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T h e U n o f f i c i a l
C i r q u e d u S o l e i l N e w s l e t t e r
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http://www.CirqueFascination.com
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VOLUME 9, NUMBER 2 MAY 2009 ISSUE #64
=======================================================================
Bonjour et bienvenue! Greetings and welcome to another addition of
Fascination!, the Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter.
If youve been with us over the years you know our publication
schedule has been inconsistently consistent, adjusting from monthly to
quarterly to bi-monthly over time as we modify our involvement with
Cirque here behind-the-scenes. And with this issue in-hand you may
have noticed yet another change: its not a bi-monthly
issue. Thats right! With Cirque du Soleil announcing more and more
projects, and further reaching out into online social communities,
were accelerating our publication in the interim to bring all the
news and updates of these exciting new projects to you!
Were re-dedicating ourselves to Cirque du Soleil and with that
direction we have re-vitalized our efforts to cover all-things Cirque.
Weve expanded and heightened our ITINÉRAIRE section, separating out
the many tours into their four general categories: Touring (in the big
top), Arena (in the dome/stadiums), Resident (in theaters), and
Seasonal (those performed for a limited time). With new shows of all
four types on the horizon, sharing said information will become even
more complicated (and confusing). With this change we hope to make the
listings more clear.
Our news, rumors, and sightings section - CIRQUE BUZZ - will continue
to remain the same with all the news updates posted to our website
for the prior month reprinted here, just in case you missed a headline
or two. And, of course, our FEATURES section will continue with
expanded articles, reviews and highlights of the many facets of Cirque
du Soleil, just as they always have. In fact, this issue were coving
OVO, Cirque du Soleils newest touring production!
But were very excited to point out a new column: OUTREACH.
Since September 2001, CirqueClub has provided fans around the world
with a unique connection with their favorite circus: Cirque du Soleil.
Fascination! has, throughout the years, followed Cirque du Soleil's
initial public outreach with excitement. Now that Cirque has expanded
beyond its normal outreach at CirqueClub into the social networking
scenes at some of the more popular hangouts (Twitter, Facebook,
MySpace, YouTube, and Flikr), Fascination! is committing itself to
bridge the various byways to these networking sites filtering and
compiling the most interesting tidbits from all these sources into
one place: right here!
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
* Arena Shows -- Touring in Dome/Stadiums
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
* Seasonal Shows -- Performed for a Limited Time!
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
*) "The Birth of Ovo: A Teeming World..."
By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
*) "My Thoughts on OVO"
By: Wayne Leung - Ottawa, Ontario (Canada)
{As Published on Cirque Tribune}
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
Cirque to Close Toronto's Luminato Festival
{Apr.03.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
CBCNews is reporting that Cirque du Soleil will take part in the
closing ceremonies of Torontos Luminato festival this year:
The free event will see Cirque members as two tribes of
colourful characters interacting together in street
performances.
Luminato, the Toronto Festival of Arts and Creativity, announced
the Cirque collaboration on Friday, along with other closing
weekend activities.
The Luminato Cirque event will be staged June 12 to 14 at
Harbourfront Centre, the Toronto Music Garden and HtO Park, all
on the Toronto waterfront.
For more information on the Luminato Festival:
< http://www.luminato.com/ >
{SOURCE: CBC.ca}
Cirque Turns to Bosch Communication in Europe
{Apr.13.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
From the article:
The Canadian Circus Cirque du Soleil - renowned for providing
top-class artistic entertainment for many years - turns to Bosch
Communication Center for sales support and customer care. The
Bosch agents provide detailed information regarding program
contents and are responsible for reservations and ticket sales.
The service repertoire also includes a team of specially trained
associates who offer specifically targeted VIP care for business
customers.
"Éric Valley, Ticketing Operations Manager at Cirque du Soleil,
adds: "Cirque knows from experience that customer satisfaction
is not achieved solely through the production itself, but also
through the services associated with the show. The various
services provided before the show are our chance to make a good
first impression. We know that Bosch is perfectly capable of
performing any acrobatics that are necessary to satisfy even our
most demanding customers"
Read the full release here:
< http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=92125 >
{SOURCE: Webwire}
New Cirque CDs on May 26th!
{Apr.17.2009}
---------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil is releasing two new CDs into its catalogue on
May 26, 2009 and were quite excited about them! The first is
the soundtrack to ZAIA, Cirque du Soleils first resident show
in Asia currently performing to audiences in Macau, China. The
second is a re-mastered edition of one of Cirque du Soleils
best selling albums to date: the 1994 smash Alegría!
Details about musical tracks and/or extras are not available at
this time; however, you can pre-order these CDs on Amazon.com
right now!
o) ZAIA CD, $16.98
< http://www.amazon.com/Zaia-Cirque-Soleil-Original-
Soundtrack/dp/B0024F13IW/ref=sr_1_31?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=
1239975062&sr=1-31 >
o) Alegría Remastered CD, $19.99
< http://www.amazon.com/Alegeria-Remastered-Cirque-Du-
Soleil/dp/B0025X4P2O/ref=sr_1_33?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=
1239975062&sr=1-33 >
Cirque Coming to Quebec
{Apr.28.2009}
---------------------------------------------
For the next five summers, Cirque du Soleil and director Robert
Lepage will help keep Quebec City afloat by performing in the
streets. Heres more:
The Cirque is going back to its roots - street performances -
for the Quebec City show, which also coincides with the Cirques
25th anniversary this year. Lamarre released very few details
about the show, aside from its title, The Dream Continues, and
the fact it will bring together 100 circus artists for an hour-
long show in the streets of Quebecs lower town, not far from
where the Robert Lepage show will take place. The free outdoor
performances will run five days a week, and will start in late
June.
As for Lepage, he will bring back a new version of his popular
Image Mill, an outdoor projection that was one of the highlights
of the 400th celebrations. The multimedia extravaganza will be
shown on a 600-metre row of grain silos transformed into the
worlds largest outdoor projection screen.
Read the full article here:
< http://www.canada.com/Star+power+help+Quebec+City/
1537519/story.html >
{SOURCE: CanWest News; Canada.com}
Cirque takes Manhattan?
{Apr.29.2009}
---------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil has attempted to stage a lasting presence in
the Big Apple now for a number of years, and succeeded on a
seasonal basis with Wintuk in 2006. The company thought a more
permanent presence was well on its way when it signed a re-
development deal with Related Companies to establish a home on
Manhattans Pier 40. With that possibility quashed, would Cirque
find a space to endure in New York City? It appears in the next
year, it will. Heres more from the New York Times:
In February 2010 Cirque plans to bring a new show to the Beacon
Theater in Manhattan for a multiple-month run that it hopes will
become an annual institution. And in 2011 Cirque is to establish
a four-month summer extravaganza in Radio City Music Hall as a
warm-weather counterweight to the "Christmas Spectacular" - sans
Rockettes, but populated with acrobats and clowns. These will be
in addition to the companys touring tent productions [...].
Also continuing will be "Wintuk," Cirques $20 million annual
winter holiday show at the WaMu Theater at Madison Square
Garden.
What will this new show for MSG Entertainment entail? While
details about the show itself were not released, where else it
might play sounds quite interesting to say the least...
[The] still unnamed show, for the Music Hall, "will fully
utilize the space and spend half of each year in Paris or
London," and have 72 to 80 performers, said Mr. Laliberté.
