a perpendicular angle to the ground. This is achieved
through individual high-speed winches for each of the 16
artists, who control their movements through wireless remotes
built into their costumes.
o) The scrim (sheer black curtain) is 75 feet tall by 140 feet
wide.
VIDEO PROJECTIONS
o) The video projections in KÀ are an intricate mix of computer-
generated effects and human input that turn the performance
space into a cinema screen.
o) To create the interactive projections that follow an artists
movement, the artists are captured by an infrared-sensitive
camera above the stage and their movements are tracked by a
computer.
o) Additionally, the performance area is formatted into an
oversized touch-screen that can determine the precise
position of each artist. The information gathered from them
influences the mathematical parameters of any number of
worlds that are then re-projected onto the space they occupy.
{Source: Cirque du Soleil Press Room}
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
---------------------------------------------------
"Delirium Ranks Near the Top... Sort Of"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
Posted: Jan.22.2007
---------------------------------------------------
It was recently announced that Cirque du Soleil's Delirium had made it
into the Top 10 tours of 2006, as published in the Year-End Charts
issue of Billboard Magazine.
Delirium came in at number six, beating out such popular acts as
Aerosmith, Pearl Jam and the Dave Matthews Band. Their $78.5 million
total gross was only bested by:
#1 - The Rolling Stones, $425 million (110 performances, average
$110 per ticket)
#2 - Madonna, $194.7 million (60 performances, average $161 per
ticket)
#3 - Bon Jovi, $131 million (78 performances, average $72 per
ticket)
#4 - U2, $95.8 million (32 performances, average $80 per ticket)
#5 - Tim McGraw & Faith Hill, $88.8 million (88 performances,
average $81 per ticket)
#6 - Delirium, $78.5 million (145 performances, average $88 per
ticket)
While this looks impressive, an analysis of the figures presents a
different view.
There are many factors that lead to a show's total gross dollars -
number of performances, theater capacity, attendance, and ticket price
being primary. It's in these numbers where Delirium lacks in relation
to the other acts in the Top 25 rankings.
Deliriums total gross is listed at $78,529,777. They sold out the
least number of performances, at two. Though they rank third in the
number of possible seats that they could have sold (1,356,514), they
sold 892,714, the lowest percentage (66%) of anyone on the chart. The
average attendance per show was also lowest, at 6,157 per show. Their
average gross per show was among the lowest, at $541,585; acts with
lower grosses had less performances and in all but one case charged
less than half of Delirium's $88 average ticket price.
Then how did Delirium get onto the chart? Hard work! Their total gross
is spread over 145 performances, far more than anyone else on the
chart except the Rolling Stones (at 110). They played more than twice
as many shows, on average, as any other act. The most shows at the
lowest attendance can still equal high grosses, a model that seems to
work for Cirque and presenter Live Nation. The opposite can also work
of course; Barbara Streisand is number seven ($76 million) playing
only 17 shows to 263,000 people, but at an average $289 ticket price!
It might be more fair to rate Delirium against other "special
performance" type shows, such as Cirque Dreams, against which it would
certainly excel on all financial fronts. It is the "odd duck" nature
of Delirium - not quite a regular Cirque du Soleil show, not quite a
musical concert in the traditional sense - that keeps it from fitting
into almost any category.
Here's a review of where Delirium ranks in the standings:
o) Total Gross - 6th
o) Total attendance - 9th
o) Total capacity available - 3rd
o) Number of shows - First
o) Number of sellouts - Last
o) Average attendance per show - Last
o) Average capacity per show - Last
o) Average gross per show - 21st
o) Average ticket price - 6th
---------------------------------------------------
"Quidam in Seoul: a Website Review"
By: Ricky Russo - Orlando, Florida (USA)
Posted: Jan.26.2007
---------------------------------------------------
On March 29, 2007, Quidam will once again make history by becoming the
first Cirque du Soleil show in history to premiere in a new region:
this time in the city of Seoul in the South on the Korean peninsula.
Earlier this year it was also Quidam that broke international ground
by becoming the first Cirque du Soleil show to be seen in the Middle
East - in Dubai, United Arab Emirates - now currently playing to sold
out audiences.
With these stops, Quidam is quickly becoming one of Cirque's "most
traveled shows," an honor conclusively given previously to Saltimbanco
for having traveled not only the longest (from 1992-2006,) but for
also having opened up so many new and exciting regions. In its travels
Saltimbanco was the first to open up all of Europe not just London &
Paris like Cirque Réinventé (in 1995,) visit Australia & New Zealand
for the first time (in 1999,) and, of course, South America (in 2006.)
Now that Saltimbanco has had its final curtain call, it appears Quidam
has stepped forward and taken up the mantra to continue exploring new
territories and opening up new ports of call for Cirque du Soleil. And
we couldn't have picked a better show to introduce to new audiences!
So, let us now take a look at the website for one of these new ports
of call - Quidam in Seoul - which you'll find at the following
address: < http://www.quidam2007.co.kr/ >.
About Quidam
------------
Quidam, which comes from the Latin for "a nameless passerby" marks
Cirque du Soleil's ninth production, premiering in Montreal on April
23, 1996. Since then it has been heralded as one of Cirque du Soleil's
quintessential productions, showing us that we are all Quidams. "It
could be anyone, anybody," the show's programme allows. "Someone
coming, going, living in our anonymous society. A member of the crowd,
one of the silent majority. One who cries out; sings and dreams within
us all."
