Copy Link
Add to Bookmark
Report
Fascination Issue 065 expanded
=======================================================================
______ _ __ _ __
/ ____/___ ___________(_)___ ____ _/ /_(_)___ ____ / /
/ /_ / __ `/ ___/ ___/ / __ \/ __ `/ __/ / __ \/ __ \/ /
/ __/ / /_/ (__ ) /__ / / / / /_/ / /_/ / /_/ / / / /_/
/_/ \__,_/____/\___/_/_/ /_/\__,_/\__/_/\____/_/ /_(_)
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
------------------------------------------------------------
=======================================================================
VOLUME 9, NUMBER 3 JUNE 2009 ISSUE #65e
=======================================================================
Bonjour et bienvenue! Greetings and welcome to another addition of
Fascination!, the Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter.
Pardon the dust as we gear ourselves back into a monthly publication
and make our newsletter more user friendly and more Cirque-centric. To
that end we've made yet a couple more changes since last issue. The
first - we tweaked the ITINÉRAIRE section again, reorganizing the
entires back into three, but slightly different, categories: Touring
shows (productions under the big top), Resident shows (those performed
en Le Théâtre) and Venue shows (Arena & Seasonal Productions. With
limited productions in each seperate category it only made sense to
combine them (and Cirque categories their shows in this way as well).
Secondly - we've brought back the PARTING QUOTE, something we've not
had in our pages since August 2005, so we hope you enjoy that as well.
Inside this issue we have a wonderful review of AQUA, the exhibit
at the Montreal Science Center sponsored by the ONE DROP Foundation,
by Gena Colton. You might recognize her name from the many badges
she's worn with us at CirqueCon. Gena had a chance to experience the
new exhbit while also attending the first few shows of OVO on the
Quays of old Montreal. She loved it! Keith Johnson shares with us
some thoughts on the newly released ZAIA CD album; next issue, Paul
Roberts, our previous contributor on all things musical, will weigh
in on the album too. And I had a unique experience with Saltimbanco
in Lakeland back in early May that I wish to share - the folks from
La Nouba showed up!
Besides our features this month, there's a plethora of news bits that
surfaced throughout the month and many exciting new entries through-
out all of Cirque du Soleil's social widgets. We've got all that
here within. So, think we've got a pretty exciting issue in store
for you, so please enjoy it!
Oh, and last but certainly not least, don't forget to celebrate
Cirque du Soleil's 25th birthday on June 16th!
That about wraps up this intro. Now, onto the issue!
Join us on the web at:
< www.cirquefascination.com >
Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only):
< http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 >
- Ricky "Richasi" Russo
===========
CONTENTS
===========
o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings
o) Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information
* Touring Shows -- Productions under the Big Top
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
* Venue Shows -- Arena & Seasonal Productions
o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets
* Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
* Networking -- Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & MySpace
* Telemajik -- Cirque on YouTube & Television
* Gatherings -- CirqueCon, Celebri & More!
o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History
o) Fascination! Features
*) "Kumbalawé-mana, Urulimé! - Saltimbanco in Lakeland"
By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
*) "ONE DROP Starts Ripple Effect - an AQUA Review"
By: Gena Colton - Perrysburg, Ohio (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
*) "The Spirit of Space: a ZAIA Album Review"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
o) Parting Quote
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
Cirque Unveils OVO [EXPANDED]
{Apr.08.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Ovo may just be a three-letter word in Portuguese for egg.
But as a logo for the new, biodiversity-themed Cirque du Soleil
teeming with acrobats in dazzling insect costumes, it has the
added advantage of a middle letter that can easily sprout
antennae and two os that can become eyes.
After several months of selling (tens of thousands) tickets for
the upcoming run of its new touring show, the Cirque du Soleil
has finally named its latest offspring.
OVO, the Cirques 25th baby, has arrived, coincidentally, during
the companys 25th anniversary year. In its early years, the
Cirque only launched a show every second year. But after it
began installing permanent shows around the globe, the show
count accelerated. Once OVO is under way, there will be 18 shows
running consecutively, and by the end of the year there will be
20. Yesterday, Montreal media were invited into the Big Top for
a glimpse of OVO and a chance to meet its creators, including
its first-ever female director, Deborah Colker, from Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil.
Among her many achievements, the 48-year-old Colker became the
first Brazilian to win the British Laurence Olivier Award for
Outstanding Achievement in Dance in 2001, for her show MIX.
Yesterday, Cirque artistic guide Gilles Ste-Croix shared the
stage with Colker, creation director Chantal Tremblay and
production director Benoît Mathieu. After brief speeches, a
portion of OVO took over the stage, offering a startling vision
of an insectarium gone wild to a South American beat.
Ste-Croix said Colker had been allowed to bring along her own
Brazilian composer, Berna Ceppas, and set designer Gringo Cardia
an unusual step for the Cirque, which has traditionally worked
with Quebec composers and set designers.
Costume designer Liz Vandal, however, is a Montrealer. Shes new
to the Cirque, but has designed shows for top dance companies
like La La Human Steps. Lighting designer Eric Champoux is
making his Cirque debut, too, although hes well known in local
theatre circles. Makeup designer Julie Bégin was born here, but
has been based for the last 10 years in New York City, where he
has worked with top fashion designers and celebrities.
Although it wasnt evident in the OVO excerpt, theres a love
story at the heart of the show between a gawky new insect in
town and a luscious Lady Bug, played by New Yorker Michelle
Matlock. A giant egg will be a prominent prop.
OVO represents a cycle of nature and the enigma of nature,
Colker explained.
Colker, who runs her own dance company and school in Brazil,
hired an international cast of 53, all acrobats rather than
dancers, then proceeded to teach them how to dance and act: Now
all these acrobats can talk through their bodies, she said.
She said it was a big change for her to work for the Cirque. Of
course, its still my signature, but its inside Cirques.
Cirque CEO Daniel Lamarre said he expects ticket sales to hit 60
per cent of capacity (230,000 for the Montreal run) by opening
night, with most performances becoming completely sold out
before the end of the run.
After Montreal, OVO will move on to Quebec City and Toronto
before beginning its U.S. tour.
{ SOURCE: Montreal Gazette }
Laliberté Invests in Le Massif Ski Resort [EXPANDED]
{May.04.2009}
----------------------------------------------------
Guy Laliberté, founder of Quebecs Cirque de Soleil, is pumping
$10 million into the Le Massif de Charlevoix skiing and leisure
centre near Baie St.Paul, on the North Shore east of Quebec
City. It is a private investment for which Laliberté gets a 10
per cent stake in the future all-season tourist centre.
"It's an excellent business deal and I can contribute to what
will become an international venue," he said. "Le Massif is a
gem that we must continue to polish."
For Daniel Gauthier, former partner of Laliberté in building the
Cirque du Soleil into an international entertainment marvel, the
investment marks a milestone. He has been trying to finance Le
Massif's development for six years.
"When I left the Cirque in 2001, I was certain our paths would
cross again," said Gauthier. "Now that's a reality."
{SOURCE: The Montreal Gazette}
Cirque in the Klondike?
{May.05.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Cirque du soleil, the internationally acclaimed circus troupe,
has shown some early interest in coming north to Dawson City,
Yukon, according to the territorys tourism association. The
idea of bringing Cirque du soleil to Dawson came up this past
weekend at the Tourism Industry Association of the Yukons
spring conference in the Klondike town, known for its rich gold-
panning history. TIA board chairman Rod Taylor said preliminary
calls to Cirque du soleil indicated some interest in the idea.
Perhaps coming soon to the Yukon: Cirque du Soleil. Stay tuned!
{SOURCE: CBC.ca}
Champion Pole Dancer Spices Up Zumanity [EXPANDED]
{May.05.2009}
--------------------------------------------------
Felix Cane has the almond eyes and feline physique of a cheetah,
and shes probably the only woman alive who got into pole
dancing because of her mother.
While visiting her daughter in Australia, Canes mother decided,
out of boredom, to take a free trial pole dancing lesson. She
came back raving about how much fun she had. So, Cane signed up
for a class, too.
Over the next three years, Cane, who was a studying biochemistry
and mathematics at a local uni, accrued an impressive
collection of awards for her pole dancing prowess, including two
Miss Pole Dance Australias and Miss Pole Dance World 2009/2010.
When not on the competition circuit, Cane taught pole dancing
lessons and worked in Australian strip clubs.
Lucky for Las Vegans, Cirque de Soleil snatched her up in
January of this year to join the cast of Zumanity at New York-
New York, where she performs a high-octane gravity-defying
routine as the character Flash five nights a week.
I really like my character, shes quite spicy, says Cane in a
British accent (she was born in London). Shes a bit of a rock
chick; shes in plaid and leather.
Executing inverted splits in a thong and six-inch heels is
pretty much the antithesis of Canes original dance of choice
ballet. Cane, who spent years practicing her jetés and pliés,
decided to quit ballet at age 17, because it was restrictive
and depressing.
There is a lot of pressure to look a certain way. Its very
hard to make it in ballet if youre not stick skinny.
But she highly recommends pole dancing.
Just do it! Its so much fun and you gain so much confidence in
yourself. You feel good; you look good. Its easy to get into
shape, because its so much fun. I havent met anyone who didnt
enjoy it.
Cane, who never took her clothes off while dancing in strip
clubs, also dispels the commonly held opinion that pole dancing
is slutty.
People automatically assume that they know what pole dancing is
before they have experienced and watched it, says Cane. Pole
dancing originated in strip clubs, and its a sort of sensual
dance, but I dont think thats a bad thing. There are many
types of dance that are very sensual tango, rumba, salsa and
they are very sexy and they dont try to be anything else. So, I
dont pretend that pole dancing is not sexy and sensual, but it
doesnt have to be vulgar.
Now that the best pole dancer in the world is a member of an
internationally celebrated acrobatic circus troupe, Cane is
having a blast as the sexy, flexible Flash and a newly initiated
Vegas denizen. Her mother, we assume, is very proud.
{ SOURCE: Las Vegas Weekly }
Wyndham Hotels Announces Cirque Offer
{May.06.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, an official sponsor of Cirque du
Soleil touring shows, is celebrating the return of Cirque du
Soleil to New York by combining an exclusive offer for the
troupes KOOZA performances and a special 15 percent
discount on stays at its participating New York City hotels.
Customers can access the exclusive KOOZA offer online by
clicking on a link provided with the Wyndham hotel Web
reservation confirmation and may choose to receive tickets
either electronically or by mail.
Accommodations are available at the newly constructed Wyndham
Garden Hotel-Manhattan Chelsea West at 37 W. 24th St. and at the
Wyndham Garden Hotel-Midtown Convention Center at 341 W. 36th
St. Reservations may be made online at www.wyndham.com or toll-
free at (877) 999-3223. From outside the United States, call
(506) 638-4899.
Both the Manhattan Chelsea West and the Midtown Convention
Center hotels are smoke-free and offer Herman Miller Aeron
ergonomic desk chairs; Wyndham Be Well bedding;
complimentary wired and wireless high-speed Internet access; 32-
inch, high-definition, flat-screen televisions with pay-per-view
movies; alarm clock radios with mp3-iPod adapters; and Bath
& Body Works True Blue Spa bath care amenities. The
Wyndham Garden Hotel-Midtown Convention Center offers Wyndham
ClearAir allergy-friendly guest rooms by PURE Solutions NA,
designed to remove up to 98 percent of allergens.
KOOZA is playing Tuesdays through Sundays at various times under
Cirque du Soleils trademark blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau -
or big top - at Randalls Island Park for a limited engagement.
The show revisits the origins of Cirque du Soleil by combining
two circus traditions: acrobatic performance and the art of
clowning. A full schedule and details are available at
www.cirquedusoleil.com.
Wyndham hotel guests must show proof of their KOOZA ticket
purchase at time of check-in. Rooms at the discounted rate are
subject to availability and blackout dates and other
restrictions may apply. Taxes and gratuity are not included.
Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to arrival date are
subject to fees.