Guy Laliberté also took a moment to describe for the New York
Times what the new production was going to be:
[P]ossibly titled "Vaudeville," as a show about that tradition,
with a cast of 50 to 55, to be directed by David Shiner, also
the director of "Kooza." The show, written by Laurence OKeefe,
the author of music and lyrics for "Legally Blonde," is to be in
tryouts from Nov. 19 through Dec. 31 at the Chicago Theater in
that city. The show will run at the Beacon for at least three
months and could be extended to half a year.
For the next couple of years, it appears Cirque du Soleil is
ready to light up the Big Apple in a very exciting way!
Read the full article here:
< http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/29/theater/29circ.html >
{SOURCE: New York Times}
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) TOURING - Under the Big Top
{Corteo, Dralion, Koozå, OVO, Quidam & Varekai}
o) ARENA - In the Dome/Stadium
{Saltimbanco & Alegría}
o) RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, «O», La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE,
ZAIA, ZED & Believe}
o) SEASONAL - For a Limited Time!
{Wintuk}
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 Sep 30, 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 24, 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 Jul 26, 2009
Denver, Colorado -- Aug 21, 2009 to TBA
Santa Monica, California -- Oct 16, 2009 to Dec 20, 2009 (*)
Orange County, California -- Dec 28, 2009 to TBA (*)
OVO:
Montreal, QC -- Apr 23, 2009 to Jul 12, 2009
Quebec, QC -- Jul 30, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009
Toronto, ON -- Sep 3, 2009 to Oct 4, 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 15, 2009 to Dec 31, 2009 (*)
London, UK -- TBA
---------------------------------
ARENA - In the Dome/Stadium
---------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=251 >
Saltimbanco:
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 -- July 15, 2009 to Jul 19, 2009
Houston, TX -- July 22, 2009 to Jul 26, 2009
Phoenix, AZ -- TBA
Salt Lake City, UT -- TBA
Columbus, Ohio -- TBA
Alegría:
Halifax, NS -- May 27, 2009 to Jun 7, 2009
St. John, NB -- Jun 10, 2009 to Jun 14, 2009
St. Johns, 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
---------------------------------
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 >
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
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
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
---------------------------------
SEASONAL - For a Limited Time!
---------------------------------
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.
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUES 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
---------------------------------------
There have been a number of fascinating articles posted since we last
reported about the goings-on at CirqueClub. So, to catch us up, we'd
like to highlight the following articles posted since the first of the
year:
CDS and the Royal Albert Hall: A Match Made in Heaven
{Jan.12.2009}
In January 1996, Cirque du Soleil made its debut at London's
revered Royal Albert Hall with the presentation of Saltimbanco.
It was a milestone that was to mark the beginning of one of the
great relationships in the Cirque du Soleil history books. it
was such a success that we have been back almost every year
since, with a run at the celebrated venue now engrained as one
of the most anticipated stops on our European tour.
Last January 4th, Quidam took the stage in the iconic building,
which was inaugurated by Queen Victoria back in 1871. While
Quidam has wowed audiences in London before-under the Grand
Chapiteau at Battersea Power Station in 2000 and 2001-it had not
yet been seen at the Royal Albert Hall because the theatre was
undergoing major renovations at the time, including upgrades
that would allow it to continue to host highly technical shows.
Read More at:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/
clubcirque/news/news20090112_133.htm >
25 Years Worth of Stories!
{Jan.13.2009}
General Manager - Corteo /// This is one of my very first Cirque
memories: The setting is Centennial Park, Miami. January 2002,
Quidam setup. I had just started with Cirque du Soleil and was
getting ready to set up my first big top. Now that I
differentiated the roles and responsibilities of our staff that
came the onslaught of local labour! There was one rather
"seasoned" gentleman in the group who had been working with
circuses in Florida for many, many years. He was a true old
timer who had seen it all... or so he thought.
Read More at:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/
clubcirque/news/news20090113_134.htm >
15 years of Mystère
{Jan.14.2009}
December 25, 2008 marked the fifteenth anniversary of the first
Cirque du Soleil resident show in Las Vegas. Like a human being
growing up, Mystère has evolved over the years. This
development, from the show's very creation and inception until
today, is described for you here throughout four anecdotes
shared by different members of the crew: BRUCE RICKERD - Musician,
SEAN JENSON - Head of Electrics, ANNIE WILKINS - Head of Props,
DANIELLE RODENKIRCHEN - Assistant Company Manager, JEFF LUND -
Company Manager & SANDI CROFT - Artistic Director
Read More at:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/
clubcirque/news/news20090114_135.htm >
25 Years Worth of Stories!
{Mar.24.2009}
ANNE COSTISELLA - Coordinator - Images & Events /// I was born
in Gaspé at the time of the famous regattas held by the region's
artistic community. In 1984, I understood the magnitude of the
anniversary of Jacques Cartier's first voyage in Canada when I
saw all the work that was put into creating a perfect
celebration.
I was eight years old. I remember Cirque du Soleil 's ad and
when I saw the Big Top in the parking lot of Place Jacques-
Cartier, I was expecting to see dwarfs, three-armed people and
lobster men; instead, I saw the Cirque du Soleil troupe give it
their all in one of their first road performances
Read More at:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/
clubcirque/news/news20090324_136.htm >
Home Away From Home
{Mar.31.2009}
Fascinating facts about the famous Cirque du Soleil Grand
Chapiteau! Before presenting shows taking up residence in
custom-built theatres, or in renowned amphitheatres around the
world, Cirque du Soleil performed under what has become one of
its famous trade marks: the blue and yellow Grand Chapiteau (Big
Top).
o) While the first Big Top could seat 800 people, the
current one seats 2,500.
o) Setup of the Big Top can take 8 to 10 hours depending
on conditions; tear-down requires 4 to 5 hours.
o) Since 1984, the Cirque du Soleil infrastructure has
traveled over 10 million kilometers all over the world
by boat, by train and by truck.
o) Over the past 25 years, it took 20,000 trucks to haul
the touring infrastructure.
Read More at:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/
clubcirque/news/news20090331_137.htm >
New Artwork for La Nouba
{Apr.07.2009}
La Nouba, our resident show at Walt Disney World® Resort in
Orlando, FL, celebrates 10 years thrilling audiences; our 5000th
performance and welcoming our 7 millionth guest during the
course of 2009! To commemorate these milestones, we've created
new artwork to promote the show!
See the new artwork here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/
clubcirque/news/news20090407_138.htm >
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & Myspace
---------------------------------------------------
Over the last month there has been an explosion of updates from Cirque
du Soleils networking outlets. While a number of these are small
updates, notes and other quick comments (such as "Mystère by Cirque
du Soleil thinks our giant snail looks like a beautiful tie-dyed
Easter Egg." Or "KÀ by Cirque du Soleil bites the ears off the
chocolate bunnies first. How do you eat yours?", wed like to share
some of the more interesting ones that caught our eye:
{Apr.01.2009 | LOVE]
Check out these 2 fabulous interviews with Alex Belfied from BBC
radio, featuring LOVE dancer Tina Cannon and LOVE Head of Props
Mark Jenkins! | Mark Jenkins
worked on cruise ships and eventually found his way to Cirque in
Vegas. He's now loving living in Sin City with his family and is
responsible for the props (basically anything that moves in the
entire show) in this massive production of 'Love'. Tina Marie
Cannon talks about her love for dance and working for Cirque.
