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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
------------------------------------------------------------
http://www.CirqueFascination.com
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=======================================================================
VOLUME 11, NUMBER 2 February 2011 ISSUE #85
=======================================================================
Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque
du Soleil Newsletter.
We've got the latest news items posted to Fascination! Web and, of
course, all the pertinent posts on Cirque du Soleil's various social
widgets in our OUTREACH section, and updates to Cirque's tour schedule
within.
In addition - Although Cirque du Soleil was not directly affected by
the accident on the set of Julie Tamyor's Spider Man musical: Turn Off
the Dark, it prompted many to review and re-evaluate their safety
procedures and protocols in response to the accident. You can see
Cirque du Soleil's response to inquiries on its own safety policies in
our CLUB CIRQUE section this month.
Wonder why certain songs were omitted from the Viva Elvis CD release?
Or how certain tracks were selected for the show? Find answers to
those questions and much more with our exclusive interview with Erich
Van Tourneau, the Musical Director for Viva Elvis! And, are you
curious about the newly released CRISS ANGEL BELIEVE album? If so,
check out Keith's review of the original score, which has just been
made available for download through Apple's iTunes platform.
Next month we'll check into the two new "LOVE version" tracks as part
of the newly announced THE BEATLES LOVE album exclusive release on
iTunes - "The Fool on the Hill" and "Girl" - as well as continue with
our interview series... I wonder: who will be next? I know! And you'll
definitely want to stay tuned for this one!
Okay, so, let's get started!
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
* Arena Shows -- In Stadium-like venues
* BigTop Shows -- Under the Grand Chapiteau
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
* Venue Shows -- Venue & Seasonal Productions
o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets
* Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
* Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Flickr
o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain
* Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History
o) Fascination! Features
* INTERVIEW /// Exclusive Interview with the Musical
Director for Viva Elvis!: "Erich Van Tourneau -
Takin' Care Of Business"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
* CD Review: Criss Angel BeLIEve Soundtrack CD
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
BELIEVE IT: The Show Improves?
{Jan.03.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
From the Las Vegas Sun:
# # #
For better or worse, Cirque's influence is largely absent. The
great entertainment company is still on the marquee, but the
show today is more centered on Angel than when it opened.
The changes he has made in "Believe" are pronounced and
effective. Absent now is the storyline centering on rabbits, and
how they have been sacrificed unfairly in the name of
entertainment. Banished is the creepy funeral scene. Also gone
is the confusing wedding segment, which should have been titled
"Wha-A?" In fact, there is no story thread at all, as Angel
pushes out about 40 illusions in rapid succession (he disappears
and reappears about a dozen times in the upgraded "Believe").
# # #
Read the full article here:
< http://www.lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-
report/2011/jan/02/believe-it-angels-work-has-markedly-
improved-luxor/ >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun}
Want to Cameo in Cirque? Join M-Life!
{Jan.10.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - Tomorrow, MGM Resorts
International (NYSE: MGM) will launch M life (www.mlife.com), a
loyalty program that leverages the combined power of its resorts
in Las Vegas, Mississippi and Detroit. Benefiting from an
unmatched collection of amenities, members will enjoy one-of-a-
kind experiences exclusive to MGM Resorts, insider privileges,
personalized rewards and an aspirational tiered approach with
escalating earning potential. M life is launching as a casino
rewards club; later this year, it will expand into a full
loyalty program recognizing guest spend on hotel stays,
shopping, dining and more.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100618/MGMINTLOGO)
Among many benefits, M life members can earn unique M life
moments, including selecting The Fountains of Bellagio songs for
a day, enjoying a cameo role in Cirque du Soleil's Viva ELVIS at
ARIA Resort & Casino, serving as a guest DJ at one of Vegas'
hottest clubs at MGM Grand, becoming a dolphin trainer for a day
at The Mirage, cooking lessons with Bravo's Top Chef Masters
celebrity chef Rick Moonen at Mandalay Bay, receiving one-on-one
dance lessons with world-famous Jabbawockeez at Monte Carlo, and
much more.
Read more of the original press release here:
< http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mgm-resorts-
international-launches-m-life-loyalty-program-offering-
unrivaled-access-to-its-spectacular-resorts-across-us-
113197169.html >
{SOURCE: PRNewswire}
Do you have $1.9 Million?
{Jan.18.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
From the Montreal Gazette:
Guy Laliberté is selling a choice piece of Las Vegas real
estate. According to the Las Vegas Review Journal the Cirque du
Soleil owner has put up for sale a house that was formerly used
for temporary corporate housing (and, we're guessing, the
occasional party). The asking price is in the $1.9 million
range. Given that he's a high roller, that's just a medium-sized
pile of poker chips. And it doesn't look like he'll be making
much of a profit either, given the current state of the Vegas
market. The place was apparently purchased in 1994 for about
$1.4 million. Imagine what you could get for a half million in
Vegas these days.
For a glimpse of this five bedroom luxury home click here:
< http://realestalker.blogspot.com/2011/01/cirque-du-soleil-
ringleader-guy.html >
{SOURCE: The Montreal Gazette}
Viva Elvis Tweaked
{Jan.19.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
According to Robin Leach on his Luxe Life column for the Las
Vegas Weekly, Viva Elvis recently received a " subtle but
instrumental makeover".
# # #
In the early stages of Viva Elvis, it told a familiar story in
an almost flat monotone. It's now been given new blood with
excitement and a controlled but frantic fever pitch. The
narrative has been cut down and the Col. Tom Parker character
relocated. The dancing seems faster and more electrically
charged. Now it's all showmanship throughout and makes the blue
suede shoe even larger than it is with the dancers sprawled all
over it.
Now after more than a year of studio engineering, it's the new
soundtrack that propels the show along at a much faster pace and
energy.
# # #
Read the full article here:
< http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/blogs/luxe-
life/2011/jan/19/emviva-elvisem-receives-subtle-instrumental-
makeov/ >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Weekly}
Cirque in London?
{Jan.24.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
From the Independent:
Cirque du Soleil, the surreal circus company currently playing
at the Royal Albert Hall in London, is expecting record profits
of $250m (£156m) on revenue of $1bn this year, according to its
founder, Guy Laliberté.
Mr Laliberté said: "We are working hard trying to find a place
in London. We have been looking all over for 10 years.
Eventually, we will be at the right place at the right moment
with the right real-estate developer. We have looked at the O2.
It has been part of the discussion." David Campbell, the chief
executive of AEG Europe, which owns the O2, confirmed the talks:
"We have looked at it and it's just a question of getting the
right business model. It's not imminent but it's not been
dismissed."
The move would give a further boost to Cirque's fortunes, which
have ballooned as it cornered a niche in avant-garde acrobatics.
"In 2010, revenues were $850m, and this year we could ring the
bell of a billion dollars," said Mr Laliberté in London last
week.
# # #
Read the full article here:
< http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/cirque-du-
soleil-swings-to-1bn-revenue-as-it-mulls-shows-at-o2-
2191850.html >
{SOURCE: The Independent}
KÀ in NYC!
{Jan.26.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
From Theater Mania:
Seven performers from the resident production of Cirque du
Soleil's KÀ, at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, will participate in the
2011 Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade in New York City on Sunday,
February 6. The parade will kick off at 1pm, with the KÀ
performance to be held at Sarah Roosevelt Park (near Grand &
Forsyth streets) at approximately 2:30pm.
The show's central characters - the Imperial Twins - will also
march in the parade. The four-minute performance will feature a
combination of martial arts including Wushu, Chinese Opera and
Capoeira.
{SOURCE: Theater Mania}
University awards first Beatles degree
{Jan.27}
-------------------------------------------------
A Canadian woman has become the first person in the world to
graduate with a Masters degree in Beatles studies.
The launch of the unique MA in Beatles, Popular Music and
Society was a world first when it took its first class. Zahalan-
Kennedy was the first to accept her degree in person from the
university.
The course looks at the studio sound and composition of the
Beatles and how Liverpool helped to shape their music. The MA
examines the significance of their music and how it helped to
define identities, culture and society.
Mike Brocken, founder and leader of the Beatles MA at Liverpool
Hope University, said the postgraduate degree makes Zahalan-
Kennedy a member of a select group of popular music experts.
"Mary-Lu now joins an internationally recognized group of
scholars of Popular Music Studies who are able to offer fresh
and thought-provoking insights into the discipline of
musicology."
Read the full article here:
< http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/01/27/us-beatles-degree-
odd-idUSTRE70Q60920110127
{SOURCE: Reuters}
Cirque Looking for New Partner?
{Jan.31.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
There's an interesting article out of London about Cirque du
Soleil and its future prospects. Within the article, Guy
Laliberte is quoted to be interested in selling another 10% of
Cirque du Soleil to another strategic partner. With 20% already
in the hands of Istithmar World Capital/Nakeel, why another 10%?
# # #
"There has been no contribution to growth from that partner,"
said Laliberté. "I sold to them to have a partner who was
heavily expanding in real estate but from the moment I got the
cheque to the month afterwards everything was totally different
so I was just left with the money."
Since then a planned Cirque show on Dubai's Palm island has been
put on ice and it has been rumoured that Nakheel and Istithmar
have been considering a sale of their stakes.
