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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 10, NUMBER 3 MARCH 2010 ISSUE #74
=======================================================================
===========
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 Facebook, YouTube & Flickr
* Gatherings -- CirqueCon & More!
.) NOTE: Special CirqueCon 2010 Event Updates!
o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History
o) Fascination! Features
*) "Cirque in Your Ear (Part 2 of 2)"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
*) "Cirque du Soleil Unveils VIVA ELVIS!"
By: Cirque du Soleil, Press Room Materials
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
Banana Shpeel Open House
{Feb.05.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
As reported through Theater Mania and Cirque du Soleil's
Facebook pages, the company of Banana Shpeel is set to
participate in an open house on February 10th at New York City's
Beacon Theatre. Information regarding festivities follows in
this excerpt from TheaterMania:
# # #
The festivities will get underway at 4:30pm with the unveiling
of the show's marquee at the theater. Performers will arrive,
accompanied by musicians, to greet fans. In addition, the first
100 guests who arrive with a banana will win two complimentary
tickets to the show. The bananas will be donated to Life Center,
a local New York homeless shelter.
At 4:45pm, the Banana Shpeel cast will lead the public into the
theater for the Open House with an exclusive sneak peek at the
show's creative process in the newly-restored Beacon Theatre.
Guests will see rehearsals on stage, make-up demonstrations,
costume displays, and take photos with costumed performers.
Local restaurants and businesses will provide complimentary
snacks.
{SOURCE: Theater Mania}
A Rotten "Banana"?
{Feb.10.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
Wow, Michael Riedel of the New York Post, wrote a scathing
review of Banana Shpeel today and from the way he describes the
situation, the show has gone from bad to worse.
# # #
What's set to open Feb. 25 at the Beacon Theatre is no minor
accident. It is, according to several people working on the $20
million production, a "train wreck," a "catastrophe," a
"nightmare" and, not to put too fine a point on it, "one of the
worst shows you've ever seen."
Performers and writers have been fired (only, in some cases, to
be rehired the next week); rehearsals are chaotic; the director,
David Shiner, is described as "clueless"; and Madison Square
Garden Entertainment, which owns the Beacon and has shoveled $10
million into this fiasco, is furious.
Last week, [Guy Laliberte] beamed himself down to New York to
check up on the revised "Banana Shpeel." He didn't applaud at
the end. In fact, sources say, he thought the show was worse.
# # #
Uh-oh...
Read the full article here:
< http://www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/theater/
bad_banana_turns_rotten_jhe0Lag60IaHhsWRUfFvRL >
{SOURCE: New York Post}
CDS Worried About DubaiWorld?
{Feb.10.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
Is anyone at Cirque du Soleil worried about the pending sale of
its shares by Dubai World? According to Pat Donnelly of the
Montreal Gazette, the answer is NO.
# # #
For two reasons. Number one, he doesn't believe it's going to
happen. "To me, it's still a rumour," he said.
Second, and even more important, "They can't sell us to anybody
without Guy Laliberté's approval," he said. "We're well
protected. That's why you're talking to a very calm man. Guy
still owns over 80 per cent of the company, so he decides what
to do."
# # #
There are many options open regarding the 20% Dubai World owns,
including the possibility of Cirque buying back its shares.
Read the original article here:
< http://www.montrealgazette.com/opinion/letters/Sale+
rumours+worry+Cirque+Lamarre/2537973/story.html >
{SOURCE: Montreal Gazette}
Banana Shpeel Delayed Again?
{Feb.15.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
According to Variety.com, the debut of Cirque du Soleil's newest
venue production - Banana Shpeel - in New York City has been
pushed back yet again. Previews will now begin Wednesday, March
17th. Why?
# # #
Latest delay is attributed to the fact that creatives, who are
busily reworking the production, need more time to integrate new
performance elements.
# # #
See the original article here:
< http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118015263.html?
categoryId=15&cs=1. >
Tour 2010 Creation Team Announced!
{Feb.17.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil released information pertaining to Cirque2010
yesterday through it's Facebook page. Check it out!
# # #
Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to introduce the creation team for
its next touring show, premiering in Montreal next spring,
followed by Quebec City.
Directed by Robert Lepage, Cirque 2010 (working title) is a show
about creation myths and the evolution of the human species.
This will mark Robert Lepage's second collaboration with Cirque
du Soleil, following KÀ at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which has
just celebrated its fifth anniversary. Including Robert Lepage,
the Cirque 2010 team consists of 13 creators under the artistic
guidance of Guy Laliberté and Gilles Ste-Croix:
Robert Lepage - Director
Versatile in every form of theatre craft, Robert Lepage is
equally talented as a director, scenic artist, playwright, actor
and film director. His creative and original approach to theatre
has won him international acclaim and shaken the dogma of
classical stage direction to its foundations, especially through
his use of new technologies. Contemporary history is his source
of inspiration, and his modern and unusual work transcends all
boundaries.
Neilson Vignola - Director of Creation
A long-time collaborator of Robert Lepage, Neilson Vignola has
worked as stage manager, production manager and staging
assistant in the theatre, opera and circus worlds. With Cirque
du Soleil, he has previously participated in the creation of KÀ,
DELIRIUM and ZAIA.
Carl Fillion - Set Designer
Highly sought after by directors on both the Quebec and
international theatre scenes, Carl Fillion has worked alongside
Robert Lepage on over a dozen productions. Parallel to his work
as a designer, Carl has taught set design at the Conservatoire
d'art dramatique de Québec and the National Theatre School of
Montreal. Cirque 2010 marks his first collaboration with Cirque
du Soleil.
Kym Barrett - Costume Designer
Kym Barrett began her career on the Australian theatre scene as
a costume and set designer. In cinema, she was responsible for
the costumes in the popular Matrix trilogy. She also designed
the costumes for the movies Three Kings, Red Planet, Gothika and
Monster-in-Law. Cirque 2010 marks her first collaboration with
Cirque du Soleil.
Bob & Bill - Composers
Bob & Bill (Guy Dubuc and Marc Lessard) have previously worked
on several Cirque du Soleil albums and special events, but this
is their first time as composers for a show. They have produced
numerous albums for artists such as Pink Floyd, Monica Freire
and Luck Mervil. They have also worked as arrangers and
musicians on albums by Daniel Bélanger, Daniel Boucher, Kevin
Parent and Zachary Richard, to name just a few. In addition to
overseeing the musical direction of various Quebec television
shows, they have designed sound and musical effects for the X-
Box and Playstation consoles and video games in 2003.
Jeffrey Hall - Choreographer
As co-artistic director of PPS Danse, Jeffrey Hall has worked
with Pierre-Paul Savoie, Michel Lemieux and Victor Pilon. He has
also acted in the plays Café des Aveugles and Le Dortoir as well
as in their movie adaptations. Le Dortoir, adapted for the big
screen by François Girard, has been highly acclaimed. Jeffrey
has also worked with renowned Quebec theatre directors such as
Gilles Maheu, Marie Brassard and Robert Lepage. At Cirque du
Soleil since 2005, Jeffrey has worked as the Artistic Coach on
LOVE and Acrobatic Choreographer for ZAIA, and has also coached
artists in general training.
Étienne Boucher - Lighting Designer
While Étienne Boucher is fond of the theatre, he also creates
lighting designs for dance, musicals and opera productions. His
work has earned him several nominations at the Soirée des
Masques awards. In 2007, he won a Masque for his lighting
designs for Du vent entre les dents (directed by Martin Faucher)
and La Dame aux camélias (directed by Robert Bellefeuille).
Étienne has also worked with Sylvain Émard, Brigitte Haentjens,
René Richard Cyr and Robert Lepage. Cirque 2010 is his first
collaboration with Cirque du Soleil.
Pedro Pires - Projections Designer
Pedro Pires has a background in plastic arts, special effects
and 3D graphics. He has worked with François Girard on The Red
Violin as well as on The Sound of the Carceri, for which he won
an Emmy and a Gemini award. Pedro has worked closely with Robert
Lepage on numerous occasions prior to Cirque 2010. This is his
first collaboration with Cirque du Soleil.
Jacques Boucher - Sound Designer
While studying bass and classical music at the Conservatoire de
musique de Québec, Jacques Boucher also played in a number of
rock bands. He has worked in sound since 1984. In addition to
his ten years as head sound technician at Quebec City's Théâtre
Capitole, Jacques has worked as sound technician for various
Quebec artists, including Richard Séguin, Laurence Jalbert,
Diane Dufresne and Bruno Pelletier. Jacques then became an
expert in sound design for musicals and special events,
including Robert Lepage's Moulin à Images and the Cirque du
Soleil show to mark Quebec City's 400th anniversary in 2008.
Florence Pot - Acrobatic Performance Designer With a university
degree in physical activity and sports psychology, Florence Pot
worked as a gymnastics coach and choreographer before joining
Cirque du Soleil as Acrobatic Talent Scout and then Head Talent
Scout. In 2006, she took part in the creation of ZED as
Acrobatic Performance Designer, a role she takes on once more
with Cirque 2010.
Pierre Masse - Acrobatic Equipment and Rigging Designer Pierre
Masse has had the opportunity to work in just about every area
of the performing arts and to be involved in major productions
with the Opéra de Montréal, the Grands Ballets Canadiens, Les
Misérables and Céline Dion. With Cirque du Soleil since 1996, he
has taken part in the creation of Quidam, Varekai, Zumanity, KÀ
and CRISS ANGEL Believe. Cirque 2010 is his first show working
as Acrobatic Equipment and Rigging Designer.
Nathalie J. Simard - Make-up Designer
After a short stint in art school, Nathalie J. Simard soon
became immersed in the world of street arts in Old Quebec. A
self-taught artist with great curiosity and passion, Nathalie
has developed her craft at many festivals and special events
that have taken her all over the world. While travelling,
Nathalie founded Kromatik, a company that specializes in make-up
for strolling performances and street arts. Cirque 2010 marks
her first collaboration with Cirque du Soleil.
Cirque 2010 will be presented on the Quays of the Old Port of
Montreal as of April 22 and at the Port de Québec as of July 22.
For more info, visit http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/cirque2010
LVRJ Previews VIVA ELVIS
{Feb.19.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
Mike Weatherford of the Las Vegas Review Journal stepped into
the Aria theater recently to preview Cirque du Soleil's VIVA
ELVIS and here's a little of what he has to about the
production...
# # #
The voice is familiar. The music? Not always.