In the world of Cirque du Soleil's Quidam, the one who cries out is
Zoë, a young girl who fumes because she believes she's seen everything
there is to see, experienced all there is to experience. For her, the
world has lost all meaning. Her anger, sharp and unforgiving, shatters
her little world and soon she finds herself in the universe of Quidam.
Within this universe she finds she is not alone - Zoë is joined by a
joyful companion (Target) and a more mysterious character (John) that
will attempt to seduce her with the marvelous, the unsettling, and the
terrifying.
The Website
-----------
An image of the show's iconic poster, featuring a Quidam in mid-
stride, brolly open and over his head, against a blue clouded sky with
the show's logo in red, accompanied by two selections: ENGLISH and
KOREAN awaits visitors to this language-specialized website.
Selecting KOREAN will take you to the meat of the site, and you'll be
offered the following five selections: "Quidam in Seoul," "Cirque du
Soleil," "Multimedia," "Tickets," and "Opinion." We'll explore each
one of these in order.
QUIDAM IN SEOUL
There are six sub-sections here: "About Quidam," "Acts,"
"Creators," "Big Top," and "Our Sponsors."
"About Quidam" - features a brief two-paragraph introduction to
the concept and theme of the show (in Korean Hangul only,) in
front of a menacing image of Boum-Boum.
"Acts" - features descriptions of each number that performs in
the show accompanied by a thumbnail sized image of each. The
Aerial Contortion in Silk artist appears as a backdrop.
"Characters" - showcases four main characters from the show -
Zoë, John, The Target and Boum-Boum, and briefly provides a
description of each - however, Quidam himself is most notably
absent from this list. Behind them, the character Funny Bunny
standing on its hands.
"Creators" - highlights the various creative souls, such as: Guy
Laliberté (Guide), Franco Dragone (Director), Gilles Ste-Croix
(Director of Creation), Michel Crête (Set Designor), Dominique
Lemeux (Costumes), Benoit Jutras (Composer), Debra Brown
(Choreographer), Luc Lafortune (Lighting), Francois Bergeron
(sound), and Nicolette Naum (make-up re-designer). An image of
Zoë's father reading his newspaper suspended in mid-air
accompanies the page.
"Big Top" - features a great full-color image of the Swirled
Grand Chapiteau as a backdrop and two pictures of the big top
(although, at the time of this review, only one image was
viewable.) Some text also appears below the two images; I would
assume facts and figures about the Big top itself; however, it's
in Korean and thus unreadable to this reviewer.
"Sponsors" - rounds out the first menu's options and functions
as a link page to the sponsors of Quidam in Seoul, which are:
MAST Entertainment, SBS, IMM Investment Corp, LG, Infinity,
Shinhan Financial Group, and Air Canada.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
There are two selections here: "About Cirque du Soleil" and
"Facts and Figures."
"About Cirque du Soleil" - is your standard brief history of
Cirque du Soleil: from Les Echassiers de Baie-Saint-Paul and Le
Club des talons hauts through to today. Accompanying Cirque's
painfully brief history is a wonderfully motion-captured shot of
Target and her long-stemmed sparklers.
"Facts and Figures" - features nine (9) bulleted factual points
about Cirque du Soleil and Quidam, but unfortunately it's all in
Korean Hangun, so it is unreadable by this reviewer. The Diabolo
Girls are featured as this page's backdrop.
MULTIMEDIA
"Multimedia" is a stand-alone option, but here you'll find two
short films in Windows Media format: the first, a 1:52 long
trailer featuring a montage of scenes from the Quidam DVD scored
to Réveil; and the second, a 1:43 long piece on the raising of
Corteo's swirled big-top. The Spanish Web performers serve as
the backdrop for this page.
TICKETS
While the rest of the site is in Korean, the Tickets page is the
only one you'll also find translated in English. From here we
can see the performance schedule, ticket information, seating
chart and all other pertinent information, such as:
o) Duration: March 29, 2007 through June 3, 2007
o) Site: Jamshil Olympic Complex Square
o) Performance Schedule:
.) Weekdays @ 8:00pm (no shows on Monday)
.) Saturdays @ 4:00pm and 8:00pm
.) Sundays @ 1:00pm and 5:00pm
o) Tickets:
.) Category 1 (R) - 110,000 KRW
.) Category 2 (S) - 77,000 KRW
.) Category 3 (A) - 55,000 KRW
.) Tapis Rouge - 200,000 KRW
o) Box Office:
.) Ticketlink: (02) 3774-2564
.) Interpark: (02) 1544-1555
.) Group Tickets / Tapis Rouge: (02) 541-3150
OPINION
Under this option there are three more: "Notice," "News &
Reviews," and "Freeboard." Since these options are features in
the Korean Language only, I am unable to determine their exact
content; however, "Notice" appears to be web site update
notices, "News & Reviews" is just that - news and reviews about
the show and tour, and "Freeboard" appears to be a comment and
discussion area for the tour and show.
SITE MAP
The site also features a nice SITE MAP (accessible from the
Korean front page,) which will quickly take you to any one of
the features I have discussed. And as a backdrop: the single
jump ropers (how's that for synergy!)
So there you have it. The website for Quidam in Seoul is probably one
of the less sophisticated language/region specific sites for a show's
tour that I've seen, but there's no denying that it does the job for
which it was built: getting the word out to the public about the show.
{fin}
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Quarterly Compendium
Volume 7, Number 1 (Issue #51) - Jan/Feb 2007
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2007 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.
{ Mar.21.2007 }
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