"They can't sell the shares without our approval so they are
locked in but I am totally open if they come with somebody that
could be strategic," says Laliberté adding: "I would be willing
probably to spin off another 10pc for strategic reasons."
# # #
Some other interesting quotes from the article are as follows:
o) Laliberte says that Cirque is worth "somewhere between $2bn
and $3bn. dollars".
o) To protect against over-expansion Laliberté says "we have
made a decision of not creating more than three new tours or
permanent shows a year."
Read the full article here:
< http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/
banksandfinance/privateequity/8290380/Cirque-du-Soleil-may-
leap-for-new-partner.html >
{SOURCE: The Telegraph}
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
{Corteo, Koozå, OVO, Totem & Varekai}
o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues
{Saltimbanco, Alegría, Quidam, Dralion
& Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour}
o) RESIDENT - Performed en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, "O", La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE,
ZAIA, ZED, Believe & VIVA Elvis}
o) VENUE - Venue & Seasonal productions
{Iris, & Zarkana}
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/ >.
------------------------------------
BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
------------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=39 >
Corteo:
Vienna, AT -- Feb 10, 2011 to Mar 13, 2011
Madrid, ES -- Apr 2, 2011 to May 8, 2011
Valencia, ES -- Jun 16, 2011 to Jul 10, 2011
Alicante, ES -- Jul 28, 2011 to Aug 21, 2011
Sevilla, ES -- Sep 8, 2011 to Oct 9, 2011
Paris, FR -- Nov 11, 2011 to TBA
Koozå:
Tokyo, JPN -- Feb 2, 2011 to May 8, 2011
Osaka, JPN -- Aug 4, 2011 to Oct 10, 2011
Nagoya, JPN -- Nov 23, 2011 to Jan 22, 2012
Fukuoka, JPN -- Feb 9, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012
Sendai, JPN -- Apr 19, 2012 to Jun 3, 2012
Ovo:
Dallas, TX -- Jan 28, 2011 to Feb 27, 2011
Houston, TX -- Mar 10, 2011 to Apr 3, 2011
Cincinnati, OH -- Apr 21, 2011 to May 15, 2011
Minneapolis, MN -- May 26, 2011 to Jun 12, 2011
Chicago, IL -- Jun 30, 2011 to Jul 31, 2011
Seattle, WA -- Nov 17, 2011 to Dec 22, 2011
Totem:
London, UK -- Jan 5, 2011 to Feb 17, 2011
Charlotte, NC -- Mar 3, 2011 to Mar 20, 2011
Baltimore, MD -- Apr 7, 2011 to Apr 24, 2011
Pittsburgh, PA -- May 12, 2011 to May 29, 2011
Montreal, QC -- Jun 16, 2011 to Jul 17, 2011
Toronto, ON -- Aug 11, 2011 to Sep 4, 2011
San Francisco, CA -- Oct 21, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011
Varekai:
Taipei, TW -- Jan 20, 2011 to Mar 6, 2011
Seoul, SKR -- Apr 6, 2011 to May 29, 2011
------------------------------------
ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues
------------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=1831 >
Saltimbanco:
Friedrichshafen, DE -- Feb 11, 2011 to Feb 13, 2011
Istanbul, TR -- Feb 18, 2011 to Mar 5, 2011
Johannesburg, ZA -- Mar 9, 2011 to Mar 20, 2011
Cape Town, ZA -- Mar 23, 2011 to Apr 3, 2011
Perth, AU -- Apr 21, 2011 to May 1, 2011
Adelaide, AU -- May 12, 2011 to May 20, 2011
Melbourne, AU -- May 25, 2011 to Jun 3, 2011
Hobart, AU -- Jun 15, 2011 to Jun 19, 2011
Brisbane, AU -- Jul 8, 2011 to Jul 15, 2011
Newcastle, AU -- Jul 20, 2011 to Jul 24, 2011
Sydney, AU -- Jul 27, 2011 to Aug 5, 2011
Wollongong, AU -- Aug 17, 2011 to Aug 21, 2011
Auckland, NZ -- Aug 25, 2011 to TBA
Alegría:
Laredo, TX -- Feb 2, 2011 to Feb 6, 2011
Hidalgo, TX -- Feb 9, 2011 to Feb 13, 2011
Corpus Christi, TX -- Feb 16, 2011 to Feb 20, 2011
Tulsa, OK -- Feb 23, 2011 to Feb 27, 2011
North Charleston, SC -- Mar 17, 2011 to Mar 20, 2011
Knoxville, TN -- Mar 23, 2011 to Mar 27, 2011
Charlotesville, VA -- Mar 30, 2011 to Apr 3, 2011
Atlantic City, NJ -- Apr 7, 2011 to Apr 10, 2011
Greensboro, NC -- Apr 13, 2011 to Apr 17, 2011
Biloxi, MS -- Apr 20, 2011 to Apr 24, 2011
Southaver, MS -- Apr 27, 2011 to May 1, 2011
Roanoke, VA -- May 4, 2011 to May 8, 2011
Columbia, SC -- May 11, 2011 to TBA
Toledo, OH - May 18, 2011 to May 22, 2011
Louisville, KY -- Jun 9, 2011 to TBA
Nashville, TN -- Jun 15, 2011 to Jun 19, 2011
Tampa, FL -- Jun 22, 2011 to Jun 26, 2011
Jacksonville, FL -- Jun 29, 2011 to Jul 3, 2011
Raleigh, NC -- Jul 6, 2011 to TBA
Duluth, GA -- Jul 13, 2011 to TBA
Sunrise, FL -- Jul 20, 2011 to Jul 31, 2011
Charlotte, NC -- Aug 3, 2011 to TBA
Estero, FL -- Aug 10, 2011 to Aug 14, 2011
Oberhausen, DE -- Sep 7, 2011 to Sep 11, 2011
Leipzig, DE -- Sep 14, 2011 to Sep 18, 2011
Stuttgart, DE -- Sep 21, 2011 to Sep 25, 2011
Munich, DE -- Sep 28, 2011 to Oct 2, 2011
Salzburg, AT -- Oct 5, 2011 to Oct 9, 2011
Berlin, DE -- Oct 12, 2011 to Oct 16, 2011
Bremen, DE -- Oct 19, 2011 to Oct 23, 2011
cologne, DE -- Oct 26, 2011 to Oct 30, 2011
Frankfurt, DE -- Nov 2, 2011 to Nov 6, 2011
Mannheim, DE -- Nov 9, 2011 to Nov 13, 2011
Quidam:
Vancouver, BC -- Mar 9, 2011 to Mar 13, 2011
Everett, WA -- Mar 16, 2011 to Mar 20, 2011
San Jose, CA -- Mar 24, 2011 to Mar 27, 2011
San Diego, CA -- Mar 30, 2011 to Apr 3, 2011
San Francisco, CA -- Apr 6, 2011 to Apr 17, 2011
Long Beach, CA -- Apr 20, 2011 to Apr 24, 2011
Ontario, CA -- Apr 27, 2011 to May 1, 2011
Reno, NV -- May 4, 2011 to May 8, 2011
Sacramento, CA -- May 11, 2011 to May 15, 2011
London, ON -- Jun 2, 2011 to TBA
Hamilton, ON -- Jun 8, 2011 to TBA
Wilkes-Barre, PA -- Jun 15, 2011 to TBA
Ottawa, ON -- Jun 22, 2011 to TBA
St. John's, NL -- Jul 6, 2011 to TBA
Saint John, NB -- Jul 13, 2011 to TBA
Halifax, NS -- Jul 20, 2011 to TBA
Providence, RI -- Jul 27, 2011 to TBA
Hershey, PA -- Aug 18, 2011 to TBA
Baltimore, MD -- Aug 31, 2011 to TBA
Amherst, MA -- Sep 7, 2011 to TBA
State College, PA -- Sep 14, 2011 to TBA
Fort Wayne, IN -- Sep 21, 2011 to TBA
Hartford, CT -- Sep 28, 2011 to TBA
Reading, PA -- Oct 5, 2011 to TBA
Pittsburgh, PA -- Oct 12, 2011 to TBA
Milwaukee, WI -- Oct 19, 2011 to TBA
Washington, DC -- Nov 16, 2011 to TBA
Fayetteville, NC -- Nov 23, 2011 to TBA
Greenville, SC -- Nov 30, 2011 to TBA
Hampton, VA -- Dec 7, 2011 to TBA
Worcester, MA -- Dec 14, 2011 to TBA
Toronto, ON -- Dec 20, 2011 to TBA
Dralion:
Mobile, AL - Feb 2, 2011 to Feb 6, 2011
Columbus, OH - Feb 9, 2011 to Feb 13, 2011
Detroit, MI -- Feb 16, 2011 to Feb 20, 2011
Austin, TX -- Mar 10, 2011 to Mar 21, 2011
San Antonio, TX -- Mar 23, 2011 to Mar 27, 2011
Des Moines, IA -- Mar 30, 2011 to Apr 3, 2011
Fargo, ND -- Apr 5, 2011 to TBA
Sioux City, IA -- Apr 9, 201 to TBA
Council Bluffs, IA -- Apr 13, 2011 to Apr 17, 2011
Moline, IL -- Apr 19, 2011 to TBA
Peoria, IL -- Apr 22, 2011 to Apr 24, 2011
Madison, WI -- Apr 26, 2011 to Apr 27, 2011
Green Bay, WI -- Apr 29, 2011 to May 1, 2011
Rockford, IL -- May 4, 2011 to May 8, 2011
Kansas City, MO -- May 11, 2011 to May 15, 2011
Abbotsford, BC -- Jun 2, 2011 to Jun 5, 2011
Eugene, OR -- Jun 8, 2011 to TBA
Portland, OR -- Jun 15, 2011 to TBA
Victoria, BC -- Jun 22, 2011 to Jun 26, 2011
Edmonton, AB -- Jul 6, 2011 to TBA
Saskatoon, SK -- Jul 13, 2011 to TBA
Winnipeg, MB -- Jul 20, 2011 to TBA
Frisco, TX -- Jul 27, 2011 to TBA
Indianapolis, IN -- Aug 3, 2011 to TBA
Atlanta, GA -- Aug 25, 2011 to TBA
Albany, NY -- Sep 7, 2011 to TBA
Syracuse, NY -- Sep 14, 2011 to TBA
Binghampton, NY -- Sep 20, 2011 to TBA
Glens Falls, NY -- Sep 24, 2011 to TBA
Portland, ME -- Sep 28, 2011 to TBA
Cypress, TX -- Nov 17, 2011 to TBA
Beaumont, TX -- Nov 23, 2011 to TBA
Springfield, IL -- Nov 30, 2011 to TBA
Richmond, VA -- Dec 7, 2011 to TBA
Montreal, QC -- Dec 19, 2011 to TBA
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour:
Montreal, QC -- Oct 2, 2011 & Oct 3, 2011
Ottawa, ON -- Oct 7, 2011 to Oct 8, 2011
Hamilton, ON -- Oct 12, 2011
Detroit, MI -- Oct 15, 2011
London, ON -- Oct 18, 2011
Toronto, ON -- Oct 21, 2011 & Oct 22, 2011
Winnipeg, MB -- Oct 26, 2011
Saskatoon, SK -- Oct 29, 2011
Edmonton, AB -- Nov 1, 2011 & Nov 2, 2011
Vancouver, BC -- Nov 4, 2011 & Nov 5, 2011