You won't hear much meddling with the lean rockabilly sound of
"Mystery Train." But "Jailhouse Rock" sidesteps into hip-hop and
"Got A Lot O' Livin' to Do!" ventures into Zeppelin-esque guitar
rock. The creators of "Viva Elvis" do not deny taking
inspiration from a popular remix of "A Little Less
Conversation," which caught on via a Nike ad after the original
resurfaced in the "Ocean's Eleven" remake.
Since "Viva" is also biographical, the creative team decided a
few songs could take an outside perspective, voiced by the four
live female singers. Being freed from having to match time or
key signatures of the records opened the door to dramatic
reinterpretation: "King Creole" goes reggae; "One Night With
You" gets a wispy Norah Jones feel, with Presley coming in as a
ghostly backing vocal.
But preview audiences reminded the directors why Elvis hits are
seldom covered. He was the show, and the songs lose traction
without him.
# # #
Read more of the article here:
< http://www.lvrj.com/neon/viva-elvis-84765132.html >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Review-Journal}
Cirque's High-Wire Act
{Feb.19.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
Steve Fress of Portfolio.com takes an interesting look at Cirque
du Soleil's recent activities - its triumphs and its "failures"
- and places them in perspective. From the article:
# # #
For the first time, Cirque has a bona fide dud of a show in Las
Vegas, attendance is underwhelming for its production in Macau,
and critics are already sharpening their knives over two new
shows due to open this month, one in New York and another in
Vegas. A development deal with Dubai World isn't playing out as
expected largely because Dubai World's development activities
have been, uh, complicated by its financial implosion.
Yet somehow-per the company's name-it's always sunny inside the
office at Cirque's international headquarters of cheerful Cirque
CEO Daniel Lamarre. Not only is he undeterred by setbacks that
he's largely unwilling to acknowledge as setbacks, but he is
laying plans for even more rapid growth for the company that
could make the brand as ubiquitous as, say, Disney on Ice.
By the summer of 2011, the company expects to have opened
resident shows for two of the world's most famous venues, Radio
City Music Hall in Manhattan and the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood,
and still the machine in Montreal will continue to churn at high
gear.
"I can easily see Cirque developing two to three new shows a
year," said Lamarre, brought in as chief operations officer in
2001 by owner Guy Laliberte after helming Canada's top TV
network with the express mission of accelerating the company's
growth. "To produce three shows a year, it means I have to have
nine shows in the making. Right now I've got 2010, 2011, and
2012 planned out."
# # #
Read more of the article here:
< http://www.portfolio.com/industry-news/advertising-
marketing/2010/02/19/cirque-du-soleil-expands-with-elvis-
vaudeville-shows/ >
{SOURCE: Portfolio.com}
The Press on VIVA ELVIS
{Feb.23.2010}
-----------------------------------------------
The press have had a lot to say about VIVA ELVIS's premiere -
check it out!
KLAS-TV BLOG
Viva Elvis! World Premiere at Aria (Pictures & Review)
< http://blogs.lasvegasnow.com/entertainment/2010/02/viva-elvis-
world-premiere-at-aria-pictures-review/ >
CNN NEWS
'The King' Makes a Triumphant Return to Las Vegas in the World
Premiere of VIVA ELVIS
< http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/
NY58306.htm >
CHICAGO TRIBUNE
'Viva Elvis' by the Cirque du Soleil at Aria in Las Vegas: The
authorized King
< http://leisureblogs.chicagotribune.com/the_theater_loop/
2010/02/viva-elvis-by-the-cirque-du-soleil-the-authorized-
king.html >
ABC NEWS
Cirque Du Soleil's "Viva Elvis" Outfabs Beatles
< http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory?
id=9904054%3Cbr%20/%3E >
MONTREAL GAZETTE
Cirque du Soleil offers tribute to the King
< http://www.montrealgazette.com/Cirque+Soleil+offers+
tribute+King/2590554/story.html >
TORONTO STAR
Cirque's Elvis: That's all right
< http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/theatre/article/768870--
cirque-s-elvis-that-s-all-right >
MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE
Just 'Too Much' Elvis in Vegas circus show
< http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/84867592.html?
elr=KArks:DCiUHc3E7_V_nDaycUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU >
LAS VEGAS WEEKLY
Cirque repackages rock 'n' roll icon in 'Viva Elvis'
< http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2010/feb/20/cirque-
repackages-rock-n-roll-icon-viva-elvis/ >
LA TIMES
Cirque du Soleil 'Viva Elvis': It has the glitz, but does it
capture Presley's Soul
< http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2010/02/cirque-du-
soleil-viva-elvis-it-has-the-glitz-but-does-it-capture-
presleys-soul.html >
LAS VEGAS SUN
Elvis Presley is back in Viva Elvis
< http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/feb/20/elvis-presley-
back-emviva-elvisem/ >
=======================================================================
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 & VIVA Elvis}
o) VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions
{Saltimbanco, Alegría | Wintuk, Banana Shpeel}
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 without notice. As such,
the Fascination! Newsletter does not accept responsibility
for the accuracy of these listings.
.) 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 >
Cirque 2010:
Montréal, QC -- Apr 22, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010
Québec City, QC -- Jul 22, 2010 to TBA
Amsterdam, NL -- Oct 8, 2010 to Dec 18, 2010 (*)
London, UK -- Jan 5, 2011 to Feb 13, 2011 (*)
Madris, ES -- Feb 24, 2011 to May 1, 2011 (*)
Barcelona, ES -- May 12, 2011 to Jul 17, 2011 (*)
Gijon, ES -- Jul 28, 2011 to Aug 28, 2011 (*)
Zurich, CH -- Sep 16, 2011 to Nov 6, 2011 (*)
Lausanne, CH -- Nov 17, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011 (*)
Corteo:
Fukuoka, Japan -- Feb 11, 2010 to Apr 4, 2010
Sendai, Japan -- Apr 21, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010
St. Petersburg, Russia -- Jun 26, 2010 to Aug 8, 2010
Kazan, Russia -- Aug 21, 2010 to Sep 26, 2010
Moscow, Russia -- Oct 29, 2010 to Dec 12, 2010
Dralion:
New Tour Coming Soon!
Koozå:
San Diego, CA -- Feb 25, 2010 to Mar 28, 2010
Portland, OR -- Apr 9, 2010 to May 23, 2010 (*)
Seattle, WA -- Jun 3, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010 (*)
Vancouver, BC -- Jul 22, 2010 to Sep 5, 2010 (*)
Houston, TX -- Sep 23, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010 (*)
Miami, FL -- Nov 18, 2010 to Dec 26, 2010 (*)
Ovo:
San Jose, CA -- Feb 4, 2010 to Mar 21, 2010
New York, NY -- Apr 9, 2010 to Jul 4, 2010
Hartford, CT -- Jul 15, 2010 to Aug 15, 2010 (*)
Boston, MA -- Aug 26, 2010 to Oct 3, 2010 (*)
Washington, DC -- Oct 14, 2010 to Nov 28, 2010 (*)
Atlanta, GA -- Dec 17, 2010 to Feb 13, 2011 (*)
Quidam:
São Paulo, BR -- Feb 26, 2010 to Apr 11, 2010
Porto Alegre, BR -- Apr 22, 2010 to May 16, 2010
Buenos Aiers, AR -- May 28, 2010 to Jun 20, 2010
Santiago, CL -- Jul 2, 2010 to Aug 8, 2010
Lime, PE -- Aug 22, 2010 to Sep 19, 2010
Bogota, CO -- Oct 9, 2010 to Nov 21, 2010
Varekai:
Manchester, UK -- Feb 25, 2010 to Mar 21, 2010 (*)
Munich, DE -- Apr 1, 2010 to May 2, 2010 (*)
Cologne, DE -- May 13, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 (*)
Frankfurt, DE -- Jun 17, 2010 to Jul 18, 2010 (*)
Oostende, BE -- Jul 29, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010 (*)
---------------------------------
RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
---------------------------------
NOTE: (*) Prices are in United States Dollars (USD) unless otherwise
noted.
(*) Ticket prices exclude the 10% Live Entertainment Tax, the
$7.50 per-ticket processing fee, and sales tax where
applicable.
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 - 7:00pm & 9:30pm
2010 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12):
o Category 1: $109.00 / $54.50
o Category 2: $99.00 / $49.50
o Category 3: $79.00 / $39.50
o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50
o Category 5: $60.00 / $30.00 (Limited View)
2010 Dark Dates:
o March 10
o May 8 - 12
o July 7
o September 4 - 8
o November 3
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm
2010 Ticket Prices:
o Orchestra: $150.00
o Loggia: $130.00
o Balcony: $99.00
o Limited View: $93.50
2010 Dark Dates:
o April 14 - 18
o June 13
o July 4
o August 11 - 15
o October 10
o December 8 - 21
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2010 Ticket Prices (adults) / (child 3-9):
o Category 0: $120.00 / $97.00
o Category 1: $105.00 / $85.00
o Category 2: $85.00 / $69.00
o Category 3: $69.00 / $56.00
o Category 4: $55.00 / $45.00
2010 Dark Dates:
o March 23
o May 25 - 28
o June 1 - 4
o July 27
o September 21 - 24
o November 16
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday through Sunday
Dark: Monday & Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm
2010 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!):
o Duo Sofas: $135.00
o Orchestra Seats: $99.00
o Upper Orchestra Seats: $79.00
o Balcony Seats: $69.00
o Cabaret Stools: $69.00
2010 Dark Dates:
o March 9
o April 6 - 11
o June 15 - 16
o July 13 - 14
o August 3 - 8
o September 14
o October 12 - 13
o November 30
o December 1 - 14
2010 Added Performances:
o March 11th
o June 17th
o July 15th
o September 16th
o October 14th
o November 29th
o December 30th
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2010 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12):
o Category 1: $150.00 / $75.00
o Category 2: $125.00 / $62.50
o Category 3: $99.00 / $49.50
o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50
2010 Dark Dates
o March 30 - 31
o June 1 - 8
o September 7 - 11
o November 16 - 17
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2010 Ticket Prices:
o Lower Orchestra: $150.00
o Upper Orchestra: $130.00
o Lower Balcony: $99.00
o Middle Balcony: $93.50
2010 Dark Dates:
o April 8 - 12
o June 10
o August 5 - 9
o October 7
o December 3 - 13
ZAIA:
Location: Venetian, Macao (China)
Performs: Every Day, Dark: Wednesday
One to Two Shows Daily - Times Vary
2010 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 2-11):
o VIP Seating: MOP$ 1288 / MOP$ 1288
o Reserve A: MOP$ 788 / MOP$ 394
o Reserve B: MOP$ 588 / MOP$ 294
o Reserve C: MOP$ 388 / MOP$ 194
2010 Dark Dates:
o March 29 - 30
ZED:
Location: Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo (Japan)
Performs: Varies
One to Two Shows Daily - Showtimes vary
2010 Ticket Prices (Non-Peek / Peek Time):
o Category 1 ("Premium"): ¥15,000 / ¥16,000
o Category 2 ("Stage-Side"): ¥12,500 / ¥13,500
o Category 2 ("Center"): ¥12,500 / ¥13,500
o Category 3 ("Wide View"): ¥9,500 / ¥10,500
o Category 4 ("Value"): ¥7,500 / ¥7,800
2010 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.