{SOURCE: Wyndham Resorts}
Sean Lomax: Where is he now? [EXPANDED]
{May.07.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Fans of Cirque du Soleils Corteo will recognize Sean Lomaxs
name as the original "Whistler" from the show. Hes been off our
radar since his departure from Cirque du Soleil, but hes still
out there delighting audiences. Where is he now?
If youre in the Pittsburgh area you have a chance to catch up
with him - Mr. Lomax will be performing this Saturday (May 9th)
at a concert of the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra.
* * *
At a concert of the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra on Saturday
night, Sean Lomax will demonstrate the musical talent for which
he has twice been named an international grand champion. Mr.
Lomax, 49, of Braddock isn't a singer and won't be playing an
instrument. Instead, he will perform three classical numbers
using a skill he describes as "a lost art" -- whistling. The
concert -- "Around the World in 80 Minutes" -- will begin at
7:30 at Woodland Hills Junior High School, Swissvale.
Some who are unfamiliar with the musical pedigree of whistling
are skeptical at first, Mr. Lomax said. "But they change their
tune when they hear what I can do."
Mr. Lomax commands a three-octave range and has toured with
Cirque du Soleil's "Corteo" show. He also has made numerous
appearances around the world. Whistling achieved its greatest
popularity in America during the Big Band era of the 1930s and
'40s. Mr. Lomax noted it was normal for bands of that time to
keep a paid whistler on call. He said it was especially
gratifying for him to perform for older music fans who remember
songs such as bandleader Ted Weems' "Heartaches," in which a
whistling solo figured prominently.
While growing up in Braddock, Mr. Lomax said he was known -- and
sometimes teased -- as "that guy who's always whistling." When
he left the Pittsburgh area at 18 to join the U.S. Navy and
serve on a submarine, he said he met many people who suggested
he compete at the annual International Whistlers Convention.
"But no one ever knew where it was held," he said.
When he did make his first appearance at the competition, in
1985, he was unfamiliar with the rules and was disqualified for
going over the time allotted. But he received a standing
ovation. "I chose to whistle Beethoven's Fifth Symphony and
Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue,'?" he said. "Everyone else was
doing stuff like 'Chattanooga Choo Choo,' so I caused quite a
scandal."
He won the title of International Whistling Grand Champion in
1988 and 1992, and 2009 Entertainer of the Year.
Touring with Cirque du Soleil has been the high point of his
whistling career, Mr. Lomax said.
In 2004, after seeing him in several television appearances,
Cirque du Soleil's management asked him to audition in Las
Vegas. He premiered in "Corteo," in which he had a leading role,
in April 2005. "After that, there was no going back," said Mr.
Lomax, who quit his job as a network control technician in 2005
to focus on whistling full time.
In addition to TV and public appearances, Mr. Lomax performs at
private parties and frequently tours with Carnival Cruise Line,
performing and teaching whistling techniques. Those not familiar
with whistling may be surprised by what he goes through to
prepare for a major performance, Mr. Lomax said.
"First, I have to learn to breathe the piece," he said. To keep
the melody unbroken, he must whistle while breathing out as well
as in, without running out of air at mid-tune. "To keep in
shape, every few days I will whistle something challenging, like
all four movements of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony or Hummel's
Trumpet Concerto."
Mr. Lomax said that in contrast to many popular whistlers -- who
use a fast, staccato style -- he has a melodic style, using his
sound "more as a voice than as an instrument."
The three pieces he will perform with the Edgewood Symphony
include two usually performed by singers and one by trumpet: "O
Sole Mio," "Return to Sorrento" and Leroy Anderson's "A
Trumpeter's Lullaby."
Mr. Lomax said that in the music world, nothing is ever sure, so
he can't be definite about some exciting upcoming performances.
"But let's just say I might be appearing on a nationally
syndicated talent show," he said. "And I might be giving a
concert in Chicago in June." Mr. Lomax said that while being a
professional whistler can be unpredictable, he enjoys traveling,
meeting new people and using the unusual gift he's developed.
"It's not your usual career," he said. "But I really love
bringing whistling back to the people who remember it, and to
people who are hearing it for the first time."
* * *
Visit him at his website:
< http://www.whistleon.com/ >
{SOURCE: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette}
Cirque with a Dancers Rouch? [EXPANDED]
{May.07.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
You have to love Cirque du Soleil.
With the mega-successful Canadian organization getting ready to
celebrate its 25th anniversary on June 16, they might be
forgiven for wanting to rest on their considerable laurels just
a little bit.
But no, judging by their latest show, Ovo, which opened in
Montreal last night, they're always ready for a new challenge.
Cirque's detractors have always been eager to say that "all
their shows look the same," and although that's not strictly
true, there is a certain wistful, pastel-coloured, sad-clown
melancholy that one could find in most of them.
They break away from that mode in their permanent shows like Ka,
Love and Zumanity, but the touring vehicles, which is all we
usually see in Toronto, do have a certain faded commedia
dell'arte grandeur which can grow repetitious.
That's why Ovo is such a refreshing change. Anyone who thinks
that Cirque du Soleil can't still surprise them had better think
again.
There's been a lot of buzz in advance that this show was going
to be different because it marked the first time that a woman
Deborah Colker had been the director.
Yes, the show is different and Colker is the reason, but to
attribute it to her gender is backward thinking. The difference
is that Colker is primarily a choreographer and Ovo moves, looks
and feels like a piece of modern dance. Its firm placement in
the insect world makes for a consistency that is a welcome
change from the loosey-goosey format of previous shows.
Except for one stretch in the second act, the tedious old Cirque
comedy is gone. There are also no solo gymnastic acts shoehorned
in like they would have been on an old episode of The Ed
Sullivan Show.
In Colker's world, everything moves smoothly, sleekly and to a
purpose. The costumes of Liz Vandal and the lighting of Eric
Champoux use colours unseen in Cirque before now. Bold magentas
and vivid golds claim a stage which has been held hostage for
too many years by pastels.
The music of Berna Ceppas also gets away from the "new age"
prison that Cirque has been trapped in, substituting Latin
American rhythms that invigorate the action.
In fact, the whole event is quite smashingly entertaining, but
if one wanted to be picky, one could notice that there isn't as
much "Cirque" as before.
By that, I mean not only just the number of acrobatic acts which
have been replaced by dance movement sequences, but to the fact
that the overall feeling is a lot slicker and less of a feeling
of "street entertainer" than other Cirque shows have managed to
maintain.
Yes, there are overproduced moments, like a finale involving
green-garbed men, trampolines and a rock-climbing wall that
while impressive still feels like something Bob Fosse might
have phoned in from hell for the Power Ranger.
But all in all, one leaves with a feeling of exhilaration, and
the sense that the powers that be at Cirque du Soleil are
looking for new solutions to their second quarter century. Let
the games continue.
{ SOURCE: The Star }
Disney Passholders Save at La Nouba
{May.07.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
If you live in the Central Florida area and also a Disney Annual
Passholder, you can save at Cirque du Soleils La Nouba with 30
percent off the regular price of a Category 2 ticket for you and
three guests for select shows now through June 27th!
If youre not a Disney Annual Passholder, but are a Florida
Resident, you can still save on Category 2 seats from now until
June 27th too! Category 2 seats on sale for Florida residents at
$64 plus tax adults, $52 plus tax age 3-9.
Regular admission with a Category 2 ticket is $83.00 for adults
and $67.00 for children (3-9).
Category 2 seats include lower sections 101 & 105 (all seats),
and upper sections 203, 204 & 205 seats EE-LL, and sections 202
& 206, seats AA-HH).
Go see La Nouba and save today!
Cirque Vaudeville Presale
{May.08.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil is putting a contemporary twist on Vaudeville
by infusing this classic form of theatre with a modern flair.
This brand new type of Cirque du Soleil production will feature
comedy, dance and song. Get ready for an exciting fusion of
genres, directed by David Shiner - accomplished comedic actor,
Broadway creator and director of KOOZA from Cirque du Soleil.
Tickets for Cirques "new twist on Vaudeville", which will have
its preview performances at the Chicago Theater in Chicago, IL
beginning Thursday, November 19, 2009, is in presale for
CirqueClub members.
(NOTE: A Password will be required to complete the purchase. You
will find this password in the CirqueClub Exclusive Offers
section: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/
clubcirque/exclusive/exclusive.htm >
Presale ends Sunday, August 30th at 11:59pm Central Daylight
Time!
Find the SCHEDULE, PERFORMANCE TIMES and TICKET PRICE information
under the VENUES heading in our ITINERARY section!
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
OVO/One Drop Benefit Gala
{May.08.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
THE FIRST BENEFIT GALA IN SUPPORT OF THE
ONE DROP(TM) FOUNDATION
MONTREAL, May 8 /CNW Telbec/ - Cirque du Soleil is celebrating
its 25th anniversary this year, and to kick off the
celebrations, a 25th anniversary gala evening to benefit the ONE
DROP Foundation will be held tonight at the official opening of
OVO in Montreal. Several Montreal celebrities have contributed
to this benefit party, including Garou, Luc Plamondon, Guy A.
Lepage, Michel Côté, Fabienne Larouche, Mitsou, Stéphane
Quintal, Vincent Damphousse, Marie St-Pierre, Gilbert Rozon,
Alain Simard and many others.
For the very first time, Cirque du Soleil is breaking with
tradition and holding a benefit gala in support of the ONE DROP
Foundation at the official opening of one of its shows. Galas
will be held in Montreal, Quebec City and Toronto. Cirque du
Soleil will, of course, continue to pursue its dream by creating
new shows, but Guy Laliberté also wants ONE DROP to continue to
forge ahead in the future. With a number of activities slated
for the coming year-and the support of Cirque du Soleil-2009
promises to be a turning point for the Foundation.
Gala evening in Montreal - A generous success
The Montreal performance of OVO will welcome more than 1,700
guests who have agreed to make a donation to the ONE DROP
Foundation through the purchase of their ticket. The net income
from ticket sales for this event is $1,404,000. The show will be
followed by a colourful celebration of the companys 25th
anniversary.
Gala evening in Quebec City on August 23
The 25th-anniversary gala evening in Quebec City will be held on
August 23, following the final performance of OVO in the city.
For more information on the ONE DROP Foundation, visit their
website: < http://www.onedrop.org >
For further information on the Gala, contact: Chantal Côté,
Cirque du Soleil, (514) 723-7646 ext. 7326,
chantal.cote@cirquedusoleil.com
{SOURCE: CNW Telbec}
Church of Love: A Blessed Beatles Event [EXPANDED]
{May.12.2009}
--------------------------------------------------
Check out this groovy post on LOVE, featuring interviews with
LOVE Artistic Director Kati Renaud, Technical Director Paul
"Chumley" Reams, and Sugar Plum Fairy Michael Moloi.
* * *
Against the Beatle naysayers of the world, there is a well-
documented list of firsts that can be used to win the argument
on technical pointsfirst live, international satellite
broadcast (All You Need Is Love, 1967), first use of feedback
in a studio recording (John Lennons vibrating A string tacked
onto the intro of I Feel Fine, 1964), first rock band to
employ stadiums for live shows (started at Shea Stadium, 1965,
ended at Candlestick Park, 1966), first rock musicians to mix
amphetamines and strippers (the influence of amped, bored,
Reeperbahn strippers on the Fab Four is often overlooked).
Thats just a partial list, mind you, but it nicely illustrates
the significance of the band to anyone who needs a reminder.
However, everyone I know that loves the Beatles does so not for
their technical or cultural milestones. They love them for their
music, which naturally includes their spirit, which naturally
comes from their story. Loss and tragedy followed by success so
huge it becomes a sort of tragic burden in itselfthat is the
bands story. Pain, triumph, defeat, and victory for everyone
who followedin some ways, it is the archetypical martyred king
legend. Much time and music has since passed, yet still the
Beatles' victory survives as a memory, and thrives as an
influence, which takes us back to a winnable argument against
those who feel the Beatles were pop stars and nothing morea
sentiment that reminds me of the Python quote: What have the
Romans ever done for us?
