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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 8 NOVEMBER 2009 ISSUE #70
=======================================================================
Bonjour et bienvenue! Greetings and welcome to the 70th edition of
Fascination!, the Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter. Since
September 2001, Fascination! has published news, articles, features
and histories about our favorite circus, Cirque du Soleil, and
this month we have two wonderful product reviews as well as the
latest news collected from Fascination! Web and around the globe.
For our Featured articles this month - we have two submissions from
our own Keith Johnson. The first, a review of Cirque du Soleil
Musique's latest album offering: ZED. He'll take you through the
ins and outs of the music inside (note for note) as well as the CD's
packaging. If you've not heard ZED yet we highly encourage it!
Secondly, Keith also brings us his view on the recent "tell-all" book
on Cirque guide and founder Guy Laliberté - 'The Fabulous Story of the
Creator of Cirque du Soleil' By Ian Halperin'. Although we are not
endorsing the contents of the book, it caused quite a stir in both the
fan community and behind the curtain at Cirque du Soleil so we
couldn't pass up the chance to see what all the comotion was about.
Check out Keith's views on the book within.
What you won't find inside this month is my before-mentioned start
of the series on CirqueCon 2009: Monterrey's fantastic adventure in
just last month. I apologize! We'll have that for you soon.
As always we have a number of goodies to explore as a clip of
interesting and intriguing articles, pictures and videos were
shared with the fanbase through Cirque du Soleil's various social
widgets. In turn we have collected those to share with you, which
you'll find in our OUTREACH section.
Well, that about wraps up this intro. Now, onto the issue!
Join us on the web at:
< www.cirquefascination.com >
Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only):
< http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 >
- Ricky "Richasi" Russo
===========
CONTENTS
===========
o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings
o) Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information
* Touring Shows -- Productions under the Big Top
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
* Venue Shows -- Arena & Seasonal Productions
o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets
* Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
* Networking -- Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & MySpace
* Telemajik -- Cirque on YouTube & Television
* Gatherings -- CirqueCon, Celebri & More!
o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History
o) Fascination! Features
*) "Evoking the Cards - a ZED album review"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
*) "BOOK REVIEW: Laliberté's 'Fabulous' Story"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
Cirque unviels new show name: VIVA ELVIS!
{THIS JUST IN}
-----------------------------------------------
Elvis and Cirque fans won't have to wait long to see the long
anticipated new show at the Aria Resort & Casino located at the
brand new Citycenter complex in Las Vegas. The show will open
the doors to its 2,000 seat theater in December 2009. It marks
the seventh resident Cirque Du Soleil show in Las Vegas.
# # #
The production pays tribute to Elvis' music and life, fusing
dance and acrobatics, live music and iconic tracks, nostalgia
and modernity, high technology and raw emotion. In short, the
show will be in Elvis' image: powerful, sexy, whimsical and
truly unique.
# # #
For more information and to view some behind the scenes videos
of the production, see the shows website:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/elvis >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
First Clown in Space
{Oct.01.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Montreal, Canada, October 01, 2009 -(PR.com)- On September 30,
in celebration of his 50th birthday, Guy Laliberté, the
billionaire founder of Cirque du Soleil, blasted off into space
from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. In doing so, he
officially became Canada's first space tourist at an estimated
personal cost of $35 million.
Laliberté's 12-day visit to the International Space Station is
his personal "Poetic Social Mission in Space," whose purpose is
to educate people on global water issues. On October 9, while
orbiting the Earth, Laliberté will host a special 2-hour
"artistic happening," entitled Moving Stars and Earth for Water,
which will be broadcast from 14 cities around the world. This
global spectacle is intended to raise world awareness for water
conservation. The theme of the show will unfold as Laliberté
reads from a specially commissioned story by renowned Canadian
novelist and Man-Booker Prize-winner Yann Martel. Former U.S.
Vice President Al Gore, singers Peter Gabriel and Shakira,
actress Salma Hayek, Canadian astronaut Julie Payette, and
musical group U2 have already announced their participation in
this unprecedented global event.
Read the original article here:
< http://www.pr.com/press-release/182266 >
{SOURCE: PR.COM}
Expo 2010 - The Canadian Pavilion
{Oct.01.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Check out this latest in a series of articles revolving around
Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China.
# # #
SHANGHAI, Oct. 1 - The Canadian Pavilion at world expos has
always been a "must-see" among national pavilions, and the
Canadian Pavilion at Expo 2010 should be no exception.
The creative concept of the design was created by Cirque du
Soleil, a major Montréal-based entertainment company, and a
household name synonymous with the modern theatrical circus
production. Cirque du Soleil is also responsible for organizing
the pavilion's public presentation, producing the cultural
program, and developing strategic corporate alliances under the
theme, "The Living City: Inclusive, Sustainable, Creative." The
pavilion was designed around an open-air public space as its
centerpiece.
The design of the pavilion incorporates a performance area,
where visitors can watch performances of Cirque du Soleil before
visiting the main pavilion area. The overall budget for the
pavilion will be CAD$45 million.
# # #
Read the full article here:
< http://www.china-briefing.com/news/2009/10/01/shanghai-expo-
2010-the-canadia-pavilion.html >
{SOURCE: China Briefing}
Guy Laliberté, Welcome Aboard!
{Oct.02.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
From CBC World News:
The Russian Soyuz capsule carrying Cirque du Soleil founder Guy
Laliberté has boarded the International Space Station.
Laliberté made the two-day journey in a Soyuz craft along with
Russian cosmonaut Maxim Surayev and U.S. astronaut Jeffrey
Williams before docking with the space station 355 kilometres
above the Earth on Friday morning.
The hatches opened and the three entered the space station
several hours later to be welcomed by Canadian astronaut Bob
Thirsk, who is on a six-month visit, and five other astronauts.
Laliberté promptly put on a red clown nose as he boarded the
station. He brought several others for the rest of the crew to
wear, too.
Read the original article here:
< http://www.cbc.ca/world/story/2009/10/02/soyuz-space-station-
laliberte-cirque136.html >
{SOURCE: CBC World News}
Cirque Technical Director Joins FIRST
{Oct.07.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
MANCHESTER, N.H.-(Business Wire)- FIRST(r)(For Inspiration and
Recognition of Science and Technology), a not-for-profit
organization founded by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young
people`s interest and participation in science and technology,
announced that the internationally-recognized technical director
for Cirque du Soleil, Calum Pearson, and Hollywood film and TV
producer, Paul Lazarus, have joined the FIRST Robotics
Competition (FRC) Game Design Committee to ensure that the game
challenges are appealing to all ages and audiences, while at the
same time pushing the limits of the students` ability to
innovate new robotic designs and applications. [...]
Calum Pearson is the Senior Director of Technical and Show
Support, Resident Shows Division for Cirque du Soleil. He has
served as Company Manager for Cirque`s KÀ and was responsible
for managing the day to day operations of Cirque du Soleil`s
fourth permanent show in Las Vegas with more than 300 cast and
crew members from 18 countries and a production cost of $200
million. He also has 17 years of operations and management
experience in the entertainment industry, including many years
spent touring with well-known music productions including Bon
Jovi and Van Halen, and family acts such as Disney on Ice. [...]
About FIRST
Accomplished inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST (For Inspiration
and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire an
appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in
Manchester, New Hampshire, FIRST designs accessible, innovative
programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills;
while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in
science, technology, and engineering. With the support of many
of the world`s most well-known companies, the not-for-profit
organization hosts the FIRST Robotics Competition and FIRST Tech
Challenge for high-school students, FIRST LEGO(r) League for
children 9-14 years old, and Junior FIRST LEGO(r) League for 6 to
9 year-olds. To learn more about FIRST, go to www.usfirst.org.
Read the full press release here:
< http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS125841+07-Oct-
2009+BW20091007 >
{SOURCE: Reuters}
Guy Laliberte - "A Ride of a Lifetime"
{Oct.14.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte's recent ride into space
has been chronicled in many media outlets across the world. Here
is a small sample of articles relating to Guy's "Poetic Mission"
in space:
# # #
Cirque du Soleil tycoon savours space ride of lifetime
< http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE59D08J20091014 >
Guy Laliberté blasts off for One Drop in space
< http://www.ethioplanet.com/news/2009/10/13/guy-laliberte-
blasts-off-for-one-drop-in-space/ >
In orbit, Cirque du Soleil founder promotes safe water
< http://www.watertechonline.com/news.asp?N_ID=72761 >
Soyuz Crew Returns To Earth
< http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?
channel=space&id=news/RETURN101309.xml&headline=Soyuz%20Crew
%20Returns%20To%20Earth# >
Canadian space tourist hosts space show
< http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/world/ap/canadian-space-
tourist-hosts-space-show-to-push-water-conservation-
64179562.html# >
Was Canadian space tourist Guy Laliberté 10-day stay at the
International Space Station a success in promoting global water
issues?