2010 Ticket Prices (all):
o Category 1: $160.00
o Category 2: $125.00
o Category 3: $99.00
o Category 4: $79.00
o Category 5: $59.00
2010 Dark Dates:
o April 13 - 17
o May 25
o June 1
o July 6 - 10, 13 - 17
o October 12 - 16
VIVA ELVIS:
Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
Preview Performances: December 18th to January 28th
2010 Ticket Prices (Previews / Regular)
o Category 1: $149.38 / $175.00
o Category 2: $128.75 / $150.00
o Category 3: $108.13 / $125.00
o Category 4: $86.68 / $99.00
2010 Dark Dates:
o March 17 - 25
o May 11 - 13
o July 14 - 29
o September 14 - 16
o November 17 - 25
--------------------------------------
VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions
--------------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=251 >
[Arena Shows]
Saltimbanco:
Torino, IT -- Mar 3, 2010 to Mar 7, 2010
Pesaro, IT -- Mar 10, 2010 to Mar 14, 2010
Bologna, IT -- Mar 17, 2010 to Mar 21, 2010
Florence, IT -- Mar 24, 2010 to Mar 28, 2010
Stuttgart, DE -- Mar 31, 2010 to Apr 4, 2010
Bremen, DE -- Apr 7, 2010 to Apr 11, 2010
Valencia, ES -- Apr 14, 2010 to Apr 17, 2010
Santiago, ES -- Apr 21, 2010 to Apr 25, 2010
San Sebastian, ES -- Apr 28, 2010 to May 2, 2010
Sheffield, UK -- May 20, 2010 to May 23, 2010
Liverpool, UK -- May 26, 2010 to May 30, 2010
Glasgow, UK -- Jun 2, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010
Manchester, UK -- Jun 9, 2010 to Jun 13, 2010
Birmingham, UK -- Jun 17, 2010 to Jun 20, 2010
Newcastle, UK -- Jun 30, 2010 to Jul 4, 2010
Dublin, IE -- Jul 7, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010
Nottingham, UK -- Jul 21, 2010 to Jul 25, 2010
London, UK -- Jul 28, 2010 to Aug 1, 2010
Hamburg, DE -- TBA
Dortmund, DE -- TBA
Berlin, DE -- TBA
Munich, DE -- TBA
Alegría:
Hoffman Estates, IL -- Mar 3, 2010 to Mar 7 2010
Cedar Rapids, IA -- Mar 10, 2010 to Mar 14, 2010
Champaign, IL -- Mar 17, 2010 to Mar 21, 2010
Omaha, NE -- Mar 24, 2010 to Mar 28, 2010
East Lansing, MI -- Mar 31, 2010 to Apr 4, 2010
Cleveland, OH -- Apr 7, 2010 to Apr 11, 2010
Highland Heights, KY -- Apr 29, 2010 to May 2, 2010
St, Louis, MO -- May 05, 2010 to May 9, 2010
Kansas City, MO -- May 12, 2010 to May 16, 2010
Salt Lake City, UT -- May 19, 2010 to May 23, 2010
Fresno, CA -- May 27, 2010 to May 30, 2010
Sacramento, CA -- Jun 02, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010
Rio Rancho, NM -- Jun 9, 2010 to Jun 13, 2010
Cypress, TX -- Jun 16, 2010 to Jun 20, 2010
St. Paul, MN -- Jun 23, 2010 to Jun 27, 2010
Toronto, ON -- Jun 30, 2010 to Jul 4, 2010
Winnipeg, MB -- Jul 22, 2010 to Jul 25, 2010
Regina, SK -- Jul 27, 2010 to Aug 1, 2010
Saskatoon, SK -- Aug 4, 2010 to Aug 8, 2010
Edmonton, AB -- Aug 11, 2010 to Aug 22, 2010
Kelowna, BC -- Aug 25, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010
Kamloops, BC -- Sep 1, 2010 to Sep 5, 2010
Victoria, BC -- Sep 8, 2010 to Sep 12, 2010
Tacoma, WA -- Sep 15, 2010 to Sep 19, 2010
Spokane, WA -- Sep 22, 2010 to Sep 26, 2010
Honolulu, HI -- Oct 15, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010
Boise, ID -- Nov 4, 2010 to Nov 7, 2010
Stockton, CA -- Nov 10, 2010 to Nov 14, 2010
Phoenix, AZ -- Nov 17, 2010 to Nov 21, 2010
Tucson, AZ -- Nov 24, 2010 to Nov 28, 2010
Portland, OR -- Dec 1, 2010 to Dec 5, 2010
Oklahoma City, OK -- Dec 23, 2010 to Dec 26, 2010
[Venue Shows]
Wintuk:
Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City (USA)
Wintuk's 2009 Season has drawn to a close. See you next
winter!
Banana Shpeel:
Location: Beacon Theater, New York City (USA)
Schedule: Performances from February 25th through May 30th;
Days of the week and times vary.
2010 Ticket Prices (Regular Performances):
[TBA]
o Premium: $199.00 single / $199 group
o P1: $110.00 single / $75.00 group
o P2: $85.00 single / $60.00 group
o P3: $65.00 single / $45.00 group
o P4: $45.00 single / $39.00 group
2010 Ticket Prices (Previews):
[March 17th through TBA]
o Premium: n/a
o P1: $89.00 single / $55.00 group
o P2: $65.00 single / $55.00 group
o P3: $45.00 single / $45.00 group
NOTE: Prices include $4.50 facility fee.
There is no children's pricing.
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE'S SOCIAL WIDGETS
=======================================================================
o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
o) Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, Youtube & Flickr
o) Gatherings -- CirqueCon & More!
---------------------------------------
CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub
---------------------------------------
Recently CirqueClub went through a dramatic transformation -
refocusing and rebranding their efforts through their web page.
Currently a "Beta Version" of the website is up to experience for a
short while, but upgrades and new features will be rolling out soon.
In the meantime, brighten your comptuer in Cirque du Soleil stype with
some new wallpapers (http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-
club/goodies/wallpapers.aspx) and enjoy new behind-the-scenes videos
(http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/photos-
videos/videos.aspx).
Facing the Elements of KÀ
{Feb.02}
FOR MANY YEARS NOW, KÀ HAS CHANGED THE LAS VEGAS ENTERTAINMENT
WORLD. ON FEBRUARY 3, THE SHOW WILL CELEBRATE ITS FIFTH
ANNIVERSARY. TO UNDERLINE THIS GREAT MILESTONE, WE THOUGHT IT
WOULD BE INTERESTING TO LOOK AT ALL OF THE DIFFERENT ELEMENTS
THAT HELP CREATE THIS UNBELIEVABLY ARTISTIC EXPERIENCE EVERY
NIGHT.
Storm - The Storm is the scene in which, to escape the Archers
and Spearmen, the Nanny drags the Twin Sister onto a boat and
they escape by sea, only to encounter a massive storm that
capsizes their vessel. The specially designed boat structure
weighs almost 1,800 pounds and the rocking and turning movements
are completely manipulated by the artists onboard. Since the
opening of the show, this scene has not undergone any major
changes.
Snow - For the Mountain Tribe scenes, snow machines and fans
float very fine soap suds through the air to make a very
convincing snowfall.
Lightning - Lighting and video projections are two important
elements in the show. KÀ has over 3,600 lighting fixtures. As
for the projections, they are a mix of computer-generated
effects and human input. To create the interactive projections
that follow an artist's movement in some scenes, the artists are
captured by an infrared-sensitive camera and their movements are
tracked by a computer.
Sand - In the Wash-up on the Shore, the beach is created using
2,000 pounds of granular cork. Also in this scene are human-
sized puppets designed to accentuate the acrobatic proficiency
of the performers while maintaining the animals' natural
movements.
Thunder - To fill the KÀ Theatre with sound takes 524,150 total
watts of amplifier power pumping an intricately layered mix of
sound effects and music to 4,774 loudspeaker drivers in 2,139
cabinets. Every seat in the KÀ Theatre has two speakers built
into its headrest, which allows sound effects to be targeted,
manipulated and customized to any of 16 seating zones. As for
the music, it is played by 8 musicians.
Fire - During the pre-show, approximately 120 fireballs are
discharged. These fireballs measure 30 feet in height and reach
temperatures of 1,200°F.
Ground - There are five stage lifts used to create performance
space and move props and artists during the show. The stage
lifts move a maximum of 25 feet from bottom to top. The largest
lifts cover 1,400 square feet each.
Blizzard - During the Blizzard scene, the Tribesmen show off
their climbing prowess by manually ascending 50 feet to join
their fellow tribespeople on the mountaintop, as created by the
Sand Cliff Deck tilted past vertical to 100 degrees.
Fog - Many of the fog effects in KÀ are created using liquid
nitrogen, which has a temperature of approximately -300°F. By
mixing it with hot water, a low fog effect is created. KÀ has a
13,000 gallon storage tank for liquid nitrogen.
Energy - The great energy that spectators feel each time they
see the show comes from 75 incredible artists, 195 wonderful
technicians and 19 great operations people.
ELVIS is Back in Las Vegas!
{Feb.10}
Viva ELVIS Premieres at ARIA Resort & Casino(tm) in Las Vegas.
On this historic day, where Elvis makes an exceptional comeback
in Las Vegas, we share with you a few comments from the creators
of our new show to hit the Vegas Strip...
LINK /// < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-
club/news/2010/news20100219.aspx >
25 Visions of Cirque! | Part One of Ten
{Feb.05}
Hear from three of Cirque du Soleil's growing number of
personalities - Mike Newnum (who joined Cirque in 2003), Dawn
Doran (who joined Cirque in 2004), and Karen Gay (who joined
Cirque in 1998) - in this installment of "25 Visions of Cirque!"
