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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 11, NUMBER 9 September 2011 ISSUE #92
=======================================================================
Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque
du Soleil Newsletter.
There's plenty to share with you this month so rather than go on and
on about what's inside the issue, I'm just going to be quiet and
let you get to it. As always we've got the latest news items posted
to Fascination! Web, updates to Cirque's tour schedule, a number of
posts from CirqueClub and the various Facebook pages within, as
well as a CirqueCon 2011 Update, musings about ZED and a review of
the new KA app for Android devices!
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
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History
o) Fascination! Features
* "The KÀ App for Android - a Quick Review"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
* "CirqueCon Update #6 - We Have a Group Meal!"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
* "Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation"
Part 1 of 4 - "The Meeting of Two Worlds"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
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CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
Guy Laliberte's "Gaia" - Most Expenisve Book?
{Aug.03.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
From Publisher's Weekly:
# # #
While e-book prices may seem on course for a race to the bottom,
some publishers are counting on customers' deep pockets,
especially for high-end art books that support a worthy cause,
to maintain price points. Assouline just released a dual French-
and English-language collection of photographs of the earth,
Gaia, "curated" by Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté, to
raise money for the clean water charity he founded, One Drop.
The book is available at three price points, including one that
is likely to be the highest of 2011. Still at $7,000 it's less
than half the price of several Taschen limited editions from
pre-recession days, Sumo and Goat, which retail for $15,000.
Gaia, however, could have the distinction of being the most
expensive book ever to be produced, if the $35 million price tag
for Laliberté's training to go into outer space and the 11 days
he spent there are taken into account. The billionaire was the
first private space explorer from Canada. The book, which
contains photographs he took from 220 miles away at the
International Space Station, includes his Preface as well as
literary comments about earth by writers ranging from Galileo to
Carl Sagan and John Keats.
In addition to the $7,000, 178-page hardcover with foil accents,
size 17 X 24," for which purchasers earn a $4,500 tax deduction,
Assouline is offering two other bilingual editions: a 144-page
hardcover in a clamshell box, which retails for $875, and a $65
trade edition. The pre-launch tour was pegged to the cover-
price, starting with Laliberté's initial event at the Grand Prix
in Monaco at the end of May with Prince Albert. Other stops
included Paris, London, and Los Angeles, where Assouline has
boutiques, as well as Laliberté's home in Montreal. According to
Mimi Crume Sterling, v-p of global communications for Assouline,
the press is planning a rolling launch to promote the finished
book with an event in Las Vegas in November to celebrate the
second anniversary of Laliberté's trip.
# # #
Read the original article here:
< http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-
news/publisher-news/article/48203-cirque-founder-juggles-3-
editions-of-first-book.html >
{SOURCE: Publisher's Weekly}
$50 Tickets to La Nouba for FL Residents
{Aug.03.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Treat yourself to an evening like no other with $50 seats to La
Nouba this fall. Mesmerizing performances, breathtaking
acrobatics, moving live music and extraordinary imagination dare
to make the impossible, possible!*
* Ticket price excludes tax. Offer valid for Tuesday-Saturday
performances 8/2/11-9/17/11 and 9/27/11-10/29/11. Seating
subject to availability. Offer is not valid for previously
purchased tickets, gift certificates or with any other
discounts. Offer is valid on category 2 seats only. Offer ends
on October 29, 2011.
Gaia, a Book by Guy Laliberté
{Aug.04.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Interested in Guy Laliberte's book - GAIA?
Gaia is the tour de force of Cirque du Soleil founder Guy
Laliberté. Here Laliberté presents stunning photographs of the
Earth taken from 220 miles away during his eleven-day trip
orbiting the earth as a private space explorer, with unique
views of nearly forty countries. A documentation both rare and
captivating, his images are natural works of art, rich in color
and texture.
Here's some details:
Guy Laliberté documentation of his experience in space featuring
his photographs of Earth as seen from the International Space
Station. Captivated by the beauty of the surface of the Earth,
Laliberté's evocative photos show the colors and textures
visible only 220 miles away. A stable subject and a moving
photographer - the ISS is moving at 17,500 miles per hour (about
5 miles per second), doing 6 tours of the earth every 24 hours -
made for truly original conditions. Using the Nikon D3S and
Nikon D3X digital-SLR cameras, deserts resemble contemporary
abstract paintings, cities rise up like mini-mountain ranges,
and faces and figures are revealed in nature.