< http://www.cbc.ca/news/yourview/2009/10/canadian-space-
tourist-guy-laliberte.html >
Laliberte Describes His 'Amazing Ride'
< http://www.redorbit.com/news/space/1768699/laliberte_
describes_his_amazing_ride/ >
Space-directed show has a universal message
< http://www.montrealgazette.com/Space+directed+show+
universal+message/2089273/story.html >
Circus founder calls his trip to space a success
< http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iwmrYnO6-
eP0vDWK_bxRTJYDhGPAD9BA4VLG1 >
MultiVu Video: Cirque du Soleil and the One Drop Foundation
Present Massive Worldwide Poetic Social Mission
< http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS127131+12-Oct-
2009+PRN20091012 >
Banana Shpeel Cast Announced!
{Oct.15.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Brian Scott Lipton of TheaterMania has noted that ful casting
has been announced by Cirque du Soleil for Banana Shpeel, the
new semi-resident seasonal show, which will play a six-week run
at the Chicago Theater in Chicago, IL from November 19th through
January 3rd before moving on to New York City, it's "permanent"
home. So, who's in the cast and crew?
# # #
The show's cast will feature Annaleigh Ashford, Michael
Longoria, Claudio Caneiro, Daniel Passer, Patrick de Valette,
Gordon White, Wayne Wilson, Dmitry Bulkin, Tuan Le, Vanessa
Alvarez, and Joseph and Josette Wiggan, along with Robyn
Baltzer, Alex Ellis, DeWitt Fleming, Jr., Luke Hawkins, Kathleen
Hennessey, Adrienne Reed, Anthony J. Russso, Melissa Schott, and
Steven T. Williams.
The creative team includes Serge Roy (director of creation),
Jean-Francois Cote (composer/musical director), Jared Grimes
(choreographer), Dominique Lemieux (costumes), Patricia Ruel
(sets), Bruno Rafile (lighting), and Harvey Robitale (sound).
# # #
Read the full article here:
< http://www.theatermania.com/new-york/news/10-2009/full-cast-
announced-for-cirque-du-soleils-banana-s_18873.html >
{SOURCE: Theater Mania}
Cirque Performer Dies
{Oct.18.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Fox News reported late yesterday that a Cirque du Soleil
Performer had died in a Montreal hospital a day after falling
off a trampoline during a routine training session.
# # #
The company said the 24-year-old Ukrainian performer - Oleksandr
Zhurov - was doing general training exercises for the world-
famous circus when the incident happened at their training
center. He joined the company a few months ago. Cirque founder
Guy Laliberte says he's deeply saddened by the death of the
artist. A coroner's inquiry on the circumstances of the accident
is under way. Cirque said it will cooperate fully with the
investigation.
# # #
Read the original article here:
< http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,568320,00.html >
{SOURCE: Fox News}
Guy Laliberte to Receive "Dennis Tito Award"
{Oct.19.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil's Founder, Guy Laliberté, to be honored with
the Space Tourist Society "Dennis Tito Award" by Eileen Borgeson
and Jeff Allen for his historic visit to the International Space
Station arranged by Space Adventures
PRLog (Press Release) - Oct 19, 2009 - "Who would not be
thrilled at the news that the founder of Cirque du Soleil would
be honored by an award you were involved in creating?" commented
Eileen Borgeson. Artist Eileen Borgeson and holographer Jeff
Allen collaborated to design the Dennis Tito Award for the
heroic space tourists who train as astronauts and then return
from a visit to the International Space Station (ISS).
Eileen Borgeson and Jeff Allen were also excited to find out
that Guy Laliberté, also an artist, would host the First Poetic
Social Mission in Space during his Sept 30 to Oct 11 visit to
the ISS. Guy's "Moving Stars and Earth for Water" event from
space took place on October 9, 2009 (GMT) in 14 cities on five
continents simultaneously around the world. Each city had an
"artistic moment" and unfolded with the presence of artists and
world-renowned personalities, including: Al Gore, Peter Gabriel
and U2.
Read the original press release here:
< http://www.prlog.org/10381421-cirque-du-soleils-guy-laliberte-
to-receive-dennis-tito-award-by-eileen-borgeson.html >
{SOURCE: PRLog.org}
Varekai in Moscow Selling Well
{Oct.21.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
According to Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte and as
published by the Associated Press, Varekai has sold 80,000
tickets so far, a debut tour for Cirque du Soleil in this
territory. Cirque du Soleil has decided to extend the tour by
two weeks thanks to the vast number of sales. Varekai's run in
Moscow will now end on December 13, 2009.
Read the original article here:
< http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/
ALeqM5ja8wAiC_q24TbhEZHYfpe63jbETQ >
{SOURCE: Associated Press}
A Chat with Deborah Colker
{Oct.21.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Matt Blank of Playbill Arts recently sat down with famed
Brazilian choreographer Deborah Colker for a chat about the
"long overdue" return of her Companhia de Danc?a to New York
City this week, as well as her recent work with Cirque du Soleil
in OVO.
# # #
Question: How did the Cirque du Soleil job come about?
Colker: We started in 2006. I was in London with my company
performing at the Barbican Center. We were performing KNOT. It's
a performance about desire, desires that are possible and
desires that are not possible. I was there and the vice-
president of Cirque came to the show. She is right arm of
[Cirque CEO] Guy Laliberte. He came to see the performance and
came to talk with me. I guess it was a long time that they were
trying to talk to me- they were looking for me! [Laughs.]
Question: They had their eye on working with you already, then?
Colker: Yes. I am the first woman to direct a Cirque du Soleil
production in 25 years. In 2009 they are celebrating their 25th
birthday.
# # #
Read more of the interview here:
< http://www.playbillarts.com/features/article/8184.html# >
{SOURCE: PlaybillArts}
Cirque Celebrates 30 millionth LV Customer!
{Oct.22.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Mike Weatherford of the Las Vegas Review-Journal had an
interesting tid-bit yesterday regarding our favorite circus:
# # #
On Monday, Cirque du Soleil surprised a Missouri couple
attending "Mystere" with a return-trip prize package for being
the company's 30 millionth Las Vegas customer. Those kind of
promotions aren't unusual - you always wonder how they pin it
down to which exact patron - but the numbers do give pause.
They remind you of how much Cirque came to dominate Las Vegas
entertainment, selling 30 million tickets since "Mystere" opened
on Christmas Day of 1993. The company now has 101,950 tickets up
for sale on the Strip each week; 10 performances of six titles.
Cirque isn't saying how many more seats will be for sale when
its Elvis show opens by year's end at CityCenter. But it's
unlikely to be less than the smallest capacity room, "Zumanity"
at 1,261 seats, so the weekly total will go to more than 114,000
seats.
# # #
Congrats!
Read the original article here:
< http://www.lvrj.com/neon/three-divas-return-to-spotlight-
65465532.html >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Review-Journal}
"Banana" slipping on its own shpeel?
{Oct.24.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
It's already made the rounds at the Chicago Tribune, Playbill
Magazine, Theater Magazine and New York Theater Guide - Banana
Shpeel is undergoing a rewrite. According to those sources,
Broadway leads Michael Longoria (of Jersey Boys) and Annaleigh
Ashford (of Wicked), which joined the cast of Banana Shpeel with
much fanfare have now been written out of the show because of
too many storylines and characters.
Read more about the changes at the following sources:
New York Theater Guide:
< http://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/news/
ot09/banana555479.htm >
Theater Mania:
< http://www.theatermania.com/new-york/news/10-2009/cirque-du-
soleils-banana-shpeel-revises-cast_18873.html >
Playbill Magazine:
< http://www.playbill.com/news/article/134093-
Longoria_and_Ashford_Slip_Out_of_Banana_Shpeel_the_
Victims_of_Rewrites# >
The Chicago Tribune:
< http://leisureblogs.chicagotribune.com/the_theater_loop/
2009/10/banana-slips-on-its-shpeel.html# >
KOOZA in Santa Monica
{Oct.25.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
Check out the following article by Entertainment Today's theater
reviewer Travis Michael Holder regarding Cirque du Soleil's
Koozå at the Santa Monica Pier:
< http://www.entertainmenttoday.net/content/view/858/28/ >
{SOURCE: Entertainment Today}
BELIEVE: A Year Later
{Oct.26.2009}
-----------------------------------------------
A year ago this coming Saturday, Cirque du Soleil along with
Criss Angel unveiled their collaborative effort - BELIEVE - to
quite a number of disappointments. Joe Brown of the Las Vegas
Sun was in the audience premiere night and gave the show a
scathing negative review. Now it's a year later and he's decided
to give the show its "annual checkup". How did it do?
# # #
Unbelievably, Angel's "Believe" will hit the one-year mark on
Saturday. After a blizzard of hype - $100 million investment!
Ten-year contract! Criss + Holly 4Ever! - the show opened at the
Luxor on Halloween night 2008 to a near-unanimous chorus of boos
from reviewers, including yours truly.
I was curious about how Angel and Cirque du Soleil might have
changed or improved their collaboration in the intervening year,
so I bought tickets (including a second seat for just $25) for
Wednesday's 7 p.m. performance.
Mr. Angel, I'm afraid I've got some bad news.