Read More:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-
club/news/2010/news20100205.aspx
World Premiere: D-Day for ELVIS
{Feb.26}
It's not quite noon yet, but the Viva ELVIS theatre is already
buzzing. Journalists have been invited to meet the show's
creators and take a backstage tour. Meanwhile, the Aria Hotel is
also buzzing because of a visit by President Obama. But that's
another story for another day.
Read More:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-
club/news/2010/news20100226.aspx >
Sky Changing on Mystère
{Feb.28}
After 16 years and 7,641 performances, the sky structure on
Mystère was replaced with aluminum trussing during the January
dark. The old sky was experiencing stress fractures that had to
be re-welded in several locations. The new sky was engineered by
Nolan Engineering Services (NES) and built by Total Structures.
The old sky weighed in at 7,150 lbs while the new sky weighs
5,000 lbs. The old sky structure was dismantled by our crew and
hauled away by Desert Recycling LLC. Mystère received a check in
the amount of $2,283.16 for recycling the structure. This money
was then donated to ONE DROP - Project Haiti.
Read More:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-
club/news/2010/news20100228.aspx >
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Flickr
---------------------------------------------------
--- [ ALEGRIA ] ---
{Feb.05}
"Cirque's Alegria dazzling stagecraft comes to Joe Louis Arena"
Read The Windsor Star's review of the Detroit premiere of
Alegria!
LINK /// < http://www.windsorstar.com/entertainment/Cirque%
20Alegria%20dazzling%20stagecraft%20comes%20Louis%
20Arena/2524969/story.html >
{Feb.11}
Did you know...that it takes 9 hours and over 80 technicians to
put up the Alegria set?
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=184360
&id=38543815745&ref=mf >
--- [ BANANA SHPEEL ] ---
{Feb.11}
Wow the Blizzard of 2010 couldn't stop the Banana Shpeel Open
House at the Beacon Theatre. Over 1,000 people attended
including banana toting fans who lined up four hours before the
event. Guests at the Banana Shpeel Open House were photographed
with performers from the show!
FOTO [127] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=186406
&id=153330866799&ref=mf >
{Feb.12}
Check out the video on Broadway.com from the Banana Shpeel Open
House in New York.
LINK /// < http://www.broadway.com/shows/banana-shpeel/buzz/new-
yorkers-go-bananas-cirque-du-soleils-banana-shpeel/ >
{Feb.15}
Dance Magazine features Banana Shpeel Choreographer Jared Grimes
in the February issue.
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4746864
&id=153330866799 >
{Feb.22}
MEET THE CREATORS: Make-up Designer Eleni Uranis uses her skills
as a painter to create the unique looks for Banana Shpeel. She
starts by painting on photos of the performers' face to explore
ideas and color palettes. Eleni has been with Cirque du Soleil
since 1989 and designed the make-up for the shows Wintuk and
ZED.
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4805827
&id=153330866799 >
--- [ KÀ ] ---
{Feb.06}
Last night the founder of Cirque du Soleil, Guy Laliberté, paid
us a visit to congratulate everyone on 5 wonderful years. We
also presented him with a gift - a star named after his ONE DROP
Foundation. Happy Birthday, KÀ!
FOTO [2] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=185184
&id=31527171928&ref=mf >
{Feb.09}
Hello KÀ fans! Our friends at G4 were kind enough to share some
clips from the "Inside KÀ" special which aired last month, so in
case you didn't catch it, here's a quick peek at what you
missed. We'll have some other clips coming in the next few days.
Enjoy! | G4 Presents "Inside KÀ by Cirque du Soleil" - Backstage
VIDEO [0:57] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1211355131239&ref=mf >
{Feb.12}
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue has taken over Las Vegas
this week, and model Julie Henderson spent some time at KÀ
yesterday getting a taste of what it takes to be in the show.
We'll let you know when the full segment will air on E!
Entertainment, so keep checking back!
FOTO [18] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=186948
&id=31527171928&ref=mf >
{Feb.13}
Hello KÀ fans! Ready for clip #2 from the "Inside KÀ" special?
All of our artists are airbag certified, so in order for Alison
Haislip from G4 to be able to participate in the trainings we
arranged, she needed to learn how to fall too. It's not as easy
as it looks! | G4 Presents "Inside KÀ by Cirque du Soleil" -
Airbag Training
VIDEO [0:59] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1214869019084&ref=mf >
{Feb.18}
One of the things at KÀ we think is really cool is all of the
unique technology we use to support what our human artists do on
stage. In fact, we are downright geeky proud about it, so it's
nice when we find someone else to geek out with. Enjoy this
behind-the-scenes look at KÀ's technology from a fellow geek at
WIRED.com!
LINK /// < http://www.wired.com/underwire/2010/02/cirque-du-
soleils-sophisticated-ka-evolves-with-new-tech/ >
{Feb.26}
Hello, KÀ fans! Sorry for the lack of posts this week, do you
still love us? We love you, and to prove it, here's another clip
from "G4 Presents: Inside KÀ." Starting May 1, Continental
Airlines (through June 30) and Cathay Pacific (through July 31)
will be showing "Inside KÀ" on their in-flight entertainment
package. ...Let us know if you see it, and send us a postcard! |
G4 Presents "Inside KÀ by Cirque du Soleil" - Battle Wall
VIDEO [1:44] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1225527085529&ref=mf >
--- [ KOOZA ] ---
{Feb.25}
LEARN how we operate the kitchen on wheels in the KOOZA village!
LINK /// < http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2010/feb/25/
cooks-serve-cast-crew-family-150/ >
{Feb.26}
Cirque du Soleil's Extreme Thrills Return Thursday with
Kooza on NBC in San Diego, interview with artistic director Adam
Miller!
LINK /// < http://www.nbcsandiego.com/around-town/events/
Cirque_du_Soleil_s_Extreme_Thrills_Return_Thursday_
with_Kooza_San_Diego.html >
--- [ LA NOUBA ] ---
{Feb.01}
La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Brad Auerbach's review of La Nouba
(January 2010) in EntertainmentToday.net.
LINK /// < http://www.entertainmenttoday.net/content/
view/902/28/ >
{Feb.04}
Check out Anthony and Melanie performing their act as The
Juggler and the Green Bird on Ellen!! Their performance was
flawless!!
VIDEO /// < http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2YK9tR/
ellen.warnerbros.com/2010/02/anthony-gatto-worlds-
greatest-juggler-0204.php/r:t >
{Feb.24}
"Splurging on Cirque La Nouba at Downtown Disney for our last
night. That show is mind-blowing, breath-taking, amazing,
unbelievable, and beautiful, and I am so glad that we went." -
Stephanie, 2/23 post on her blog (Thanks for great review,
Stephanie!!)
--- [ LOVE ] ---
{Feb.01}
Congratuations to us! "All Together Now" the documentary on the
making of LOVE took home the Grammy for the Best Long Form Music
Video. This is the 3rd Grammy win for LOVE!
{Feb.04}
Pics from the 2010 Grammy Awards! | THE BEATLES AND CIRQUE DU
SOLEIL DOCUMENTARY 'ALL TOGETHER NOW' WINS GRAMMY AWARD Los
Angeles, California - January 31, 2010 - At today's 52nd Annual
GRAMMY Awards, 'All Together Now,' the feature-length
documentary about the making of The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du
Soleil(r) won the GRAMMY for Best Long Form Music Video.
FOTO [3] /// < http://www.facebook.com/notes/the-beatles-love-
by-cirque-du-soleil/pics-from-the-2010-grammy
awards/318966520179 >
{Feb.09}
We are still gleaming from our Grammy win!
LINK /// < http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/
Giles%20Martin%20high%20Grammys%20LOVE/2519959/
story.html >
{Feb.12}
The old big top that Cirque du Soleil first used in the Mirage
parking lot 20 years ago for "Nouvelle Experience" is now going
to Haiti, to replace their destroyed government buildings!
Donated circus tents could shelter Haiti's government - CNN.com
LINK /// < http://www.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/02/11/
haiti.circus.tents/?hpt=T2 >
{Feb.25}
Check out what our new friend Austin Powell thinks of Viva ELVIS
and The Beatles LOVE - our the two best ROCKING shows in
Vegas!!!
LINK /// < http://www.austinchronicle.com/gyrobase/Blogs/
index.html/objID971187/blogID/ >
--- [ MYSTERE ] ---
{Feb.06}
Hello, Mystère fans! We received a wonderful e-mail from a guest
this week, with a photo of artist Ross Gibson (you might know
him as Red Bird). Enjoy! "Please, Please, Please send our
appreciation to Ross (Red Bird) in Mystere. He made our 12 year
old daughter, Monasita's dream come true on Thursday after the
show by ...taking a photo with her and signing her program.
Thank you for all of the awe and excitement your shows have
brought into our lives."
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
pid=4584341&id=18155469918 >
{Feb.09}
Here's a few pictures of Mystère cast and crew out and about!
FOTO [3] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=182386
&id=18155469918&ref=mf >
{Feb.12}
Hello Mystère fans! You've been very patiently waiting for the
new trailer, and as your reward, here is the official world
premiere - you guys get to see it first! Enjoy!
VIDEO [1:00] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1213896074761&ref=mf >
{Feb.18}
On Valentine's Day, Mystère had the honor of hosting a wedding
proposal. Las Vegas resident Tony Hurtado popped the question to
his girlfriend of 13 years, Elaine Stowers in front of cast,
crew and a full house. Thankfully she said yes! He said "I'm in
love with her, and I wanted to share it with everyone." Everyone
together - 1... 2... 3... AWWWWWWWWWWW!!!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=185244
&id=18155469918&ref=mf >
{Feb.27}
Mystère was honored to be invited to participate in a media
event representing Las Vegas in Mexico City. It was a very busy
three days, but here's a small idea of all of the fun things we
did. Enjoy!
FOTO [40] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=187678
&id=18155469918&ref=mf >
--- [ "O" ] ---
{Feb.02}
A fact that would put Jersey Shore to shame! To style the wigs
used in "O", more than 23,500 ounces of hairspray have been
used!
{Feb.04}
Cirque du Soleil is the subject of the "Pop Five" on USAToday.com
today! Guess what show is #1!
LINK /// < http://content.usatoday.com/communities/popcandy/
post/2010/02/todays-pop-five-mikevs-favorite-cirque-
du-soleil-shows/1 >
--- [ VAREKAI ] ---
{Feb.26}
Varekai by Cirque du Soleil Now playing in Manchester, UK !