Seattle, WA -- Nov 9, 2011
Portland, OR -- Nov 18, 2011
Salt Lake City, UT -- Nov 29, 2011
Las Vegas, NV -- Dec 3, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011
Denver, CO -- Jan 6, 2012
Sacramento, CA -- Jan 10, 2012
San Jose, CA -- Jan 13, 2012
Oakland, CA -- Jan 18, 2012
San Diego, CA -- Jan 21, 2012
Anaheim, CA -- Jan 24, 2012
Los Angeles, CA -- Jan 27, 2012 & Jan 28, 2012
Houston, TX -- Feb 10, 2012
Miami, FL -- Mar 2, 2012
Montreal -- Mar 20, 2012 to Mar 22, 2012
Quebec City, QC -- Mar 24, 2012 & Mar 25, 2012
New York City, NY -- Apr 3, 2012
Philadelphia, PA -- Apr 10, 2012
Atlanta, GA -- Jun 29, 2012
---------------------------------
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
2011 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)
2011 Dark Dates:
o January 5-19
o February 6
o March 2
o May 8-11
o July 6
o September 3-7
o November 2
2011 Added Performances:
o July 14th
o December 30th
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2011 Ticket Prices:
o Orchestra: $150.00
o Loggia: $130.00
o Balcony: $99.00
o Limited View: $93.50
2011 Dark Dates:
o February 6-9
o April 13-17
o June 12
o August 10-14
o October 9
o December 5-18
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2011 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
2011 Dark Dates:
o January 18-22
o March 22
o May 17-28
o July 26
o September 20-24
o November 22
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday
Dark: Wednesday & Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2011 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!):
o Duo Sofas: $129.00
o Orchestra Seats: $105.00
o Upper Orchestra Seats: $79.00
o Balcony Seats: $69.00
o Cabaret Stools: $69.00
2011 Dark Dates:
o February 6, 15
o April 15-19
o June 21
o August 26-30
o Septembre 2-6
o October 17-18
o December 16-20
2011 Added Performances:
o November 23rd
o December 31st
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12):
o Category 1: $150.00 / $75.00
o Category 2: $130.00 / $65.00
o Category 3: $99.00 / $49.50
o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50
2011 Dark Dates:
o January 18-29
o April 5
o May 31 - June 4
o July 12
o August 30 - September 7
o November 15-16
2011 Added Performances:
o January 16
o May 29
o November 27
o December 26
o December 31
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2011 Ticket Prices:
o Lower Orchestra: $150.00
o Upper Orchestra: $130.00
o Lower Balcony: $99.00
o Middle Balcony: $93.50
2011 Dark Dates:
o February 7-8
o April 7-11
o May 16
o June 6
o August 4-8
o October 3
o December 1-12
2011 Added Performances:
o May 18th
o December 28th
o December 31st
ZAIA:
Location: Venetian, Macao (China)
Performs: Every Day, Dark: Wednesday
One to Two Shows Daily - Times Vary
2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 2-11):
o VIP Seating: MOP$ 1288 / MOP$ 1288
o Reserve A: MOP$ 788 / MOP$ 394
o Reserve B: MOP$ 588 / MOP$ 294
o Reserve C: MOP$ 388 / MOP$ 194
ZED:
Location: Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo (Japan)
Performs: Varies
One to Two Shows Daily - Showtimes vary
2011 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 / ¥8,500
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.
2011 Ticket Prices (all):
o Category 1: $160.00
o Category 2: $130.00
o Category 3: $109.00
o Category 4: $89.00
o Category 5: $59.00
2011 Dark Dates:
o January 11-15
o March 1-5
o June 7-14
o September 6-10
o December 6-17
VIVA ELVIS:
Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2011 Ticket Prices
o Category 1: $175.00
o Category 2: $150.00
o Category 3: $125.00
o Category 4: $99.00
2011 Dark Dates:
o January 18-19
o March 15-19
o May 10-11
o July 5-16
o September 13-14
o November 8-12
2011 Added Performances:
o May 29th
o November 27th
o December 26, 31
--------------------------------------
VENUE - Venue & Seasonal Productions
--------------------------------------
Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=251 >
IRIS:
Location ///
Kodak Theatre
Hollywood, CA (USA)
Performances ///
Opens July 22, 2011
Ticket Prices ///
Previews:
Category 0 = $203.00
Category 1 = $100.50
Category 2 = $78.00
Category 3 = $59.25
Category 4 = $33.00
Weekday Matinee:
Category 0: $253.00
Category 1: $123.00
Category 2: $93.00
Category 3: $68.00
Category 4: $43.00
Saturday Matinee:
Category 0: $253.00
Category 1: $133.00
Category 2: $103.00
Category 3: $78.00
Category 4: $43.00
ZARKANA:
Location ///
Radio City Music Hall
New York City, NY (USA)
Performances ///
June 9, 2011 through September 4, 2011.
2011 Dark Dates:
o June 13-15, 20-22, 27-28
o July 4, 11, 18, 25
o August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
o September 5, 12, 19, 26
o October 3
Ticket Prices ///
Previews:
Category 1 = $250.00
Category 2 = $120.00
Category 3 = $70.00
Category 4 = $47.00
Fri Eve, Sat Mat, Sat Eve, Sun Mat:
Category 1: $300.00
Category 2: $130.00
Category 3: $75.00
Category 4: $52.00
Tues Eve, Wed Mat, Wed Eve, Thurs Eve,
Fri Mat, Sun Eve:
Category 1: $250.00
Category 2: $130.00
Category 3: $75.00
Category 4: $52.00
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE'S SOCIAL WIDGETS
=======================================================================
o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
o) Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, Youtube & Twitter
---------------------------------------
CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub
---------------------------------------
SAFETY AT CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
AN ABSOLUTE PRIORITY SINCE 1984
{Jan.13}
Since 1984 Cirque du Soleil has considered the safety of its artists
on all its show and training sites as an absolute priority. Deeply
rooted in its corporate culture, the concern for the artists' health
and safety takes precedence over any artistic endeavor or business
decision.
Cirque du Soleil has established working methods that ensure the
artists' work is done in highly controlled environments, day in and
day out, in order to effectively manage performance risk. The company
leaves nothing to chance, making sure that its equipment and work
environments comply with the highest safety standards.
Customized training programs for a safe learning experience
From the moment a professional artist is hired at Cirque du Soleil
right up to his integration in a show, that artist undergoes a
comprehensive training program provided by expert trainers. A
customized training and performance program and optimal working
conditions are imperative for an artist to execute his act safely.
Prior to being integrated in a show, the majority of the artists
Cirque du Soleil recruits must undergo personalized training for
several weeks, even several months. Whether the performers are former
high-level athletes or specialists already well versed in the circus
arts, they will be trained on two levels: the acrobatic component
teaches them to master all of the movements the act requires, while
the artistic component helps them to develop their ability to express
emotions in order to play a character.
Artist training unquestionably includes an important safety component.
Particular interest is given, among other things, to teaching the
various maneuvers involved in handling the equipment and safety lines
as well as the proper positioning of the artist on the acrobatic
equipment. The staff makes sure the artist is brought through his
training safely. Close to 100 trainers hailing from the four corners
of the world are involved in artist training. These experts come from
backgrounds as diverse as sports, acrobatics, dance, music and
theatre. On the basis of their area of expertise, each one supervises
the artists individually and accompanies them along their path every
step of the way. In 2010, nearly 600 artists will benefit from custom-
designed training in Montreal so they are adequately prepared to take
part safely in any one of the shows.