Laliberté dedicated his personal spaceflight to raising
awareness about water issues facing humankind, making his the
first, in his own words, "poetic social mission" in space.
Proceeds from book sales will go to Laliberté's One Drop
Foundation, a non-profit organization created to fight poverty
worldwide by ensuring that everyone across the planet has access
to water, now and in the future.
Available September.
In addition to the standard Hardcover edition, a hand-bound
limited edition with color plates presented in a linen clamshell
box (shipping with a complimentary Assouline canvas tote bag) is
also available. Pre-order today!
Standard Edition - $65.00
Hardcover / 9.5 x 12.75?
304 Pages, 149 Images
< http://www.assouline.com/9782759405343.html >
Special Edition - $875.00
Linen presentation box / 13.97 X 13.04?
168 Pages, 101 Images, 12 Gatefolds
< http://www.assouline.com/9782759405336.html >
New KÀ iPad App!
{Aug.05.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Have one of Apple's iPads and are also a fan of Cirque du
Soleil? Then check out this latest free app offering from
CirqueClub!
Cirque du Soleil has partnered with Mobile Roadie, a leading
global app platform, to power their newest application on
Apple's iPad tablet that features exclusive content from KÀ at
MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
Experience KÀ on your iPhone and iPad! Download the free KÀ
iPhone and iPad app and immerse yourself in this unprecedented,
gravity-defying production by Cirque du Soleil that takes
adventure to an all new level. Discover the heroic journey of
love and conflict, learn more about the scenic elements and
costumes as well as the colossal stage Where KÀ performs at MGM
Grand in Las Vegas.
The KÀ iPad app includes photos of your favorite KÀ characters,
exclusive behind-the-scenes images and creative sketches of the
show, videos that feature a make-up application with KÀ artists,
clips from G4 TV, KÀ's performance at Comic-Con and more.
Check out the app on the web at:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/kaipad >
OR, view it in iTunes here:
< http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id449353317?mt=8# >
Bhavsar Blogs in International Gymnast Magazine
{Aug.06.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Set to star in Cirque du Soleil's new Hollywood-themed show,
world and Olympic medalist Raj Bhavsar writes an exclusive blog
for IG Online with periodic behind-the-scenes updates. "IRIS: A
Journey Through the World of Cinema" begins July 21 with preview
performances at the Kodak Theatre at the Hollywood & Highland
Center in Los Angeles.
Read Part 1:
< http://www.intlgymnast.com/index.php?
option=com_content&view=article&id=2611:bhavsar-blogs-on-new-
life-in-cirque-du-soleil&catid=9:guest-opinion&Itemid=132 >
Read Part 2:
< http://www.intlgymnast.com/index.php?
option=com_content&view=article&id=2689:bhavsar-blogs-on-new-
life-in-cirque-part-2&catid=9:guest-opinion&Itemid=132 >
{SOURCE: International Gymnast Magazine}
IRIS: Sensational. Stunning. Stupendous.
{Aug.07.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Michael Figueiredo of the LA City Guide Examiner spent an
evening at a preview performance of Cirque du Soleil's IRIS -
here's what he had to say about the show!
Sensational. Stunning. Stupendous. Just about any superlative
would be fitting for IRIS: A Journey Through the World of
Cinema, the newest masterpiece from world-famous Cirque du
Soleil. It premiered only two weeks ago and yesterday I had the
chance to experience it with my entire family. Held at its
permanent home, the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, the production
takes spectators on "a voyage through the history of cinema and
its genres." From silent films to talkies, black & white to
color and animation to the current 3D craze, this new show
definitely will appeal to audiences of all ages. IRIS blends
reality with film clips, live video, light and shadows, creating
a dream world like you've never imagined.
Read more of his review here:
< http://www.examiner.com/city-guide-in-los-angeles/iris-a-
spectacular-new-show-from-cirque-du-soleil-review >
{SOURCE: The LA City Guide Examiner}
Changes Coming to Viva Elvis?