Tina is a talented dancer and performer from New York. Find out
what happened when Belfield's interview kept the entire 2000
members of the audience waiting! Recorded 27th March 2009:
< http://www.celebrityradio.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content
&view=article&id=628%3Alove-mirage-gaz-hopkins&catid=
36%3Avegas-interviews&Itemid=53 >
{Apr.01.2009 | BELIEVE}
BBC Radio interviews "Believe" dancers Martha & Eric! | BBC
Radio reporter Alex Belfield visited CRISS ANGEL Believe this
weekend to see the show, and then met with dancers Eric & Martha
to chat about the show, and what its like working with Criss. They
talked about all of that and more... that is, until a flirtation
seemed to develop between Alex and Martha! Listen to the
interview and all the juicy details online:
< http://www.celebrityradio.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content
&view=article&id=630:believe-cirque-du-soleil&catid=36:vegas-
interviews&Itemid=53 >
{Apr.02.2009 | «O»}
Swimmer Bill May and singer Briana Rossi were interviewed by BBC
Radio this weekend. Click on the link below to listen and learn
more about them and what happens behind the scenes:
< http://www.celebrityradio.co.uk/index.php?option=
com_content&view=article&id=631%3Ao-bellagio-2009&catid
=36%3Avegas-interviews&Itemid=53 >
{Apr.02.2009 | KÀ}
KÀ artists Brien McCrea & Kelly Tucker talked with the BBC's
Alex Belfield on Tuesday night!:
< http://www.celebrityradio.co.uk/index.php?option=com_
content&view=article&id=640%3Aka-mgm-grand-cirque-du-
soleil&catid=36%3Avegas-interviews&Itemid=53 >
{Apr.02.2009 | La Nouba}
Our Mountain and BMX bikers, Lance Trappe and Marcos de Jesus,
had the opportunity to do a few tricks live on ESPN First Take
with Jay Crawford and Dana Jacobsen. It was the first live
broadcast of ESPN The Weekend (2009) at Hollywood Studios. This
is raw flip cam footage from the staging area. The day was
gorgeous and we had a great time.
[1:36] | LINK: < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=
1140347751858&ref=mf>
{Apr.03.2009 | KÀ}
Hey Maverick Mom! We're glad you enjoyed the show - thanks for
the great feedback!
< http://www.themaverickmom.com/uncategorized/
cirque-du-soleils-ka/ >
{Apr.06.2009 | «O»}
The Las Vegas Review-Journal posted a great behind the scenes
look at "O". Be sure to watch the video!
< http://www.lvrj.com/living/42491557.html >
{Apr.08.2009 | KÀ}
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil says a very heartfelt thank you and
goodbye to original cast member, Sarah Harding. Your
contributions to the show will be remembered always. Wishing you
all the best in your new starring role as Mommy!
{Apr.09.2009 | «O»}
This video is a beautiful p"O"rtrait of the show and its
Artistic Director Luc Ouellette. | Produced by Robert Osorio
[8:02] /// < http://tinyurl.com/d3svqk >
{Apr.14.2009 | Mystère}
Hey Dottingthemap.com! Thanks for sharing your Mystère
experience with your readers!
< http://www.dottingthemap.com/2009/04/14/las-vegas-premium-
entertainment-mystere/#more-589 >
{Apr.15.2009 | Dralion}
Meet Oksana Pochynok, a Russian trampolinist, in the show
Dralion!
< http://www.theage.com.au/news/entertainment/arts/pumped-up-
and-always-bouncing-back/2009/04/07/1238869970023.html >
{Apr.15.2009 | Quidam}
Meet Julie Cameron, a gymnast, from Quidam! | Run Off And Join
The Circus Gymnast Julie Did Just That (from The Herald )
< http://www.theherald.co.uk/features/features/display.var.
2502198.0.Run_off_and_join_the_circus_Gymnast_Julie_did
_just_that.php >
{Apr.17.2009 | LOVE}
TIME Magazine's favorite Cirque du Soleil production in Las
Vegas is The Beatles LOVE! As seen in their "10 Things to do
In 24 Hours" - #2 Cirque du Soleil LOVE.
< http://www.time.com/time/travel/cityguide/article/0,31489,
1838100_1838099_1838075,00.html >
{Apr.17.2009 | Koozå}
Great behind the scenes look at KOOZA in NYC! | Video - Breaking
News Videos from 7ONLINE.COM
< http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/video?id=6765137 >
{Apr.22.2009 | OVO}
Backstage at Ovo | A visit backstage, under the big top, as
Cirque du Soleil prepares to launch its new show, OVO.
< http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/theatre/Gallery+
Backstage+Cirque/1503415/story.html >
{Apr.22.2009 | Koozå}
Master clown David Shiner talks about the secret of creating
KOOZA!
< http://www.theatermania.com/off-broadway/news/04-2009/kooza-
me_18532.html >
{Apr.23.2009 | Mystère}
Mystère by Cirque du Soleil is excited to see that Bruce Rickerd
is profiled in the June issue of Guitar Player! The link below
has some interiview outtakes you won't read in the magazine!
< http://guitarplayer.com/article/interview-outtakes-with/apr-
09/95465 >
{Apr.24.2009 | Alegría}
After 15 years under the Big Top, Alegría is folding up and
heading out on a brand-new tour in Arenas. What do 15 years
under the big top mean for Alegría?
o) 55 acrobats, musicians, singers, clowns and characters;
o) 54 technical, site-operation, tour-services, public-services,
management and artistic staff;
o) 24 different nationalities;
o) Over 10 million spectators since 1994, in more than 65
different cities;
o) More than 200 costumes, 300 pairs of shoes, 100 wigs and 22
Old Birds masks;
o) Some 500 balls of knitting yarn, 1,094 yards of braid,
1,586 yards of lace, 2,515 yards of silk jersey and 22 pounds
of glitter used to make costumes;
o) 1,000 buttons and jewels for the two singers costumes;
o) Over 10,000 kilos of "snow" used in the Storm Act;
o) A "village on wheels" covering an area of 20,000 m; 60
trailers carrying 800 tons of equipment across Europe;
o) 8 days of set-up and 3 days of tear-down;
o) Thousands of hours spent in planes;
o) Hundred of visas, work permits and passport stamps!
{Apr.24.2009 | Mystère}
Mystère Revealed - Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Look at Mystère |
We'll be opening the theatre doors a few hours before showtime &
letting guests see artists on-stage (in air) as they train the
Bungee act! The training will be followed by a question & answer
session and the opportunity to get an up-close look at show
costumes! The Mystère Revealed experience will last 20 to 30
minutes. Seating is limited to the first 100 guests and begins
at 4:35 p.m. [Fascination!: Did anyone attend?]
{Apr.27.2009 | Zumanity}
Zumanity - The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil's pole dancer
Felix Cane is back from competing at the World Pole Dancing
Championship and won the title of Miss Pole Dance World!
Congrats Felix!
{Apr.27.2009 | LOVE}
LOVE Parade through Mirage | 4 new photos
< http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=78140&id=
14653468665&ref=mf >
{Apr.29.2009 | «O»}
Check out the link to photos from the Annenberg Beach House
opening in Santa Monica on Saturday. The synchronized swimming
performance was beautiful and the highlight of the opening!