A collective love for the Beatles' music, spirit, and story
(these words can be used interchangeably) is the lynchpin for
the huge success of Cirque du Soleils Beatles Love show,
playing for infinity (I hope) at the Mirage in Las Vegas. For
Beatles fans, the show is a deeply spiritual experience. For
fans of rock music, it is merely arresting. It is a very heady
thing, and the music is the star (thank god) beneath which
Cirques brilliant and colorful performers interpret the
Beatles' history and the evolution and demise of 60s cultural
movements. Put another way, Love is a live, Technicolor,
surround-sound, historical documentary that swings. Because of
this, much of the shows visual symbolisms mean one thing to
fans who know well the Beatles history and the 60s, and mean
something else only slightly less poignant to those who only
know the band by their infinite loop of hits.
And if youre anticipating four guys who can sing who happen to
kinda-sorta look like the Fab Four, you will be either relieved
or disappointed, depending on whether you approve of such
pastiche. In Cirques temple of Love, such a thing would be
considered sacrilege. George Harrison and Cirque founder Guy
Laliberté had begun collaborating on this show before George
passed. His wife Olivia, with the help of son Dhani, kept the
flame lit, Paul and Ringo blessed the event, as did Yoko Ono,
though perhaps not unconditionally.
This was not to be one of those county fair shows where four
guys take the stage in moptop wigs and end the night in fake
hippie beards. This is a show where the real Paul McCartney
doubles the verse on Come Together from right over your
shoulder. So clear, so intimate, yet perfectly mixed with the
music literally filling the space around you that you cant help
but turn and survey the source of Pauls vocal.
The show opens with a superb remix and remaster of the Beatles
impeccable a cappella harmony piece Because while a chimneypot
skylinepart Liverpool, part Saville Row rooftop concertrises
at the audiences feet. The stunning sound quality of the vocals
renders the audience pliable for transformation. This is
followed by a mash-up of several key Beatles song moments, as if
their life in music was rushing by. The mash-up parks on the
groovy Get Back, mixed with bits from other songs, while the
cast fills the stage with beautifully choreographed pandemonium.
The music morphs into Glass Onion, at which point the cast of
Love tears the skyline down. It seems to be pure Summer of Love
mayhem with a cast of characters I sort of recognizeFather
Mackenzie, Eleanor Rigby, the Nowhere Man, flower children, and
blossoming youths, including John Lennon as a child. As the
skyline is being destroyed, I realize that the mayhem is maybe
not so innocent and carefree. The song ends, the lights change,
and I quickly realize that the stoic, working-class England
represented in that chimneypot landscape has been reduced to
post-WWII London Blitz rubble. We are all back in the ashes that
delivered us this band.
And thats just the first few minutes.
It is at this point that I realize many tears will fall on this
night. Not just from being moved by the art of Love in sight and
sound, and not just from the melancholia of post-WWII Britain.
Tears will fall because I know how this story ends.
Cirque seems to be aware of the fire they are playing with, and
therefore carefully balance tragedy with triumph, similar to how
the Beatles' music inherently balanced Pauls sweetness with
Johns rebellion. As artistic director Kati Renaud states, When
one performs at Love, there is a strong feeling that they are
not performing at just another Cirque show. There is a part of
you that is involved in the wonderful world of the Beatles, not
just Cirque.
The embodiment of Pauls sweetness comes when the Sugar Plum
Fairy meets a very ripe Lady Madonna during her namesake song.
The Sugar Plum Fairy is played by South African street performer
Michael Moloi, who has a smile that can cure clinical
depression. Michael never heard the Beatles before he auditioned
for Love. Asked about this, he says, I never listened to their
music before in my life, but the more I listen to it every day
during the show, I feel moved by the lyrics, the beats, and the
style. The more I listen to it, I hear new things! Thank George
Martin for that, and perhaps his son Giles, who won Grammys for
their graceful remixing and mash-ups of Loves music.
{ SOURCE: Crawdaddy, the Magazine of Rock }
Saltimbanco Arena in Europe
{May.14.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Four cities have officially been added to the Saltimbanco Arena
Tour... and theyre in Europe. Tickets are on-sale now through
CirqueClub!
o) Helsinki, Finland -- Sep 17 to Sep 20
o) Turku, Finland -- Sep 30 to Oct 4
o) Oslo, Norway -- Oct 8 to Oct 11
o) Gothenburg, Sweden -- Nov 4 to Nov 8
Cirque to open Eurovision Song Contest Finale
{May.15.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Montreal circus troupe Cirque du Soleil will open the finale of
the Eurovision Song Contest, organizers announced Friday. The
internationally famous circus troupe, featuring spectacular
production and acrobatics, is promising to take Eurovision
viewers to a fantasy land in its opening number. The finale, to
be held Saturday, is watched by about 100 million TV viewers.
{SOURCE: CBC.ca}
Cirque Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary
{May.19.2009}
----------------------------------------------
LAS VEGAS, May 19 /PRNewswire/ - Cirque du Soleil is offering
specially priced tickets throughout the summer to celebrate its
milestone 25th anniversary. Guests can also enter the summer
sweepstakes for a chance to visit Las Vegas and see all of the
Cirque du Soleil shows like a celebrity VIP.
Cirque du Soleil is commemorating its 25th anniversary in 2009
with the theme "the dream continues." Since June 16, 1984, this
young Quebec company has never stopped dreaming. For Cirque,
2009 marks 25 years of dreaming, daring, and pushing the limits.
There has never been a better time to dream than this summer!
From May 11 through October 31 a limited number of specially
priced tickets will be available for select Cirque du Soleil
performances. Guests who purchase one ticket can bring a friend
for $25.
One lucky Cirque du Soleil fan will be randomly selected to
receive the Grand Prize package including:
o) Airfare for two to Las Vegas
o) Celebrity treatment at all seven Cirque du Soleil shows
- Mystere(TM) at Treasure Island, "O(TM)" at Bellagio,
Zumanity(TM) The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil(TM)
at New York-New York Hotel & Casino(TM), KA(TM) at
MGM Grand, The Beatles(TM) LOVE(TM) at The Mirage,
CRISS ANGEL(R) Believe(TM) at Luxor and the newest
production paying tribute to the music and life of
Elvis which will open in late 2009 at ARIA Resort &
Casino at CityCenter.
o) VIP treatment includes limousine transportation to the
shows, VIP tickets, VIP escort into the theatre, photo
with the cast, souvenir gift bag and signed cast
poster.
o) Four night stay at MGM Grand and four night stay at
Bellagio (eight days total)
o) Three dinners for two
o) Spa treatment
The specially priced tickets can be purchased by calling 1-866-
998-4830 and mentioning code "SUMMER". For sweepstakes
information, text SUMMER to 25025 or visit
cirquedusoleil.com/lasvegas for details or to enter.
{SOURCE: PRNewswire, Cirque du Soleil}
Cirque Connection: "Illusia" in Tel Aviv
{May.19.2009}
----------------------------------------------
If youve wondered what Andrew Watson has been up to lately,
look no further than "Illusia":
"Illusia" blends together Cirque du Soleil style acrobatics with
orchestral music played by the Raanana symphony. The show will
be playing from June 25th-June 27th at the Israeli Opera house
in Tel Aviv. Tickets can be purchased at the Opera box office or
online at the Operas website. The combination of gravity
defying acrobatics and music makes "Illusia" an exciting show
for all ages.
Famed director Christian Kolonko brings an acrobatic, musical,
sensory experience, to the Israeli Opera house with "Illusia".
The show combines award winning artists and classical music to
transport the audience into an imagination dream world. Music
will be performed by the renowned Raanana Orchestra and
conducted by Omer Wellber.
"Illusia" will feature an unbelievable array of sets and
costumes that takes the audience on a visual journey. The show
is artistically advised by Andrew Watson, the creation director
for such Cirque Du Soleil productions as "Zumanity" and
"Varekai". "Illusia" will be a blend of classical music and
aerial dance with elaborate sets and fantastic costumes.
The show is choreographed and co-directed by Cynthia Akanga, who
has worked as an assistant choreographer for Cirque du Soleil as
well.
{SOURCE: YNetNews.com}
Criss Angel in Wax
{May.21.2009}
----------------------------------------------
Las Vegas Fox 5 is reports that Las Vegas illusionist Criss
Angel will be the latest local celebrity to have his likeness
unveiled in wax. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas will display Angels
new statue Thursday afternoon. Angel himself will be on hand
with a group of children from the Make-A-Wish foundation.
{SOURCE: FOX 5 Vegas}
Yellow Submarine Surfaces in... Las Vegas?
{May.21.2009}
----------------------------------------------
Sing it with me: "we all live in a yellow submarine, yellow
submarine, yellow submarine." No? Okay, but will you come watch
it? From CineVegas:
CineVegas will present a rare screening of the animation classic
YELLOW SUBMARINE at Mandalay Bay Beach as part of the 2009
Festival. Sponsored by The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil, the
"dive-in" outdoor screening will be held on Saturday, June 13 at
9:30pm, with doors opening at 8:30pm.
"Mandalay Bay Beach is an ideal venue to add yet another unique
screening experience to CineVegas, as guests can float, swim and
even sing, all while watching the fate of the musical city under
the sea," said CineVegas Artistic Director Trevor Groth.
YELLOW SUBMARINE is a glorious visual and musical adventure that
has gained notoriety for its representation of the 60s
psychedelic era. Appropriately bizarre, the somewhat quizzical
story tells of the music-hating Blue Meanies that turn the good
people of Pepperland into statues. Naturally, its up to John,
Paul, George and Ringo to save the day, all while traveling in a
yellow submarine and getting into all types of far out fun.
Tickets priced at $10, not including applicable service charges,
will go on sale on May 20 and are available at all Las Vegas
Ticketmaster locations!
{SOURCE: CineVegas.com}
Chatting with Boris Verkhovsky [EXPANDED]
{May.27.2009}
----------------------------------------------
Halifaxs "The Coast" took a moment to chat with Boris
Verkhovsky, a Cirque du Soleil acrobatics director who is in
town with Alegrías Arena tour:
When racing greyhounds retire, they have to be retrained for
life off the track. When athletes - gymnasts, tumblers, divers,
synchronized swimmers - leave competition for a life in the
circus, they also have to be reprogrammed. And that, in part, is
Boris Verkhovskys job. As Cirque du Soleils acrobatic
performance and coaching director, hes responsible for 700 to
800 acrobats, out of 1,200 artists working for the circus
worldwide.
A grad of the Institute of Physical and Sports Culture in Minsk,
Belarus, and a coach for the national acrobatics team in the
former Soviet Union, Verkhovsky was initially hired in 1993 as a
consultant. Up until this year, he took care of all the
acrobats, but with 17 shows on five continents, the challenge
became physically impossible for one person. Now, he says his
role is narrowed to developing performances for new shows.
Verkhovsky is in town for Cirques Alegría (Spanish for
jubilation), on now at the Metro Centre. While six of the nine
Cirque shows happening in the world are under travelling tents
(our little city, as Verkhovsky refers to them), the
auditorium shows still sparkle with Soleil signature charm:
elaborate sets, grand musical compositions, exquisite bodies
dressed in exquisite costumes and daring acrobatics that will
have you praying for solid ground.
Almost 80 percent of the acrobats, says Verkhovsky, arrive
through amateur sport. Others come from the stage or circus
schools. General auditions happen around the world each year,
run by a casting department of 60 people. Verkhovsky says that
many candidates arrive through a virtual scouting process
through their website. But just because youre a top tumbler,
doesnt mean youre Cirque material.
When you look at people coming from sports, they are individual
sports, like gymnastics. Being a trampolinist, youre used to
performing by yourself. The notion of being a team is quite
abstract. When you come to Cirque du Soleil, you have to learn
how to be part of a team, to work with a partner, he says.
Verkhovsky gives the example of a gymnast on a balance beam.