{Aug.08.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
It's only a sentence in a statement on MGM Mirage's quarterly
earnings, but according to the Las Vegas Sun, changes are coming
soon to Cirque du Soleil's VIVA ELVIS production at Aria, MGM
City-Center:
# # #
The company's CityCenter resort complex also showed improvement
in the second quarter. CityCenter's operating loss narrowed to
$89.8 million from $128 million a year ago. Revenue from resort
operations rose 50 percent to $274.9 million and revenue at Aria
increased 48 percent to $233 million.
Since its December 2009 opening, the $8.5 billion complex has
been plagued with problems ranging from sluggish condo sales and
retail activity to the empty, construction-flawed Harmon hotel.
Some customers also reported initial problems with CityCenter's
in-room hotel technology and did not take to its modern design.
"I think people still want to know where Aria and CityCenter fit
into the Las Vegas landscape and will it justify its investment
over time," Murren said. "From our perspective, it's clearly on
that path. Brand awareness is improving and our (customer
service) scores have gotten much better."
# # #
MGM is working with Cirque du Soleil to modify Aria's money-
losing "Viva Elvis" show, which has drawn sparse crowds,
executives said.
Read the entire earnings article here:
< http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2011/aug/08/las-vegas-
tourists-spending-more-boosting-mgm-reso/ >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun}
DidYaKnow? - ZED Documentary Animation
{Aug.09.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Have you seen the ZED DVD documentary? Enjoyed the cool anime-
style intro animation that went with it? Yeah, us too...
Check out the following for a glimpse of the animation from
those who created it!
< http://www.behance.net/gallery/Zed-Cirque-du-Soleil/237273 >
On Cirque du Soleil's TOTEM
{Aug.10.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Canada's National Post offered up a fantastic insight into the
creative process of Cirque du Soleil's TOTEM, now performing in
Toronto:
# # #
It was early October 2009 and acclaimed Quebec director Robert
Lepage was preparing to present his vision for the latest Cirque
du Soleil show to CEO Guy Laliberté.
"When are we showing this to Guy?" He asked his team. They
opened their schedules. Laliberté was not on the planet.
So, Lepage replied, "When is he back from space?" The director,
53, laughs remembering this. "I actually heard myself say that."
Laliberté had travelled to the International Space Station as a
tourist aboard a Russian Soyuz rocket on Sept. 30, 2009. How do
you impress a man who's seen the entire planet in a single look?
"His barometer is the hair on his skin," Lepage says of
Laliberté. "If the hair is up, it means it's good. If not, well,
then it's not going to work and it's out."
Laliberté's instincts have managed to keep audiences rapt for
decades with Cirque du Soleil's body-bending, high-flying
formula. The show Lepage was presenting to Laliberté became
Totem, which celebrates humanity's evolution from creature to
cosmonaut. The Quebec circus company's 27th show in 27 years
since its inception, Totem debuted in Montreal last year and
opens in Toronto on Aug. 10, its eighth city.
# # #
Read the original article here:
< http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/08/10/cirque-du-soleils-
totem-the-origin-of-trapeze/ >
{SOURCE: The National Post}
Changes ARE Coming to VIVA ELVIS - SOON!
{Aug.10.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
It's official: changes are coming to VIVA ElVIS starting January
2012. More interestingly, it seems quite a few acrobatic numbers
from ZED may find their way into the show. See the following
statement from Renee-Claude Menard, senior director of public
relations (as published by Norm, from the Las Vegas Review-
Journal):
# # #
"Cirque du Soleil and MGM Resorts International have always had
an active and open relationship about their projects.
As for all Cirque du Soleil productions, we constantly review
all aspects of our shows including the creative positioning and
the business results.
These discussions have been on-going for Viva Elvis and we have
decided to modify the show to make it less of a biographical
representation of Elvis and more of an acrobatic Cirque du
Soleil spectacular production.
As a result of the recent tragedies in Japan, Cirque du Soleil
has had to make a difficult decision to close its permanent show
ZED by the end of this year.
But in making that difficult decision an opportunity presented
itself to enhance Viva Elvis. ZED features some of the most
impressive acrobatic acts ever presented on stage and we truly
wish to continue bringing these performances to our audience.