Accompaniment by elite specialists as a means of prevention
In addition to these coaches and trainers, an interdisciplinary team
of highly qualified specialists is made available to each artist,
ensuring his physical and psychological well-being. The presence of
these experts helps create a controlled and safe environment.
Two or three physiotherapists are on hand on each show site and
approximately 10 are available continuously at the international
headquarters in Montreal. These professionals provide care on a daily
basis whenever required, and work with the trainers and physical
fitness specialists to implement specific training programs designed
to improve posture and flexibility or to correct weaknesses.
Performance psychologists provide psychological support to the
artists, assisting them in developing and integrating both mental and
professional skills such as concentration and relaxation. In addition
to helping artists manage certain difficulties such as fatigue, stress
and the anxiety of being away from their family, they also help those
with a sports background-more than 50% of Cirque du Soleil's 1,200
artists-to adapt to the realities of the arts and entertainment world.
A nutritionist is also on hand to respond to those who request
nutritional advice or seek ways to maintain a balanced diet.
In addition to these specialists, there is a large team of experienced
riggers and technicians whose jobs are directly related to artist
safety: they are responsible for installing the equipment, operating
the various technical systems, including automation and lighting,
verifying the equipment, maintaining safety lines and harnesses, etc.
Cirque du Soleil is also constantly in touch with a medical network,
available anytime and anywhere on the planet.
Safety protocols and detailed risk analyses
In the industrial sector (e.g., aeronautics), safety protocols and
risk analyses are all part of a regular day. At Cirque du Soleil-where
artists leap or are flung in the air and where complex automation
systems are used to move huge set elements-, risk analysis and safety
protocols are part of the landscape too.
Precise protocols and detailed performance risk management analyses
are required for all of the acrobatic acts performed in every Cirque
du Soleil show. Nothing is improvised; each acrobatic element is
analyzed and scrutinized, whether it's a piece of equipment used by an
artist or an individual physical performance.
Each act is deconstructed in a series of individual movements that may
entail risks. For each movement, experts identify:
o) The potential risk accurately
o) The source of the risk
o) The person(s) exposed to the risk
o) The probability of the risk materializing
o) Its degree of severity
o) The measures to be taken to reduce the risk.
This analysis grid is documented meticulously and extensively. It is
developed in conjunction with all equipment and acrobatic performance
designers in order to provide artists with the safest workplace.
In addition to the risk analyses linked to the various acrobatic acts,
Cirque du Soleil has also developed a series of strict and
comprehensive safety protocols that cover a wide variety of aspects
related to its operations. Emergency and rescue procedures, acrobatic
equipment certification and inspection and performance risk management
are some of the processes that are governed by protocols. The scope of
these protocols covers even the weather! In the case of outdoor
performances, for example, weather conditions-wind, rain, humidity and
cold-entail risk factors that must be taken into consideration.
Low incidence of injuries
A series of preventative measures thus ensure the health and safety of
Cirque du Soleil artists. These include optimal training conditions
and experienced staff qualified to provide proper training; experts in
every field to see to the artists' physical and psychological well-
being; precise protocols and risk management processes that ensure
equipment safety and reliability allowing the artists to execute their
acts safely.
It is not surprising, therefore, that a comprehensive epidemiological
study of the nature of injuries at Cirque du Soleil conducted between
2002 and 2010 by physician-scientists affiliated with five
universities in Canada and the United States concluded that the
incidence of severe injuries at Cirque is markedly lower than for
National Collegiate Athletic Association sports such as football,
hockey, soccer, basketball and gymnastics in the United States.
The staging of physical prowess is a crucial part of circus arts. But
the safety of the artists must take precedence over any other
consideration.
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
---[ "O" ]---
{Jan.28}
Shooting the pre-recorded opener for the February 15th UNLV vs.
Air Force game with our amazingly talented high divers!!
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=10150102813169417&set=a.98604589416.
79108.26000574416 >
{Jan.27}
Interested in taking a backstage tour at "O"? Here's everything
you need to know!
LINK /// < http://www.8newsnow.com/category/28259/
8-news-now-video?clipId=5507979&a >
---[ ALEGRIA ]---
{Jan.30}
Heading to Laredo, TX! Opening @ Laredo Energy Arena on
Wednesday, Feb 2
LINK /// < http://www.elmanana.com.mx/notas.asp?id=218601 >
{Jan.27}
Alegria is in the Mountains, Colorado!
LINK /// < http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20110127/
NEWS01/101270366/Events-center-soars-with-
big-Alegr-a-show >
{Jan.09}
Colorado Springs here we come! Opening on Wednesday, Jan 12!
LINK /// < http://www.csindy.com/colorado/joy-division/
Content?oid=1995242 >
{Jan.06}
In this article, Slava Petrakov, Aerial High Bar flyer, talks
about his artistic background, life on tour with Alegria, etc.
Don't forget to listen to the interview!
LINK /// < http://www.csindy.com/IndyBlog/archives/2011/
01/06/cirque-du-soleil-in-the-springs-part-four >
---[ CRISS ANGEL: BELIEVE ]---
{Jan.21}
Our new creative is up on billboards around town - check it out!
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=10150089267753599&set=a.103473593598.
94236.18869703598 >
{Jan.18}
In case you missed Criss' appearance on CBS' Rules of Engagement
last night, see below for a short snippet from the episode!
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08crNRQSkts >
---[ CORTEO ]---
{Jan.05}
Corteo beaming stunt on Le Meridien Brussels Hotel
façade...Corteo is in Brussels until January 30, 2011
LINK /// < http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/
hs799.ash1/168954_480947726178_34657386178_
6460935_5060823_s.jpg >
---[ DRALION ]---
{Jan.30}
Cirque du Soleil never makes it simple. But then, simple is
boring. The famed company's latest voyage to the Gulf Coast
brings the production "Dralion" to the University of South
Alabama Mitchell Center for seven shows over the course of five
days starting Wednesday, Feb. 2.
LINK /// < http://blog.al.com/entertainment-press-
register/2011/01/cirque_du_soleils_dralion_brin.html >
{Jan.25}
Cirque's 'Dralion' merges East and West in Hoffman Estates
LINK /// < http://www.dailyherald.com/article/
20110123/entlife/701219971/ >
{Jan.21}
If you missed Anthony Cooperwood on Great Day St. Louis
yesterday! Here's your chance to see it!
LINK /// < http://www.kmov.com/great-day-st-louis/
Cirque-du-Soleil-Dralion-114274534.html >
{Jan.19}
Watch Tim Ezell from KTVI-TV (FOX) guest starring in the Pas de
Deux act.
LINK /// < http://www.fox2now.com/videobeta/23b35283-d3a3-4160-
a30a-64590924e530/News/Tim-s-Travels-Tim-Joins-t >
{Jan.13}
Great review in Grand Rapids!!! Playing at the Van Andel Arena!
LINK /// < http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/grand-
rapids/index.ssf/2011/01/cirque_du_soleils_
dralion_dazz.html >
{Jan.09}
Dralion by Cirque du Soleil Grand Rapids - Here we come!
LINK /// < http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/grand-
rapids/index.ssf/2011/01/post_19.html >
{Jan.09}
Dralion was selected photo of the week in the Boston Globe!
FOTO /// < http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/photos/
photos_galleries/boston_globe_staff_
photos_of_the_week_010711/?
p1=Features_link2#/11 >
{Jan.06}
Watch behind the scene footage from the Agganis Arena and also
meet one of our performers - Marie Eve Bisson!
LINK /// < http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/video/ >
{Jan.02}
Meet one of our main singer: Cristian Zabala. Dralion is opening
at the Agganis Arena in Boston this coming Wednesday!
LINK /// < http://npaper-wehaa.com/elplaneta/2010/
12/31/?%3Farticle=1127222 >
---[ IRIS ]---
{Jan.06}
Had a blast at the LA Arts Month kick-off event. A great way to
start the new year. We're glad to be a part of Los Angeles'
cultural and entertainment arts community!
L.A. Arts Month Kick-Off Celebration
FOTO [6] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?
aid=34697&id=161171830587832&ref=mf >
{Jan.05}
While the creative team in Montreal is busy preparing for IRIS,
here is a video showcasing acts that give you a feel of what you
can expect at the Kodak Theatre.
IRIS: Teaser Trailer
VIDEO [1:00] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1672632208034&oid=161171830587832&comments&ref=mf >
---[ KÀ ]---
{Jan.20}
Hello everyone! We're 4 days into our vacation and things here
are super quiet so we're making an announcement (ATTN: Diana
Lettiere Tedone): KÀ will present a shortened version of the
martial arts performance from Pageant at the New York City Lunar
New Year Parade on Sunday, Feb. 6th. It's going to be COLD so we
will need as much warmth and love from all of you as we can get!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=10150143635116929&set=a.176667951928.
146847.31527171928 >
{Jan.04}
We know a bunch of you probably made the annual "this year I'm
going to get in shape" resolution, so here are a few tips on how
to do just that from several Las Vegans, including KÀ artist
Emmanuel Kizayilawoko. Now get out there and jump off stuff!