< http://www.gettyimages.com/Search/Search.aspx?EventId=
86091372 >
Apr.30.2009 | BELIEVE}
CRISS ANGEL Believe ..."left the audience spellbound"! writes
The Examiner in a review published today. | There are not many
of those that filled the Luxors showroom on Wednesday night,
that would have known what prompted Criss Angel to name his
Cirque du Soleil produced show "Believe". I think it fair to say
that outside the magic fraternity (of which I was once one) few
people indeed knew that this was the secret code that Harry
Houdini - possibly one of the worlds greatest magicians, gave
his beloved wife on his death bed as a protection against
fraudulent mediums who claimed to be in contact with him after
his tragic death. If they were unable to tell her the secret
word ("believe") she would know the message wasnt from Harry!
For 10 years a small group of personal friends would gather with
her on the anniversary eve (Halloween) of Harrys death to hold
a séance and try to make contact. Surely if anyone could break
the bonds of death it would be Harry. Im sorry to add he never
did! Im not so sure this would have been the case had the
deceased been Criss Angel! This truly gifted magical performer
left his audience spellbound! His overwhelming personality
combined with the unsurpassed artistry of a Cirque du Soleil
production makes this a one of a kind evening you will talk
about for a long time. As with most Cirque productions you need
to be seated early! I wont spoil the fun but the pre show
shenanigans is what I look forward to most, at all their
shows! "Criss Angel- Believe -by Cirque du Soleil is a haunting
exploration deep inside the inventive mind of mystifier Criss
Angel as he hovers between the land of the living and a surreal
world uniquely woven together by the distinctive imaginations of
Criss and Cirque de Soleil."
-------------------------------------------
TELEMAJIK: Cirque on YouTube & Flickr
-------------------------------------------
[FLICKR]
Website: < http://www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/ >
Cirque du Soleil released 18 images through its Flickr photostream in
the month of April, all of which showcase OVO, Cirque du Soleil's
newest touring production. These were the first glimpses of some of
the show's main characters and acts before its premiere on April 23rd!
Check them out here!
o) OVO - Cirque du Soleil
Dress Rehearsals for the Press conference
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421450690/
Character: Cricket
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3420642387/
Character: Flipo
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3420642577/
Act: Foot Juggling & Icarian Games
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3420642757/
Act: Slack Wire
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3420642889/
Act: Slack Wire
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421451366/
Act: Contortion
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421451500/
Act: Contortion
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421451662/
Act: Contortion
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3420643481/
Act: Acrosport
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421452290/
Act: Acrosport
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3420644161/
Character: Foreigner
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421452674/
Character: Foreigner
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421452808/
Character: Lady Bug & Foreigner
o) Cirque du Soleil Presents OVO
Press Conference
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421850807/
Q&A Session
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421850849/
Group Shot: OVO Egg
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3422659958/
The Ants (Foot Jugglers)
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421850917/
Group Shot: OVO Egg
- www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/3421850969/
Big top & Moving Truck
[YOUTUBE]
Website: < http://www.youtube.com/cirquedusoleil >
Website: < http://youtube.com/CirqueLasvegas >
Currently there are 187 videos on the CirqueduSoleil channel at YouTube!
At first glance there appears to be quite a number of significant clips;
however at closer look we find that many are in the 15-30 second
range geared more toward "Jobs on Stage", showcasing many of Cirque du
Soleil's employable positions. We'll take a look through those in more
detail in the coming issues if and when there are periods of low
posts. In the meantime, check out these other great videos that were
more recently posted:
o) Happy Mother's Day / Mother's Day wishes from cast & crew
[1:07] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHD61-8Xypk >
o) Dralion in Melbourne / Spectators Comment on the Show
[3:46] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTbo4BfFLE0 >
o) Dralion in Melbourne / After Show Party
[1:29] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uF4IS9oeWVQ >
o) Dralion in Melbourne / Red Carpet Arrivals
[2:08] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPCez4WLC0M >
o) Then & Now / A Look Back at Cirque History
[3:27] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NqDt2nSFpQ >
o) ZED by Cirque du Soleil / Trailer
[1:51] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h26w9TcNHFc >
o) ZAIA by Cirque du Soleil / Trailer
[1:36] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdnhvjvkifM >
o) OVO / Foot Juggling & Icarian Games
[0:31] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeAf6NDeoaY >
o) OVO / Cricket Dance
[0:31] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_YNlHRjyZ4 >
o) OVO / Power Track & Wall
[0:31] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHq8U1wDcNs >
o) OVO / Spanish Web Duo
[0:31] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06s3mdWl7jE >
----------------------------------------
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) Did you Know that Cirque du Soleil's touring shows have visited
over 200 cities around the world since 1984? That means over 90
million spectators have seen a Cirque du Soleil show since then.
Cirque du Soleil now has an official tour history database on its
website, which you can visit to review all 200+ cities it has
visited worldwide: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/
en/FAQ/shows_history.htm >
o) Cirque du Soleil's «O» celebrated its 5,000th performance on
Saturday, April 18, 2009! Did you know that after 5,000 shows, 25
original cast, 26 original crew and 2 original staff members have
remained devoted to «O»? In fact, the man on fire, Ray Wold, has
performed in all 5,000 shows. He has never missed a performance,
and the total time hes been on fire has totaled more than 250
hours! The 225 performers who have worked in the production since
Day One have represented nearly 30 countries.
o) Did you know that more than 8.5 million guests have enjoyed «O»
since it opened? More than 25,000 costumes and more than 15,000
shoes have been worn, with the wardrobe department handling more
than 144,000 loads of laundry in the 5,000 performances of «O»?. To
style the wigs, more than 23,500 ounces of hairspray have been used
since O began more than a decade ago. The crew has spent more than
100,000 hours underwater during the shows. The team of high divers
who travel 60 feet per show has racked up of 227 miles -- the
equivalent of journeying into space 3.6 times.
o) Did you know that an average of 55 tractor trailers is needed to
carry more than 2 million pounds of equipment from city to city?
Over the past 25 years it has taken 20,000 trucks to haul the
Cirque du Soleil touring infrastructure world wide!
o) Did you know that as of 2009, Cirque du Soleil has more than 4,000
employees, including 1,000 artists? In 1984, only 73 people worked
for the Cirque but today (as of 2009), Cirque du Soleil has more
than 4,000 employees worldwide, including more than 1,000 artists?
Cirque's employees and artists represent 40 nationalities and speak
25 different languages, speaking to the truly global neighborhood
that Cirque du Soleil inhabits. At the International Headquarters
in Montreal, there are close to 1,800 employees alone. The average
age? 35 years.
o) Did you know that the water in the Zumanity Water Bowl is 99-
degrees Fahrenheit so the contortionsists' muscles stay warm and
flexible throughout the act? Consequently the water bowl girls have
used more than 2500 pairs of nipple covers.
o) Do you know what it's like to perform in your underwear? Zumanity
artist Arslan Gusengadzhiev ("Dislocation") does it every night -
his skivvies are $1500 designer silk boxer shorts!