"Believe" now seems a bizarre, stranded artifact of a moment
when some people had too much money. The show has been
streamlined a bit - no live musicians, fewer aerialists and
dancers, less video wizardry - but it hasn't been improved, only
diminished. Not much has changed with the overall experience of
"Believe": I got it pretty much right the first time around
(http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/nov/01/illusion-elusive-
angels-believe/).
# # #
Read more of Joe Brown's re-review of BELIEVE here:
< http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/oct/26/year-angels-
believe-hasnt-changed-much-better/ >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun}
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) TOURING - Under the Big Top
{Corteo, Dralion, Koozå, OVO, Quidam & Varekai}
o) RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, "O", La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE,
ZAIA, ZED & Believe}
o) VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions
{Saltimbanco, Alegría | Wintuk, 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 >
Corteo:
Tokyo, Japan -- Nov 4, 2009 to Jan 24, 2010
Fukuoka, Japan -- Feb 11, 2010 to Apr 4, 2010
Sendai, Japan -- Apr 21, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010
Dralion:
Guadalajara, Mexico -- Oct 22, 2009 to Nov 15, 2009
Mexico City, Mexico -- Nov 26, 2009 to Jan 17, 2010
Kooza:
Santa Monica, CA -- Oct 16, 2009 to Dec 20, 2009
Irvine, CA -- Jan 8, 2010 to Feb 14, 2010
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 TBA (*)
Houston, TX -- Sep 23, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010 (*)
Miami, FL -- Nov 18, 2010 to Dec 26, 2010 (*)
Ovo:
Toronto, ON -- Sep 3, 2009 to Nov 01, 2009
San Francisco, CA -- Nov 27, 2009 to Jan 24, 2010
San Jose, CA -- Feb 4, 2010 to Mar 21, 2010
Philadelphia, PA -- Apr 8, 2010 to May 16, 2010 (*)
New York, NY -- May 27, 2010 to Jul 4, 2010 (*)
Hartford, CT -- Jul 15, 2010 to Aug 15, 2010 (*)
Boston, MA -- Aug 26, 2010 to TBA (*)
Washington, DC -- Oct 14, 2010 to Nov 28, 2010 (*)
Atlanta, GA -- TBA
Quidam:
Belo Horizonte, BR -- Oct 23, 2009 to Nov 22, 2009
Curitiba, BR -- Dec 4, 2009 to Dec 27, 2009
Rio de Janeiro, BR -- Jan 8, 2010 to Feb 7, 2010
Sao Paulo, BR -- Feb 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
Porto Alegre, BR -- May 27, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010
Buenos Aiers, AR -- Jul 23, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010
Santiago, CL -- Sep 11, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010
Varekai:
Moscow, Russia -- Oct 23, 2009 to Dec 31, 2009
London, UK -- Jan 6, 2010 to Jan 24, 2010
---------------------------------
RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
---------------------------------
NOTE: (*) Prices are in United States Dollars (USD) unless otherwise
noted.
(*) Price reflected in brackets [] is inclusive of 10% Las Vegas
Entertainment Tax where applicable, but does not include
Sales Tax.
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=40 >
Mystère:
Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday
Two shows Nightly -
o Saturday: 7:00pm & 9:30pm
o Sunday: 4:30pm & 7:00pm
o Monday - Wednesday: 7:00pm & 9:30pm
2009 Ticket Prices:
o Category 1: $109.00
o Category 2: $99.00
o Category 3: $95.00
o Category 4: $79.00
o Category 6: $69.00
o Category 7: $60.00 (Limited View)
2009 Dark Dates:
o 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 December 7 - 22
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tue through Sat, Dark: Sun/Mon
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2009 Ticket Prices (adults) / (child 3-9):
o Category 0: $117.00 / $94.00 (+Tax)
o Category 1: $102.00 / $82.00 (+Tax)
o Category 2: $83.00 / $67.00 (+Tax)
o Category 3: $67.00 / $54.00 (+Tax)
o Category 4: $53.00 / $43.00 (+Tax)
2009 Dark Dates:
o No More for 2009
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 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 No More for 2009
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 [$75.90]
2009 Dark Dates:
o December 1 - 16
ZAIA:
Location: Venetian, Macao (China)
Performs: Tuesday through Sunday, Dark Monday
One to Two Shows Daily -
Tuesday: 8:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00pm
Thursday - Saturday: 7:00pm & 10:00pm
Sunday: 4:00pm & 7:00pm
2008 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 0-12):
o Category 1: MOP$ 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 No More for 2009
--------------------------------------
VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions
--------------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=251 >
[Arena Shows]
Saltimbanco:
Copenhagen, DK -- Oct 21, 2009 to Nov 1, 2009
Gothenburg, SE -- Nov 4, 2009 to Nov 8, 2009
Mannheim, DE -- Nov 10, 2009 to Nov 14, 2009
Nice, FR -- Nov 19, 2009 to Nov 22, 2009
Rotterdam, NL -- Dec 10, 2009 to Dec 13, 2009
Geneva, CH -- Dec 18, 2009 to Dec 28, 2009
Barcelona, ES -- Dec 30, 2009 to Jan 10, 2010
Salzburg, AT -- Jan 13, 2010 to Jan 17, 2010
Strasbourg, FR -- Jan 20, 2010 to Jan 23, 2010
Frankfurt, DE -- Jan 27, 2010 to Jan 31, 2010
Nantes, FR -- Feb 2, 2010 to Feb 5, 2010
Innsbruck, AT -- Feb 25, 2010 to Feb 28, 2010
Stuttgart, DE -- Mar 31, 2010 to Apr 4, 2010
Bremen, DE -- Apr 7, 2010 to Apr 11, 2010
Alegría:
London, ON -- Nov 12, 2009 to Nov 15, 2009
Greenville, SC -- Nov 18, 2009 to Nov 22, 2009
Augusta, 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
Montreal, QC -- Dec 18, 2009 to Dec 30, 2009
Quebec, QC -- Jan 5, 2010 to Jan 10, 2010
Detroit, MI -- Feb 4, 2010 to Feb 7, 2010
Indianapolis, IN -- Feb 11, 2010 to Feb 14, 2010
Austin, TX -- Feb 17, 2010 to Feb 21, 2010
Frisco, TX -- Feb 24, 2010 to Feb 28, 2010
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
[Venue Shows]
Wintuk:
Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark Monday/Tuesday
Exception: December 22nd, 28th and 29th
Previews on Wednesday November 11th and 12th at 7:30pm
Regular Season begins Friday, November 13th!
Schedule: There are currently 87 scheduled performances between
Wednesday, November 11, 2009 and Sunday, January 3,
2010 on the following days:
o) Mon [2] - 12/28 (2)
o) Tue [4] - 12/22 (2), 12/29 (2)
o) Wed [12] - 11/11 (1), 11/18 (1), 11/25 (2), 12/2 (1),
12/9 (1), 12/16 (2), 12/23 (2), 12/30 (2)
o) Thu [13] - 11/12 (1), 11/19 (2), 11/26 (2), 12/3 (2),
12/10 (2), 12/17 (2), 12/24 (2),
o) Fri [11] - 11/13 (1), 11/20 (2), 11/27 (2), 12/4 (2),
12/11 (2), 12/18 (2)
o) Sat [24] - 11/14 (3), 11/21 (3), 11/28 (3), 12/5 (3),
12/12 (3), 12/19 (3), 12/26 (3), 1/2 (3)
o) Sun [21] - 11/15 (2), 11/22 (2), 11/29 (3), 12/6 (3),
12/13 (3), 12/27 (3), 1/3 (2)
Performance Times: Wintuk may perform at the following times
throughout its run. Consort the official schedule for
exact showtimes:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/Wintuk/
schedule/WIN09_Show_Schedule.pdf >
o) Monday: 2:30pm, 7:30pm
o) Tuesday: 2:30pm, 7:30pm
o) Wednesday: (2:30pm), 7:30pm
o) Thursday: (11:00am), (2:30pm), 7:30pm
o) Friday: (11:00am), 2:30pm, 7:30pm
o) Saturday: 11:00am, 2:30pm, 7:30pm
o) Sunday: 1:00pm, 5:00pm / 11:00am, 3:00pm, 7:00pm
Ticket Prices:
Tickets range from $30.00 to $220 based on category and
date of performance. Peek and non-peek pricing is in
effect.
Banana Shpeel:
Location: Chicago Theater, Chicago (USA)
Schedule: There are currently 59 scheduled performances between
Thursday, November 19, 2009 and Sunday, January 3, 2010,
on the following days:
o) Mon [02] - 12/28 (2)
o) Tue [05] - 12/22 (3), 12/20 (2)
o) Wed [11] - 11/25, 12/2, 12/9 (2), 12/16 (2), 12/23 (3),
12/30 (2)
o) Thu [03] - 11/19, 12/10, 12/17
o) Fri [05] - 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18
o) Sat [19] - 11/21 (2), 11/28 (2), 12/5 (3), 12/12 (3),
12/19 (3), 12/26 (3), 1/2 (3)
o) Sun [14] - 11/22 (2), 11/29 (2), 12/6 (2), 12/13 (2),
12/20 (2), 12/27 (2), 1/3 (2)
PERFORMANCE TIMES
o) Wednesday: 2:00pm, 8:00pm (12pm, 4pm, 8pm on 12/23)
o) Thursday: 8:00pm
o) Friday: 8:00pm
o) Saturday: (12:00pm), 4:00pm, 8:00pm
o) Sunday: 1:00pm, 5:00pm
TICKET PRICES
o) Adults (1-8 tickets):
PEAK / WEEKEND:
Regular: $48.00, $65.00, $85.00, $98.00
Premium: $150.00
Tapis Rouge: $300.00
NON-PEAK / WEEKEDAY:
Regular: $35.00, $45.00, $65.00, $82.00
Premium: $115.00
Tapis Rouge: $275.00
PRE-THANKSGIVING:
Regular: $23.00, $30.00, $50.00, $75.00
Premium: None
Tapis Rouge: None
NOTE: Student, Senior and Group pricing are available.