You have a piece of equipment thats always the same and you do
whats necessary for the balancing. In Alegría, there is an act
we call Russian Bar, where two porters will be carrying
basically a pole vault, which you could think of as a balance
beam that a performer would stand on, but then they flex it and
put the flyer up in the air. The flyer performs complicated
routines and lands back on it. If I was to apply the same logic,
if I was to apply a gymnastics attitude-it doesnt work because
I have two porters that are responsible for the balance. To
surrender to them, psychologically, is very difficult. But if
you dont surrender to them, its like a car with two steering
wheels and two drivers trying to drive. It becomes a nightmare.
Also tough is going from performing a handful of times a year in
competition to eight to 10 times a week. They have to learn to
pace themselves, set performance targets that are reasonable and
yet exciting to the public. And, of course, theres the
artistic side: athletes cant go into the zone, they must be
present and ready to interact with audiences.
Statistically, a Cirque acrobatics career can last anywhere from
12 to 15 years. The cast of Alegría is fairly young, but
Verkhovsky mentions that one of the shows characters is a
former acrobat who was doing high-calibre acrobatics into his
mid-40s. I think what impacts it is a decision, says
Verkhovsky. Some people will perform one, two, three terms of
the contract and then move on to other things. But some people
will make a decision that this is their profession. Not what
they do, a profession. Its their lifestyle.
Running away with the circus? Its very true. A lot of people
dont know what theyre getting in to, but they fall in love
with it.
{SOURCE: The Coast.ca}
Get a Behind-the-Scenes Peek at KÀ!
{May.27.2009}
----------------------------------------------
Pssssst, have you heard? Cirque du Soleil is inviting the
general public to peek behind-the-scenes at KÀ Revealed. Come to
the KÀ Theater at MGM Grand on Thursday, May 28th. The first 100
guests are admitted free! Doors open at 4:20pm for this event.
Anyone going in the Las Vegas area? Let us know how it went!
{SOURCE: KÀ on Facebook}
Cirque 25: Stilt-Walking Event!
{May.29.2009}
----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year
with myriad events. One of them is a global stilt-walking event
and were invited to join in the fun!
On June 16th 2009, a Global stilt-walking event will take place
celebrating 25 years of Cirque du Soleil. Youre invited to join
the Cirque du Soleil troupe visiting your city, or organize your
own stilters parade in your neighborhood!
o) MONTREAL, Quebec | Cirque du Soleil HQ
o) LAS VEGAS, Nevada | With our 6 Shows teams
o) ORLANDO, Florida | With the La Nouba team
o) NEW YORK CITY, New York | With the KOOZA team
o) MOSCOU, Russia | At the Red Square
o) LISBOA, Portugal | With the Varekai team
o) MACAU, China | With the ZAIA team
o) TOKYO, Japan | With the ZED team
o) NAGOYA, Japan | With the Corteo team
o) FORTALEZA, Brazil | With the Quidam team
Times for the event will be available soon!
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
Edie, the "Mistress of Sensuality" [EXPANDED]
{May.29.2009}
----------------------------------------------
Christopher Kenneys job description is "Mistress of Sensuality"
in Cirque du Soleils "Zumanity" at New York-New York. The
description really belongs to his drag creation and other self,
Edie, an impossibly tall, black-haired throwback to 1960s
chanteuses with long, slender (and large-kneed) legs. Kenney
developed those legs as a professional ballet dancer in Oregon,
before creating Edie in 2000 in New York City. Kenney - and Edie
- joined "Zumanity" as its hostess in January 2008.
Q. Zumanity is more pan-sexual than the usual Vegas topless
revue or male strip show. How do you make the audience
comfortable?
Edie adds a finesse to it. She makes it accessible, so its not
scary. Im kind of scooping everybody up and taking them with
me, so everyone is us not us and them.
Q. Does being in drag make that easier?
Drag is a wonderful way to give you courage. If I walked into a
room like, Hi, everybody, Im fabulous! you would think I was
a freak. But if I put on a wig, its fun. For me, its a
character, not a lifestyle.
Q. How did you change your act for Zumanity?
Edies my 60s go-go fun girl, but this is sexier. We tweaked.
Im wearing a corset for the first time, which changes
everything, like nerve feeling.
Q. The Vegas audience is more middle America than New York City
or San Francisco does the audience get drag?
Theyre probably less exposed to it, on average. So during the
show, Edie acts as sexy and soft as possible and we try to keep
that suspense through to the conclusion, when I put my finger to
my lip and go, Shhh ... Its a fun little game to play.
Q. If you could change one thing about Las Vegas, what would it
be?
I would love for the gay community to be more of a community
like it is everywhere else, even in small cities. Where are the
gay coffee shops? Even the gay nightclubs are owned by
straights. Its all about money.
Q. How has Las Vegas surprised you?
I thought I would only tolerate Las Vegas. No. The sunshine is
addictive and I love the grocery stores all of these aisles of
food! And now I live in a big house instead of a 350-square-foot
apartment in New York City.
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun}
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) TOURING - Under the Big Top
{Corteo, Dralion, Koozå, OVO, Quidam & Varekai}
o) RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, «O», La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE,
ZAIA, ZED & Believe}
o) VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions
{Saltimbanco, Alegría | Wintuk, Vaudeville2009}
Note: While we make every effort to provide complete and accurate
touring dates and locations available, the information in this
section is subject to change. As such, the Fascination! Newsletter
does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of these listings.
NOTE (*): Dates so marked are not official until released by Cirque
du Soleil.
For current, up-to-the-moment information on Cirque's whereabouts,
please visit our website < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >.
---------------------------------
TOURING - Under the Big Top
---------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=39 >
Corteo:
Tokyo, Japan -- Feb 4, 2009 to May 5, 2009
Nagoya, Japan -- May 21, 2009 to Jul 12, 2009
Osaka, Japan -- Jul 29, 2009 to Oct 18, 2009
Tokyo, Japan -- Nov 4, 2009 to Dec 20, 2009
Fukuoka, Japan -- Feb 11, 2010 to Apr 4, 2010 (*)
Sendai, Japan -- Apr 21, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 (*)
Dralion:
Melbourne, Australia -- Apr 10, 2009 to Jun 14, 2009
Auckland, New Zealand -- Jul 10, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009
Monterrey, Mexico -- Sep 17, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009 (*)
Guadalajara, Mexico -- Oct 22, 2009 to Nov 15, 2009 (*)
Mexico City, Mexico -- Nov 26, 2009 to Dec 31, 2009 (*)
Koozå:
Baltimore, Maryland -- Mar 12, 2009 to Apr 5, 2009
New York, New York -- Apr 16, 2009 to Jun 21, 2009
Minneapolis/St-Paul, Minnesota -- Jul 3, 2009 to Aug 2, 2009
Denver, Colorado -- Aug 20, 2009 to Sep 6, 2009
Santa Monica, California -- Oct 16, 2009 to Dec 20, 2009 (*)
Irvine, California -- Jan 8, 2010 to Jan 31, 2010
OVO:
Montreal, QC -- Apr 23, 2009 to Jul 19, 2009
Quebec, QC -- Jul 30, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009
Toronto, ON -- Sep 3, 2009 to Oct 18, 2009
Quidam:
Fortaleza, Brazil -- Jun 11 to Jun 28, 2009
Recife, Brazil -- Jul 09, 2009 to Aug 02, 2009 (*)
Salvador, Brazil -- Aug 13, 2009 to Sep 6, 2009 (*)
Brasília, Brazil -- Sep 18, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009
Belo Horizonte, Brazil -- Oct 23, 2009 to Nov 22, 2009 (*)
Curitiba, Brazil -- Dec 4, 2009 to Dec 27, 2009 (*)
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil -- Jan 8, 2010 to Feb 7, 2010 (*)
Sao Paulo, Brazil -- Feb 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010 (*)
Porto Alegre, Brazil -- May 10, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010 (*)
Buenos Aires, Argentina -- Jul 23, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010 (*)
Santiago, Chile -- Sep 11, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010 (*)
Varekai:
Bilbao, Spain -- Mar 26, 2009 to May 3, 2009
Lisbon, Portugal -- May 15, 2009 to Jun 28, 2009
Gijon, Spain -- Jul 9, 2009 to Aug 16, 2009 (*)
Hamburg, Germany -- Aug 28, 2009 to Oct 4, 2009
Moscow, Russia -- Oct 23, 2009 to Dec 13, 2009
London, UK -- TBA
---------------------------------
RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
---------------------------------
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.
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=40 >
Mystère:
Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA)
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
2009 Ticket Prices:
o Category 1: $109.00
o Category 2: $99.00
o Category 3: $95.00
o Category 4: $79.00
o Category 6: $69.00
o Category 7: $60.00 (Limited View)
2009 Dark Dates:
o May 1 - 8
o July 8
o September 3 - 11
o November 4
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm
2009 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]
2009 Dark Dates:
o June 7
o August 3-11
o October 4
o December 7-22
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tue through Sat, Dark: Sun/Mon
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2009 Ticket Prices (adults) / (child 3-9):
o Category 0: $117.00 / $94.00 (+Tax)
o Category 1: $102.00 / $82.00 (+Tax)
o Category 2: $83.00 / $67.00 (+Tax)
o Category 3: $67.00 / $54.00 (+Tax)
o Category 4: $53.00 / $43.00 (+Tax)
2009 Dark Dates:
o May 17 - Jun 1
o July 28
o September 20 - 28
o November 17
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm
2009 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!):
o Category 1: $135.00
o Category 2: $99.00
o Category 3: $79.00
o Category 4: $69.00
o Category 5: $69.00 (Obstructed View)
2009 Dark Dates:
o May 25 - 27
o June 15 - 17
o July 13 - 15
o August 3 - 10
o September 7 - 9
o October 19 - 21
o December 1 - 14
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Fri through Tue, Dark Wed/Thu
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2009 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12):
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]
2009 Dark Dates
o May 10 - 18
o July 12 - 15
o September 6 - 12
o November 10
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2009 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 [$75.90]
2009 Dark Dates:
o June 11
o August 3 - 12
o October 8
o December 1 - 16
ZAIA:
Location: Venetian, Macao (China)
Performs: Tuesday through Sunday, Dark Monday
One to Two Shows Daily -
Tuesday: 8:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00pm
Thursday - Saturday: 7:00pm & 10:00pm
Sunday: 4:00pm & 7:00pm
2008 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 0-12):
o Category 1: MOP$ 1288 / No Child
o Category 2: MOP$ 788 / MOP$ 688
o Category 3: MOP$ 588 / MOP$ 488
o Category 4: MOP$ 388 / MOP$ 288
2009 Dark Dates:
o Not Available
ZED:
Location: Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo (Japan)
Performs: Varies
One to Two Shows Daily - Showtimes vary
2009 Ticket Prices (all):
o Category 1 ("Premium"): ¥18,000
o Category 2 ("Front"): ¥15,000
o Category 3 ("Regular"): ¥9,800
o Category 4 ("Overview"): ¥7,800
2009 Dark Dates:
o Not Available
BELIEVE:
Location: Luxor, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 10:00pm
NOTE: Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by
an adult. Children under the age of five are not permitted
into the theater.