LINK /// < http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/manchester/hi/people_
and_places/arts_and_culture/newsid_8537000/
8537518.stm >
--- [ VIVA ELVIS ] ---
{Feb.02}
Fun fact for today: the Jailhouse Rock set weighs 90,000 lbs.
{Feb.11}
Viva Viva Elvis! - TIME | www.time.com | Cirque du Soleil's
fizzy evocation of the man and his music restores the King to
his Vegas throne.
LINK /// < http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/
0,9171,1963746,00.html >
{Feb.12}
Cirque du Soleil: Colonel marshals Elvis troupers - Salt Lake
Tribune | www.sltrib.com | Las Vegas " When Logans Garrett
Eugene Case, Jr., signed on to play the role of Elvis Presleys
manager Colonel Tom Parker in a new Vegas show, at first he
thought he had landed a small part.
LINK /// < http://www.sltrib.com/travel/ci_14381394 >
{Feb.18}
Check out this incredible behind the scenes look at Viva ELVIS!
LINK /// < http://www.cnn.com/video/?/video/showbiz/2010/02/18/
lkl.behind.viva.elvis.cnn?iref=allsearch >
{Feb.22}
Win a trip to Vegas to see Viva ELVIS!
LINK /// < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/promo/2010/viva-
elvis/elvis-contest.aspx >
{Feb.22}
Viva Elvis -- Theater Review
LINK /// < http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/film-
reviews/viva-elvis-theater-review-1004070043.story >
{Feb.23}
Opening night gifts from our sister shows on The Strip were
presented to the cast and crew today.
FOTO [4] < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=146984
&id=167136344108&ref=mf >
{Feb.24}
Check out the cool cab tops!
FOTO [2] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=146885&
id=167136344108&ref=mf >
{Feb.25}
Celebrities in attendance at our Blue Carpet event: Priscilla
Presley, Ryan Seacrest, Wynonna Judd, Neil Patrick Harris and
David Burtka, Justin Long, Peter Facinelli and Jennie Garth,
Chris Noth, Christina Hendricks, Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed,
Regis and Joy Philbin, Criss Angel, Taye Diggs, Holly Madison,
Perez H...ilton, Grant Show, Jonathon Togo, William Fichtner,
Aaron Paul, Malin Akerman, Jeff Probst and Sheetal Sheth, Rita
Rudner, Carrot Top, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Keir O'Donnell, Lo
Bosworth, Scott Weiland, Giuliana and Bill Rancic, Sarah Roemer,
Laurence Fishburne and Gina Torres, Brian Baumgartner, Angelica
Bridges and Sammy Shore | Photos by Ethan Miller
FOTO [13] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=147340&
id=167136344108&ref=mf >
{Feb.25}
Check out the following video on FOX NEWS!
VIDEO /// < http://video.foxnews.com/v/4029948/elvis-
immortalized-in-vegas/?playlist_id=87249 >
-------------------------------------------
GATHERINGS: CirqueCon, Celebri & More!
-------------------------------------------
CirqueCon: < http://www.CirqueCon.com/ >
Update #11: Friday, February 26, 2010
--------------------------------------
Greetings, Cirque Passionates!
Wooow, look at that! In just 60 days from now we'll be gathering
again for yet another fun-filled Cirque celebration! There are
still a great number of things for us to accomplish behind the
scenes until that day arrives, so with that in mind let me get
right to the update - things are moving quickly!
In This Update...
o) DO YOU HAVE YOUR CIRQUECON 2010 MEMBERSHIP?
Planning to join us in either New York City, Montréal or
both? Don't forget about your CirqueCon 2010 Membership!
Without a paid membership we will be unable to produce one
of our CirqueCon badges for you and your family, cover the
costs of printing our programme book or guarantee you a
spot in any of our activites. Remember, in order to take
part in any activity Cirque du Soleil may have in store
for us, you must have a CirqueCon badge to identify you
with our group. Unfortunately, we will be unable to let
you participate without it!
Becoming a member of CirqueCon 2010 is easy! We only ask a
nominal membership fee of $20.00 per household to cover
planning, research and expenses for the event. And we have
two convenient ways for you to become a member!
See our MEMBERSHIP page for further details:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2010/member.htm >
o) BANANA SHPEEL TICKETS - DONE DEAL
Our special group offer on selected category tickets for
BANANA SHPEEL in New York City has ended as of February
24th, and there will not be an extension. We wish to thank
everyone for their participation and quick response.
At this time we are unable to take any further orders for
BANANA SHPEEL tickets. Should you wish to join us at either
BANANA SHPEEL and OVO in NEW YORK CITY or TOUR 2010
(rumored to be named TOTEM) in MONTRÉAL, please purchase
your tickets directly with Cirque du Soleil, which you
can do using the following links:
BANANA SHPEEL:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/
banana-shpeel/tickets/new-york.aspx >
OVO:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/
ovo/tickets/new-york.aspx >
TOUR 2010 (TOTEM):
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/
cirque-2010/tickets/montreal.aspx >
There are still great seats left, so come join us! (Normal
pricing by Cirque du Soleil applies).
o) ONE DROP PARTY INVITE?
Interested in helping out the environment while at the
same time rubbing elboes with some of Cirque du Soleil's
elite? You can!
CirqueCon, through Rodolfo Elizondo, was extended an
invitation to attend LA SOIRÉE ONE DROP, a benefit show
and party benefiting Guy Laliberte's ONE DROP foundation,
which is being held the evening of Friday, April 30th.
He's looking at the "Friends of One Drop" package, which
has a number of privileges, they are:
- A reserved seat in the Prestigue section
to attend TOUR 2010 (TOTEM), directed
by Robert Lepage. (This is a Category 1
ticket).
- An exclusive invitation to the HAPPENING
that will crown this night's breathtaking
performance, with access to the VIP area
reserved for Guy Laliberté and his main
associates from Cirque du Soleil and ONE
DROP. Here, you may snack on a variety of
hors d'oeuvre and sip the drinks of your
choice.
- And, surprise gifts!
The event will be sure to awaken your senses and
captivate your imagination. For this event, we
recommend "Cirque Chic" reflecting the casual style,
creative spirit and festive atmosphere of Cirque
du Soleil.
The pacakge costs $7,500 and is awarded 10 tickets.
That's just $750 per Passionate! If he is unable to
secure 10 spots, individual tickets may be purchased
at $900.00 each.
Please contact Rodolfo Elizondo [rodoel@gmail.com]
directly for further information regarding the benefit
party.
o) WELCOME TO MONTRÉAL CIRQUECON PARTY
Can't afford to attend the One-Drop benefit party?
Don't fret - although it is an interesting prospect,
neither can we! Therefore, CirqueCon will hold a
"Welcome to Montréal" Cocktail Party to be held out
of our joining hotel suites at the Marriott Spring
Hill to welcome all Passionates to our second
home - among the quays of the Old Port.
An exact time for our welcoming party has not yet
been determined. we'll let you know shortly!
o) ACTIVTY & EVENT REMINDERS!
Due to the nature of our event this year - three shows in
two cities - we have a number of official CirqueCon events
taking place, which we'd like to take a moment to remind
everyone about:
We'd love to see everyone at our official Group Meals in
both New York City and Montréal - the Amsterdam Ale House
in New Your City and Restaurant du Vieux Port in Montréal.
We'd also love to see you at Dallas BBQ in New York City
before we take in OVO! For information pertaining to costs
involved, restaurant locations, or even a peek at the menus,
use the links below, which will take you to our website:
NEW YORK CITY | Dallas BBQ:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2010/social-NYC.htm#magicbus >
NEW YORK CITY | Amsterdam Ale House:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2010/social-NYC.htm#meal >
MONTREAL | Restaurant du Vieux Port:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2010/social-YUL.htm#meal >
And, of course, don't forget to RSVP with us at our
headquarters hotels - both are now ready to take your
reservation! We have two wonderful hotels near our primary
event locations this year. For New York City, we're going
to be staying at "On the Ave", a boutique hotel across
from Central Park in Upper West Side (just two blocks from
the Beacon Theater). In Montréal, we're proud to once again
stay at the Marriott Spring Hill Suites Vieux Port, which
served us so well for CirqueCon 2005. Please see the HOTELS
section of our website for further details.
CIRQUECON HEADQUARTERS HOTELS:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/2010/hotel.htm >
And although we've come to New York City for spectacles by
Cirque du Soleil, who says we can't take in a musical on
Broadway too? Therefore, we've dedicated TUESDAY, APRIL
27th as our night to be on the Great White Way, so please
enjoy its various theatrical and musical offerings. Do
whatever interests you; the night is yours! Most of the
CirqueCon staff will be seeing Disney's THE LION KING at
Minskoff Theatre near Times's Square, which you're very
welcome to join us for - who knows who we might see there
tonight! Contact the theater box office directly to
purchase tickets.
Doors open at 6:30pm; show begins at 7:00pm.
For information on DISNEY'S THE LION KING, please visit
their official website: < disney.go.com/theatre/thelionking/
broadway/ >. Tickets avaialble through the website should
you be interested in joiningus there!
o) MEMBER STORIES - WE'D LOVE TO HERE'EM!
Have a story to tell about last year's CirqueCon event in
Monterrey, or perhaps 2008's in Tokyo, or a recent
experience attending a Cirque du Soleil show? We'd love
to hear them!
We're looking to publish a few of our Passionate's
adventures with us (or with Cirque du Soleil) in our
2010 Programme Book. So if you have a great story, please
email your stories to us at newyork@cirquecon.com today!
# # #
That's it for this update. Come join us as we take on Manhattan
(and Quebec!) at CirqueCon 2010!
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts at a Glance about Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History
---------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------
o) The Tatami Deck is another major performance space used in KÀ. It
measures 30x30 feet and weighs between 75,000 to 100,000 pounds.
o) The stage of Delirium is 104 feet long by 20 feet deep with musical
and acrobatic action occupying the entire scene at all times.
o) A unique system of pre-recorded, animated and manipulated live
images keeps up with the musical tempo and insures the audience of
Delirium is alert.
o) The state-of-the-art lighting system for Mystère includes 924
circuits with individual 2.4 kW dimmers.
o) There are 800 lighting cues in Mystère.
o) The Mystère lighting and electrical grid is 80 feet above the
stage.
o) The Mystère stage measure is 120 feet wide by 70 feet deep.
o) The Dralion trapeze is set up by the artists themselves. Once
they've carried it from the wing to the stage, it is ready for use
in two minutes' time
o) The bamboo poles used in Dralion are 16 feet long (the height of a
two-story building) and weigh 16 pounds each.
o) In Dralion, the band of blue cloth used in the pas de deux act is
60 feet long.
o) At the back of the stage of ZAIA, the "Star drop" measures 12,221
sq. ft., or 121' X 101'.
o) The music of ZAIA was not inspired by any specific country, but is
rather a blend of musical genres melding into a brand-new culture
for the show.
o) Some 300 props were created for ZAIA, including 30 lanterns, 20
telescopes, 18 megaphones and 22 bicycles.
o) Most songs of ZAIA are sung in an imaginary language inspired by
Hindi phonemes.