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
------------------------------------
* May.01.1986 -- Cirque Performs at Expo 86 in Vancouver
* May.01.2003 -- Cirque nominated for Drama Desk Awards:
Outstanding Set Design in a Musical - Stephane Roy
Outstanding Costume Design - Eiko Ishioka
Outstanding Sound Design - Francois Bergeron
Unique Theater Experience - Varekai
* May.02.2000 -- Journey of Man (IMAX) premiered in USA
* May.02.2000 -- Journey of Man CD Released in US/Canada (RCA/Victor)
* May.02.2006 -- Cirque announced Macau permanent production
* May.02.2007 -- Cirque announces Dubai 2010 show
* May.04.2006 -- Dralion opened Valencia
* May.04.2006 -- Varekai opened Seattle
* May.05.2006 -- Saltimbanco opened Buenos Aires
* May.06.2004 -- Quidam opened Vancouver
* May.06.2004 -- Alegría opened New York City
* May.07.1987 -- Le Cirque Réinventé Premiered in La Salle
* May.08.1990 -- Nouvelle Expérience Premiered in Montréal
* May.08.2006 -- Cirque announced Elvis-themed productions
* May.08.2008 -- Koozå opened Philadelphia, PA
* May.09.2002 -- Quidam opened Pittsburgh
* May.09.2008 -- Koozå CD officially Available
* May.10.2007 -- Alegría opened Saint-Denis, France
* May.11.1986 -- Cirque leaves Expo 86
* May.11.2000 -- Saltimbanco Pacific-Northwest Tour Began (Portland)
* May.11.2007 -- Corteo opened Columbus, Ohio
* May.11.2007 -- Cirque Celebrates 20 Years in Los Angeles
* May.12.2005 -- Quidam opened Adelaide
* May.13.2006 -- La Nouba celebrated 3500th performance
[Saturday, 6:00pm]
* May.13.2006 -- Dralion celebrated its 2500th performance
[Valencia, Spain]
* May.14.1985 -- 1985 Tour Began in Montréal [Vieux-Port de Montréal]
* May.15.1997 -- Alegría opened Munich
* May.15.2003 -- Dralion opened Montreal
* May.15.2008 -- Alegría opened Porto Alegre, Brazil
* May.17.2005 -- Solarium-Delirium CD Released (CDS Musique)
* May.18.1986 -- Le Magie Continue opened Sherbrooke
* May.18.1987 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Sherbrooke
* May.18.1989 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Chicago
* May.18.2000 -- Quidam opened Bilbao
* May.18.2003 -- Cirque loses Drama Desk Awards (nominated 5/1/03)
* May.18.2006 -- Quidam opened Ottawa
* May.19.1995 -- Saltimbanco opened Munich
* May.19.2006 -- Varekai opened Baltimore
* May.20.1999 -- Alegría resident show premiered in Biloxi, Mississippi.
* May.20.2007 -- Quidam opened Seoul, South Korea (first time in Korea!)
* May.21.2003 -- Quidam opened Nagoya
* May.21.2004 -- CirqueCon 2004: Vancouver Began (through 5/24)
* May.21.2009 -- Corteo opened Nagoya, Japan
* May.22.1992 -- Fascination Premiered in Tokyo (Until Sep.)
* May.22.1998 -- Alegría opened Hamburg
* May.23.2007 -- Dralion opened Sendai, Japan
* May.24.2002 -- Mystère celebrated 4000th performance [Friday, 7:30pm]
* May.25.1988 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened New York City
* May.26.2009 -- ZAIA, Alegría Remastered CDs Released
* May.27.1999 -- Alegría: Le Film premiered in Netherlands
* May.27.2009 -- Alegría Arena Tour Beings [Halifax, NS]
* May.28.1987 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Montréal
* May.28.1999 -- Saltimbanco opened Brisbane, Australia
* May.28.2003 -- BRAVO sneaks Varekai - Midnight to 2:00pm
* May.29.1986 -- Le Magie Continue opened Montréal
* May.29.1997 -- Quidam opened Oakland
* May.29.2001 -- Alegría opened Sydney, Australia
* May.29.2008 -- Name of "Cirque Macao 2008" Announced - "ZAIA"
* May.30.2006 -- Varekai celebrated 1500th performance
[Tues, 8:00pm/Seattle]
* May.31.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Stuggart
* May.31.2001 -- Quidam opened Hamburg
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
Within...
o) "The Birth of Ovo: A Teeming World..."
By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
o) "My Thoughts on OVO"
By: Wayne Leung - Ottawa, Ontario (Canada)
{As Published in segments on Cirque Tribune}
-------------------------------------------------------
"The Birth of Ovo"
By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
Witnessing the birth of a brand-new Cirque du Soleil touring show is a
must-see event that every fan of the Cirque should attempt at least
once in their lifetimes. Taking the show in with the hometown crowd is
a singular experience not to be missed - the abundance of excitement,
that electric spark of energy, and unfettered restlessness over the
anticipation of reveal is both fascinating and intoxicating. A pure,
raw, energy invades the Grand Chapiteau here unlike anywhere else in
the world. And when you share the experience with friends the
experience can be most enlightening.
Going to Montreal to see a premiere is a particular thrill I have been
privileged to experience, beginning with Varekai (2002), and
continuing with Corteo (2005), Koozå (2007) and now with Ovo (2009).
Each time the experience is different, as shows are opened at various
stages of development and different stages of presentation. Corteo and
Koozå had some minor work ahead of it before reaching its full
potential, while Varekai needed a complete act shuffle before coming
to its final form. From these examples we find that some concepts are
further along than others, but generally all turn out a well-satisfied
crowd.
But with Ovo, the spell seems to be broken.
Perhaps this one should have gestated a little longer.
Or perhaps the expectations were set just a wee bit high.
The Big Apple
---------------
Prior to hitting the beautiful cobblestone streets of the Vieux Port
of Montreal, I spent two days in New York City taking in the sights
and sounds of the Big Apple. Theres something about New York City
that invigorates me, although I dont know why since exploring it saps
all my energy! Be that as it may, New York City has a number of Class-
A attractions and neighborhoods that simply cannot be ignored. Theres
Uptown, Downtown, Theater District, Chinatown, Little Italy, the Park,
and more. Each one is an amazing cultural province all its own. And
each time I visit the big city I learn more about its identity.
For example, I discovered where the term "The Big Apple" originated:
It seems that in 1920, John J. Fitzgerald - a local horseracing sports
writer - heard a New Orleans stable-hand refer to New York by that
name. Shortly thereafter, he recycled the term in his newspaper column
whereby other reporters began picking up on it. Gossip columnist
Walter Winchell used it to identify New Yorks entertainment district
in 1927 - and by the 1950s, it had become a common way to refer to the
city, since New York represented opportunity for many people.
New York presented us an amazing opportunity to have fun over the few
days we were in town. We had Dim Sum in China Town, Chocolate Canoles
and Cappuccinos in Little Italy, hearty soups in Grand Central
Station, and bar-b-que in Times Square. Outside of the theater
district we visited two of the citys famed museums: MOMA (Museum of
Modern Art) and Metropolitan Museum of Art. MOMA has an eclectic array
of modern art in its collection from sculpture, painting, furniture,
architecture and more. Included as part of its gallery are many world-
famous paintings, such as: "The Starry Night" by Vincent van Gogh,
"Les Demoiselles dAvignon" by Pablo Picasso, "The Persistence of
Memory" by Salvador Dalí, Andy Warhols "Campbells Soup Cans", and
"Water Lilies" by Claude Monet. And while each one of these was a
treat to see, it seems Modern Art isnt my thing. Some of it is just
too abstract for my tastes.
Down the road at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, I found things more
to my liking. Unfortunately we didnt have a lot of time to explore
this enormous museum; however, we were able to examine the Egyptian,
Chinese and Japanese collections, pass through the Greek and Roman
statuary, and float through the classical European paintings on the
second floor. As such we got to see a print of "The Great Wave off
Kanagawa", the first in Hokusais 36 Views of Mount Fuji (including
other fine examples). In the European painting section many fine
examples rested, including Van Goghs "Self Portrait with a Straw Hat"
and Jacques-Louis Davids "The Death of Socrates".