2009 Ticket Prices (all):
o Category 1: $160.00 +Tax
o Category 2: $125.00 +Tax
o Category 3: $99.00 +Tax
o Category 4: $79.00 +Tax
o Category 5: $59.00 +Tax
2009 Dark Dates:
o May 3 - 11
o July 5 - 19
o August 11
o September 9 - 17
o November 10
o December 8
--------------------------------------
VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions
--------------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=251 >
Saltimbanco:
North American Tour
-------------------
Lakeland, FL -- Apr 29, 2009 to May 3, 2009
Gainesville, FL -- May 7, 2009 to May 10, 2009
Tallahassee, FL -- May 13, 2009 to May 17, 2009
Jacksonville, FL -- May 20, 2009 to May 24, 2009
Sunrise, FL -- May 27, 2009 to Jun 7, 2009
Tampa, FL -- Jun 25, 2009 to Jul 5, 2009
Estero, FL -- Jul 8, 2009 to Jul 12, 2009
Cypress, TX -- Jul 15, 2009 to Jul 19, 2009
Houston, TX -- Jul 22, 2009 to Jul 26, 2009
Phoenix, AZ -- Jul 29, 2009 to Aug 2, 2009
Salt Lake City, UT -- Aug 5, 2009 to Aug 9, 2009
Columbus, OH -- Aug 12, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009
Europe Tour
-----------
Stockholm, SE -- Sep 17, 2009 to Sep 20, 2009
Helsinki, FI -- Sep 23, 2009 to Sep 26, 2009
Turku, FI -- Sep 30, 2009 to Oct 4, 2009
Oslo, NO -- Oct 8, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009
Gothenburg, SE -- Nov 4, 2009 to Nov 8, 2009
Mannheim, DE -- TBA
Aarhus, DN -- TBA
Nice, FR -- TBA
Alegría:
Halifax, NS -- May 27, 2009 to Jun 7, 2009
St. John, NB -- Jun 10, 2009 to Jun 14, 2009
St. John's, NF -- Jun 19, 2009 to Jun 28, 2009
Providence, RI -- Jul 2, 2009 to Jul 5, 2009
Manchester, NH -- Jul 8, 2009 to Jul 12, 2009
Newark, NJ -- Jul 15, 2009 to Jul 19, 2009
Wilkes-Barre, PA -- Jul 22, 2009 to Jul 26, 2009
Hamilton, ON -- Jul 29, 2009 to Aug 2, 2009
Bridgeport, CT -- Aug 20, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009
Boston, MA -- Aug 26, 2009 to Aug 30, 2009
Amherst, MA -- Sep 2, 2009 to Sep 6, 2009
Syracuse, NY -- Sep 9, 2009 to Sep 13, 2009
Albany, NY -- Sep 16, 2009 to Sep 20, 2009
Rochester, NY -- Sep 23, 2009 to Sep 27, 2009
State College, PA -- Sep 30, 2009 to Oct 4, 2009
Pittsburgh, PA -- Oct 7, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009
Hershey, PA -- Oct 14, 2009 to Oct 18, 2009
Reading, PA -- Oct 21, 2009 to Oct 25, 2009
London, ON -- Nov 12, 2009 to Nov 15, 2009
Greenville, SC -- Nov 18, 2009 to Nov 22, 2009
Duluth, GA -- Nov 26, 2009 to Nov 29, 2009
Hampton, VA -- Dec 2, 2009 to Dec 6, 2009
Worcester, MA -- Dec 9, 2009 to Dec 13, 2009
Wintuk:
Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark Monday/Tuesday
Multiple Shows Daily -
Information regarding the 2009 season is not yet available.
Vaudeville2009:
Location: Chicago Theater, Chicago (USA)
Schedule: There are currently 59 scheduled performances between
Thursday, November 19, 2009 and Sunday, January 3, 2010,
on the following days:
o) Mon [02] - 12/28 (2)
o) Tue [05] - 12/22 (3), 12/20 (2)
o) Wed [11] - 11/25, 12/2, 12/9 (2), 12/16 (2), 12/23 (3),
12/30 (2)
o) Thu [03] - 11/19, 12/10, 12/17
o) Fri [05] - 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18
o) Sat [19] - 11/21 (2), 11/28 (2), 12/5 (3), 12/12 (3),
12/19 (3), 12/26 (3), 1/2 (3)
o) Sun [14] - 11/22 (2), 11/29 (2), 12/6 (2), 12/13 (2),
12/20 (2), 12/27 (2), 1/3 (2)
PERFORMANCE TIMES
o) Wednesday: 2:00pm, 8:00pm (12pm, 4pm, 8pm on 12/23)
o) Thursday: 8:00pm
o) Friday: 8:00pm
o) Saturday: (12:00pm), 4:00pm, 8:00pm
o) Sunday: 1:00pm, 5:00pm
TICKET PRICES
o) Adults (1-8 tickets):
PEAK / WEEKEND:
Regular: $48.00, $65.00, $85.00, $98.00
Premium: $150.00
Tapis Rouge: $300.00
NON-PEAK / WEEKEDAY:
Regular: $35.00, $45.00, $65.00, $82.00
Premium: $115.00
Tapis Rouge: $275.00
PRE-THANKSGIVING:
Regular: $23.00, $30.00, $50.00, $75.00
Premium: None
Tapis Rouge: None
o) Students & Seniors:
PEAK / WEEKEND:
Students and Seniors receive a 10% discount on regular
priced seats (premium and Tapis Rouge seats not
included) on Pre-Thanksgiving and Non-Peak/Weekday
tickets only.
NON-PEAK / WEEKDAY:
Regular: $31.50, $40.50, $58.50, $73.80
Premium: Not Available
Tapis Rouge: Not Available
PRE-THANKSGIVING:
Regular: $20.70, $27.00, $45.00, $67.50
Premium: None
Tapis Rouge: None
o) Group - Adult (9+ tickets):
PEAK / WEEKEND:
Regular: $48.00, $65.00, $85.00, $98.00
Premium: $150.00
Tapis Rouge: $300.00
NON-PEAK / WEEKDAY:
Regular: $28.75, $36.75, $59.00, $74.40
Premuim: $115.00
Tapis Rouge: $275.00
PRE-THANKSGIVING:
Regular: $17.00, $22.00, $40.75, $60.75
Premium: None
Tapis Rouge: None
o) Group - Student/Senior (9+ tickets):
PEAK / WEEKEND:
Regular: $43.50, $59.00, $77.00, $88.50
Premium: Not Available
Tapis Rouge: Not Available
NON-PEAK / WEEKDAY:
Regular: $26.25, $33.50, $53.50, $67.25
Premuim: Not Available
Tapis Rouge: Not Available
PRE-THANKSGIVING:
Regular: $15.75, $20.25, $37.00, $55.00
Premium: None
Tapis Rouge: None
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE'S SOCIAL WIDGETS
=======================================================================
o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
o) Networking -- Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & MySpace
o) Telemajik -- Cirque du Soleil on YouTube & Flickr
o) Gatherings -- CirqueCon, Celebri & More!
---------------------------------------
CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub
---------------------------------------
Saltimbanco - Life in Arenas [EXPANDED]
{May.01.2009}
What do artists need to perform? A stage. And who builds that
stage? The technical crew, or as it is called in arena tours,
the Production Team. As a first installment to "Life in Arenas,"
here are a few major differences between big top shows and arena
shows as far as the technical side is concerned. First of all,
there's the head honcho's title. Since our show tours arenas,
much like any other rock 'n' roll show does, we've had to
"transform" our Technical Operations Director into a Production
Manager so that people in the venues we visit know who we are
talking about. "Technical Operations" doesn't exist in rock 'n'
roll lingo.
One of the things that makes an arena tour interesting is that
each venue is different. Each venue has its own scoreboard (how
big it is, how low it hangs), ceiling height, bleachers,
different team room sizes, etc. During preproduction, you get a
drawing of what the arena looks like, but it's only once you are
there, that you actually know what is in store for you.
As an example; which of 4 ways will we use to anchor the
acrobatic grid? Remember we don't have tent masts and tent
spikes to anchor to! How cold will it be in the backstage area
since we're on ice? Will the female artists have enough space in
the one small locker room we have for them?
Each venue needs to be adapted to, and it needs to be done well
since our goal is to recreate the feel of a unique Cirque du
Soleil show in over 40 different arenas per year. We want our
audiences to forget they're in a hockey arena and succumb to the
magic that is taking place before their eyes.
On a big top tour, as part of the Technical Operations
Department, the Site Operations Team is a major player on a big
top show. These are the guys who put the site together, making
sure the tent is climate controlled, the fences are up, our
patrons have toilets, etc. On an arena show, all of the
"logistics" are taken care of by venue personnel. We rely on
them for heat/air conditioning, garbage removal, black outs in
the bowl (the part of the venue where the show actually happens
is in the shape of a bowl), etc. It's a big portion of the
Cirque "experience" to hand over control of, but with the many
meetings and briefings that are given to the venue staff, we end
up with a nice product for our guests.
On an arena tour, the next city is only a week away, so we're
always in the thick of it. A Saltimbanco arena load out is under
3 hours and load in is 8 to 10 hours. But that is something that
anyone on an area tour likes: the "go, go, go" feel of it. It's
definitely more invigorating for the Production crew since we're
loading in and out every week. And if we stay somewhere for more
than a week, people get antsy, just like on a 10-week city in a
big top. You get used to the lifestyle, and you want to keep
moving.
For Alain Gauthier, our new Production Manager, one of the great
things about arena touring is that you're always learning
something. You take with you the knowledge of a certain type of
venue, and you apply it to the next one you perform in. The
first time our Production team had to load in without a loading
dock, you could see the quizzical look on their faces, and hear
some very colorful language. But now that they've done it once,
it's a piece of cake to do it again. And at the end of load in
on Tuesday, they can't wait until Sunday night's load out!
Marie-Hélène Lowe
Special Correspondent
La Nouba - Portrait of Victoria Vazquez [EXPANDED]
{May.01.2009}
A few years ago, Victoria Vazquez was working for LOVE by Cirque
du Soleil as a costume attendant. Since April 2008, she is now
working at La Nouba as a trapeze artist. What happened? Some
miracle? A whole lot of training? Sheer Luck? The answer is:
None of the above. As far training goes, some was required for
the seasoned trapezist to get back in top shape. How can you be
seasoned at 24 years old, you ask? It really helps if you did
start dabbling with trapeze at the early age of 4, if you are
the daughter of Juan and Patricia Vazquez and the niece of
Miguel Vazquez. Yes, THE Miguel Vazquez, the world's first
trapeze artist to complete a quadruple somersault to the hands
of the catcher. The first one to "Catch the Quad" in trapeze
terms.
And, of course, the catcher was Juan, Victoria's father. The
Guinness Book of World Records even listed Miguel's quad, full-
twisting triple, and triple layout as being the world's first.
Born in Sarasota, Florida in 1984, Victoria and her twin sister
Veronica began performing professionally as trapeze artists at
the early age of 11. They traveled with their family across the
globe while performing in numerous circus shows. In the mean
time, they were being home-schooled by their mom, who was
performing in the trapeze act and also designing costumes for
the Flying Vazquez.
When the Vazquez family decided to stop performing a few years
ago, Victoria started working as a production assistant on shows
such as We Will Rock You, The Jersey Boys and Bette Midler. It
was also during this period that she worked for LOVE as a
costume attendant. "After all those years performing as a
trapeze artist, I really liked working backstage as a production
assistant, it was a completely different challenge", explained
Victoria when we met for the interview. "Working in stage
management and as a production assistant is something I would
like to do again when I retire from performing" she added.
Back to trapeze: In spring 2008, Victoria came down to Orlando
for an audition. She was selected and she accepted the job. That
meant leaving her family (and friends) for the first time to go
and live on her own.
Rapidly, Victoria began performing in the trapeze act. Being a
solid team player, she is much appreciated by her colleagues and
coaches. Robert Dawson, the trapeze coach, said: "Victoria is a
quick learner, she's well respected by all the trapeze artists
and she looks great out there".
When asked to describe who she really is, Victoria paused for a
brief moment and replied "I'm a shy person at first, but when I
know and trust people, I'm then very sociable."
Perfectly fluent in both English and Spanish, Victoria started
to learn French last fall, finishing her first college French
course with an A. Not too bad of a start, n'est-ce pas?
The soft-spoken 24 year old is almost always listening to her
iPod; she is very passionate about music and she enjoys singing
quite a bit. According to Sisaundra Lewis-Reid, one of La
Nouba's singers, Victoria has a really good musical ear and a
very pretty voice. Maybe someday we will be able to hear
Victoria sing for us
in the next Cabaret maybe?
Eric Bergeron
Special Correspondant
25 Years of Stories! - My touring experience [EXPANDED]
{May.01.2009}
UGO BERGERON - Box-Office Coordinator /// October 2004 was a
major first in my Cirquester career. I was going on tour, the
point being to give me a feel for life on the road after being
cooped up working only in Montreal. That's how I ended up on the
doorstep of Varekai, in the capital of the U.S. After a stint
in the box office (my particular area of expertise), I was
directed to shadow the head usher right in the big top. I was
therefore tailing my head usher one day, when she left me alone
with a Cirquador for a few minutes. It was during the
intermission.