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
------------------------------------
* Mar.01.1988 -- Le Cirque Reinvene opened Santa Monica (third time)
* Mar.01.2008 - -Corteo opened San Diego, California
* Mar.04.1999 -- Quidam European Tour Began in Amsterdam
* Mar.04.1999 -- New Tour Name Released -- Dralion
* Mar.04.2005 -- Quidam opened Melbourne
* Mar.04.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Little Rock, AK
* Mar.04.2009 -- Quidam opened Belfast, UK (Temporarily Arena)
* Mar.04.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Youngstown, OH
* Mar.05.2004 -- Saltimbanco opened Lyon
* Mar.05.2009 -- Alegría opened Dubai, UAE
* Mar.06.1997 -- Alegría opened Amsterdam
* Mar.06.2001 -- Alegría opened Melbourne, Australia
* Mar.06.2002 -- Dralion opened Los Angeles
* Mar.06.2003 -- Alegría opened Houston
* Mar.06.2003 -- Varekai opened Atlanta
* Mar.07.2007 -- Madison Square Garden Show "Winter Tale" Announced!
* Mar.07.2007 -- Saltimbanco "Arena Tour" Announced!
* Mar.08.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Shreveport, LA
* Mar.09.1995 -- Saltimbanco opened Amsterdam (European Tour Began)
* Mar.10.2006 -- Dralion opened Geneva
* Mar.11.1994 -- Saltimbanco Japan Tour Began (ends 9/11)
* Mar.11.2007 -- "O" celebrated its 4000th performance [Sunday, 10:30pm]
* Mar.11.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Louisville, KY
* Mar.12.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened San Antonio, TX
* Mar.12.2009 -- Cirque Dubai 2010 is once again delayed until 2010
* Mar.12.2009 -- Quidam opened Newcastle, UK (Temporarily Arena)
* Mar.13.2003 -- Dralion opened Raleigh
* Mar.14.1999 -- Alegría: Le Film showcased in Santa Barbara
* Mar.14.2003 -- La Nouba celebrated 2000th Performance [Friday, 6:00pm]
* Mar.14.2006 -- Varekai opened Portland
* Mar.15.1998 -- Mystère celebrated 2000th Performance [Sunday, 7:30pm]
* Mar.15.2006 -- Saltimbanco opened Santiago, Chile
* Mar.15.2007 -- Varekai opened Canberra, Australia
* Mar.17.2003 -- IBM and Cirque come together in 3-Year Partnership
* Mar.17.2005 -- Dralion opened Barcelona, Spain
* Mar.18.1999 -- Saltimbanco opened Sydney, Australia
* Mar.18.2004 -- Varekai opened San Diego
* Mar.18.2009 -- Quidam opened Birmingham, UK (Temporarily Arena)
* Mar.18.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Laredo, TX
* Mar.19.2002 -- Saltimbanco Extended CD Released (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Mar.19.2006 -- Quidam opened Long Beach
* Mar.19.2009 -- Cirque Unveils new Casting MySpace Page
* Mar.20.2007 -- Quidam opened Seoul, South Korea
* Mar.21.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Corpus Christi, TX
* Mar.22.1996 -- Alegría Japanese Tour (until Sep. 8, 1996)
* Mar.22.2005 -- Zumanity CD Released (CDS Musique)
* Mar.22.2007 -- Corteo opened Houston
* Mar.22.2007 -- Cirque Luxor (Criss Angel) Announced!
* Mar.23.1993 -- Nouvelle Expérience CD Released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Mar.23.1999 -- Alegria: Le Film CD Released in Canada (RCA)
* Mar.23.2000 -- Alegría celebrated 2000th performance [8:00pm/Biloxi]
* Mar.24.1998 -- Cirque Collection CD Released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Mar.24.2002 -- Cirque performed at the 74th Academy Awards
* Mar.24.2004 -- "The Bar at the Edge of the Earth" opened
* Mar.25.2004 -- Alegría opened Atlanta
* Mar.25.2009 -- Quidam opened Manchester, UK (Temporarily Arena)
* Mar.26.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Wichita, KS
* Mar.28.1995 -- Alegría opened New York City
* Mar.28.2009 -- "O" Honored Earth Hour 2009
* Mar.29.1994 -- Mystère CD Released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Mar.29.2002 -- Quidam opened Charlotte
* Mar.30.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened New York City
* Mar.30.2000 -- Quidam opened Valencia, Spain
* Mar.31.2009 -- Quidam opened Dublin, Ireland (Temporarily Arena)
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
Within...
o) "Cirque in Your Ear (Part 2 of 2)"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
o) "Cirque du Soleil Unveils VIVA ELVIS"
By: Cirque du Soleil, Press Room Materials
--------------------------------------------------------------
"Cirque in Your Ear (Part 2 of 2)"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
--------------------------------------------------------------
Last month we talked about audio podcasts that occasionally feature
Cirque du Soleil, focusing on KNPR's State of Nevada public-affairs
show. This month we feature a podcast-only show that occasionally
features Cirque elements.
Las Vegas, Nevada-based Steve Friess is a freelance writer who writes
for a number of major publications. He blogs about Las Vegas on a
regular basis at < http://thestrippodcast.blogspot.com/ > He also
produces two podcasts, The Petcast (focusing on pets), and The Strip
Podcast with husband Miles Smith which focuses on Las Vegas
happenings. Archives of the podcast can be found at <
http://www.thestrippodcast.com/ > (You can also subscribe to the
podcast on iTunes.)
The podcasts follow a standard format; "Vegas hot topics" between
Steve and Miles at the beginning with the interview in the middle.
The beginning banter can take awhile to get through but it's worth it.
Friess' interview style is that of an interested conversationalist,
who always does his homework and asks interesting questions of his
subjects. The candid answers he gets to some tougher-than-usual
questions can be fun to hear. Many of his interviews form the basis
of articles Fress later writes (and are referenced in show notes below
each show.) Note that some of the podcasts contain explicit language,
mostly from the hosts; the iTunes archive has them marked.
The shows are archived (though not very well organized) in reverse
chronological order. Shows from Jan 1, 2008 to current are on the
first page, with shows from November 24, 2005 to December 31, 2007 on
a second page available from a link at the top and bottom of the first
page. (There are even older shows on a third page linked from the
bottom of the second, but there are no Cirque-specific shows there).
Here's a list of their Cirque-related shows, in chronological order by
original airdate.
THE STRIP PODCAST - Steve Friess and Miles Smith
01/19/2006 - The fun Joey Arias, original Mistress of Seduction at
Zumanity talks about his early days in NYC. He also dishes on the
original Man2Man couple of Silverhut & King, about surprising the
Hilton sisters at the Premiere, and what kinds of rewards a job like
this can provide.
05/11/2006 - Franco Dragone - The always interesting Dragone talks
about going back to Cirque shows and shaking them up to bring emotion
back to the performers. Steve also gets him to discuss Cirque's first
meeting with Caesars Palace. Dragone also talks openly about Le Rêve
(which at that point had been opened a year) touching on the negative
reviews and what the pregnant women in the first performances of the
show actually meant. Finally he talks about the "A New Day" show with
Celine Dion and its development.
05/25/2006 - Cirque VP of Creation Gilles Ste-Croix has a funny story
about the LOVE premiere and Guy Laliberte getting stopped by security.
They also discuss his upbringing, the impact the Beatles had on a
young Ste-Croix, and the "symbolism of 4" in the show. He also breaks
the news (quite some time before it was officially announced) about
the Elvis show at Aria.
06/08/2006 - George and Gilles Martin, discussing the Beatles and LOVE
- Recorded about the same time as the KNPR interview we mentioned last
month. Done for an article that Friess wrote focusing on their
working relationship, the conversation naturally steers towards the
two of them and their process and dynamic. Goes into a bit of detail
about how the musical soundscape was first developed.
12/14/2006 - George Harrison's widow Olivia Harrison discusses LOVE.
The reclusive Harrison doesn't give many interviews so this is a coup.
There is a tantalizing tidbit about Guy's Grand Prix parties early on.
She also discusses an early potential location for the show (London
Battersea Park?). She discusses guarding George's legacy, and hearing
and seeing the show while keeping George in mind.
10/18/2007 - Two discussions about performing in Cirque shows in
separate interviews with "O" original cast and creation artist,
Russian swing diver Anastassia Dobrynina and "Mystere" bungee and
Korean plank performer Margalee Drolet. The "O" interview discusses
creation and Franco Dragone's irritation with the extensive
automation, and also features some soundboard audio from the show.
The Drolet interview talks about working in the Cirque environment and
coming back to the show after maternity leave.
06/26/2008 - Kyle Stokely, a 12-year old performer in LOVE. Also re-
listing of the George and Gilles Martin interview. Stokely talks
about how he got the part, what he does in the show, and what life is
like as a young performer. He also talks about the famous people he's
met as a cast member, including the surviving Beatles.
11/18/2008 - Guy Laliberte! - A short interview recorded outside (so
Laliberte could smoke). Friess asks some good questions about Criss
Angel, Cirque's dominance on the strip, and the investment in Cirque
by Dubai. Though short Laliberte speaks frankly.
03/10/2009 - A special video episode covering a day of Cirque Dance
Auditions in Las Vegas. First focusing on teaching the candidates a
section of dance from "Come Together" they perform it as a group and
in groups of 4 in the audition studio. Then comes improve, where they
are given a word and presented with previously-unknown music and must
react to it (an improve here based on the word "Chaplinesque" is fun).
The 9:20 video notes just 60 of the 400 dancers auditioning were
accepted.
02/08/2010 - Cirque President Daniel Lamarre - This long interview,
recorded when Freiss was in Montreal to do a profile of Cirque
discusses a wide range of topics, and Freiss isn't shy about asking
tough probing questions. In a fascinating discussion, Lamarre talks
matter-of-factly about Cirque's business plans, the problems (and
possible solutions) with Banana Shpeel, Believe, and Zaia. He talks
about expanding into the "proscenium theater" market and the Kodak LA
show. He also breaks news about a show going into Radio City Music
Hall, and how the Dubai show is now on more or less permanent hold.