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE'S SOCIAL WIDGETS
=======================================================================
o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
o) Networking -- Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & MySpace
o) Telemajik -- Cirque on YouTube
o) Gatherings -- CirqueCon, Celebri & More!
---------------------------------------
CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub
---------------------------------------
25 Years Worth of Stories: Wrestling Match
{Oct.08.2009}
Rich in stories collected over the years, we share some of them
with you today:
It was the spring of 1994. My son, aged nine at the time, was on
crutches as he had been in a very bad sledding accident. The
ushers kindly offered us the very first row of the big top
bleachers and we were ready to experience Cirque du Soleil
latest creation, Alegría. This was our second Cirque experience,
the first one being Saltimbanco.
At the time, I was already involved in theatre as I was working
as a freelance stage director and production manager. I was
attracted to some extent by Cirque du Soleil as everyone was,
but it seemed out of reach and, in any case, I wasn't lacking
work. The show started and, from the first minute, we were
transported by the magic and beauty of Alegría.
Then came the strongman act. He was a hulking man who twisted
bars of metal and played around with dumbbells. At one point,
the ringmaster (Fleur) asked me to come on stage to challenge
the strongman (I am 6 feet tall and weigh 150 pounds-not quite
the physique required for the task!). Sportingly, I agreed and
went on stage. The strongman then asked me to rip up a telephone
book and twist a bar of metal; I failed miserably.
The ringmaster then showed me the way out and, as I was about to
leave the stage, I suddenly had an idea. Before returning to my
seat, I turned to the strongman and removed my shirt, revealing
my scrawny body. I challenged him to a wrestling match, and the
crowd of 2,500 began to applaud, stomp their feet and yell.
Naturally, I hit the mat in no time at all; I put my shirt back
on and returned to my seat under the warm applause of the entire
audience. I was moved and my son couldn't believe his eyes. I
told my son that one day I would work for Cirque du Soleil. Two
years later I did, and that was 14 years ago.
I am still motivated and ready to meet any challenge... unless
it involves wrestling!
JACQUES MARCOTTE
Artistic Coordinator
Cirque interpreters at work
{Oct.13.2009}
In 1997, the only interpreter working for Cirque du Soleil spoke
mostly Russian, among a few other languages. Today, there are 38
interpreters working to facilitate communication inside our
tower of Babel! To better understand this profession, I have met
with Lucie Janvier, Head of the Interpreter Service at Artist
Training, and Marie-Odile Pinet, a Cirque du Soleil interpreter
for 11 years.
COMPLETE CONFIDENCE
The work of interpreters generally starts with Casting. "When
non-English-speaking artists arrive at the Studio, an
interpreter who speaks their mother tongue is assigned to help
with the various steps of the newcomers' development at Cirque
du Soleil, including contract signing, taxation, medical
appointments, fittings, artistic and acrobatic classes, and so
on," Lucie explains. Interpreters quickly become guides for
foreign artists. "It's surprising how quickly they give us their
complete trust in this process, when they are in such a
vulnerable position," says Marie-Odile. "I always feel
privileged to share this bond with them." For projects in
creation, the interpreter assists artists until the premiere.
For artists joining a touring show, she stays with them until
their departure. "Premieres are my favourite because I get to
witness the consecration of the artists I have been working with
for months," adds Marie-Odile. "These athletes-turned-artists
are now spreading their wings and flying among Cirque du Soleil
stars."
SHARING CULTURE
Interpreters are conveyors of culture first and foremost, and on
different levels. Language is a given, but interpreters also
teach artists about general and artistic North American culture
and about the circus culture. "For example, a Director once
asked the artists to put themselves in the shoes of a black
person from the Bronx. A North American quickly understands this
cultural reference, but it is complete gibberish to a Chinese
person. An interpreter must therefore come up with examples that
are specific to the artist's culture to make the concept clear,"
says Marie-Odile Pinet.
"The Chinese are extremely polite people, which tends to be one
of the biggest problems I have with them," says Marie-Odile. "If
their make-up is making them itchy or their costume is
uncomfortable, they won't complain because they want to be nice.
I therefore need to get them to understand that it is important
for them to express how they feel in terms of their work." For
Marie-Odile, the ultimate goal is to make artists as independent
as possible. Once the show starts, artists no longer have access
to an interpreter. This is why it is crucial to teach them the
culture and help them learn English as soon as possible. In the
end, the faster they learn, the easier it is for them to
concentrate on their performance.
THE INTERPRETER SERVICE AT CIRQUE
* There are 38 interpreters working for Cirque du Soleil,
helping artists blend in at our International Headquarters.
* The most common languages are Russian, Portuguese, Spanish and
Chinese.
* The Artist Training department gets an average of 125 artists
per week at the studio.
* The Interpreter Service is available to all of Cirque du
Soleil, in 10 different languages, for business meetings,
customer service, contract negotiations, and so on.
GENEVIÈVE DORÉ, Special Correspondent
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & Myspace
---------------------------------------------------
{Oct.01.2009 | ZED}
Check out these photos from ZED's 1st Anniversary!
Fotos [4]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=155276
&id=41326571163&ref=mf >
{Oct.01.2009 | Saltimbanco}
Saltimbanco is playing in Turku until October 4. Check out the
local article in Finnish!!
Read More:
< http://www.ts.fi/online/kulttuuri/77247.html >
{Oct.02.2009 | Koozå}
MERCI Denver! KOOZA last performance in Denver is this Sunday!
Heading to Santa Monica at the Pier - Don't miss the blue and
yellow Big Top Raising on Friday, October 9 & Premiere October
15!
Foto [1]: < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3169597
&id=34324811338 >
{Oct.03.2009 | Dralion}
Today, here at Dralion we celebrated the Chinese Mid-Autumn Moon
Festival! Treats, chinese music, decorations and special games
were part of the celebration!
Fotos [5]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=324701
&id=39340140194&ref=mf >
{Oct.05.2009 | "O"}
Had the clowns go work in the IT department at Vegas.com for the
day - looks like they might have a second career in the works!!
Video: < http://www.vegas.com/exposed/#video >
{Oct.06.2009 | Zumanity}
Play the brand new online Zumanity game, and see Willie Bronco
take off his clothes! So hot.
Link: < http://www.ZumanityRoses.com >
{Oct.07.2009 | Saltimbanco}
Saltimbanco rolled in the Spektrum in Oslo, Norway. The show
opens Thursday, October 8.
Foto [1]: < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3730146
&id=41245692958 >
{Oct.08.2009 | Dralion}
Dralion went to visit "La Cola de Caballo". 75 of us went and it
was great. We also went to visit Santiago. beautiful area!
Foto [1]: < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=9383670
&id=39340140194 >
{Oct.09.2009 | Winutk}
Join us in Times Square, on the pedestrian walk way (btwn 45th &
46th Streets) on Tuesday October 13 at 11:00 am for a Wintuk
sneak peek including a special performance of the dynamic Hoops
act. With the flexibility of a contortionist and the skill of...
a rhythmic gymnast, artist Elena Lev will present a mind-
boggling yet graceful performance with hoops spinning all around
her body. Additionally, a hula-hoop expert will lead the public
in a workshop as they attempt to learn some new moves and
tricks.
Read More:
< http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=9006952&id=98244255320 >
{Oct.09.2009 | LOVE}
Our new friend Guy Kawasaki got a rare backstage glimpse into
the inner workings of LOVE @ The Mirage. Check out these
fantastic videos and pics!
Link: < http://holykaw.alltop.com/behind-the-scenes-tour
-of-the-beatles-love-ci >
{Oct.09.2009 | Koozå}
Check out these pictures of the Big Top Raising of KOOZA at the
Santa Monica Pier!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3191509&id=34324811338
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3209573&id=34324811338
{Oct.13.2009 | Winutk}
At 11am on Tuesday, October 13, Wintuk overtook almost an entire
city block in Times Square for our Hula Hoop Event! Countless
New Yorkers joined us to watch Elena Lev perform her act from
Wintuk and then stayed to learn how to Hula Hoop on their own as
Sheryl Wilson from Fitnotics led the crowd in a Hula Hoop class!
Fotos [11]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=321847
&id=98244255320&ref=mf >
{Oct.14.2009 | Koozå}
Our KOOZA cast and crew have just arrived at the Santa Monica
Pier. Check out our KOOZA Big Top at the beach in Santa Monica!