Outside of the arts we took in two shows: Lion King on Broadway and
Cirque du Soleils Koozå on Randals Island. While Koozå is always
great fun - my sixth overall viewing and Ive enjoyed it each and
every time (this one no different even though the Juggler was sitting
out our performance) - our presentation of the Lion King at Minskoff
Theater was even more exhilarating. Ive seen Lion King at least four
other times: twice on the US National Tour (both the Gazelle and
Cheetah companies), once on the West End in London, and again most
recently in Tokyo, but never in the location the show first opened: on
Broadway. It took a little more than 10 years but the dream finally
came true - and with front-row tickets no less! Experiencing the show
from the front row, while a little difficult due to the height of the
stage, cannot be equaled anywhere else. From this vantage you become
part of each scene, rather than watching it from afar. It istruly an
emotional experience to be caught up in Mufasas death, the mourning
Lionesses, and many other facets that make up Simbas life story.
Meeting Nala after the show for a photo opportunity (thanks to a
donation to charity) was also a major highlight. It was simply a
treat I will never forget.
But of course, the reason for the journey was Ovo - Cirque du Soleils
newest touring production.
A Teeming World...
--------------------
OVO (pronounced oh-voh) takes its name from the Portuguese word for
Egg, an animal reproductive body consisting of an ovum together with
its nutritive and protective envelope. "When a mysterious egg appears
in the insects midst," the press release suggests, "they are
awestruck and intensely curious about this iconic object;" a timeless
symbolic representation of birth. The enigma and its importance to
the insectoid microcosm embodies the underlying thread of the show,
which is also communicated graphically as OVO hides an insect in its
name: The two letter "Os" represent the eyes while the letter "V"
forms the nose.
"OVO is overflowing with contrasts. The hidden, secret world at our
feet is revealed as tender and torrid, noisy and quiet, peaceful and
chaotic. And as the sun rises on a bright new day the vibrant cycle of
insect life begins anew."
Entering the Grand Chapiteau is always a treat; when you step foot
inside the big top for a brand new show expectations run rampant,
which only serves to heighten the excitement even more. When the
flimsy doors of Ovos big top parted, my nostrils instantly filled not
with the strange but intoxicating, cinnamon-like scent that wafted
through the air at Varekai, but rather with a peaty, earthy kind of
smell. A hint toward the shows universal theme of biodiversity.
As with most Cirque du Soleil productions (all in recent memory), Ovo
begins with a pre-show animation sequence that puts the unsuspecting
audience face-to-face with Cirque performers. Here the theme of an
insect world is expounded upon by a small assortment of insect
characters (namely the grasshoppers) milling about the seating area
with an entourage of human scientists dressed in full-protective garb
carrying around catchers nets and magnifying glasses, inspecting the
audience, capturing them with their nets and otherwise causing muted
chaos.
As the lights dim, our attention is then directed upon the trio of
stalks neatly distributed within this microcosmic arena, and to the
rather large and inescapable egg-shaped object situated in its center.
While we in the audience can only begin to wonder about the impending
reveal of the egg and its meaning, a small insect contingent converges
upon the stage, ascending the stalks (themselves reminiscent of
dandelion stems) to flit about. Once the spectator dos and donts are
understood, the creatures come to life by crying, buzzing, trilling
and chirping the shows namesake - OVO.
A rainbow of light washes over the (28ft wide by 22ft tall) egg,
bathing it in reds, oranges, yellows, greens, blues, indigos and
violets - swirling about in a Technicolor rainbow, projections
reminiscent of Delirium. Strobes flash and thunder for fleeting
seconds, momentarily blinding, raising the level of tension. But if
youre waiting for a dramatic reveal a la Saltimbanco, "O" or ZED,
youll be sorely disappointed. The world goes pitch black and the egg
simply deflates, its collapsed hulk simply drug offstage left.
When the lights arise - the insects swarm. There are nine (9)
different performances (acts) by this multi-cultural cast of 53, each
a new and exciting peek into this creepy-crawly world that Deborah
Colker, a renowned choreographer, has created for us, a headlong-rush
into this teeming buggy ecosystem. Theirs is perhaps a right of
passage dance, itching and scratching their way across the stage to
showcase their world to us, to welcome us and to invite us.
OVO: The Show
---------------
They part to reveal a lone dragonfly, performed by Vladimir
Hrynchenko. He floats about the stage and glides along on an
intricately conceived set piece that, upon second glance, is a
balancing cane twisted in a spiral to elevate him above the stage in a
very elaborate manner. (This apparatus is a perfect example of the
shows particular style: an organic inspiration whereby there are
almost no straight lines to be found). At the top rests a normal
balancing block, which he puts to great use in his handbalancing act,
but he also uses the curvature of the apparatus to slip, slide and
flit about in a very calm, soothing manner.
As the dragonfly slowly flutters off stage, a strange and alluring
character begins to traverse the pathways of the Grand Chapiteu,
carrying an ovo of immense size securely upon his back. He is the
Foreigner, a fly in vintage suit who only reveals his true nature (a
lone soul) when he falls for the ladybug. "OOOOHKAY!" - After coming
in contact with the Ladybug, the Crickets steal off with his egg,
leaving the Foreigner dazed and confused.
The ants, dressed in red, invade the macrocosm next, bringing with
them their foraging spoils - little bites of food (Kiwi, Corn and
Mushrooms)! Combining the ancient art of Chinese foot-juggling with
the equally old art of Icarian Games, this sextet of Asian-girl
cuteness (Han Jing, Kong Yufei, Pei Xin, Su Shan, Wang Shaohua, and
Zhu TingTing) takes the stage by storm and do not disappoint. The ants
work in tandem, flipping their food about with ease. And just when you
think youve seen it all they flip themselves while also flipping
their spoils! Easily its the most exciting aspect of the first half
of the show.
A small cocoon ascends as the ants march off the stage, beautifully
introducing the next performance. A performer in silk struggles to
break free of her cocoon; spreading the silk threads after emergence
to evoke the delicate wings of a butterfly. Her metamorphic birth then
gives way to two other butterflies who soar into the sky on a strong
forest vine. Maxim Kozlov and Inna Mayorova (from Russia) perform a
slow, sensual dance of trust and love, wrapping themselves and each
other in a single Spanish web rope. After their performance, we meet
up with the Foreigner again as he continues his search for his Ovo.
But his presence in this world isnt liked by all and gets into a mock
sword fight with Flipo, the male matriarch of this little insect
community.
Slinky-dude comes forth to lighten the mood next. Performed by Lee
Brearley, he is figuratively and literally a human slinky; twisting,
twirling, lifting, and flopping about the stage in a multi-colored
tubular (caterpillar-esque) costume. Unfortunately his presence on
stage, while wonderfully appreciated, is short-lived.
And then... the scarabs take to the scene.
Volants is one of the more intriguing original creations from the
Cirque; it combines the techniques and talents of flying trapeze,
banquine, and Russian swing amongst a hand-full of other disciplines.
Here a team of black-and-gold colored scarabs take to the skies and
fly about the top of the grand chapiteau. On both ends exists a
staging platform and two standard pendulum swings from which the
trapeze flyers launch and the catchers catch, but in the middle,
however, rests a second platform from which to catch and launch the
flyers banquine style. Its quite an amazing set-up that just doesnt
quite live up to the build-up. (However, weve heard that an injury
during the lions den - a performance done for Guy Laliberté before
the show can go on - resulted in an injury. That injury prevented most
of the staging to go on as planned).