Highly recommended!
02/15/2010 - Franco Dragone (again!) - Another fascinating
conversation with the compelling Belgian director. Here Franco talks
about the history of why he left Cirque and what he thinks of their
expansion plans (not his style). He mentions he thinks Believes
problems are in the writing, and talks about the challenges of working
with Celine Dion and not overpowering her with the Dragone "brand."
He also talks about an upcoming arena show he's working on based on
"Kung Fu Panda" and his incredibly expensive Macao show "House of
Dancing Waters." Another highly recommended episode.
In the last month, we also caught a new Cirque-specific podcast on
KNPR < http://www.knpr.org/son/archive/index.cfm >:
02/22/2010 - Viva Elvis debut - A discussion with members of the
cast. Though the interviewer could have been stronger, there is a
good discussion of the costuming, visiting Graceland, and the story of
Elvis' older brother. The wardrobe guy is dominant and comes off very
polished.
Reuben Pavel - Head of Wardrobe
Marla Lowery - Dancer
Dea Norberg - Singer
Kit Chatham - Percussionist
And if you know of any other audio interviews of Cirque, let me know
by sending me an email to tourdemondo@yahoo.com and I'll list them in
a future installment!
-------------------------------------------------------
"Cirque du Soleil Unveils VIVA ELVIS"
By: Cirque du Soleil, Press Room Materials
{Feb.19.2010}
-------------------------------------------------------
VIVA ELVIS BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY
VINCENT PATTERSON
Cirque du Soleil, in partnership with Elvis Presley Enterprises, a
CKX, Inc company, is thrilled to unveil today its latest resident show
Viva ELVIS(tm), at ARIA Resort & Casino(tm) at CityCenter in Las Vegas.
Viva ELVIS, a harmonious fusion of dance, acrobatics and live music,
is a tribute to the life and music of Elvis Presley. Nostalgia,
modernity and raw emotion provide the backdrop for his immortal voice
and the exhilaration and beauty of his music.
Created in the image of The King of Rock 'n' Roll - powerful, sexy,
whimsical, truly unique and larger than life - the show highlights an
American icon who transformed popular music and whose image embodies
the freedom, excitement and turbulence of his era.
Significant moments in his life - intimate, playful and grandiose -
blend with timeless songs that remain as relevant today as when they
first hit the top of the charts. Viva ELVIS focuses on the essential
humanity of the one superstar whose name will forever be linked with
the history of Las Vegas: Elvis Presley.
"On a creative level, it was extremely stimulating to draw our
inspiration from this musical icon," said Guy Laliberté, Founder of
Cirque du Soleil. "Viva ELVIS showcases the raw energy and pure talent
of Elvis and highlights the exhilaration and beauty of his music on a
grand scale."
"It makes perfect sense that Elvis should live on in Las Vegas, where
his iconic status was cemented," said Robert F.X. Sillerman, Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer of CKX, Inc. "When we teamed with Cirque
du Soleil, we knew that any show they created would match Elvis'
larger-than-life presence. So we were pleased to open the vaults at
Graceland and make available to Cirque du Soleil historic archival
materials, recordings and concert footage that would help them create
a show that will carry Elvis' legacy into the future."
"An evolutionary destination designed to transform Las Vegas at its
core, CityCenter is larger than life, just like Elvis himself," said
Bill McBeath, President and COO of ARIA Resort & Casino. "We want to
bring the element of fun to ARIA, the centerpiece of CityCenter. Viva
ELVIS will bring the King of Rock 'n' Roll back to Las Vegas for
millions of his fans and create a buzz that will enable his persona to
attract untold numbers of new followers."
"Elvis has always been in the forefront of new, contemporary
entertainment and technology," said Priscilla Presley. "I believe Viva
ELVIS continues this and reaches out and expands his legacy in a new,
creative and exciting way."
"The show's acrobatic elements, set designs and other artistic
components are part of an overall creative vision designed to showcase
the timeless music of Elvis, his unique voice and unequaled talent as
a performer," said Gilles Ste-Croix, Senior Vice-president of Creative
Content and New Project Development at Cirque du Soleil.
"The unique strength and power of Elvis was in his voice," said
Vincent Paterson, the show's Writer and Director. "I was greatly
inspired by the originality and complexity of this musical legend.
What I tried to paint, in all humility, is the show he might have
created today."
THE CREATIVE TEAM
-----------------
Artistic Guide Guy Laliberté
Artistic Guide Gilles Ste-Croix
Writer and Director Vincent Paterson
Director of Creation Armand Thomas
Musical Director and Arranger Erich van Tourneau
Set Designer Mark Fisher
Costume Designer Stefano Canulli
Acrobatic performance Designer Daniel Cola
Acrobatic Equipment
and Rigging Designer Guy St-Amour
Lighting Designer Marc Brickman
Image Content Designer Ivan Dudynsky
Sound Designer Jonathan Deans
Choreographers Bonnie Story
Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo
Mark Swanhart
Catherine Archambault
Props Designer Patricia Ruel
Makeup Designer Nathalie Gagné
SET DESIGN, ACROBATIC EQUIPMENT AND PROPS
-----------------------------------------
The lines between scenery elements, acrobatic equipment and props in
Viva ELVIS are not always clear - and that, according to designer Mark
Fisher, was a deliberate choice.
The design of the Elvis Theater has a conventional proscenium layout
reminiscent of an opera house. The stage is wide and the backstage
area and wings are vast. They have to accommodate the large-scale set
elements and the need for speed in changing scenes imposed by the
rapid pace of the show.
The sides and the rear of the stage are fixed areas while the center
is composed of 16 platforms, separated into 12 sections which can rise
to a height of ten feet. Depending on the scene, the platforms may at
various times in the show support performers, singers, dancers or set
elements. The widest platform measures 18 feet by 80 feet and is
raised by four powerful motors 26 feet below the stage.
In the image of the King of Rock 'n' Roll
"Elvis has transcended reality and become a kind of mythic figure,"
says Mark Fisher. "So his reappearance in Las Vegas has to be done on
a scale that reflects that status."
Mark Fisher's designs illustrate many of the most significant events
in the life and career of Elvis, notably for the following scenes:
Show Opening Scene
The opening number features a giant jukebox. The chrome and gloss
black structure is 70 feet wide and 22 feet high with dance platforms
on two levels. It incorporates a 50-foot tall video screen.
The gigantic Blue Suede Shoe that appears on the stage is 29 feet
long, weighs 7,000 lbs and is made of steel and fiberglass.
Got A Lot of Livin' To Do
The set for the Got A Lot of Livin' To Do features seven trampolines
and the whole structure was inspired by Elvis' love of fairgrounds,
which he would visit with his friends after hours. The structure
weighs some 30 tons and takes up the full 78-foot width of the stage,
is 23 feet deep and 32 feet tall.
Jailhouse Rock
The challenge for Mark Fisher was to come up with a set for Jailhouse
Rock that would reference the iconic set used in the film, but at the
same time be original and fresh. He based his new design on the
technical requirements for a circus art called "marche inversée." The
structure incorporates ten tracks for acrobats to walk upside down,
attached by their feet, while dancers perform right side up on other
levels. The 82,000-pound set is 60 feet wide, 45 feet deep and almost
40 feet tall. Up to 36 artists appear on it at the same time.
Viva Las Vegas
Used in the last few songs in the show, this set captures the glamor
of Las Vegas with a huge ceremonial staircase as its central feature.
Pavilions on the sides house the musicians, and decks above the
pavilions serve as stages for the dancers, jugglers and other circus
artists.
To complete the glamor and provide the show with a climax, there are
two beautiful gold-leaf sculptures of Elvis in iconic poses from the
peak of his popularity in Vegas.
The predominant color of the whole set and theatre is gold in a
reference to the baroque era as well as to Elvis' own identification
with gold as the universal symbol for the wealth of kings, and as a
stylized reference to all of his gold records.
Acrobatic equipment - larger than life
Given its larger than life scale - as befits a show about Elvis - some
of the acrobatic equipment could be considered part of the set design,
too:
* A tubular aluminum structure measuring 45 feet by 18 feet that
supports two acrobats who represent Elvis and his twin brother
who died at birth, is instantly recognizable as a guitar.
* A huge 15,000-pound structure that consists of five fixed bars
and two sets of parallel bars on three levels, does not so
much dominate the stage as blend with Mark Fisher's overall
design for the Return to Sender sequence, which represents
Elvis's army training.
* Two large hoops - symbolizing Elvis and Priscilla's engagement
rings - are seven feet in diameter. Two acrobats perform on
each hoop.
"'Larger than life' are the watchwords that inspired our acrobatic
approach to Viva ELVIS," says Daniel Cola, the show's Acrobatic
Performance Designer.
A few more details
* The superhero characters and the set for Got A Lot of Livin'
To Do were inspired by the Marvel comics that Elvis had read
since he was a boy.
* The giant lasso used in the Western sequence is 40 feet long,
and three giant "cowboys" representing Elvis complete the
decor. They are made of fiberglass and measure 35, 31 and 17
feet high.
* The American flag used in the Return to Sender scene is made
of genuine long underwear and boxer shorts, and has only 48
stars because Elvis entered the service in 1958, the year
before Alaska and Hawaii were admitted to the Union.
* The wedding cake is a scale replica of Elvis and Priscilla's
wedding cake.
* The curtain and the stage floor are decorated with golden
disks that recall the 151 Elvis Presley albums, singles and
EPs that went gold, platinum or multi-platinum in the USA.
THE COSTUMES
------------
The Rock'n'Roll Rebel
Elvis Presley defined the image of the Rock'n'Roll rebel in the '50s
and '60s, first with pink and black suits, then with leather jackets,
black pants, a pompadour hairstyle and a casual manner. This iconic
image, which embodies all the excitement, turbulence and the ideal of
freedom of the era, is still on the cutting edge 50 years later.
Flirting with the look of the Elvis years
The Viva ELVIS costumes are inspired by Presley's life, his entourage,
his concerts and his films. The fabulous imagination of '50s and '60s
America, which was expressed through the cinema, advertising and
magazines of the time, was a source of inspiration for costume
designer Stefano Canulli. But his work is neither a reproduction of
stereotypes and details of the period, nor is it a retro aesthetic.
"I flirted with the look of the Elvis years through an approach that
is both classic and graphic," says Stefano. "I brought to it a
contemporary touch that reflects the vitality of the era. I've
borrowed from 1950s design and sublimated it to create a world of
eclectic Technicolor lines to come up with a dynamic fantasy that
highlights the body."