Foto [4]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=161583
&id=144074117500&ref=mf >
{Oct.17.2009 | Koozå}
Los Angeles Times Review: KOOZA in Santa Monica! /// For fans of
Cirque du Soleil -- and really, who isn't one at this point? --
it should come as no surprise that the new show, "Kooza," is a
thrilling spectacle jampacked with white-knuckle acrobatic
moments. Yes, and the ocean is deep and the sky is blue. A
touring production that is currently holding court in a big-top
tent adjacent to the Santa Monica Pier, "Kooza" offers further
proof -- as if more were needed -- that the global Cirque brand
is in fine artistic shape. CirquePhotos If there's anything
surprising about the show, it's that it represents a return to
simplicity for Cirque. Those who are familiar with the company's
mega-productions in Las Vegas and elsewhere will no doubt feel
the absence of high-tech waterworks and other stage effects. But
in the case of "Kooza," less is more -- a lot more.
Read more:
< http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/culturemonster/2009/
10/performance-review-cirque-du-soleils-kooza-at-the-santa-
monica-pier.html >
{Oct.18.2009 | Banana Shpeel}
Check out this new behind-the-scenes video from Banana Shpeel by
Cirque du Soleil. Coming to The Beacon Theatre in February!
Video: < http://www.stumbleupon.com/s/#2Xjjlc/
www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/banana-shpeel/creation-
journal/pub.aspx/ >
{Oct.19.2009 | Winutk}
Wintuk's Amazing Acrobats - New Tang Dynasty Television
Link: < http://english.ntdtv.com/ntdtv_en/ns_na/2009-10-
14/373693235563.html >
{Oct.19.2009 | Alegría}
Cirque Jubilation: Cirque du Soleil's 'Alegria' comes to
Philadelphia without the tent!
Read Review:
< http://www.nj.com/gloucester-county/towns/index.ssf/2009/10/
cirque_jubilation_cirque_du_so.html >
{Oct.19.2009 | Dralion}
Last Thursday at 1pm, the White Big Top went up in Guadalajara!
Fotos [5]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=332177
&id=39340140194&ref=mf >
{Oct.19.2009 | OVO}
Even with 120 insect-inspired costumes to chose from, Steve
Armstrong, the Head of Wardrobe for OVO, the Cirque du Soleil
show currently playing in Toronto, doesn't hesitate when asked
to name his favourite.
Read more:
< http://www.metronews.ca/edmonton/entertainment/article/341552-
-costumes-key-at-cirque-du-soleil >
{Oct.20.2009 | Saltimbanco}
Saltimbanco is setting up inside the Copenhagen Forum! The show
will be there for two weeks !!
Fotos [3]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=153738
&id=41245692958&ref=mf >
{Oct.20.2009 | Alegría}
Arena's Largest Show Set Up For Eight Performances!
Read Review:
< http://wfmz.com/view/?id=1285309&title=Arena%27s%20Largest
%20Show%20Set%20Up%20For%20Eight%20Performances >
{Oct.21.2009 | Alegría}
Canadian Cirque du Soleil comes to Reading: Incredible stunts
and visuals.
Read Review: < http://www.mcall.com/entertainment/all-cirque-
102109-cn,0,3380315.story >
{Oct.21.2009 | Zumanity}
Halloween is almost here! Will your costume be SCARY or SEXY?!
Tell us! And if you need ideas, check out the posted article
with DIY costume tips from our Cirque makeup and costume people!
Read More:
< http://www.shine.yahoo.com/channel/parenting/cirque-du-spooky-
last-minute-costume-tips-for-kids-from-cirque-du-soleil-
528321/ >
{Oct.21.2009 | Saltimbanco}
A little taste of Saltimbanco at Good Evening Denmark !! The
show opens tonight in Copenhagen!
Video: < http://go-dyn.tv2.dk/video.php/id-25895126.html >
{Oct.22.2009 | "O"}
FLOW, a tribute to the artists of "O", is the proud recipient of
a Prix Italia award!
Read More:
< http://www.theglobeandmail.com/blogs/reguly-in-europe/quebec-
doc-shines-at-prix-italia-awards/article1303789/ >
{Oct.22.2009 | ZED}
Check out the updates on ZED's official Youtube site!
Link: <www.youtube.com/user/ZEDofficial2009#p/a/0/bNrWozgoitg >
{Oct.22.2009 | Dralion}
Dralion is getting ready for its Premiere tonight in
Guadalajara! Have a look at the artists preparing backstage.
Fotos [5]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=333432
&id=39340140194&ref=mf >
{Oct.23.2009 | Saltimbanco}
Good words for Saltimbanco in the Copenhagen press !! 5 out of 6
stars !
Read More:
< http://www.berlingske.dk/scene/goegl-og-poesi-i-forum# >
{Oct.23.2009 | Quidam}
Quidam is preparing for its Premiere in Belo Horizonte tonight!
Check out some pictures from last night's Dress Rehearsal.
Fotos [4]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=133061
&id=35752277045&ref=mf >
{Oct.27.2009 | ZAiA}
Watch Peter Rabbit, street drummer from NYC at ZAIA Theatre!
Video [0:43]: < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php
?v=101565266531287&ref=mf >
{Oct.27.2009 | ZAiA}
All 75 artists of ZAIA performed at Tennis Showdown 2009 last
Sunday. The cast also took a group photo together with star
players Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Yuki Bhambri and Ryan
Harrison !
Fotos [4]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=118500
&id=34277887388&ref=mf >
Fotos [6]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=118488
&id=34277887388&ref=mf >
Backstage, getting Ready:
Fotos [8]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=118494
&id=34277887388&ref=mf >
{Oct.28.2009 | LOVE}
Fun video feature from backstage at LOVE! Featuring interviews
with Sugar Plum Fairy (Michael Moloi), Skater (Rafael Lima) and
Artistic Director (Kati Renaud). Check it out!
Video [4:28]: < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php
?v=195122560434&ref=mf >
{Oct.28.2009 | Dralion}
4 Elements Characters of the show, visited Tlaquepaque yesterday
and had tones of fun! what a beautiful place to visit
Fotos [5]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=336308
&id=39340140194&ref=mf >
{Oct.29.2009 | Dralion}
Check out this really cool picture taken Tuesday on our outting
in Tlaquepaque!
Foto [1]: < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=9704745
&id=39340140194 >
{Oct.30.2009 | La Nouba}
Carla Weaver from the wardrobe and make up department at La
Nouba created these ghoulish looks. Can you guess who these La
Nouba artists are?
Fotos [8]: < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=118173
&id=16315569901&ref=mf >
{Oct.30.2009 | Quidam}
Meet Artist Jailton Carneiro. He joined the Picadeiro Circo
Escola in 1989, and it was during some castings held in Brazil
in 1999, that Jailton was scouted by Cirque du Soleil and there
began his story with us.
Read More: < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3425915
&id=35752277045 >
{Oct.31.2009 | BeLIEve}
Happy 1st anniversary to CRISS ANGEL Believe, one of Cirque du
Soleil's 6 theater shows (soon to be 7) in Las Vegas!
-------------------------------------------
TELEMAJIK: Cirque on YouTube & Flickr
-------------------------------------------
[FLICKR]
Website: < http://www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/ >
Athough also avaialble through Facebook, Cirque du Soleil released a
small number of images through its Flickr photostream this month,
showcasing Wintuk on the streets of New York City. Check them out
here!
New York, NY - 10/13/09 - Cirque Du Soleil's Wintuk gets hip for
winter with a hula hoop event in Times Square. Cirque du Soleil
and MSG Entertainment host a sneak peek of the smash-hit winter
show Wintuk, which will return for performances at the WaMu
Theater at Madison Square Garden from November 11, 209 - January
3, 2010. Wintuk artist Elena Lev presents a mind-bogging yet
graceful performance with hoops spinning all around her body,
then a hula-hoop expert leads the public in a hula hooping
workshop.
-< www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/4030426764/ >
-< www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/4029671459/ >
-< www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/4030426368/ >
-< www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/4029671099/ >
-< www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/4029670907/ >
-< www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/4029670659/ >
[YouTube]
{Oct.08.2009 | Mystère}
For our good friend Jay Martinez, and anyone else who may have
missed it, Mystère was featured on last night's episode of
"America's Next Top Model." Don't forget to smile with your
eyes!
[7:56] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DKbV39aoVE >
{Oct.13.2009 | Wintuk}
Watch a clip of our Wintuk event in NYC that happened this
morning!
[0:27] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Db_XVTQgn6c >
{Oct.14.2009 | ZAiA}
Edited version of the Trampoline Performance @ Great Hall -
Venetian Macau. Watch our artists celebrating the BIG day of
ZAIA! Enjoy!!
[2:03] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emB5m6fyO5E >
{Oct.26.2009 | LOVE}
Check out this video of the LOVE Skaters "auditioning for a job"
at Vegas.com! Pretty funny...
[2:10] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIlYPoKTg20 >
{Oct.29.2009 | Wintuk}
Meet with Cirque du Soleil show characters as they take over the
streets of New York!