LINK /// < http://www.desertcompanion.com/
article.cfm?articleID=79 >
{Jan.01}
Wishing all of our KÀ friends a happy and healthy 2011! We ended
last year/started this one with some love from our local
newspaper. What do you think, should we have been higher on his
top 10 list? :o)
LINK /// < http://www.lvrj.com/living/garth-brooks-rules-roost-
with-meaningful-one-man-acoustic-show-112467939.html >
---[ LA NOUBA ]---
{Jan.13}
Favorite quote from this Stage and Cinema review: "La Nouba
never pretends to be more than it is: a thrilling evening of
performers at the height of their acrobatic skills, lovingly
supported by an array of characters that seem to mimic the many
dimensions of our psyche."
LINK /// < http://www.stageandcinema.com/2011/01/12/la-nouba/ >
{Jan.06}
VIDEO [2:37] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1812290870016&oid=16315569901&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.04}
Check out the official La Nouba trading pin we gave exclusively
to our guests on New Year's Eve! It is so shiny it was hard to
take a photo that does it justice. Now for that 2012 design...
*scratches chin*
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=482588989901&set=a.190647189901.
126413.16315569901 >
---[ MYSTERE ]---
{Jan.20}
We're back from our break on Saturday and the stage looks
beautiful again! Here's a full time-lapse video of the whole
project, and we'll put some still photos in the gallery as well.
Yes, that is ONE member of our Props team painting the stage one
color at a time. (Janet is our hero!)
How to replace a stage by the Crew of Mystère
VIDEO [1:28] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1822943539777&oid=18155469918&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.12}
Hello Mystère fans! You'll be happy to know our construction
project is going well and we're a few days ahead of schedule.
@Austin Kunis was right-for the 1st time in 17 years we are
completely replacing and refinishing the stage! We'll have more
in depth still photos later this week but enjoy this time-lapse
video from the first day of work. (Looks sort of like Mystère On
Ice, n'est-ce pas?)
The Mystère Stage Gets a Facelift - Jan. 2011
VIDEO [0:30] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1810087818392&oid=18155469918&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.04}
Hello everyone! This is our last night of shows before we take a
break for a couple of weeks. We'll have some images to share in
the coming days from a major construction project we're doing in
theatre over the vacation, and in the meantime please enjoy the
fourth and final installment of our behind-the-scenes en español
fiesta party.
Mystère Israel & Ross interview on "Acceso Total" (Telemundo LA)
VIDEO [2:00] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=1796268392915&oid=18155469918&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.01}
Wishing a happy and healthy new year to all of our Mystère
friends! We closed out 2010 with some love from our hometown
newspaper, enjoy!
LINK /// < http://www.lvrj.com/neon/now-in-its-18th-year-
mystere-builds-durability-with-good-humor-112704799.html >
---[ OVO ]---
{Jan.26}
Have a look on the interview that Deborah Colker (director and
creator of OVO) did for nature.org.
LINK /// < http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/
states/texas/features/art32941.html >
{Jan.21}
In the Frisco Enterprise!
LINK /// < http://www.friscoenterprise.com/articles/2011/01/19/
frisco_enterprise/news/243.txt >
{Jan.06}
Listen to this great interview from NPR about the trust you may
have between a flyer and a catcher.
LINK /// < http://www.npr.org/2011/01/05/132678699/
training-and-trust-partners-on-the-flying-trapeze >
---[ QUIDAM ]---
{Jan.11}
Salut Saguenay, le Cirque est en ville!
LINK /// < http://www.cyberpresse.ca/le-quotidien/arts-
spectacles/201101/11/01-4358930-le-cirque-
du-soleil-sinstalle.php >
{Jan.05}
Revue de Presse Quidam à Québec
LINK /// < http://www.cyberpresse.ca/le-soleil/arts-et-
spectacles/sur-scene/201101/04/01-4357230-dans-
lunivers-des-quidams-du-cirque-du-Soleil.php?
utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_
contenuinterne=cyberpresse_vous_suggere_
4357229_article_POS1 >
---[ SALTIMBANCO ]---
{Jan.15}
La Couverture de l'Équipe Mag ce matin !!
LINK /// < http://www.lequipemag.fr/EquipeMag/
Mag/flip/index_flip.html >
{Jan.14}
De nouveaux sièges ajoutés à Bercy !
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=10150118556217959&set=a.121288542958.
129859.41245692958 >
{Jan.09}
À Paris dès jeudi !! Dépêchez-vous pour les derniers billets
disponibles !
LINK /// < http://www.m6replay.fr/#/jeunesse/barbapapa/21450 >
{Jan.07}
L'implacable et rêveur " Saltimbanco "
LINK /// < http://www.nordeclair.fr/Loisirs/Magazine/
2011/01/07/l-implacable-et-reveur-saltimbanco.shtml >
{Jan.06}
Quelques photos du spectacle de hier!
LINK /// < http://photos.lavoix.com/main.php?g2_itemId=171833 >
---[ TOTEM ]---
{Jan.21}
CAST in LONDON
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=185008721519826&set=a.111837202170312.
12495.111798252174207 >
{Jan.15}
Cirque du Soleil: Taking circus to new heights
LINK /// < http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/221955/
Cirque-du-Soleil-Taking-circus-to-new-heights >
{Jan.11}
Totem is thrilling when it gets its act together
LINK /// < http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/theatre/review-
23911395-totem-is-thrilling-when-it-gets-
its-act-together.do >
{Jan.06}
Celebs at premiere of Cirque du Soleil's Totem
LINK /// < http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-
pictures/Celebs+at+premiere+of+Cirque+du+Soleil%
27s+Totem-latest.do?id=23380137 >
---[ THE BEALTES LOVE ]---
{Jan.16}
Paul McCartney is so funny! Sir Paul McCartney and Jimmy Fallon
sing "Scrambled Eggs"
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3WcCZFwZlw&sns=fb >
{Jan.11}
We've got an air date for our episode of American Idol! Make
sure to tune in on Wednesday, Feb. 23!
{Jan.10}
Steve Martin & Paul McCartney!!!
LINK /// < http://www.kansascity.com/2011/01/10/2574775/steve-
martin-strums-again-with.html >
{Jan.03}
Happy 85th birthday to one of the best music producers that ever
lived - Sir George Martin!
{Jan.01}
Cheers from the girls of LOVE backstage :)
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=496328658665&set=a.101066423665.
92500.14653468665 >
---[ VAREKAI ]---
{Jan.26}
It's official!!! Varekai is going to Korea as of April 6th 2011!
Tickets are now for sale... are you coming??
LINK /// < http://ticket.interpark.com/Ticket/Goods/
GoodsInfo.asp?GoodsCode=11000461 >
{Jan.13}
Our big top was raised Tuesday in the city of Taipei!
LINK /// < http://udn.com/NEWS/READING/REA3/6089948.shtml >
{Jan.13}
Varekai in Taipei!
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZBnQHuHPBg >
---[ VIVA ELVIS ]---
{Jan.27}
Check out Viva ELVIS on The Bachelor on Monday, January 31 (8
p.m. - 10 p.m ET) on ABC! You'll get a behind the scenes look at
our show when it airs, but here's a sneak peek!
The Bachelor at Viva ELVIS (Jan. 31, 2011)
FOTO [5] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?
aid=261220&id=167136344108&ref=mf >
{Jan.21}
"Bossa Nova Baby," a track from 'Viva Elvis - The Album' can be
heard in the trailer for Natalie Portman and Ashton Kutcher's
film, 'No Strings Attached' which opens today! Check out this
clip from the new movie with Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman
"No Strings Attached" featuring Elvis' "Bossa Nova Baby"!
VIDEO [0:32] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=562974467684&oid=19838724152&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.15}
We definitely enjoyed the time we spent with Chilean miner
Edison Peña! Here is a short video and some fotos of his visit!
FOTO [10] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?
aid=257939&id=167136344108&ref=mf >
VIDEO [3:11] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=10100301878729489&oid=167136344108&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.12}
Edison Peña made a guest appearance in tonight's 7pm show,
riding in the pink Cadillac. He had a great time backstage with
the cast and serenaded them with some of the Elvis tunes he
knows so well!
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=481962729108&set=a.167799494108.
119733.167136344108 >
{Jan.11}
Chilean miner Edison Peña will be with us tonight! While the
miners were trapped he would sing Elvis songs to pass the time -
- we definitely hope he enjoys the show!
LINK /// < http://www.latimes.com/sns-ap-us-chilean-
miner-elvis,0,1132599.story >
{Jan.09}
Elvis' 76th birthday celebration
FOTO [5] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?
aid=256309&id=167136344108&ref=mf >
{Jan.09}
Here's a shot of our special finale for Elvis' birthday tonight.
Elvis' birthday cake was created by one of our acrobats, Ashley
Kupets. The singers did a great rendition of Happy Birthday and
the audience loved it!
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=480429224108&set=a.167799494108.
119733.167136344108 >
{Jan.08}
Check out another birthday video from the cast, produced and
directed by our very talented performer, Aaron Felske.
VIDEO [1:07] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=495436177001&oid=167136344108&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.08}
Happy Birthday Elvis! The audiences at tonight's shows will see
a special birthday performance. Hope you can join us!