Near the door, I noticed an open gate leading backstage, but
there was a one-metre drop. Out of concern for spectator safety,
I decided to close it. Of course, the second act starts off in
total darkness. There were a few artists parading through the
audience holding sticks with fireflies dangling from them. After
a few twinkling pirouettes, the artists were called upon to rush
backstage for a quick costume change.
You guessed it! The gate was closed, of course, and they all
banged into it. In the half-light I could distinguish bodies
piling up atop one another amid a chorus of swear words in lots
of foreign languages.
I chose that moment to sidle out and suddenly decided it was
time for my lunch break!
25 Years of Stories! - Wrestling Match [EXPANDED]
{May.25.2009}
JACQUES MARCOTTE - Artistic Coordinator /// It was the spring of
1994. My son, aged nine at the time, was on crutches as he had
been in a very bad sledding accident. The ushers kindly offered
us the very first row of the big top bleachers and we were ready
to experience Cirque du Soleil latest creation, Alegría. This
was our second Cirque experience, the first one being
Saltimbanco. At the time, I was already involved in theatre as I
was working as a freelance stage director and production
manager. I was attracted to some extent by Cirque du Soleil as
everyone was, but it seemed out of reach and, in any case, I
wasnt lacking work. The show started and, from the first
minute, we were transported by the magic and beauty of Alegría.
Then came the strongman act. He was a hulking man who twisted
bars of metal and played around with dumbbells. At one point,
the ringmaster (Fleur) asked me to come on stage to challenge
the strongman (I am 6 feet tall and weigh 150 poundsnot quite
the physique required for the task!). Sportingly, I agreed and
went on stage. The strongman then asked me to rip up a telephone
book and twist a bar of metal; I failed miserably.
The ringmaster then showed me the way out and, as I was about to
leave the stage, I suddenly had an idea. Before returning to my
seat, I turned to the strongman and removed my shirt, revealing
my scrawny body. I challenged him to a wrestling match, and the
crowd of 2,500 began to applaud, stomp their feet and yell.
Naturally, I hit the mat in no time at all; I put my shirt back
on and returned to my seat under the warm applause of the entire
audience. I was moved and my son couldnt believe his eyes. I
told my son that one day I would work for Cirque du Soleil. Two
years later I did, and that was 14 years ago.
I am still motivated and ready to meet any challenge... unless
it involves wrestling!
Saltimbanco - Life in Arenas [EXPANDED]
{May.25.2009}
As a second chapter to "Life in Arenas," let's have a look at
the Kitchen, or what we "arenites" call Catering. On a big top
tour, the kitchen is where you go to get some grub, take a break
and use the artist computers. On a rainy day, visits to the
kitchen can be scarce since you want to avoid walking outside.
On a sunny day, you get your food quickly and run out to get a
tan. But on an arena show, catering is where you are whenever
you're not at your desk or in your dressing room. You can always
grab a snack, read or sometimes even sit and watch TV. Some of
the catering rooms we've had have been unbelievable. The one in
Kansas City, Missouri, for instance, had a "game room" that
offered a two-seater video racing game and a ping pong table!
Other catering areas have been in the weirdest of places, like a
hallway, but we work with what we've got and everything seems to
work out.
Because the big top kitchen trailer doesn't change, the layout
is always the same. You always know where to find the bread, the
milk, the salad bar, etc. With arena shows, we change venues
practically every week and our catering area is rarely ever the
same shape or size. Finding "the essentials" can therefore be
tricky at times.
Our catering company has to deal with different kinds of spaces
all the time. Sometimes, it's a square room, while other times,
it's a round one, and it can even be outside, like it was in
Hawaii. The items offered don't change, but where you find them
does. One week, you'll pick up your utensils first, then your
hot meal, then stop by the salad bar and finally get a drink.
But in the following week, you may have to be careful or you
could do what I've done more than once already, which is set my
plate down, take a seat and realize I don't have a knife or fork
(insert expletive of your choice).
Even though there are some differences, one thing that never
changes is how popular the tour "eatery" is. Whether you are
under a "Grand Chapiteau" or in the arena where the Montreal
Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, or even the Edmonton Oilers play,
you know there will always be a place to gather, talk, laugh,
catch your breath and have a bite to eat.
Marie-Hélène Lowe
Special Correspondent
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & Myspace
---------------------------------------------------
{May.01.2009 | «O»}
John Maxson, 36, has performed in Cirque du Soleil's "O" for 11
years. Getting older has made it more difficult to stay in
shape, and he has had to adjust his workout to prevent injuries.
Learn how he is staying in Cirque shape!
< http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/videos/2009/may/01/498/ >
{May.01.2009 | La Nouba}
A Portrait of Justin Osbourne | Every three weeks, during Tapis
Rouge at La Nouba, our colleague Justin announces the visit of a
very special guest. Just a few weeks ago, Justins "special
friend for the day" was Emily DeAngelo, a 9 year-old girl with
Down syndrome. As always, Justin asked us to go and meet his
guests (in this case, it was Emily and her mother) in the green
room after Tapis Rouge. After the meeting, Justin proceeds to
the green room to put on his makeup so the invitee can witness
the transformation without being scared. As Justin said during
the interview, "They need to see the transition." All of this
happens very naturally, without any discomfort. Its fascinating
to see how the two new friends are quite at ease.
Read More:
< http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=76791534445&ref=mf >
{May.02.2009 | KÀ}
Noriko is this week's featured "calendar girl" in the Las Vegas
Weekly! She's gorgeous After & Before!
< http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2009/apr/30/
noriko-takahashi/ >
{May.06.2009 | LOVE}
College correspondent Josh Wucher did a fabulously fun feature
on LOVE with the last-minute help of LOVE cast: dancer Gillian,
acrobat Rob, skater Rafael, Kid of Liverpool Noah, head-spinner
Yousseff and "Walrus" Hassan! Check it out here (there is a
short commercial at the beginning)!
< http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=7472496 >
{May.08.2009 | KÀ}
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil is THE No. 1 MUST see show according to
Las Vegas Weekly! We couldn't agree more!
No. 1: Kà (MGM Grand). Yes, this is my only Cirque du Soleil
entry. Mystère is great but nowadays not that different than
what Cirques touring shows offer. Ive always felt O wasgasp!
boring. Zumanity or Criss Angel Believe? Whatever. And as
tough as it is to leave Love out, Kà is the best only-possible
-in-Vegas Cirque experience. The tale of imperial twins
separated and beset by danger-filled encounters makes brilliant
use of its $100 million showroom and a stage that, in its
twirls and swoops, redefines the very concept of a stage. Kà
is simply something that does not exist anywhere else in live
theater, and yet its triumph is also that technology enhances
rather than overshadows the human performances and the emotion
of the storytelling.
{May.14.2009 | Koozå}
Check out the pictures of our Press Conference on the Santa
Monica Pier previously this week!
< http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=
94268&id=34324811338&ref=mf >
{May.15.2009 | Koozå}
What does happen when KOOZA hits the street? Watch our artists
cruising around in a double-decker bus in NYC!
[ ] < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XB-0wb_yeS0 >
{May.22.2009 | Saltimbanco}
Tanya Jacobs, head of wardrobe for Cirque Du Soleil's
Saltimbanco takes us behind-the-scenes into the wardrobe
department of the show:
< http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1329229943?
bclid=1308023108&bctid=23862247001 >
{May.22.2009 | Saltimbanco}
Saltimbanco by Cirque du Soleil premiered in Jacksonville, FL
this week! Check out the pictures taken at the Veterans Memorial
Arena on May 21. Cirque du Soleil amazed the fans who braved the
weather Wednesday night. The acts included juggling, trapeze,
dance, music, bicycle stunts, and acrobatics. The show will run
at the Veterans Memorial Arena through May 24.
< http://photos.jacksonville.com/mycapture/category.asp?
eventID=758566&CategoryID=10519 >
{May.24.2009 | ZED}
Read our report on our two days special event "Thanks Mother's
Week-end" and view pictures!
< http://www.zed.co.jp/latest_news/detail_15_en.php >
{May.24.2009 | Corteo}
A day in the life of Corteo artists
[9:09] < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIYhSIbkG24 >
{May.25.2009 | Dralion}
Watch Today Tonight's story on Dralion in Melbourne!
[4:12] < http://video.yahoo.com/watch/4918545/13100952 >
{May.25.2009 | Dralion}
Go behind the scenes of Dralion, as filmed by Channel 10's
program 9am with David & Kim:
< http://9am.ten.com.au/video.htm?vxSiteId=4a40990c-a06c-
401b-8663-6f890bb8f3dc&vxChannel=9am+Theatre&vxClipId=1427
_9am_309lg2_170507_iv&vxBitrate=300&CMP=LEC-DANCEget
VideoLink >
{May.29.2009 | LOVE}
Check out what the new Stage Manager intern at LOVE, Travis
Brendle is up to!
So, this was my first official day at Cirque, but I was welcomed
into the family as soon as I arrived in Las Vegas. Ive been in
town since Monday and was able to meet the sm team (who are
fierce!), take a quick tour of the backstage (or the horseshoe)
and watch the show from a special VIP seat (a rolling chair). I
even got invited to a special party called hello/goodbye. I
got here at a really exciting time. Some of the artists are
leaving the show, while new artists are learning the tracks and
getting ready to make their premiere in LOVE. The Cirque folks
wanted to throw a party for whole company, old and new, so they
could unwind, relax and really get to know their fellow artists
and technicians. Let me just say, what a show.
So back to today. One of the perks about working for Cirque du
Soleil are the hours. I am not at all a morning person and my 3p
call time was very nice. I also wanted to make a good impression
on the team so I brought with me the best hello present,
cupcakes. After meeting the team, again, I went on an extensive
hour and a half tour of the LOVE Theater with Jenn Marshall, the
General (Lead) Stage Manager. I tried my best to keep up as she
showed me all of the intricacies of the theater from the six
Runways (one of the three ways the artists get onto the stage)
to the basement where all of the mechanics of the lifts and
traps live, as well as artist entrances. After our tour, I was
given a big book called the SM Bible (the first of two books).
The book has all of the information necessary to run the show.
It has examples of all artists tracks, paperwork and really
anything anyone could ever want.
After getting halfway through the book, in an hour and a half,
it was time for whats called Tapis Rouge, or Red Carpet in
French. This is a weekly meeting with all of the staff and
artists to check in and let everyone know of any events of the
week and all the amazing things the artists and staff of Cirque
are doing while not in the building. This was also the meeting
where I got to say a group hello to everyone at LOVE. I have to
say, the folks here have been incredibly nice and friendly
today. Such an amazing group of people.
After Tapis Rouge and a little more time soaking up all the
information in the SM Bible it was time for my first show of the
evening. The really exciting thing about this show is that it is
in the round, where the audience is seated around the stage,
three hundred and sixty degrees. During the 7p performance, I
was seated really close to the stage; in reality there is really
no seat that far from the action (the furthest is only 98 feet
from the center of the stage, the closest is 2 foot 9 inches
from the stage edge). I got to know two ushers, Kate and Laura,
and we chatted before the show about Cirque and how much they
enjoy working at the Mirage and seeing the show every night
(well 5 nights a week). The show just keeps getting better every
time that I get to see it. The second show, 9:30p I was able to
sit up in the balcony and see the show from a completely
different prospective.
After the show, the sms wrapped up their work, turned off the
computers and we all went home. The day was such a world-wind
that I had to immediately throw down all the events of the day
on paper, well the computer screen. I am so happy to be here and
excited to be learning from such amazing artists at Cirque du
Soleil.
{May.29.2009 | Saltimbanco}
The Marlins Cheerleaders (Mermaids) tried the Chinese Poles with
Saltimbanco at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise yesterday
morning! Check this out!
< http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=114667&id=
41245692958&ref=mf >
{May.29.2009 | Believe}
Party like a true celebrity - Every Wednesday night at the Luxor
Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas! Every Wednesday, CRISS ANGEL
Believe from Cirque du Soleil will roll out the red carpet for
service industry professionals: A special 2-4-1 offer on all
tickets to this mystical, magical, and mysterious production.