In the last weeks, we have reviewed the possibilities and have
decided to fully integrate these beautiful acts in Viva Elvis
and to present them to the millions of people who visit Las
Vegas annually.
Cirque du Soleil is a creative-driven organization and want to
ensure that this integration is done well and fully respects its
artistic objectives. To do this, the partners have agreed that
Viva Elvis will take an extended dark dates beginning in January
2012.
This integration is expected to be completed by the end of the
first quarter. We will also take this time to review all
marketing strategies to reposition Viva Elvis.
I would like to specify that we expect to have the same total
amount of artists on stage and the financial investment both in
the creative integration and new marketing initiatives are still
under complete evaluation."
More on VIVA ELVIS Changes
{Aug.11.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Mike Weatherford and Norm Clarke, both wonderful columnists for
the Las Vegas Review-Journal, have new articles in relation to
yesterday's news that Cirque du Soleil's mega Elvis-themed
production - VIVA ELVIS - would be undergoing some drastic
changes very, very soon. Although both strike the same tone -
massive changes are coming and it was quite a surprise to the
cast- they both have some interesting tidbits I'd like to
highlight:
# # #
Cirque du Soleil announced Wednesday that "Viva Elvis" will get
a makeover to "make it less of a biographical representation of
Elvis Presley and more of an acrobatic Cirque du Soleil
spectacular production," according to a statement from the
company's senior publicist, Renee-Claude Menard.
The Aria production will take an extended break in January. The
revised version will incorporate acrobats moving over from
"Zed," a Cirque production at Tokyo Disneyland that will close
at the end of December, mortally wounded by earthquake-related
damage to the Japanese economy.
# # #
o) The cast and crew were summoned to a meeting on Tuesday at
the show's theater to discuss the changes
o) The cast and crew was told that Cirque will be pouring more
than $10 million into the makeover, with MGM Resorts
International wanting results within two years.
o) Even the show's title might be changed, Cirque confirmed.
# # #
Explaining in more detail by phone, Menard said "we would have
made changes anyway," even without the misfortune of "Zed."
Cirque and MGM Resorts officials already had agreed "we knew we
wanted to make it more acrobatic. ... What Zed' brought to the
table was an opportunity."
Cirque and its landlord already had "common agreement" that "the
bio expression of Elvis is not necessarily appealing to our
demographic, the type of demographics we'd like to have, so
let's look at it a different way. Make it a Cirque du Soleil
spectacular featuring Elvis as a singer," Menard said.
As such, the character of Elvis' manager, Tom Parker, as
narrator likely will be eliminated, though "I think we have to
wait until the changes are all done," Menard said.
# # #
The show is to remain "as is" until the end of the year, when it
will go through an extended dark period beginning in January to
integrate some elements from ZED, Cirque du Soleil's production
in Tokyo, Japan, which will shut down at the end of this year
due to the Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami.
Read Mike Weatherford's Article here:
< http://www.lvrj.com/living/changes-coming-to-cirque-du-soleil-
s-viva-elvis-127492623.html?ref=623 >
Read Norm Clarke's Article here:
< http://www.lvrj.com/news/some-devastated-by-elvis-changes-
127509863.html?ref=863 >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Review-Journal}
Congrats, La Nouba - 6000th Performance Tonight!
{Aug.13.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil La Nouba celebrates their 6000th performance at
6pm tonight! Congratulations to our amazing mix of talented
artists, technicians, management, retail staff and partners who
make this massive production happen night after night! To begin
this special day, we'd love to hear about your favorite part of
the show or memory that involves La Nouba!
{SOURCE: La Nouba Facebook}
Even MORE on those VIVA ELVIS Changes
{Aug.15.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
A couple of interesting tid-bits out of the Las Vegas Sun
regarding the upcoming changes to Viva Elvis:
# # #
De-emphasizing the story of Elvis Presley in the Cirque du
Soleil production "Viva Elvis" at Aria is fine with one of the
people who knew him best.
"I am excited that Cirque Du Soleil has decided to modify Viva
Elvis" is how Priscilla Presley put it last week. "It will make
a good show an even more exciting show."
Priscilla supplied her opinion through spokeswoman and Rogers &
Cowan PR executive Samantha Mast.