[0:37] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2U7-JfKpFcE >
-------------------------------------------
GATHERINGS: CirqueCon, Celebri & More!
-------------------------------------------
CirqueCon: < http://www.CirqueCon.com/ >
With the highly successful CirqueCon 2009: Monterrey even now behind
us, we're already looking forward to New York City (with the
possibility of another destination as well) in 2010. We'll be gearing
up on this one shortly and will make an announcement as soon as we
can. Hang in there!
Meanwhile, to help keep in touch we've launched a Facebook page for
CirqueCon, which you can find here:
< http://www.facebook.com/pages/CirqueCon/272446895013?ref=nf >
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- INFORMATION BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts about Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History
---------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------
o) Didyaknow that Alegría travels with more than 200 costumes, 300
pairs of shoes, 100 wigs and 22 Old Birds masks?
o) Didyaknow The largest set element in OVO is the wall, which is set
against the rear of the stage? The performers climb on it,
disappear into it and use it as a stage, a platform and a launching
pad. The Wall measures 60ft wide by 20ft tall and is made of just
two moveable components. It is supported only on the sides to allow
a floor with built-in trampolines to slide in and out like an
enormous drawer.
o) Didyaknow, in 2009, over 600 performers will receive customized
training in the Creation Studio?
o) Didyaknow that Alegría's White Singer is the storyteller who echoes
in song everything she sees around her? She sings of melancholy and
despair, of joy and happiness. Her luminous white gown is exquisite
- underneath a bodice and skirt-frame adorned with jewels and
pearls, is miles of flowing crinoline. In her dress and long white
gloves, she moves like a delicate porcelain doll in a jewelry box.
o) Didyaknow that over 2,500 costume items from Saltimbanco travel
from city to city in more than 50 road cases? Many sets of costumes
are available for any type of incidents!
o) Didyaknow the boat in the Storm scene in KÀ weighs 1800 pounds? It
is completely manipulated onstage by the artists. .
o) Didyaknow the over-sized animal puppets-dogs, birds and ice giants
are costume hybrid devices worn by the performers to help create
the magical world of Wintuk? The two large bird puppets stand over
14 feet tall with a 10-foot wing span. The height iscreated by the
artists wearing stilts.
o) Didyaknow there are over 540 LED lights in the SUN from HERE COMES
THE SUN at LOVE? Magical!
o) EXTRA: How well do you know the Artists on Quidam? can you name the
4 Brasilian Artists and what Act they perform?
Answer: Jailton Carneiro, Denise Wal, Graceline de Moura Oliveira
and Rafael Munhoz are the 4 Brasilian Artists on Quidam, and all 4
are performing in the Spnish Webs Act as well as Skipping Ropes.
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
------------------------------------
* Oct.01.1996 -- Alegría opened Fukuoka, Japan
* Oct.01.2002 -- La Nouba goes 2-tiered seating
* Oct.01.2003 -- Varekai Premium CD Released (CDS/Musique)
* Oct.01.2008 -- ZED Gala Premiere in Tokyo
* Oct.02.1987 -- Cirque Réinventé opened San Diego
* Oct.02.1990 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Paris
* Oct.02.2003 -- Alegría opened Portland
* Oct.02.2003 -- Dralion opened Mexico City
* Oct.02.2007 -- Dralion celebrated its 3000th performance [Osaka, Japan]
* Oct.04.2002 -- Dralion opened Sacramento
* Oct.06.1994 -- Alegría opened Santa Monica
* Oct.07.2003 -- Region 01 DVD release: Alegría and Varekai
* Oct.07.2004 -- Saltimbanco opened Rome
* Oct.07.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Pittsburg, PA
* Oct.08.1992 -- Saltimbanco opened Santa Monica
* Oct.08.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Oslo, Norway
* Oct.09.1992 -- The Saltimbanco CD was released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Oct.09.2001 -- Region 01 DVD Release: Journey of Man (also VHS)
* Oct.09.2009 -- Guy Laliberté will make an announcement from space
concerning ONE DROP.
* Oct.10.1990 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Santa Monica
* Oct.10.2001 -- Alegría opened in Adelaide, Australia
* Oct.10.2002 -- Alegría opened Mexico City
* Oct.11.1994 -- The Alegría CD released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Oct.11.2000 -- Dralion opened in McLean, Virginia
* Oct.12.1995 -- Alegría opened Washington DC
* Oct.12.2000 -- Saltimbanco 2000 opened Tokyo, Japan
* Oct.12.2007 -- Quidam opened Guadalajara, Mexico
* Oct.13.2005 -- Alegría opened Tokyo, Japan
* Oct.13.2009 -- ZED Album Released
* Oct.14.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened in Washington DC
* Oct.14.1998 -- Saltimbanco opened Ottawa (Special Performances)
* Oct.14.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Philadelphia, PA
* Oct.14.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Aalborg, DK
* Oct.15.2004 -- Dralion opened Madrid, Spain
* Oct.15.2008 -- Alegría opened Seoul, South Korea
* Oct.16.2009 -- Koozå opened Santa Monica, CA
* Oct.18.2005 -- KÀ CD released (CDS Musique)
* Oct.19.1998 -- "O" premiered at Bellagio, Las Vegas
* Oct.19.2004 -- "Tapis Rogue: Solarium" CD Released (CDS Musique)
* Oct.19.2006 -- Dralion opened Frankfurt
* Oct.19.2007 -- Alegría opened Brasilia, Brazil
* Oct.19.2008 -- Guy Laliberte awarded honorary doctorate by
Université Laval in Quebec City, Quebec
* Oct.20.2003 -- "Cirque for Life" film even in Portlan, Oregon
* Oct.20.2007 -- Zumanity celebrated its 2000th performance
* Oct.20.2008 -- "All Together Now" Documentary screened in theaters
* Oct.21.2008 -- "All Together Now" Documentary released on DVD
* Oct.21.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Reading, PA
* Oct.21.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Copenhagen, DK
* Oct.22.2003 -- Canadian premiere of Varekai on CBC
* Oct.22.2003 -- Quidam opened Fukuoka, Japan
* Oct.22.2006 -- Quidam NAT 3 Ended.
* Oct.22.2009 -- Dralion opened Guadalajara, MX
* Oct.23.2008 -- Dralion opened Canberra, Australia
* Oct.23.2009 -- Quidam opened Belo Hoizonte, Brazil
* Oct.23.2009 -- Varekai opened Moscow, Russia
* Oct.25.1988 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Montréal
* Oct.25.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Washington DC
* Oct.25.2007 -- Varekai opened Antwerp, Belgium
* Oct.26.1999 -- Dralion CD released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Oct.26.2000 -- Quidam opened Frankfurt
* Oct.26.2001 -- New Musical Director "O" (John-Paul Gasparelli)
* Oct.26.2006 -- Corteo opened Washington, DC.
* Oct.27.2005 -- Varekai opened Charlotte
* Oct.27.2006 -- Alegría opened Madrid, Spain
* Oct.28.1997 -- Cirque Collection CD Released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Oct.29.1987 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Santa Monica
* Oct.29.1998 -- Quidam opened Atlanta
* Oct.29.2004 -- Alegría opened Tokyo, Japan
* Oct.29.2007 -- Guy Laliberte announces One Drop Foundation
* Oct.30.2001 -- Region 01 DVD Release: Le Magie Continue, Saltimbanco,
Cirque Réinventé, and Baroque Odyssey. (Also released on VHS)
* Oct.30.2008 -- Koozå opened Washington, DC.
* Oct.30.2008 -- Quidam opened Brussels, Belgium
* Oct.31.2002 -- Saltimbanco opened Madrid
* Oct.31.2007 -- Dralion opened Nagoya, Japan
* Oct.31.2008 -- BELIEVE gala premiere in Las Vegas
* Oct.xx.2001 -- CirqueClub premiered
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
Within...
o) "Evoking the Cards - a ZED album review"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
o) "BOOK REVIEW: Laliberté's 'Fabulous' Story"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
"Evoking the Cards - a ZED album review"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
When my wife and I first heard (and saw) the brilliant ZED at the
Cirque du Soleil Theater Tokyo back in November, 2008 as part of
CirqueCon 2008: Tokyo! we were enthralled by the beauty of the René
Dupéré score.
As he says in the ZED Program Book: "I'm very intuitive and
instinctive in my approach. Once I'd read François Girard's script
for ZED I responded right away, and I often find that my first
responses are better than the second ones. What I'm looking to
capture is the colour of a show, and how to express that colour
musically. I take inspiration from all kinds of musical sources but
my style is more European than North American." The Program Book also
makes mention of the scores Mediterranean, Caucasus and Ireland
influences, saying it includes "frequent incursions into the strange,
injection emotion and fire into the major arcana."
We hoped that when it was finally adapted for album it would contain
much of the power and emotion we heard in Tokyo. When we heard "The
World's Meet" on the Cirque compilation set "25" (Cirque du Soleil
Musique CDSMCD-10030-2, 2009) we were pleased and hopeful - the song
fully managed to convey the power and beauty of one of the best
moments in the show with a great arrangement and a stirring chorus
finale.