Coinciding with the LAX industry night, you can keep the magic
going and attend the hot LAX Nightclub after the show. Dont
miss our big kick off party on June 3rd, with special guest
appearances by the cast of CRISS ANGEL Believe! Please visit the
CRISS ANGEL Believe box office or call 800-557-7428 to book your
tickets now!
{May.31.2009 | Dralion}
For a behind the scenes look at Cirque du Soleil, currently
celebrating its 25th year. Reporter Jamie Durie takes a special
peek inside Cirque du Soleils headquarters in Montreal and
tries his luck on stage in Las Vegas:
< http://au.tv.yahoo.com/sunday-night/video/-/watch/13743373/ >
-------------------------------------------
TELEMAJIK: Cirque on YouTube & Flickr
-------------------------------------------
[FLICKR]
Website: < http://www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/ >
Nothing new on Flickr this month. We'll keep our eyes open!
[YOUTUBE]
Website: < http://www.youtube.com/cirquedusoleil >
Website: < http://youtube.com/CirqueLasvegas >
o) Cirque du Soleil - Stilts-walking world record
In 2004, employees at Cirque du Soleil International
Headquarters in Montreal set the first Guinness world record
for the most stilt-walkers together in one place at the same
time. The Japanese beat this record in 2006! The 25th
anniversary is the perfect opportunity to set a new record.
This time, claiming back the title from Cirque du Soleil will
be a major challenge.
[7:03] /// EN - < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGUA4uuMz7c >
[6:38] /// FR - < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tA4D61dYXKw >
o) Dance Auditions in Las Vegas, March 2009
[3:00] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYaY2AzsRqU >
o) KOOZA in New York City - Cirque du Soleil
[2:26] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XB-0wb_yeS0 >
o) p"O"rtrait of "O"
[7:36] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Onafv5rdfWE >
o) LOVE Parade in The Mirage
Performers in LOVE took the Sgt Pepper parade outside of the
theater for an afternoon. The parade went throughout The
Mirage hotel and pool area. Some guests even decided to join
in on the fun!
[3:03] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVNQ2ixtmIA >
----------------------------------------
GATHERINGS: CirqueCon, Celebri & More!
----------------------------------------
[CirqueCon]
Saturday, May 22, 2004, 30-plus fans of Cirque du Soleil from across
North and Central America came together in Vancouver to celebrate the
return of Quidam, which had just delighted audiences in Japan. From
that moment CirqueCon was officially born. The story of its genesis is
somewhat more complicated, suffice it to say two individual groups
decided to combine and make the trip together. Add in a little folly
from Cirque du Soleil and viola! CirqueCon came to be through the
efforts of Jeff Tolotti, Keith Johnson and Ricky Russo ("Richasi").
Today, CirqueCon is brought to you by: Keith Johnson, LouAnna
Valentine, Ricky Russo ("Richasi"), and Rich Alford.
In years past we've been to Vancouver (2004), for Quidam; Montréal
(2005), for Corteo; Las Vegas (2006), for LOVE and the other Vegas
resident shows; Orlando (2007), to experience La Nouba, and Tokyo
(2008), for ZED. Join us for the next two adventures: Monterrey,
Mexico (2009) to experience Dralion; and Hollywood (2010), for the new
Kodak 2010 show!
We'll announce or weekend date for 2009's trip in the coming weeks, so
please stay tuned! In the mean time, learn all about our 2009 trip
here:
o) Memberships:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/member.htm >
o) Show Tickets:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/tickets.htm >
o) Hotel:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/hotel.htm >
o) Itinerary:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/itinerary.htm >
o) Social Activities:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/social.htm >
Visit the CirqueCon website for further details on past,
present and future endeavors:
< http://www.CirqueCon.com/ >
[Celebri!]
From the Italian "to celebrate," Celebri! is a coming together
of friends to celebrate Cirque du Soleil in various geographical
settings. By supporting a small reunion multiple times a year,
Celebri! desires to ensnare the jubilant, ecstatic, and euphoric
feelings that well up inside each avid Cirque du Soleil fan and
nurture that festivity into a joyous and wonderful occasion with
friends and fellow fans alike! So join us for Celebri! in a
region near you - we announce the city and our timetable and all
you have to do is set your itinerary and join us! Celebri! Is a
partnership between Ricky "Richasi" Russo and Rich Alford.
Over the past year, Rich and Ricky have visited a number of cities
in search of Cirque du Soleil and had some amazing adventures.
Where've we been? NeW York City (Nov 2007), for Wintuk; San
Francisco (Dec 2007), for Koozå; Seattle (May 2008), for Corteo;
Las Vegas (Sep 2008), for Believe; and Seoul (Nov 2008), for
Alegría!
As of this writing, we've just finished our exciting trip to
New York City / Montréal for Cirque du Soleil's Koozå and the
premiere of OVO! We've got many more exciting adventures coming
up! Stay tuned for more!
Interested in joining us? Visit the Celebri website for further
details on past, present and future endeavors:
< http://www.celebri.org/ >
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- INFORMATION BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts about Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History
---------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------
o) Didyaknow the "Large Archer" in KÀ has the most complex
make-up design? His requires 43 different stages and 22
brushes to apply. All KÀ artists apply their own make-up, and
it takes from 45 minutes to two hours to complete. Three
make-up technicians airbrush the faces of artists for each
performance and many glue Austrian crystals to their faces!
o) Didyaknow that on Thursday, May 7th, "Rokardy" - La Nouba's
infamous chair balancer - added a ladder to his balancing
act, making the total height of the stack of chairs (and
other odds and ends) 37 feet from the stage?
o) Didyaknow that on Wednesday, May 20th, the cast and crew of
Cirque du Soleil's «O» welcomed a new synchronized swimmer?
She's the first Korean performer in Cirque du Soleil history!
o) Didyaknow that BELIEVE performed its 300th show on the
evening of Tuesday, May 26th?
o) Didyaknow that Saltimbancos Baroque characters were created
as a reaction to the conservatism of the Ronald Regan era? In
an interview given by Giles Ste-Croix in 1993 he said "Just
as the Baroque period was a reaction to the formal era that
went before, our Baroque characters are a reaction to the
conservatism of the Reagan era. Today, we have a new Baroque
era where anything goes and all lifestyles are seen and
acceptable, forms of dress, food and music."
o) Didyaknow that the 25-foot diameter sphere in ZAIA moves on
three axes? It consists of an exoskeleton and weighs 4,000
pounds. Its six projectors beam integrated images in a full
360-degree radius. The "Star Drop" on the back of the stage
measures 12,221 square-feet, or 121 x 101!
o) Didyaknow that the flaming pendulum of ZED swings above the
7.75-metre-high tightwire?
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
------------------------------------
* Jun.02.2006 -- LOVE Premiered at Mirage (Previews Begin)
* Jun.02.2007 -- Ernst & Young named Cirque du Soleil CEO Guy
Laliberté "World Entrepreneur of 2007."
* Jun.03.2004 -- Varekai opened Denver
* Jun.03.2004 -- Dralion opened Vienna
* Jun.03.2005 -- Dralion opened Rotterdam
* Jun.03.2008 -- Name of of "Cirque Tokyo 2008" Announced - "ZED"
* Jun.04.2003 -- Alegría opened Calgary
* Jun.04.2008 -- Cirque Partners with YuuZoo, Online Video Website
* Jun.05.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Cologne
* Jun.05.2008 -- Quidam opened Màlaga, Spain
* Jun.05.2008 -- Varekai opened Berlin, Germany
* Jun.06.2000 -- Dralion opened Denver, Colorado
* Jun.06.2002 -- Region 02 DVD release: Dralion
* Jun.06.2006 -- Cirque Las Vegas named 6th most popular attraction
in US by TripAdvisor
* Jun.07.1985 -- 1985 Tour opened in Sher-Brooke [Plateau Parc]
* Jun.07.1992 -- Fascination opened Nagoya
* Jun.09.1994 -- Alegría opened Ste-Foy
* Jun.10.2002 -- Official Title of 13-episode TV series announced -
"Fire Within", previously titled "A Fly on the Wall"
* Jun.10.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened St. John, NB
* Jun.11.2002 -- Alegría Extended CD Released (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Jun.11.2009 -- Quidam opened Fortaleza, Brazil
* Jun.12.2002 -- Alegría opened Denver
* Jun.12.2002 -- Dralion opened Portland
* Jun.12.2007 -- La Nouba celebrated 4000th performance [Tues, 6:00pm]
* Jun.12.2008 -- Corteo opened Vancouver, BC, Canada
* Jun.13.1992 -- Saltimbanco opened Ste-Foy
* Jun.13.2002 -- Announcement of NY-NY and MGM-Grand Shows
* Jun.14.2003 -- Varekai premiered on BRAVO at 8:00pm EST
* Jun.14.2005 -- Quidam CD Released (CDS Musique)
* Jun.16.1984 -- Official Birth date of Cirque du Soleil
* Jun.16.1984 -- 1984 Tour opened Gaspé
* Jun.16.1995 -- Alegría opened Toronto
* Jun.16.2002 -- Dralion burglarized in Portland; stealing $11,000
* Jun.16.2003 -- Mystère celebrated 4500th performance [Monday, 7:30pm]
* Jun.16.2004 -- MGM-Mirage and Mandalay Resort Group merged
* Jun.18.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Toronto
* Jun.19.2008 -- La Nouba celebrated 4500th performance [Thrs, 6:00pm]
* Jun.19.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened St. Johns, Newfoundland
* Jun.20.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Ste-Foy
* Jun.20.2002 -- Quidam opened Detroit, Michigan
* Jun.20.2008 -- Alegría opened Buenos Aires, Argentina
* Jun.21.1985 -- 1985 Tour opened in Ottawa [Plaines Le Breton]
* Jun.21.2001 -- Saltimbanco 2000 opened Osaka, Japan
* Jun.22.1999 -- La Nouba CD Released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Jun.22.2001 -- Dralion opened Chicago
* Jun.22.2005 -- Entertainment Complexes in Montréal announced
* Jun.22.2006 -- Dralion opened Malaga
* Jun.22.2006 -- Varekai opened Vancouver
* Jun.22.2007 -- Corteo opened Denver
* Jun.23.1984 -- 1984 Tour opened Bai-Comeau
* Jun.24.1999 -- Dralion opened Quebec
* Jun.24.2004 -- Quidam opened Calgary
* Jun.24.2008 -- Koozå CD Released US/Canada
* Jun.25.1992 -- Fascination opened Hiroshima
* Jun.25.2004 -- Saltimbanco opened Gijon
* Jun.25.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Tampa, FL
* Jun.26.2005 -- Alegría opened Osaka
* Jun.26.2008 -- Koozå opened Chicago, IL
* Jun.27.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Ste-Foy
* Jun.27.2002 -- Vaerkai opened Quebec City
* Jun.27.2004 -- Mystère celebrated 5000th performance [Sunday, 7:30pm]
* Jun.28.1984 -- 1984 Tour opened Jonquière
* Jun.28.2007 -- Quidam opened Shanghai, China (First time in China!)
* Jun.29.1999 -- La Nouba CD Released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Jun.29.1999 -- Dralion opened in Toronto
* Jun.30.2005 -- Corteo opened Quebec City
* Jun.30.2005 -- Quidam opened Perth
* Jun.30.2005 -- Varekai opened East Rutherford
* Jun.30.2006 -- LOVE Gala Premiere (Previews End)
* Jun.30.2008 -- BELIEVE officially delayed (#1)
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
Within...
o) "Kumbalawé-mana, Urulimé! - Saltimbanco in Lakeland"
By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA)
o) "ONE DROP Starts Ripple Effect - an AQUA Review"
By: Gena Colton - Perrysburg, Ohio (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
o) "The Spirit of Space: a ZAIA Album Review"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
"Kumbalawé-mana, Urulimé! - Saltimbanco in Lakeland"
By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
If you ever need re-affirmation that Cirque du Soleil still has some
magic left within, I invite you to experience Saltimbanco on its arena
tour. Despite the lack of intimacy one finds inside the Grand
Chapiteau, Saltimbanco is still as fresh, as fun, and as colorful as
it was on the day it premiered. Those infamous Baroques are every bit
the worthy ambassadors Cirque has set them up to be (having used
Saltimbanco to open up new markets for the past few years), and I
cannot imagine the day when the Cavaliers' light is extinguished over
them forever. When that day finally comes it will be a sad one indeed
because we will be without one of the best and shining examples of
classic Cirque du Soleil spectacles that still remains relevant years
after its first tour began. I may weep...