# # #
And then there's this one from Robin Leach:
# # #
In a shocking and surprise move, Cirque du Soleil officials
confirmed this afternoon that major changes will be made to Viva
Elvis at Aria, and if the gamble doesn't work, then the
spectacular will shut down within two years.
# # #
Read John Katsilometes' piece here:
< http://www.lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-
report/2011/aug/15/priscilla-presley-excited-about-cirque-
changes-vi/ >
Read Robin Leach's piece here:
< http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2011/aug/10/major-changes-are-
being-made-cirque-du-soleils-viv/ >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun}
Las Vegas Weekly Suggests Changes to Viva Elvis
{Aug.18.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
It was the equivalent of a "mea culpa" from the Pope.
Last week, Cirque du Soleil, the Vatican of Vegas entertainment,
made the rare announcement it would be closing Viva Elvis, the
newest of its seven shows on the Strip, in January 2012 to make
changes-$10 million worth, to be specific. True, Cirque has
always tweaked its shows after opening, but this kind of bold,
public, expensive retooling is unprecedented.
Reception of the show has been decidedly mixed, with critics
like Time's Richard Corliss seeking out new superlatives
("Cirque is throwing its most joyous party ever ...") and others
noting room for significant improvement. The show does have its
supporters, even repeat visitors (I know, I've met them), but
apparently they don't represent, as Cirque's publicists put it,
"the type of demographics we'd like to have." Read: the paying
type.
Thus-and here's the irony-Viva Elvis will now be "more of an
acrobatic Cirque du Soleil spectacular production,"
incorporating talent from Zed (a Cirque show at Tokyo Disney
that is closing in December) and "featuring Elvis as a singer."
Still, after struggling for 22 months, those changes may not be
enough. So allow us to offer Cirque a few additional
suggestions, 100 percent free of charge:
Check out the changes Las Vegas Weekly suggests for a re-tooled
Viva Elvis:
< http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2011/aug/17/few-
suggestions-how-revive-cirques-viva-elvis/ >
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Weekly}
New Sign at La Nouba
{Aug.19.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
WDWMagic is reporting that a new sign/banner has recently been
placed atop the Cirque du Soleil Theater at Downtown Disney
West-Side. It replaces a sign/banner with an older logo.
< http://www.cirquefascination.com/wp-
content/uploads/2011/08/Cirque-du-Soleil_Thumb_14135.jpg >
{EDIT: It is temporary, as other signs and banners at Downtown
Disney have recently disappeared for replacement or renovation.}
{SOURCE: WDWMagic}
ZED will "Surface Again"?
{Aug.23}
-------------------------------------------------
An interesting blurb in the Montreal Gazette today regarding
ZED's closure at the end of this year...
# # #
Girard, who just finished directing the Cirque du Soleil's
Zarkana in New York, is eager to return to Tokyo, where his
Cirque production of ZED is still running at Tokyo Disney. But
not for long. Disney and Cirque have announced that ZED will go
out with the old year on Dec. 31, 2011. Ticket sales had
slumped, Girard said. But a 25-per-cent energy-reduction quota
imposed on Japanese businesses post-tsunami was probably another
factor. "Disney had to cut something big," he said. "And they
decided not to cut the Mickey Mouse train."
# # #
ZED will surface again elsewhere, he promised.
Read the original article here:
< http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/movie-
guide/Japanese+film+star+making+stage+debut/
5292383/story.html#ixzz1VxAQz6YU >
{SOURCE: Montreal Gazette}
Canada Out for Expo 2012
{Aug.25}
-------------------------------------------------
According to a recent article in CBC News, Canada has officially
declined an invitation from the South Korean government to
participate in Expo 2012, saying it can't afford to attend the
World's Fair.
The reason? Canada isn't as popular as its peers:
# # #
A Harris-Decima report commissioned for Heritage Canada
following Canada's participation in Expo 2010 in Shanghai,
China, indicated that Canada is not a top draw at world
expositions.
Expo 2010 was attended by 246 countries and international
organizations, including a record 73 million visitors, but
Canada was not viewed as a priority stop for visitors, said the
report.
The pavilions for Japan, United States, France, Germany and
England were the major draws, said the report.
Interest in the Canadian pavilion did increase, however, when
world-renowned Canadian performers Cirque du Soleil arrived, the
report said.