VIDEO [1:06] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?
v=495311547001&oid=167136344108&comments&ref=mf >
{Jan.06}
Take a look at our performance at around 1:05:00! We had a blast
doing it! If you're in town for CES or otherwise, we've also got
a special $75 ticket off for Elvis' birthday! You can grab that
here near the bottom:
LINK /// < http://bit.ly/ElvisBDay >
{Jan.04}
Sign a virtual birthday card for Elvis and see a video from our
cast at our new site!
LINK /// < http://bit.ly/ElvisBDay >
---[ WINTUK ]---
{Jan.03}
We had our final performances in NYC yesterday! Congratulations
to the cast & crew and thank you to New York for four great
years!!
FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=10150357997950321&set=
a.222882910320.276944.98244255320 >
---[ ZAIA ]---
{Jan.27}
ZAIA on live TV broadcast in China for the first time! Watch our
artists presenting a fantastic act on the Spring Festival Gala
on Hunan TV!!!
LINK /// < http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XMjQwMDU1MzYw.html >
---[ ZARKANA ]---
{Jan.14}
ZARKANA Creation Sketches
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?
aid=30733&id=139797212738843&ref=mf >
---[ ZED ]---
{Jan.19}
"Tokyo Dance Magazine" has covered a story about ZED! It
features our Bungee/Hammock artists Mai&Giulia, our Artistic
Director Luc, and our technical staff from rigging and wardrobe!
LINK /// < http://www.tokyo-dance-
magazine.com/people/cirque_de_soleil/ >
---[ ZUMANITY ]---
{Jan.07}
2011 Mashable Awards at Zumanity!
FOTO [4] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?
aid=276125&id=13931088846&ref=mf >
{Jan.07}
We had a great time playing host to the 4th annual Mashable
Awards Gala! Here's a look at Julia performing 'Hoops' for the
award audience!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=492384453846&set=a.103927633846.
92609.13931088846 >
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
------------------------------------
* Feb.01.2008 -- Delirium opened Oberhausen, Germany
* Feb.01.2008 -- Announcement that Delirium will fold in London, UK
* Feb.02.2001 -- La Nouba celebrated 1000th performance [Friday, 6:00pm]
* Feb.02.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Nantes, FR
* Feb.02.2011 -- Koozå opened Tokyo, Japan
* Feb.02.2011 -- Alegria Arena opened Laredo, TX
* Feb.02.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Mobile, AL
* Feb.03.2000 -- Dralion opened San Francisco, California
* Feb.03.2005 -- KÀ Premiere Gala (Previews End)
* Feb.04.1988 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Santa Monica (again)
* Feb.04.2007 -- Cirque du Soleil performs at Super Bowl XLI.
* Feb.04.2009 -- Corteo opened Tokyo, Japan
* Feb.04.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened St. Charles, MO
* Feb.04.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Detroit, MI
* Feb.04.2010 -- OVO opened San Jose, CA
* Feb.05.2007 -- iShares Announces Sponsorship of 2007-2008 US Teams
* Feb.05.2008 -- Delirium opened Hanover, Germany
* Feb.05.2009 -- Varekai opened Seville, Spain
* Feb.06.2003 -- Dralion opened New Orleans
* Feb.06.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Insbruck, AT
* Feb.07.2002 -- Quidam opened Miami, Florida
* Feb.07.2003 -- Region 2 DVDs released: Saltimbanco, Quidam, Dralion
* Feb.07.2003 -- Quidam opened Tokyo
* Feb.07.2007 -- Dralion opened Tokyo
* Feb.07.2007 -- Koozå Creative Team Announced
* Feb.07.2007 -- Delirium opened Moline, IL
* Feb.07.2008 -- Alegria opened Sao Paulo
* Feb.08.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Hambourg
* Feb.09.2001 -- Saltimbanco opened Fukuoka, Japan
*Feb.09.2005 -- Alegría opened Fukuoka, Japan
* Feb.09.2007 -- Corteo opened Dallas
* Feb.09.2007 -- Delirium opened Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN.
* Feb.09.2011 -- Alegria Arena opened Hidalgo, TX
* Feb.09.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Columbus, OH
* Feb.10.2008 -- Delirium opened Bremen, Germany
* Feb.10.2006 -- Cirque announced/launched Fashion Line
* Feb.10.2008 -- Cirque du Soleil performs "A Day in the Life"
from The Beatles/Cirque du Soleil LOVE at the
Mirage at Grammy's.
* Feb.10.2008 -- Cirque du Soleil wins 2 Grammy's for LOVE album.
- "Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for
Motion Picture, Television or other Visual
Medium"
- "Best Surround Sound Album"
* Feb.10.2011 -- Corteo opened Vienna, AT
* Feb.11.1998 -- Quidam opened Dallas
* Feb.11.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Indianoplis, IN
* Feb.11.2010 -- Corteo opened Fukuoka, Japan
* Feb.11.2011 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Friedrichshafen, DE
* Feb.12.2007 -- Cirque & Orange Business Services sign Partnership
* Feb.12.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Indianapolis, IN
* Feb.13.2008 -- Delirium opened Stockholm, Sweden
* Feb.14.2001 -- Dralion opened Miami, Florida
* Feb.14.2002 -- Saltimbanco opened Amsterdam
* Feb.14.2007 -- Delirium opened Fort Wayne, IN
* Feb.15.2005 -- Cirque Music available on iTunes
* Feb.15.2007 -- Cirque Partners with Champ Car race
* Feb.16.2001 -- Quidam opened Manchester
* Feb.16.2008 -- Delirium opened Turku, Finland
* Feb.16.2011 -- Alegria Arena opened Corpus Christi, TX
* Feb.16.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Detroit, MI
* Feb.17.2005 -- Saltimbanco (2005) CD Released (CDS Musique)
* Feb.17.2007 -- Delirium opened Chicago, IL.
* Feb.17.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Austin, TX
* Feb.18.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Batton Rouge, LA
* Feb.18.2011 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Istanbul, TR
* Feb.19.1998 -- Alegría opened Madrid
* Feb.19.2002 -- Quidam Extended CD Released (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Feb.19.2004 -- Alegría opened St. Petersburg
* Feb.20.2007 -- Cimarron gives KÀ new visual style
* Feb.20.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Memphis, TN
* Feb.21.2007 -- CirqueCon's 2007 & 2008 Announced
* Feb.21.2007 -- Delirium opened Kansas City, MO
* Feb.22.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Cosa Mesa
* Feb.22.2000 -- Alegría: Le Film CD Released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Feb.22.2007 -- Alegría opened Barcelona
* Feb.23.2006 -- Alegría opened Milan
* Feb.23.2011 -- Alegria Arena opened Tulsa, OK
* Feb.24.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Birmingham
* Feb.24.2005 -- Varekai opened Austin
* Feb.24.2007 -- Delirium opened Ames, IA
* Feb.24.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Rockford, IL
* Feb.24.2009 -- Varekai celebrated 2,500th performance [Seville, Spain]
* Feb.24.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Frisco, TX
* Feb.25.1988 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Calgary
* Feb.25.2001 -- Quidam opened Manchester
* Feb.25.2008 -- Delirium opened Zurich, Germany
* Feb.25.2010 -- Varekai opened Manchester, UK
* Feb.25.2010 -- Koozå opened San Diego, CA
* Feb.25.2010 -- Banana Shpeel opened NYC (Previews)
* Feb.26.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Bilbao
* Feb.26.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Charlottesville, VA
* Feb.26.2009 -- Cirque & Reebok announce "Fit to Fly"
* Feb.26.2009 -- Quidam opened Liverpool, UK (Temporarily Arena)
* Feb.26.2010 -- Quidam opened Sao Paulo
* Feb.27.2005 -- Dralion opened Amsterdam
* Feb.27.2008 -- Quidam opened Veracrux, Mexico
* Feb.28.2000 -- La Nouba celebrated 500th performance [Monday]
* Feb.28.2002 -- Alegría opened Singapore
* Feb.28.2007 -- Delirium opened Green Bay, WI
* Feb.29.2008 -- Varekai opened Amsterdam
* Feb.29.2008 -- Delirium opened Budapest, Hungary
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------
INTERVIEW /// Exclusive Interview with the Musical
Director for Viva Elvis!: "Erich Van Tourneau -
Takin' Care Of Business"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
-------------------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil was quick to realize, with the critical and financial
success of The Beatles Love, that it could expand its stable of
productions beyond ideas and characters generated exclusively in-
house. Many of the lessons learned during the creation of the Beatles
project would be applied to its next collaborative endeavor - a show
based on the life and work of The King Of Rock And Roll, Elvis
Presley. But while the creative thrust of the Fab Four show -
illustrating the life and times that inspired the Beatles along with
bringing the characters from their songs to life - worked well for
that show, it would not work as well with Presley.
Instead of placing him within a strictly historical context it was
decided to update The King's songs and image, bringing both into the
21st century for modern audiences. But it wasn't going to be a remix
effort (most notable of which was the JXL remix of "A Little Less
Conversation"). This would involve updating the music and
arrangements, utilizing Elvis' vocals while placing them inside
arrangements and instrumentation different (sometimes vastly
different) from when they were originally recorded.
This task fell to Viva Elvis! Musical Director Erick Van Tourneau.