But we were concerned that, as with the Dupéré score of KA, the CD
wouldn't include the ZED creation band and musicians, consisting of:
Kevin Faraci - Singer (Abraka & Kernoon) - United States
Johanna Lillvik - Singer (characters Noui & Erato) - Sweden
Michel Cyr - Keyboards, Bandleader - Canada
Patrick Kelly - Guitar - Canada
Darrell Craig Harris - Bass - United States
Paul Lazar - Violin - France
Paul Hanson - Bassoon - United States
Mario Labrosse - Drums - Canada
Ron Wagner - Percussion - United States
But after talking with Cirque Musical Director Alain Vinet (see
Fascination issue #67-August 2009) and hearing the Violaine Corradi-
composed score for ZAIA (Cirque du Soleil Musique CDSMC-20029, 2009
and note our interview with Violaine Corradi in Fascination! issue #69
- October 2009) we were encouraged they'd make the "right" decision
and record the creation band for the album. We just had to wait and
see but the waiting was hard, especially after the originally
announced release date came and went.
Finally, on October 13, 2009, the US had its first opportunity to hear
whether album producers Martin Lord Ferguson & Ella Louise Allaire
succeeded. The album (Cirque du Soleil Musique CDSMC-20031, 2009)
will appear in Canada on December 8.
The album consists of the following tracks, along with the album times
and the acts they go with:
1. First Incantation (2:14) - Show Opening
2. Birth of the Sky (5:37) - Bungee
3. Reaching Up (4:59) - Chinese Poles w/trampoline
4. Blue Silk (4:37) - Aerial Silks
5. High Temptation (4:55) -High Wire
6. Vaneyou Mi Le (4:34) - Banquine
7. ZED in Love (4:49) - Aerial Straps
8. Kernoon's Fire (4:30) - Juggling
9. Mirror of the Two World's (4:35) - Baton Twirling
10. The World's Meet (6:36) - Hand to Hand
11. Fiesta (4:50) - Trapeze
12. Hymn of the Worlds (3:23) - Charivari and Show Finale
Total playing time: 55:50
All the songs were written by René Dupéré except "First Incantation,"
"Vaneyou Mi Le," "Kernoon's Fire" and "Fiesta" which were written by:
René Dupéré, Ella Louise Allaire & Martin Lord Ferguson.
To quote from the Producers Note on the CD packaging: "Attempting to
put the emotions of Tokyo's resident Cirque du Soleil show, ZED, into
music was both an incredible and challenging experience. Using the
live band, string orchestra, choir and various singers, we wanted
first and foremost to bring out the unique emotions and the feeling of
traveling through different worlds evoked by the show's rich palette,
thus allowing the listener to continue the journey through the music.
We juxtaposed musical elements that initially might have appeared from
different genres. These varied tones finally took an inviting turn
and created an evocation of which we are particularly proud."
First things first - is it the creation band? Happily YES! The
fantastic ZED creation band plays throughout with only a few
exceptions, interestingly enough having to do with vocalists. We'll
use the numbers from the official order above to make distinctions.
Singers Lillvik and Faraci sing lead vocals throughout. Exceptions
are Ella Louise Allaire on 6 and 11, and in a signifigant exception
Martin Lord Ferguson on 8, "Kernoon's Fire." Both add "additional
vocals and vocal effects" to several tracks but these don't distract
from the front and center lead vocals. Throat singer Matt Becks sings
in the introductions to 1 and 9. A 50-member choir adds to several of
the songs. The childrens choir from FACE school chimes in on the
finale "Hymn of the Worlds."
To address a concern expressed by fans, I note that the lead vocals
are clear and upfront in the mix and not overly diluted with effects
or additional side vocals.
The only additional solo musician is Jean-Marie Benoit who adds
classical guitar to 7. The Bel Canto de Bratislava string orchestra
appears on 7 of the albums tracks adding a well-recorded full string
section, sounding more like KA than ZAIA.
The album was a multi-national affair, with the ZED band and vocalists
being recorded in Tokyo, the chorus in Canada and the orchestra in
Slovakia.
Putting the songs into the order they appear in the show comes up with
the playlist below. The approximate length of time the act takes in
the show is listed after the act.
9b. Mirror of the Two Worlds (from 2:34-4:35)
Animation Music - 5:00
1. First Incantation (2:14) - Show Opening-2:00
* Combining of the two halves of ZED (1:00) has no known title,
does not appear.
2. Birth of the Sky (5:37) - Bungee-4:15
* Birth On Earth - Lasso - This song does not appear on the CD-show
length 8:00
* Clown act here (3:45) has no music
3. Reaching Up (4:59) - Chinese Poles w/trampoline-6:15
4. Blue Silk (4:37) - Aerial Silks-5:00
5. High Temptation (4:55) -High Wire-9:15
8. Kernoon's Fire (4:30) - Juggling-6:45
* Going to Intermission clown act (1:00) has no music
* Entre'act (played for the last ten minutes of intermission) has
no known title, does not appear.
6. Vaneyou Mi Le (4:34) - Banquine-9:15
7. ZED in Love (4:49) - Aerial Straps-5:45
9a. Mirror of the Two World's (0:00-2:34) - Baton Twirling-3:00
10. The World's Meet (6:36) - Hand to Hand-8:15
* The clown act of playing with the Shaman's pole (3:00) has no
known title, does not appear.
11. Fiesta (4:50) - Trapeze-10:45
* Closing of the Storybook (4:15) has no known title, does not
appear.
12. Hymn of the Worlds (3:23) - Charivari and Show Finale-6:35
The track order of the CD follows the show pretty closely, with little
missing music. The arrangements sound full and complete and hit all
the major sections of the pieces (which can be played multiple times
in performance to fit the act on stage).
The biggest omission is that of the lasso act music - it is a major
part of the first act of the show. On the other hand, the music for
the Entre'act is more of a jazz instrumental that is played while the
audience is returning to their seats after intermission and really
isn't vital to telling the show's story. Still, the 55 minutes of
music on the CD leaves the possibility of 20 or so minutes more (as
shown by the recent ZAIA soundtrack), so the songs could easily have
been included. I'm always in favor of filling out a CD, especially in
the case of soundtracks, so this disk gets a "C" (average) on the
Value scale.
The packaging is similar to ZAIA; a tri-fold cardboard package with
the booklet in the left-hand pocket and the CD (featuring Johanna in
her outfit from "Birth of the Sky") on the right. Blue is the
predominant color. There are also messages from the composer and
producers.
The Program Book credits Dupéré as Composer and Arranger, with Martin
Lord Ferguson as Musical Director and Co-Arranger. Ella Louise
Allaire handled Orchestrations and Arrangement for the Chorale.
So how does the music match up to the powerful show? Pretty well, in
this reviewers opinion. A quick run-down of the albums tracks with
some notes:
"First Incantation" brings in the main theme carried by bassoon, with
throat singing to begin. "Birth of the Sky" is Johanna's showpiece
and she sings clearly throughout, with strings adding power to the
theme. "Reaching Up" has some nice jazz solo breaks, but some
compression artifacts detracting from the climactic finale. "Blue
Silk" puts its emphasis on the guitar and the blending of the duet
vocals. With "High Temptation" the orchestra adds a lot, perhaps too
much, diluting the band of much of its punch. The fast pacing of the
tune reflects the fleet footing of the performers on the high wire.
"Vaneyou Mi Le" has producer Allaire singing lead in a switch, but her
voice is out of place here compared to Johanna's clear tones. "ZED in
Love" is a slower finely crafted piece. "Kernoon's Fire" is a
puzzlement. It's out of place from the order of the show and includes
Ferguson's vocals instead of Kevin's. Again, the lower tones of the
singers vocals here seem out of place compared to the rest of the
album.
We have since learned, through a posting on Kevin's mailing list
quoted on Cirque Tribune, that the vocal sung in the show is mostly
improvised by Faraci himself. "It was a directorial decision that the
vocal line I wrote fits the character for the show," Farraci wrote,
"and since putting my version on the album would be a conflict of
interest with the rest of René's music, I was not asked to record that
song." This explanation is interesting since four songs, including
"Fire," already have co-writers. To have listed Farraci as another
co-writer of "Kernoon's Fire" and have him sing his improvised vocal
line on the CD would have been keeping with the "spirit" of the show
at least, and not in this writer's opinion been a "conflict of
interest."
My biggest complaint with the musical arrangement comes next, with
"Mirror of the Two Worlds." In performance this song comes full-force
with powerful drumming from the beginning. It is also short - the
baton twirling act it accompanies is only about 3:00 long - and when
the song and act come to an end so soon you almost feel let down.
When the chorus comes out of the surround speakers in the theater it's
a chilling moment of power you wish could be longer.
The CD plays it straight with the arrangement of the song though
reducing the sound of the drums in the mix. The appearance of the
chorus is still chilling (the first chilling moment we had listening
to the CD), but you really want the song to be expanded upon. It's
not like there wasn't time available on the CD, I really would have
preferred another couple of minutes of arrangement here. Though it
reflects the show pretty closely I think it was a missed opportunity.