Intermission.
When we return to our seats and the house lights dim once again, the
stage lights rise without fanfare to begin the second half of the
show, almost as if we just pressed play after pausing a video
presentation.
Hanging from all points of the insects stage is a spiders web, spun
about to set up the contortion act of a trio of deadly female black
widow spiders. A relatively well done, typical contortion set
performed by Svetlana Belova from Russia begins, perfectly framed as
the ruler of her kingdom. As far as contortion acts go I will contend
she was quite nervous in our showing so her performance may not have
included more than just a typical set. Two other spiders (performed by
Robyn Houpt, USA; and Marjorie Nantel, Canada) joined the fun,
crawling about in the web and cavorting on stage to draw other non-
suspecting insect-prey into their grasp.
The yellow and white costumed fleas jump on stage next for Acrosport,
a cross between the adagio and banquine disciplines performed by Anna
Gorbatenko, Natallia Kakhniuk, Khrystsina Maraziuk, Elena Nepytayeva,
and Olga Varchuk from the Ukrane and Belarus. These costumed insects
leap and bound through an act that, while impressive, sorely lacks any
real choreography (and this from a director that specializes in
choreography). As such were shown tricks rather than highly skilled
techniques. Cirque du Soleil has featured banquine in three of its
shows to date - Quidam, "O" and ZED - and at present I would have to
rate this performance similar to that featured in "O". While this does
not mean the presentation is overly ghastly, it does lack a certain
element, oomph if you will, that would bring this piece to that next
level.
A black spider takes firm control of our world with this phenomenal
number - slackwire. First strung loosely close to the stages floor,
then raised 20 feet or more above the stage, Li Wei performs an
amazing number of hand-balancing and coordinated techniques on this
tension-less wire. One hand, two hand and no-hand (cane) balancing
techniques are made without a fuss. He even makes riding a uni-cycle
upside down powered only by his hands look easy. It was definitely the
most exciting performance of OVO at this showing; quite a crowd
pleaser!
The last remaining scrim is then removed from the stage revealing an
enormous wall and trampoline. The crickets, which weve seen hopping
about at various times during the show, finally get to shine here,
bouncing and tumbling about, while other insects take part by using
the wall. The ants, for example, can be seen crawling along in a
perfect line, just like typical ants. Unfortunately the wall is
overused and the power track and trampoline completely underutilized.
The entire act is performed with an enormous amount of (obviously)
pent-up energy on the grasshoppers parts; however, the techno-pop
music and abhorrent staging deflate any excitement generated by this
numbers reveal. Why go through all the trouble and expense of a
trampoline and powertrack (similar to La Noubas) and not really flip
down the track much? It is my sincere hope that since this number
closes the show acrobatically its presentation and execution will be
greatly tightened soon.
The insects once again swarm the stage in the shows finale, a feast
for a job well done. This closing dance number also acts as an act
sign-off - characters from each of the performed numbers crawl across
the banquet table giving the audience a moment to show their approval
in claps and cheers. Unfortunately the presentation of this ending is
somewhat confusing, as the traditional pause in music (usually
announcing a curtain call) did not come; therefore, the audience was
unsure whether this was just a dance or whether it was really the end.
It was.
In Conclusion
---------------
All in all, while I think biodiversity is a grand theme to attempt,
and I dont mind the buggy world, I think its concept was taken a
little too literally here, which appears quite heavily in the
characters costumes. They are ingenious and highly detailed, but
appear more laughable in that pulp sci-fi kind of way. You know,
cheesy. In other shows - Mystère for example - we have birds and
lizards whose costumes evoke the sense of that creature, but do not
literally cast the performer as that creature. It is my opinion that
perhaps something similar should have occurred here - especially with
the Ladybug.
What OVO lacks is a concrete choreography and wasted potential in the
presentation of its acrobatic acts. The skill set is not showcased;
the bar has not been raised from previous efforts. This can be seen
time and time again with the Hand-balancing act, the contortion piece,
the Acrosport, and the power track/wall performance. More time and
effort appears to be spent on the visuals surrounding the performance
(a.k.a. its framing) rather than on the physical performance itself.
And if theres little new technical merit what then is the point? Its
all very nice and colorful, but theres no pop, no oomph, no chutzpah
- which is also a problem with the shows score. Theres a lack of
depth, sophistication, and worldly vibe that we expect from Cirque du
Soleil music. What we get instead are uses of Beethovens Fifth and a
rather jazzy "La Cucaracha" and a number of choices that act more as a
background tune than a supportive note.
The performances on the old quays of Montreal are by definition
previews, and as such should only be taken as a peek into the final
product. Of that I can only say this: with Varekai the entire audience
was up on its feet during the final Russian Swing number, for Koozå a
total of four standing ovations were given DURING the show, but for
Ovo... timid applause. Does this mean the show is a dud? By no means.
It just needs a little more work. And it will come. I cant wait to
see how this show evolves over the next few months!
-------------------------------------------------------
"My Thoughts on Ovo"
By: Wayne Leung - Ottawa, Ontario (Canada)
{As Published on Cirque Tribune}
-------------------------------------------------------
I just got back from the first pubic performance of OVO. To describe
the show in a word: mediocre.
While the show has a few worthwhile moments, a few high-level acts and
some good design elements, as a whole, none of it really comes
together into a cohesive whole and and the show really suffers from a
lack of direction. I really didn't find OVO all that engaging as a
show. Overall, I think it's in better shape than Kooza was at its
premiere (however, that's not saying much considering I pretty much
thought Kooza was a disaster at premiere and it's still near the
bottom on my list of Cirque shows)
SET
Some of the show's design elements are very good. I like the set
design, the layered backdrop is interesting aesthetically and the
reference to spider webs makes for some interesting imagery.
LIGHTING
The lighting design was really sub-par, after seeing some of the
brilliant designs of previous lighting designers I thought OVO looked
really amateurish. The opening was especially embarrassing,
purposeless strobe lights and flashing coloured lights onto the giant
egg? It looked cheesy and I thought to myself, "Where am I? The grade
8 dance?" The lighting definitely was not used creatively or
purposefully to accentuate the scenic composition in the way I saw in
Corteo and Zed amongst others.
COSTUMES
I'm divided on the costumes; I sat up close and was literally face-to-
face with one of the cricket characters in the opening and could
really see the intricate details and the pleating work done in the
costumes but I generally don't like the style of the costumes. The
style came off as an unsuccessful amalgam of insects and cheesy 1960s
sci-fi aliens plus some other things way out of left-field like the
contortionists (spiders) costumes being almost exact rip-offs from
Cats, the musical or the ridiculous cockroach costumes for the
musicians (although I will admit the singer's cockroach dress and
headpiece had me in stitches).
CHARACTERS
After the complete lack of character-work for Kooza I was glad to see
at least some for OVO, the different groups of insects are given
unique movements and character traits. I especially thought the
cricket characters were really well-developed and were reminiscent of
some of the engaging animal-inspired characters in Mystère. The other
character groups still need more work in developing their characters
but to the show's credit the characters (with the exception of the
three main characters) aren't as "cartoony" as I feared they'd be and
thankfully, unlike in Kooza, the performers don't annoyingly break
character after every trick to flap their arms like idiots and cry out
for more applause.