Saltimbanco is a phantasmagorical exploration into metropolis life in
all its myriad forms, and everything that shapes it: the people, their
idiosyncrasies and the roles they play. With the majority of Earths
population destined to live in large, sprawling cities, Saltimbanco
was created as an antidote to the violence and despair typically found
within, and proposes a new vision of urbanity, overflowing with
optimism and happiness; a kaleidoscopic adventure in which anything
can happen in an imaginary city where diversity is a cause for hope.
The framework of Saltimbanco - the characters - like all human beings,
are born with nothing. These are the Worms, at the very base of
society. All similar in appearance yet different one from the other,
they must with time adapt themselves to their environment. Thus,
throughout the fable, they embody various types of social characters,
hoping to one day accede to the rank of Baroque, a cast of
visionaries. The Baroques constitute the most important family in the
world of Saltimbanco. Armed with a deeply perceptive vision of the
world, the Baroques reveal the countless contradictions of our
civilization and show us that imagination is our power.
Tonight I spent the evening at Saltimbanco in Lakeland.
I told myself there was only a slim possibility - a 1% chance at best
- that I would see the show in Lakeland tonight (I do have plans to
see Saltimbanco in Tampa Bay), but when I awoke this morning and shook
off the sleep inertia, I quickly fell uninterested in the item I was
working on, so I began to think and made a decision.
It turned out to be an excellent one -- Saltimbanco tonight was the
most awesomeist ever! And I came away with an excitement about Cirque
du Soleil that I haven't had in months. Thank you Saltimbanco. Truly,
thank you.
Everyone performed to perfection tonight - the entire cast was light,
airy and so involved with their character; seeing such happiness and
enjoyment of one's persona tickled me to no end. It's wonderful when
a performer gets deeply into his or her character so much so that
their personalitys merge; that's what you see here at Saltimbanco.
That enjoyment trickled over to the artists performing acts on-stage;
every number went on tonight - nothing was missing (except for the
female Boledora, and that I can forgive as the male lived it up like
nobody's business). Even duo trapeze was on, which I had heard in
conversation sometimes isn't performed on the final day of
performances. I even lucked out with the crowd, as those in attendance
(at about 75%) were very into the show, even though not every seat was
filled.
But there's probably a reason for all the great reception.
It appears folks from La Nouba were in the house tonight (seated to my
right) and they were "living it up", as it were. Of course, the
performers at Saltimbanco had nothing but warm welcomes for them,
which they showcased on-stage: some dressed as La Nouba characters!
The first nod to the cirqusters in the audience came in the opening
dance for the shows' second half - the green bird appeared under the
musicians stand, cavorting around! Most of the audience knew nothing
different, but me, and the entire section to my right, whooped,
hollered and cheered! The Green Bird appeared only briefly, as
compared to the other Baroque characters, but her little quick tip-toe
dance she does sure brought the house down.
The second nod came during a point in the Russian Swings number at a
point where the Baroques have all filled the stage, dancing wildly
about in their own kind of ecstasy. Normally they break off and
continue jumping off the swing, but all of the sudden the music
changes from the rocking tunes of "Barok" and switches immediately to
"Once Upon a Time" from La Nouba. The Baroques suddenly stop, get into
position and jump from side-to-side like they do at the start of La
Nouba - it was fantastic! And, of course, me, and the group to my
right, were eating it up.
Green Bird made another appearance when Death appeared on stage,
scaring the Baroques (she was one of the frightened!). And even a Les
Con got his day in the Saltimbanco sun when the Ringmaster came
running back on stage, screaming out of breath. The Les Con, played by
the artistic bicyclist (Ivan Dô-Dùc), trotted to the center of the
stage, looked out at the audience, pulled on his skirt in the same
fashion as the real Les Cons do in La Nouba, then just nonchalantly
walked off.
While only the folks from La Nouba and those in the know (like myself)
knew anything out of the ordinary had occurred, these touches were
simply fantastic and totally made my night.
Thank you guys!
See you in Tampa Bay!
-------------------------------------------------------
"ONE DROP Starts Ripple Effect - an AQUA Review"
By: Gena Colton - Perrysburg, Ohio (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
The Montreal Science Center hosts the world premiere of AQUA now
through September 7, 2009. AQUA is one method developed by the ONE
DROP initiative founded by Guy Laliberte´, to raise awareness of the
global water crisis.
What I expected: A typical IMAX film about how we take for
granted/waste/destroy our natural resource and a sermon about
conservation and saving the planet . . . yada-yada-yada.
What I experienced: A beautiful, thought-provoking, interactive
demonstration of how unevenly water is distributed throughout the
world and how we need to take care of what we have and decide to take
action to preserve it and help those who do not have access to a
sufficient quantity and quality of water.
I loved that we had to stand - - not sit and be entertained. There
was prerecorded narration, music, sound, light and of course, water
effects. No one told us what to do, but a guide silently demonstrated
what we could do - if we chose. We had to choose for ourselves to
take action (interact with the screen) - or not.
A small group of people (20?) are guided into a dark room. On the left
is a display of blue illuminated orbs shaped like giant water drops.
To the front is a big screen. To the right is a "wall" of water
sheeting down. The wall of water has different pictures and shadows
projected on it. Sometimes behind the water, an old well with a hand
pump is revealed.
As the scene progresses, the guide silently gives each person a giant
blue illuminated water drop to hold. The water wall parts and we are
guided through it to a big round space - 360° of floor to ceiling
projection screen. We surround the hand pump in the center of the
room. The lever starts pumping water. The 360° screen comes to life -
- scenes of fresh water abound. The guide shows us that if we move
(take action) we can make a difference (move the water by waving our
arms - with our hand-held blue water drops or walking in front of the
screen - - waaaay cool technology).
The fresh water scenes turn to pollution in industrialized countries
and unsanitary water in 3rd-world countries. At one point everyone's
hand-held blue water drop extinguishes. A scene of barren land is on
the 360° screen. The water pump stops pumping water, but the handle
continues to squeak. Over the horizon, the shadows of 5 children
appear and move closer - until the shadows are standing right in front
of us. The narrator tells us that every 8 seconds a child dies of
dehydration. The looming sound of a ticking clock is heard. Every 8
seconds, a child shadow disintegrates . . . 40 seconds. Silence.
Our hand-held water drops start to flicker on as scenes of relief and
hope appear. The well starts pumping water again. The guide leads us
to place our blue-again water drops into the pool surrounding the pump
as a pledge to become more aware of our use of water and how it
affects others.
As we leave the 360° room, there are quotes about water from children
around the world. The one I remember said something like, "I hear
there are places in the world where you turn a handle and water comes
out."
We are lead through a dark hall where there are little horizontal
computer touch screens for everyone to go to - if they want. Again,
cool technology. Every time the screen is touched, it sends water
ripples - even when typing in your name.
The AQUA experience was unexpectedly entertaining as well as
educational, and inspiring. Afterward, I sat on a bench for about a
half hour just to absorb what I'd experienced - seriously.
My suggestion to ONE DROP: Make and sell giant blue "water drops" out
of recycled glass and sell them, proceeds would go to the foundation
of course.
-------------------------------------------------------
"The Spirit of Space: a ZAIA Album Review"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
Reviewing a soundtrack album is especially precarious if you havent
seen the show the music was written for. Without knowing how the
music sounds in the show and fits into the shows action there is no
way to know if the CD is a proper representation of the new creation
or another "interpretation" with lots of artistic liberties.
Though I have seen the program and heard about the show from others
who have seen it, let me say up front I have not traveled to Macao to
see ZAIA. So take my comments with a grain of salt. But I like this
CD very much.
What I find most impressive here as much as the music is the way they
recorded it. Unlike in recent years where Cirque CD producers have in
several cases chosen to "re-interpret" a shows music or use local
Montreal musicians, ZAIA composer and CD producer Violaine Corradi has
chose a more "traditional" route. There is so much right about the
direction and production - the process, if you will - Im inclined to
enjoy the CD just as much for the stand thats been taken as the music
contained within. Consider:
* The CD is plenty long, at more than 74 minutes one of the
longest in the Cirque canon.
* Corradi has chosen (much to her credit IMO) to use the
musicians from the show creation process, the current ZAIA band and
vocalists. With additional keyboards from Corradi and the occasional
string section (from Hong Kong) the sound is full. This is a point
that cant be emphasized enough; in this writers opinion it is the
creation musicians who add much to the final sound of the music so
should always be the first chosen to appear on CD. While of late
Cirque has used only a shows creation vocalists (and even then not
always), this is a refreshing return to form.
* The music was largely recorded inside the Venetian Hotel ZAIA
Theater in Macao (with additional recording in Hong Kong). This helps
insure that the music sounds on CD mostly like it does in the show
itself.
These reasons are in large part why this CD sounds to these ears more
like a true show soundtrack than a "re-arrangement" - harkening back
more to the CDs of shows like Alegria and Dralion than Varekai and
Zumanity. There is a very heavy feminine influence with both show
singers being women. There is also a multi-instrumentalist woodwind
player in the band which, as in Corradis score for Varekai, brings a
variety of sounds to the party.
While the first song, "Noi" with its Italian flavor made me think I
had made the mistake of playing the Corteo CD by mistake, it quickly
got back on more familiar ground. Much of the music is reminiscent of
Dralion and Varekai (both of which were also composed by Corradi).
Those songs that remind me of previous Corradi works include (note we
are again back to unpronounceable words in a made-up language for song
titles):
* Hatahkinn and Caelestis -reminiscent of Dralion
* Aquilex, Comissatio and Gaudiumni - reminiscent of Varekai
Some songs stand out. "Adrideo" continuing the Italian flavor from
"Noi". "Ardor Oris" with its tango feel while somewhat out of place
still adds variety. "Aequor Oris" features an uplifting, triumphant
chorus. "Temperatio" kicks in a dance rhythm in more of an ambient
style, and wouldnt be out of place on the "Delirium" disk.
The music is generally very melodic, certainly stamped with the
Violaine Corradi style. After listening to the CD, you feel you have
a taste of the show and want to see it. Unlike some of Cirques other
soundtrack productions of late, thats a refreshing change. It makes
a worthy addition to the library of Cirque du Soleil show soundtrack.
One can only hope that the Rene Dupere-composed music from ZED (which
I *have* seen) is treated with as much care.
=======================================================================
PARTING QUOTE
=======================================================================
"The Big secret of Cirque du Soleil is that we created shows
like a film. We thought it should be edited and scored like a
film. If you take the music out, you don't have a CDS show.
Cirque is like cinema: you edit it together to create drama, and
to allow people to enter completely into the experience, like
you do into a film scene. You enter the experience and forget
everything else."
- Guy Caron.
=======================================================================
SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION
=======================================================================
Fascination! is a monthly newsletter, available through subscription
via Yahoo! Groups or on the World Wide Web in text format at the
newsletter's website: < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >. To
subscribe, please send an email to: < CirqueFascination-
subscribe@yahoogroups.com >. To unsubscribe, please send an email to:
< CirqueFascination-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com >. To view back
issues, or other online Newsletter content, please visit us at:
< http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >.
Have a comment, question or concern? Email the Fascination!
Newsletter staff at: < CirqueFasincation-owner@yahoogroups.com >.
We are anxious to hear any and all comments!
=======================================================================
COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
=======================================================================
Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 9, Number 3 (Issue #65) - June 2009
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2008 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.
{ Jun.05.2009 }
=======================================================================