When we spoke with Mr. Van Tourneau back in early December from his
cottage in Montréal Blanc (in northern Montréal), it was just weeks
after the release of the soundtrack CD, Viva Elvis - The Album (2010,
Sony/RCA Legacy 88697-77582-2). The album has gotten high marks for
its creativity and power, if criticized for its brevity. (At 42 1/2
minutes it's the shortest Cirque soundtrack album since the very first
Cirque album back in 1987, which was originally produced for vinyl
LP.)
Mr. Van Tourneau first came to Cirque's attention at the end of 2007.
"[Someone at] Cirque du Soleil called me a couple of months before
Elvis [was announced], to have my press kit and information about the
work I did to [put] in their bank of creators, because I've produced
several albums in Montréal for different genres of music and for
different labels."
"[Then] I heard about the Elvis project [and] they asked me to do a
pitch. I pitched two songs; "Hound Dog" and "One Night With You" (Ed:
both of which are in the show but not on the CD). I didn't have
access to masters at the time so I found a version of "Hound Dog," I
believe from the '68 comeback special, and worked with that version."
These demos, it turned out, are "really really close" to the way they
sound in the finished show. "It's funny, sometimes you create
something and it's more unconscious. I hadn't explored and listened
to the catalog of Elvis songs [when I did the pitch], so in a way what
I created in the moment was really pure."
"The director [Vincent Paterson, was] really happy with the music he
heard, so that was the beginning of this great adventure."
Sample This
His research included listening to all of the Elvis recordings he
could, both official and unofficial, a task that took more than 3,000
hours and resulted in a bank of more than 17,000 samples of music.
But only a fraction of those samples made it into the final show, and
not all of the samples in the show made it to the CD. Fortunately,
for those who are interested there is a listing of the samples used in
the CD at www.vivaelvis.com/samples. (It doesn't include samples (if
any) used in "Memories," "You'll Never Walk Alone (Piano Interlude)"
and "Suspicious Minds.")
Working on the actual songs involved a great number of creative
decisions, not the least of which was what material out of Elvis'
original recordings to keep and what to re-arrange or augment. "It
[was] really a case-by-case situation, depending on the song. Like
I've mentioned many times the most important thing, the heart of the
project, was really Elvis' voice. In each song I tried to keep the
melodic line and Elvis' voice intact and paint new colors around him.
The clash was really coming from that, keeping the heart of the song,
meaning Elvis' voice, and clash that against new colors."
"[Let's] talk about "That's All Right" for instance. [The version I
used] was the one from 1954 where he recorded at Sun, it really
represents the ripe incarnation of Elvis. It's not a version from the
1970's, it's the purest one. In "That's All Right" there's no drum,
the upright bass was really doing the drums job. So to really bring
the song into 2010 and have the same kind of force that it had in '54
I had to bring a drum into the new arrangement. Also to have that
hard rock feel I had to muscle up the rhythm section and record new
bass and new guitars. But it was really important to me to have that
clash, that mixture of tones. [So I kept] Scotty Moore's guitar in
there, because the sound of Elvis back in '54 was coming from his
voice but also from Scotty Moore's guitar. That's something everybody
can easily recognize. So I kept [snippets] from Scotty Moore's
guitar, but mainly it really goes around the voice."
Creating the soundscapes involved technology unavailable during
Presley's time. "To isolate Elvis' vocal I worked with the program,
"Digital Performer" (Ed: a software recording/editing/mixing package
from MOTU-Mark of the Unicorn, www.motu.com/products/software/dp/).
But I used a program called "Melodyne" when I had to change the
harmony in the Jordainaires introduction to "Can't Help Falling In
Love." It came from "Known Only To Him," an old gospel song. I had
to change the harmony because it was clashing with the chord
progression. (Ed: Melodyne is a digital studio package from Celemony,
www.celemony.com.)"
He also worked with an old friend, a pioneering stereo digital sampler
released in 1988, the Akai S-1000 (see a picture with info at
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akai_S1000). "[Laughs] It's my sampler, my
companion; I've had that sampler for years. I [had to make] some new
knobs [out of] Fimo clay (Ed: a polymer clay paste like Sculpey,
www.fimo.com). It's really archaic, really old, I think the memory is
32 meg so it's a joke. But it's my old companion and I did a lot of
mash-ups and breakbeats on the album [with it]."
To CD or Not to CD
As Mr. Van Tourneau worked on creating the show's music, he wasn't
thinking toward an eventual CD soundtrack release. Indeed, though
it's desired to have a soundtrack as part of a Cirque shows
merchandise mix it's never a given, especially when somebody else's
music is involved.
"In this industry nothing is taken for granted," said Mr. Van
Tourneau. "Of course it's natural to think there would be an album,
[as with] LOVE. But I didn't take that for granted. I was delivering
song after song and doing my best just to stay on the boat in this
adventure and keep everyone into it. Because [this] was my first
project with Cirque and I didn't have the name or history of (Beatles
producer) George Martin."
"[At one point] we were in Las Vegas at Guy Laliberte's place there,
and we had a meeting listening to all the songs with the people at
Sony. And it was really the first time that I could feel and sense
that [people] were really into it and interested in the music by
itself, not just as part of the show. Because the music is serving
the show and, depending on the act, it has to serve a purpose. [But]
there was really a good vibe and it was really the first time I could
feel that we could have an album [that would stand] by itself."
"I really began to work on the project at the beginning of June. (Ed:
In order to meet Sony's desire to have the CD in stores by the 2010
Holiday Season.) I [had produced an album during the summer] once
before and promised myself [I wouldn't do that again]! [laughs]"
"Working during summer is really tough for a creator," he continued.
"I was working from 5am until 10pm. Mentally it was tough to [be
working and] see my dog running outside. But I couldn't refuse to
produce [the CD] because it was my baby. Sony only gave me three
months so it was really really fast. The vocals were really
complicated to deal with, so three months was [not a lot of time]."
Keeping with the practice of recent Cirque soundtracks, Mr. Van
Tourneau made efforts to include musicians and singers from the live
Vegas band. He even went so far as to have show guitarist Jean-
Sebastian "The Flash" Chouinard record parts in the Viva Elvis Theater
at night after shows.
Yet there is one notable musician missing from the CD, percussionist
Kit Chatham (who is a very present musical personality in the show).
Kit is a fan favorite from his days as drummer with Corteo, why does
he not appear on the CD? "Because of his bad attitude! [laughs] No,
no, I'm kidding. Kit is so cool and has a strong presence in the
show. I clearly remember when I saw his audition tape. [I got] a
really strong impression of Kit and he was the first musician that I
chose."
"I think the main difference between the album and the live
performance is really an aesthetic one. [With the CD] I tried to
bring Elvis samples into the picture as much as possible. So when I
had a choice between using a musician from the show or using samples
coming from Elvis' work or world, I would use Elvis samples. I tried
to use the musicians every time it was possible, but if I had access
to nice percussion coming from [the world] of Elvis I would use
those." (Indeed, there is no one listed as performing "Percussion" on
the CD.)
The resulting CD features Elvis on 10 of the CD's 12 tracks with a
running time of just over 42 minutes. Why not more tracks and a
longer running time? "It was just a question of time. If I would
have had six months I would add maybe four more cuts. But in my
opinion more than 16 cuts on an album is too much. When you listen to
the album as it is now, for me I'm exhausted at the end. Because it's
really intense emotionally and energy[-wise], it's like a 45-minute
long rock concert. So I preferred to leave on a high note rather than
do 20 cuts."
Missing from the CD are such show set-pieces as "Got a Lot of Livin'
To Do," "Hound Dog," "Are You Lonesome Tonight," "It's Now or Never,"
"Jailhouse Rock," and "One Night With You." The short time to produce
the album meant hard decisions of which songs to include had to be
made. "I really loved "One Night With You." I didn't touch a hair to
[it] since the creation of [the original pitch demo], it was really
solid. I loved the emotional side, it's really different. But it was
[a duet, and it would be] too much to have four duets on the album.
That was really the main argument for song choices, to have Elvis
singing on the album. The name of the show and album is Viva Elvis,
so for me it was fun to have maybe a couple of duets, but other than
that it was too much."
Might this lead to a second volume of the show's music? "Personally I
would love to work on a "Volume Two." After that I think it's a
question for Sony and Cirque. We'll see how "Volume One" goes. I did
ask Sony to print a vinyl version of the album for collectors. It
[would be] so cool, having access to [an Elvis album on] vinyl. I am
anxious to see that happen, I would buy one!"
(Answering his request, the soundtrack album has since been released
on 180-gram audiophile vinyl by Sony Legacy Recordings, with a UPC
code of 8-86977-67661-1 and can be purchased through Amazon and other
sources. But it doesn't look like there will be a surround-sound
version as there was with the limited-edition CD/DVD-A package for The
Beatles Love.)
The final CD also incorporated assistance to mix the final tracks,
bringing in Serban Ghemea and renowned mixer Brendon O'Brien.
Utilizing them helped in several ways, Mr. Van Tourneau explained.