On the same track is a bit of the music from the Animation, which
could be considered the "Overature." I would have preferred this as
it's own separate track, perhaps arranged with the music from the
"Entre'act."
"The World's Meet" is exactly the same as it appears on "25." Though
now I notice that percussive consonants in the vocals make a
distracting slapback sound in the vocal reverb. We love the tinkling
wispy ending but it isn't long enough, it could have taken more time
to fade - this is true of several tracks on the album. "Fiesta" sets
up a nice groove that stays there and cooks throughout.
The better of the two ZED pieces to appear in the Cirque Audition Kit
MP3's was, to me, "Charivari," which morphed to become one of the
sections of the show finale. I really enjoyed the chorus vocals as
presented there, which the CD version omits. However, the chorus at
the beginning of "Hymn of the Two Worlds" is the second chilling
moment of the album. It has a beautiful choral sound and brings the
album to a powerful close. Though note to the producers; it would be
OK if you left more low-frequency subwoofer rumble in with the big
booms at the end of songs - it would really be fun to feel the boom as
you do in the show.
Other flaws are noticeable but minor. There are several obvious edits
within some of the songs. (With 20 spare minutes of space, why did
they bother?) And there are some scuffling sounds noticeable in the
background at the choral beginning of "Hymn of the Two Worlds" that
could have been corrected.
Bottom line: Yeah, I have nits to pick, but overall they got this one
RIGHT. The brilliant music of this brilliant show has been pretty
accurately translated to this disk. The enhancements to the creation
band sound are interesting and, I feel, appropriate. My wife and I
are seriously considering whether this CD replaces "O" as our favorite
Cirque soundtrack.
After some time traveling other musical avenues (Varekai, Zumanity,
remixes, Delirium) Cirque is coming back to their core. ZAIA, ZED,
and the compilation "25" signal a back-to-basics approach that this
Cirque fan applauds.
-------------------------------------------------------
"BOOK REVIEW: Laliberté's 'Fabulous' Story"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
{Issue Exclusive}
-------------------------------------------------------
While there has been much written about Cirque du Soleil the company,
not much has been written about the people who helped make the
company. With his ascension into the ranks of billionaires and higher
profile as a space tourist, it was only a matter of time before a
biography, authorized or not, would attempt to illuminate the life of
its founder, Guy Laliberté. The book is:
Guy Laliberté: The Fabulous Story of the Creator of Cirque du Soleil
By Ian Halperin // Transit Publishing, 2009, 226 pages (ISBN: 978-1-
926745-15-2) $25.00 // www.transitpublishing.com
Halperin has written several pop culture books, including two on Kurt
Cobain ("Who Killed" and "The Murder of") and three on supermodels
(talking about their "dark side" and "deadly world"). In the latter,
as he comments in these pages, he slept with several supermodels while
gathering research undercover. His most popular book was "Unmasked:
The Final Years of Michael Jackson" (published BEFORE the singers
death it should be noted). He also has a celebrity gossip website,
www.ianundercover.com and if pictures on the site are to be believed
is never without sunglasses.
The book dedication reads: "To anyone who has ever performed on the
street and thought it wasn't possible to go further in life." Part I
discusses Laliberté's and Cirque's history up to Dralion. Part II
involves Laliberté's (and Halperin's) relationship with Rizea Moriera
(more on her later). Part III deals with his parties, development of
the show with The Beatles that became LOVE, and later shows. There
are five pages of generic pictures.
Halperin writes from a personal angle, often injecting himself into
the storyline (Halperin and Laliberté's children played together for
years). Halperin also identifies with Laliberté in that both were
roving buskers in their youth. Overall, the book does present a
balanced view of its subject, listing positive attributes and
accomplishments while also documenting the "other side."
Trying to tell the Laliberté's story invariably involves telling
Cirque's story. Some time in the book is given to drug use and sexual
exploits in Cirque's early years. This Halperin has gleaned from
talking with former employees and friends of the circus in numerous
interviews scattered throughout the book. There are also vivid
descriptions of some of the more lavish parties Laliberté has been
known to throw, in a chapter previously excerpted in Maclean's
Magazine.
Long work hours and low pay for performers are also discussed. The
book makes mention that this was eventually rectified when Gilles Ste-
Croix became director of Human Services. Around the same time Normand
Latourelle tried to take Cirque over, which resulted in him being
bought out for $75,000 and $200,000 for the Admission ticket network.
(We've known this happened, but the amount has not been previously
public.)
Much coverage in the book (and perhaps the reason the book was written
in the first place) is given to Rizia Moreira, mother to three of
Laliberté's five children. The book documents her story thoroughly,
though she doesn't come off well in the telling. Halperin speculates
that by wooing her when she was very young and spending freely on her,
Laliberté created a "monster" that demanded only the finest and most
expensive things and threw fits when she didn't get her way. She
comes off as spoiled and needy, however justified she might feel in
her anger over how she was treated.
Also a factor in Moreira's behavior was Laliberté's insistence on not
marrying. Quebec's civil code states a common-law union does not
confer the same rights as legal marriage. Even though they may be
together for years, non-married couples have no claim on the assets of
the other person. This could be a large part of the motivation for
Moriera's actions and feelings.
Nevertheless, Laliberté comes across as a very caring person, reaching
out to Moriera repeatedly. Many others talk about his kindness and
compassion. This point is made later in the book, where after taking
up poker he was involved in a game with poker player David Benyamine
in December 2007. Realizing he had the upper hand with a $1.2 million
dollar pot at stake, Laliberté tried to talk Benyamine into backing
out. "I can afford to lose this. You can't." It was only when
player Doyle Brunson remarked to Benyamine, "One day in his life
represents your whole life," that Benyamine relented, taking
Laliberté's bailout offer and losing only $47,000.
In the second printing reviewed here, an additional post-scriptum has
been added including a sordid tale sent to Halperin after publishing
of the first edition mentioning Laliberté's bedroom prowess. Halperin
also documents Laliberté's efforts to stop the book prior to and after
publishing.
While fun to read on a superficial level, the book is not well
documented. It includes no bibliography, research notes or index,
just a listing of names cited. Neither is it well proofread, as
editing and typesetting errors appear throughout the book.
Some parts of Cirque's (and thereby Laliberté's) story are glossed
over or omitted entirely. It skims over the beginnings of Cirque.
For example, it talks about the conscious decision to exclude animals
but doesn't mention Laliberté's duck Foin-Foin who appeared with him
in early performances. Halperin documents the troupes' early journey
to Niagara Falls but doesn't discuss the business failure that
resulted. There is no mention of Nouvelle Experience's taking up
residence in The Mirage parking lot in Las Vegas in 1993. (This early
success, it has been suggested, would convince Laliberté that Vegas
could be a goldmine for Cirque.)
Some mention is made of "O" but no mention of the delays in opening
the resort and the show. It mentions ZAIA only in passing and has no
mention of ZED. On the other hand, it talks at length about LOVE,
crediting Laliberté as the moving force behind it (which seems
likely). Mention is made of the firing and lawsuit of Matthew Cusick,
but no mention is made of the trademark infringement lawsuit Cirque du
Soleil brought against Neil Goldberg and his Cirque Productions, which
Goldberg won.
With books of this type, there is often an aura of "Can I believe
this?" Since it contains no documentation of its claims, it's left up
to the reader to believe the words within.
This isn't a business book concentrating on the company, but at the
same time isn't a tell-all-expose book. One comes away feeling the
book treats the man in a balanced and fair way, showing his drive and
compassion while also exploring his need for control and power. The
overall impression of Laliberté one comes away with is very positive.
If you want to know more about the MAN, this book is occasionally
interesting. There are several bits of I-didn't-know-that knowledge
spread through its pages. (For example, Laliberté's will stipulates
one third of his assets will be distributed to his children, one third
to Cirque, one third to a charity of his choice, with nothing for his
female companions.) Much of it comes off as quickly written and not
thoroughly researched as shown by its lack of documentation. It's for
the truly interested only, or else the US$25.00 will seem like a
waste.
It still would be very interesting for someone to take an academic
look at the BUSINESS of Cirque du Soleil, with a thorough analysis of
the way it runs a creative-product organization and remains highly
profitable. (The book "The Spark" had none of the financial data or
behind-the-scenes stories one would find in such a book.) But with
Cirque's press shyness and zealous desire for control of its image
that book might be some time in coming. (And why should it need to -
as Halperin's book often points out Cirque is a private company,
unbeholden to stockholders and by extension the public at large.)
Halperin's propensity to write multiple books on the same subject
(Cobain, models) prompts us to wonder if there will be another Cirque
do Soleil book from Halperin. Of course, if Mr. Laliberté wants to
call and set the record straight on anything contained in the book,
we'd be happy to give him all the space he wants right here in
Fascination!. He has our email.
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Have a comment, question or concern? Email the Fascination!
Newsletter staff at: < CirqueFasincation-owner@yahoogroups.com >.
We are anxious to hear any and all comments!
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 9, Number 8 (Issue #70) - November 2009
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2009 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.
{ Nov.07.2009 }
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