The clowning was generally pretty bad. On the scale of annoying-to-
engaging the three main characters are definitely way more toward the
annoying end. Flipo played by Joseph Collard was vaguely reminiscent
of Brian Dewhurst in Nouvelle Éxperience minus the sophistication and
poise, François-Guillaume Leblanc who plays the Stranger channels John
Gilkey but is so over the top in his portrayal he makes Gilkey seem
subtle! Michelle Matlock's lady bug is the most tolerable of the trio
and in her best moments succeeds in coming off as cute. Though the
clowning is very weak it's still better than the low-brow insufferable
clowning in Kooza and OVO's clown interludes are mercifully brief and
should remain so.
CHOREOGRAPHY
Since the show was directed by a choreographer, I'm especially
disappointed that the dance elements in the show were so weak. The
show lacked the kind of thoughtful, integrated choreographic concepts
that really made the Debra Brown-choreographed shows the gold
standard. The group dances featured in the show were silly and felt
awkward and out-of-place (they were done in a jazz style that reminded
me of mid-90s Janet Jackson music video dance choreography). OVO was a
wasted opportunity for the choreographer.
MUSIC
Then of course there's the music . . . supremely disappointing. It's
probably the weakest Cirque score to date. It consisted mostly of
generic early-90s-sounding synth pop/rock with a little bit of
Brazilian flavour and while some of it is catchy the score was
generally boring and uninspired. With few exceptions it was just
background music rather than anything integrated and conceptual. The
musicians are excellent there are a few instrumental solos where they
get to shine, I'd recognize Sebastien Savard's airy, Quidam-style
violin flights anywhere. Marie-Claude Marchand has a gorgeous voice
(reminiscent of Zara Tellander) but is unfortunately, really under-
used in the show and never really given anything of substance to sing.
ACTS
The acts in OVO are a real hodge-podge, while the skill level is
consistently high, the acts lack the thought in theatrical
presentation to really make them pop in a context of a Cirque show.
The opening of the show features the insects gathering around a giant
egg on the stage . . . and that's about it, very anti-climactic.
The handbalancing act starts off the show and is one of the stronger
acts in terms of presentation and artistic integration. The balancing
cane is placed atop a metal spiral which enables the artist to perform
some interesting choreography. The artist performs the act with grace
and poise and the act is one of the few in the show where the music
complements the artistic concept.
The foot juggling act is another direct transplant from the
traditional Chinese circus the music features Marie-Claude's first
vocal solos but other than that there's nothing interesting about the
presentation of the act.
The web act is introduced by an interesting interlude where a
performer on silks hatches herself from a nylon cocoon and spreads the
silks to look like wings to evoke a butterfly. The web act itself is a
nice little act if nothing particularly unique, it flows nicely but
lacks any real emotion or connection with the music.
The first act closer, the flying act is spectacular and Cirque
deserves credit for developing this original concept in-house when
they've recently stuck to buying acts others have developed for their
recent shows; the act combines acro sport, aerial cradle and flying
trapeze techniques and while it is very high-calibre, the presentation
leaves a lot to be desired; the music doesn't suit the act at all it's
very generic background music. The act really needs a strong piece of
music like the Aerial High Bar music from Mystère or Alegría to add a
sense of drama to really complete the staging.
The contortion act immediately following intermission is awkward. The
set-up is promising, a web of rope is strung across most of the stage
extending over the first few rows of the audience. The first part of
the act consists of web rope contortion, then a floor portion follows.
The problem is again the lack of direction in the presentation; the
act has neither a strong enough choreographic concept to be considered
dance nor a strong enough mise-en-scène to qualify it as a theatrical
concept.
The acrosport number suffers similarly from lack of thought in its
presentation. The performers are obviously highly skilled yet the
"act" just consists of going down a list of tricks. I would think that
a choreographer would be excited to have the opportunity to
choreograph performers with such limitless possibilities in their
range of movements however the choreography of the act is almost non-
existent. It's such a wasted opportunity.
The slackwire act is a highlight of the show in terms of artistic
integration. The music is one of the more interesting pieces of the
score featuring instrumental solos by the guitarist, violinist and
accordion player (the latter two of whom are visible on-stage during
the act. However, slackwire acts generally don't lend themselves well
to artistic presentation so the presentation in OVO is probably as
strong as one is likely to find for such an act.
The power track/trampoline/climbing wall act is a very promising
concept and the troupe performs the act with a great amount of energy,
flipping down the power track, bouncing up and down the tramps and
climbing on the wall in various groups. Where the act fails is again
in the presentation. The music is distractingly sophomoric, with
synthesizer blasts that remind me of the opening theme of an early-90s
MTV show and the choreography also leaves a lot to be desired
considering the brilliant staging of Cirque's previous fast/powertrack
numbers.
TRANSITIONS
In some of Cirque's best shows, the transitions are often just as
interesting as the acts, if not moreso, the interstitial sequences are
often given theatrical or choreographic substance which makes them
engaging. Conversely, I found the transitions in OVO to be abrupt and
jarring, more-so than any other Cirque show I noticed the techs
running about the tent to set up the rigging, there were no attempts
to make the equipment set-up seamless or incorporate the transitions
into the (non-existent) theatrical concept, the number of techs
running about the big top doing to do set-up was actually distracting.
CONCLUSION
OVO is missing a lot of the Cirque du Soleil value-added elements;
engaging music, theatricality, choreography and general presentation
quality. The presentation of OVO is all style over substance, and I
don't particularly care for OVO's style. While I'd like to believe
that they will make significant changes to improve the show and add
the presentation elements it sorely lacks in the next few months their
recent track record suggests otherwise.
In general OVO is really nothing special. It lacks the sophistication,
direction and attention-to-detail in the presentation that are the
trademark of Cirque du Soleil's classic shows and will, quite frankly,
never be up to par with the company's best works. While parts of it
are mildly entertaining it falls far short of the sublime, visceral
experiences of the classic Cirque shows and is not something I'd
really be interested in seeing again. It's hardly worth the steep
Cirque du Soleil ticket price and is definitely not anything I'd
recommend going out-of-your way to rush to see.
OVO is desperately crying out for any type of direction, a script, an
integrated choreographic concept, anything to give the show some sense
of purpose. I imagine OVO is about the same level a show as Cirque
Dreams or Neil Goldman's Cirque or the other cheap direct Cirque du
Soleil knock offs. The criticism of those shows is that they make a
meagre attempt to copy Cirque du Soleil's aesthetic (often
unsuccessfully, resulting in tacky, non-cohesive costumes and sets and
corny synthesizer music) and missing the finer points of what makes
Cirque du Soleil unique, the attention to detail in presentation, the
thought put into development of concepts, the mise-en-scène used to
explore deeper ideas or evoke emotions. OVO also fails on all these
accounts and belongs in the same league as these cheap imitation
Cirque du Soleil shows, it should be seen as an embarrassing misstep.
OVO's mediocrity is especially disappointing because it seemed for a
while that Cirque might be on the verge of a comeback after giving us
the brilliant Zed, it seems for every step forward Cirque takes two
steps back. OVO feels like the Cirque du Soleil machine has just mass-
produced another generic show . . . It's another miss for a company
that desperately needs to get its artistic groove back.
It's really sad to see the formerly great Cirque du Soleil slip to the
level of its cheap imitators. When the quality is no better it begs
the question, is Cirque du Soleil still relevant?
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 9, Number 2 (Issue #64) - May 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.
{ May.05.2009 }
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