"It was [a matter of] time but also competence. I am a big fan of
Brendon O'Brien's work. And Serban Ghemea is an amazing mixer, I
think he's mixed more than 1,000 albums. I wanted Brendon to work on
the songs that were really rock (Ed: he mixed "That's All Right,"
"Heartbreak Hotel," and "Suspicious Minds"). And I wanted Serban to
work on the songs that were more urban and hip-hoppish, with machines
and drum machines (Ed: he mixed "Blue Suede Shoes," "Bossa Nova Baby,"
"Burning Love," and "Can't Help Falling in Love"). Serban did a
really cool job because it's a big range. [Like in] "Blue Suede
Shoes," where it's more urban with the beat and handclaps, and you
have real drums and real fat guitars."
"It was really complicated to find someone that could understand all
the musical influences that are in there. I was fortunate to have
those two guys."
It wasn't too difficult for him to pick his favorites from the CD. "I
don't have the set list [in front of me], but for sure "Blue Suede
Shoes" is one of my favorites. It's so eclectic and modern and at the
same time so relevant to and using all of Elvis' roots. Like using
Delta blues, a harmonica and a Bo Diddley beat. But clashing that
with DJ scratching (such as the stuttering "go-go-go"), all the
samples coming from Milton Berle, and all that stuff. I really love
the infectious energy of "Blue Suede Shoes," it's really decadent."
"On the other side I [also] love "Can't Help Falling In Love." It's
sensibility, [with] Elvis' voice sounding so amazing and rich, and I
love the female vocal. The beat is really urban, a really 2010 kind
of R&B, Bill Withers beat. And the ending is really one of my
favorite mash-ups [where] I bring "Love Me" into the picture. You
have Elvis singing and the curtain falls, and there's a big gospel
choir [with] Elvis in front of them. For me it's really a nice
tribute to Elvis' roots, he was so into gospel music. Those two I
really like."
The Sound of Silence
When he finished working on the show and soundtrack CD it was time to
take a well-deserved break. "I just came back from a road trip, I was
on the road almost two months in the United States. And every time
I'm driving - and I did a lot of driving, sometimes fifteen hours a
day - I didn't listen to music at all. Because it was so intense,
working so hard during the summer and the last two years. When I can
I don't listen to music. Sometimes I like to play piano and guitar
with friends at parties, and have a glass of wine and play and jam,
but I don't listen to a lot of music at the moment."
"I imagine it's the same when you work [hard], like you're working
sixteen hours a day, when you have a chance to disconnect and do other
things I think you do that. When I work I listen to everything that
can have a connection with the project. I'm a big big fan and freak
of music of all kinds, so it's really from Abba to Zappa. I like that
expression really, because I listen to everything."
As our time drew to a close, we asked Mr. Van Tourneau what
characteristic he felt was most critical for success in music. In a
word, "Discipline."
"Because you can have talent; if you don't have talent don't expect to
work one hour in the business. I think that's the minimum, the first
thing you need to have. But after that it's really hard work. I was
fortunate to have a father that is really a kick-ass person that is
really disciplined with his projects, and I learned a lot just
[watching] him."
Discipline that equipped him to create a powerful album starring the
King of Rock And Roll in a short three-month time-span.
Takin' Care Of Business, indeed.
(Another great interview with Mr. Van Tourneau can be found at
www.elvisthemusic.com/us/conversation-erich. Parts of that interview
can be heard in audio form (including a great segment with him
discussing - and playing - his update of the Elvis classic "Suspicious
Minds") on the "Elvis.com Podcast" at http://www.elvis.com/news/
follow-elvis/weekly-podcast/default.aspx (4-part "Special Edition -
Viva Elvis between November 1-8, 2010, just prior to Episode #50).
My sincere thanks go to: Mr. Van Tourneau for so graciously spending
time with us, Chantal Côte, Corporate PR Manager, and my wife LouAnna
for putting up with my sometimes obsessive hobby.
-------------------------------------------------------
"CD Review: Criss Angel BeLIEve Soundtrack CD"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
-------------------------------------------------------
What are you to do when the music for a show that has been in
development for years goes through a wholesale revamping a short time
after its debut? If you're Cirque du Soleil, realizing this is a
possibility you tend to hedge your bets, letting a show go through its
"fixation" process before considering a CD release, so as to have the
most current music available on the soundtrack.
With TOTEM being an exception (the CD being released six months after
the shows debut in Montreal) the average time to release a CD has been
a year or more. And in the first case of a show to go through a major
post-premiere revamp - Mystere - the solution was to re-record the CD
in a live performance setting with the new musical score.
But what do you do if you have a completed soundtrack CD already in
the can, ready to release, when the show unexpectantly goes through
significant changes? How can that be representative of the current
show?
Welcome to the Criss Angel BeLIEve soundtrack CD.
Available for the last few months in the Cirque Boutique and at the
Luxor BeLIEve gift shop as a physical CD (Cirque du Soleil Musique
CDSMCD-10032, 2010) the soundtrack has just been made available for
download on ITunes ($10.00) and Amazon (where it's currently $8.00).
The album can also be sampled in its entirety (not snippets, but full
versions of all of CD songs) on the Cirque du Soleil website, in the
Audio section of the Multimedia Gallery.
For a show that had "Version 1.0" with music and storyline dominant,
and a "Version 2.0" where those take a backseat, the question becomes
which version of the show does the CD document? Since it was recorded
before the changes to the show this CD is obviously for Version 1.0,
but how would a buyer know? And how many of the songs from Version
1.0 made it into Version 2.0?
For the first question, one need look no further than the CD front cover.
Emblazoned there, on the booket first page, and CD label is a thick red
banner saying in French and English "Original Soundtrack by Eric Serra
09-2008 through 09-2009." So there is truth in advertising going on
here, Cirque is being very clear in saying this is the music for the
first year of the show. As to the second question, depend on
your friends at Fascination! But more about that in a minute. Is the
CD worth it or not?
It isn't just the red-band "warning" that makes this most-recent CD
release different from other recent Cirque CD's. While the packaging
is the standard Cirque tri-panel recycled cardboard (with artwork
evoking the tone of the show), and there are pictures of show
characters Kayala, Crimson and the clown quartet there are no pictures
of Criss Angel anywhere. The booklet is a simple 4-page affair, there
are no producer, composer, or musical director notes to be found (as
have appeared on other CD's lately). The booklet has the feeling of
just presenting the basics in order to get the CD released and be done
with it, it doesn't have the "feel" of a graphics team that wanted to
evoke the show with more graphics within its pages.
But the booklet is revealing. It shows that most of the sounds are
played by Eric Serra himself, eschewing the original live BeLIEve
band, which included..
o) Vocalist Nitza
o) Guitarist Elvis Lederer
o) Bandleader and Bassist Jean-François (DJeff) Houle
o) Percussionist José Pepe Jimenez
The CD does feature vocals by Nitza on four tracks, as well as soprano
InvaMula. Jim & Jon Grandcamp, who play guitar and drums on Serra's
side project RXRA, contribute to two tracks. There are also symphonic
parts performed by the London Session Orchestra. But the rest of the
keyboards, guitars, drums and sounds are Serra's (though he does
credit several sample libraries).
The 64 minutes of music centers on slow and mid-tempo rhythms
featuring exotic sounds and carries the ethos of Angel's darker gothic
persona throughout. A few themes recur - the fun"Homage to the
Rabbits" theme appears in several places, as well as a grander
"wedding" theme that comes into play towards the end of the CD (the
orchestral version of the theme on the last two songs are highlights).
Many cuts incorporate several short musical ideas, as if Serra were
editing different ideas together to make a full track. While most of
the mash-ups are successful, some of the combinations make me want to
slice the CD up into smaller tracks so the musical ideas don't mash
together.
As a CD, despite the troubled show to which it's attached, there are
some interesting melodies and sounds to be heard here. The "Homage"
and "Magic Wedding" tracks stand up against some of the best Cirque
has to offer. I would have liked to hear more of the creation
musicians, but since the show no longer uses them it doesn't matter.
As to the question of whether it's a worthy soundtrack to Criss Angel
BeLIEve 2.0...
At the risk of eliciting sympathy (or more likely noting how much
money I "wasted") from BeLIEve haters I should state that my wife and
I have seen the show twice (on the same date a year apart it turns
out), once for Version 1.0 and once for Version 2.0. The show is now
much more suitable to Angel's persona, dropping the "storyline"(and
with it a majority of the "Cirque" input) and taking a straight-ahead
magic show approach. Criss talks much more and has more audience
interaction now, but keeps the show the same length, so there is less
chance for music. As we recall, some cues sounded like recordings of
the old live band, while several cues sounded like they came straight
from the CD. Our recollection is that the following tracks on the CD
are used in Version 2.0 of the show:
o) 1-Homage to the Rabbits
o) 2-The Life Factory (last section)
o) 4-Flying With The Birds (first section)
o) 13-Prewed
o) 15-She is Gone to the Sky
o) 16-The Magic Wedding
You can decide for yourself if six tracks (though it may be more like
seven or eight) is enough to make it a "soundtrack" or if this
relegates the BeLIEve CD to the scorned stack of Cirque soundtrack
mis-fires like "Zumanity" (and to a lesser extent Varekai). Though
before you do (as you should do with all Cirque CD's) give it a listen
on the Cirque website first, it has several things to recommend it.
Because I doubt we will be getting a soundtrack dedicated to the time
after September 2009.
Unless something magic happens.
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 11, Number 2 (Issue #85) - February 2011
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2011 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
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infringement intended.
{ Feb.05.2011 }
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