Costume Closeups
* Offset printing was used to create the anatomical patterns on
the comic book superhero-inspired costumes in the Got a Lot of
Living To Do number.
* The Western scene, features printed solid colors on a sponge
mesh fabric that is rarely used for clothing, but extremely
useful for its properties of rigidity and flexibility. The
cuts are emphasized with contrasting colors, while the
cowgirls' costumes feature fake fur tutus in a cowhide
pattern.
* Synthetic paper material was used to create the romantic
'letter dresses' of the late '50s.
* The striped prison uniforms in the Jailhouse Rock scene were
given a futuristic look with silver piping.
Production Details
* For the first time at Cirque du Soleil, some of the costume
accessories use flocking - coating a surface with fibers to
give it the appearance of velvet.
* For the final scene of the show, almost all the artists are
wearing a variation of the famous Elvis jumpsuit. There are
approximately 50 of them, using a total of 250 yards of fabric
in a fiery kaleidoscope of colors. Each is decorated with
embroidered images that evoke the world of Elvis - objects,
food, animals, personal effects and so on.
* Urethane foam wigs recreate the Elvis hairstyle in a Japanese
manga comic strip interpretation.
* The showgirls' costumes are decorated with colorful feathers
printed on transparent acetate to create the illusion of a
plume of crystal feathers.
* The costumes are ornamented with some 100,000 crystals.
* The show calls for more than 450 pairs of shoes and 150 custom
wigs.
* There is a total of nearly 400 Viva ELVIS costumes, employing
some 1,500 components such as shoes, wigs and dresses.
THE MUSIC
---------
Viva ELVIS highlights the music of an American icon who changed rock
and roll forever. Elvis Presley created an art form for the masses
with his voice, his movements and his provocative image as the herald
of adolescent rebellion in the 1950s and 1960s. His music was an
explosive mixture of rhythm and blues, gospel, country and the music
of the South that brought rock and roll to the forefront of popular
music.
Evoking the spirit of Elvis in a contemporary perspective
By creating a reinterpretation of the music of Elvis, Cirque du Soleil
set out to present the songs of the King of Rock 'n' Roll in a
contemporary form that evokes the spirit of Elvis in every way.
"What would the songs of Elvis be like if he were doing them for the
first time today?" asks Musical Director and Arranger Erich van
Tourneau. "With all humility, I set out to evoke the soul and the
spirit of Elvis Presley, while building a bridge between his music and
future generations of fans."
A fusion of Southern music and the culture of rock
The styles of Viva ELVIS move from Delta blues to rockabilly, soul to
gospel, through Dixie and Southern folk music. Some of the songs even
evoke garage rock and punk, steeped in waves of hip-hop and urban
music. But one thing is certain and remains consistent: the sound of
Viva ELVIS is pure rock.
Tapping into the rich catalog of Elvis
One of the biggest challenges was to establish a balance in the
selection of songs. The score had to include enough of Elvis's hits
but not be a simple "best-of" playlist. Some of the songs were chosen
to fit the narrative of the show, but above all it was Presley's
boundless energy and his disarming charisma that dictated van
Tourneau's choices. "I wanted to highlight his rebel side, recall his
sexy and provocative facets and seize the powerful and charismatic
Elvis you see in the documentary Elvis '56 and Elvis, the television
broadcast of his 1968 comeback concert," he says. One thing's for
sure: choosing thirty songs from such a rich catalog of work by the
greatest songwriters of the era was as delicate a task as it was
challenging.
Sampling and textures
Armed with tens of thousands of samples of Elvis's voice, Erich van
Tourneau, assisted by Ugo Bombardier, often wove several sequences and
colors into the same songs, sometimes changing the key. In creating
his remix, Erich was looking to accentuate and boost the emotional
charge of the songs. For example, he incorporated ragga rhythms into
King Creole, and urban and hip-hop sounds into Blue Suede Shoes. But
in all such cases, the watchword was to be respectful of the spirit of
the original recordings.
The voice of Elvis
The live singers in Viva ELVIS are all female; the only male voice is
that of Elvis himself - on the grounds that only Elvis could possibly
do justice to Elvis when it came to portraying his vitality and
seductive charm. Isolating his voice on the original recordings was a
major technical challenge, because his voice and the instruments were
almost always recorded on the same tracks.
A few more details
* Before starting work, Erich van Tourneau and Ugo Bombardier
reviewed and recorded 914 authorized and unauthorized albums
and countless films, concert recordings, interviews and home
recordings - a job that took more than 3,000 hours!
* 17,765 samples of Elvis songs - the raw material of the show -
were made during the process of creating the musical score.
* In addition to the four female singers, the team of nine
musicians consists of a drummer, a bassist, two guitarists, a
pianist, a trombonist, a saxophonist, a trumpeter and a
percussionist.
SCENE DESCRIPTION
-----------------
BLUE SUEDE SHOES
One of the seminal songs that propelled Elvis to fame, Blue Suede
Shoes opens the show with raucous abandon, featuring a dynamic
ensemble of 30 dancers and 24 acrobats boogying, bouncing and flying
through the air. A giant jukebox adorns the stage until a giant blue
suede shoe rolls on. The eight-piece band and four female singers
energize a showcase filled with Elvis imagery, colorful graphics and
vintage footage of euphoric fans.
DON'T BE CRUEL
This number pays tribute to Elvis' fantastic recording career and the
sheer volume of his work. Twenty-four dancers take the stage for the
classic song, featuring glittering images of flying gold records on
eight LED panels, and six enormous RCA and Sun gold records lowered
from the rafters.
ONE NIGHT WITH YOU
An epic-sized guitar, a symbol of Elvis' love of music and his larger-
than-life persona, serves as an imaginary playground for Elvis and his
twin brother Jesse Garon, who died at birth. The song is a duet
between a female singer at a piano and Elvis himself.
ALL SHOOK UP
Gospel music was at the very core of Elvis' artistry. This powerful
rendition of an Elvis classic, performed by one of the singers in a
rich setting of colorful stained glass imagery, lends the dance number
a Southern revival feel.
SAVED
Elvis loved singing gospel more than any other musical genre. In fact,
each of his three Grammys was for a gospel recording. This euphoric
number combines dance with acrobatics.
GOT A LOT OF LIVIN' TO DO
Full of thrills and daring feats, Got A Lot Of Livin' To Do is a
trampoline number inspired by street acrobatics and Elvis' fascination
with comic books, amusement parks and superheroes. Seven acrobats in
stylized superhero costumes defy gravity in a stunning cavalcade of
synchronized jumps, leaps and bounces.
HEARTBREAK HOTEL
A ballad of love, sorrow and separation, Heartbreak Hotel features
four dance couples - the men dressed as army officers and the women
wearing airmail envelope dresses. They are torn between loyalty to
country and their emotional ties to their loved ones.
LOVE ME TENDER
A duet sung by Elvis and a female singer is underscored by a montage
of still photographs and newsreel footage of Elvis' two years in the
army.
RETURN TO SENDER
Boot camp as performance art - a large ensemble cast of dancers,
acrobats and marching band musicians puts on a dizzying array of hip
hop moves, and high-bar calisthenics. Backed by a gigantic American
flag made of whimsical stars and stripes, the sharp, compelling
movements are emblematic of precision, pride and patriotism - all
highly distinctive characteristics of Elvis himself.
ARE YOU LONESOME TONIGHT
This aerial pas-de-deux features a soldier and his girlfriend in a
dreamy ode to their love and devotion - and their efforts to stay
together during his tour of duty by writing to each other.
WESTERN SCENE
Musicians gather around a campfire in a reference to the style and
camaraderie of the '68 Comeback Special, and perform a medley of songs
on acoustic instruments while two cowboys spin their guns and twirl
their lassos in a playful routine.
BURNING LOVE
A cascade of movie clips pays homage to Elvis' Hollywood career. The
live band rocks the house and punctuates classic dialogue delivered by
the King.
BOSSA NOVA
A young guy triumphantly shows off at a party by building a tower of
eight chairs and topping it off with a one-arm handstand.
KING CREOLE
New Orleans sets the tone for this lusty rendition of the title song
from one of Elvis' best-loved films. It's Reggae, it's Calypso, it's
Cajun, and above all it's fun as a female singer is accompanied by
Elvis in a visual feast of stop-action film clips and dance.
JAILHOUSE ROCK
Jailhouse Rock marked the pinnacle of Elvis' movie career. It's also
the centerpiece of Viva ELVIS. A dramatic, mysterious entrance gives
way to a high-octane dance and acrobatic fusion performed to the
pulsating beat of the familiar anthem. In a tribute to the original
film sequence, the iconic prison set is dramatically updated in a
number that flips the world upside down.
IT'S NOW OR NEVER
The sensuality of the tango and the sophistication of a lounge song
connect with the audacity of an innovative pole performance featuring
eight female performers and the four men they seduce.
CAN'T HELP FALLING IN LOVE
Home movies of Elvis and Priscilla's courtship lead into footage of
their marriage ceremony. A singer performs a duet with Elvis atop a
replica of their wedding cake to accompany graceful ballet dancers and
roller-skaters.
LOVE ME/DON'T
Two seven-foot hoops - scale replicas of Elvis and Priscilla's
engagement rings - descend from the grid for two couples to perform a
sensual cerceaux act to a rocking arrangement of Love Me. A female
singer and guitarist join the party for Don't.
VIVA LAS VEGAS
Showgirls wearing colorful plumes parade down the central staircase of
a spectacular stage set framed by two gold Elvis statues. All the
other cast members are wearing shimmering reinterpretations of classic
Elvis jumpsuits as a medley of songs pays tribute to the glitz and
sparkle of Elvis' Vegas years.
SUSPICIOUS MINDS
Suspicious Minds opens with a soulful riff and builds to a thunderous
finish. A couple caught in a trap of passion and anger express their
feelings for each other in an energetic acrobatic dance. Once the duo
is reconciled, the set fills with performers emerging at the top of
the staircase in fringed jumpsuits, recreating Elvis' signature stage
moves.
HOUND DOG
The entire cast brings the show to an unforgettable finale with a
dynamic, modern celebration of the song that marked Elvis' rise to
fame.
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 10, Number 3 (Issue #74) - March 2010
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2010 Ricky Russo, published by Vortex/RGR Productions, a
subsidiary of Communicore Enterprises. No portion of this newsletter
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{ Mar.07.2010 }
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