"The shallow understanding of Canada, of Canadians and what is
unique about Canada hinders top-of-mind interest in visiting the
Canadian pavilion," said the report.
# # #
Read the full article here:
< http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2011/08/24/
expo-canada-declines.html >
{SOURCE: CBC.ca}
Desigual inspired by Cirque du Soleil
{Aug.29}
-------------------------------------------------
From the Vancouver Sun:
# # #
The floor of the Las Vegas Convention Center looked like more of
a circus than usual on Tuesday at the MAGIC apparel trade show.
That was due in large part to the acrobatic shenanigans of
Cirque du Soleil performers, who bounded down the catwalk to
highlight a new collaboration between the circus troupe and the
Barcelona-based Spanish sportswear brand Desigual.
Called "Desigual inspired by Cirque du Soleil," the 60-piece
debut collection for men, women and children doesn't stray far
from the distinctive eye-catching Desigual (pronounced "dezzy-
GWAL") aesthetic, which falls somewhere between a comic book
confetti flurry and an explosion at a crayon factory. (After
all, the name translates to mean "unequal" as in "different" in
English.)
The collection of clothing and accessories includes T-shirts,
dresses, short-dresses, handbags, totes and jackets. Prices will
be mostly in the $59 to $98 range. A few statement pieces - such
as this season's heavily embroidered jacket with gold foil
detail at the shoulders, oversize enameled buttons and a cadre
of clown-folk milling about the hem - are priced closer to
$300.
The collection is divided into three themes: "Troupe," "Human
Expression" and "Costume."
# # #
The debut collection will be available through Desigual's
website in November. Then, in December, it will roll out to
Desigual boutiques worldwide and Cirque du Soleil's show
boutiques.
Learn more about the new collection here:
< http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Cirque+Soleil+Desigual+
team+create+high+wire+collection+inspired+circus
/5323388/story.html >
{SOURCE: Vancouver Sun}
ZAIA's New Artistic Elements
{Aug.30}
-------------------------------------------------
According to Asia Travel Tips.com, Cirque du Soleil is adding
new artistic elements to its popular ZAIA show at the Venetian
Macau.
# # #
From 1 September 2011, ZAIA will feature new diversified
performances and new characters.
One of the new performances includes a dazzling Hand to Hand act
which requires absolute mastery of balance and control.
Along with the new Hand to Hand performance, another high level
acrobatic element is the Roller Skates. Passing through at a
very high speed on a small table, the performers are sure to
excite and dazzle spectators.
Some new Asian elements have also been introduced, including a
Lion Dance performance.
An astonishing Juggling act is another new element. Wearing
illuminated costumes, the jugglers will astound audiences with
their skills.
# # #
Read the full article here:
< http://www.asiatraveltips.com/news11/308-ZAIA.shtml >
{SOURCE: AsiaTravelTips.com}
Cirque du Soleil... Gift Card?
{Aug.31}
-------------------------------------------------
The Cirque du Soleil Gift Card - A spectacular gift idea
coming soon!
Introducing the Cirque du Soleil Gift Card*! Ideal for
just about any occasion; a birthday gift, a mother's day gift
or a father's day gift, a wedding gift, a graduation gift, an
employee recognition, and more!
Applicable towards Cirque du Soleil show tickets, the Cirque
du Soleil Gift Card* is guaranteed to turn out to be your
most spectacular gift.
Be notified of the release of the Cirque du Soleil Gift Card
by joining Cirque Club (it's free)!
< http://www.cirqueclub.com/ >.
* Applicable only to U.S. show ticket purchases exclusively
at www.cirquedusoleilgift.com.
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
=======================================================================
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 Cirque's website: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/ >.
------------------------------------
BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
------------------------------------
Corteo:
Sevilla, ES -- Sep 7, 2011 to Oct 16, 2011
Paris, FR -- Nov 4, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012
Barcelona, ES -- Jan 19, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012
Amsterdam, NL -- Mar 30, 2012 to Jun 3, 2012
Gijón, ES -- Jul 25, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012
Zurich, CH -- Sep 7, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Antwerp, BE -- Nov 2, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012
Koozå:
Osaka, JPN -- Aug 4, 2011 to Nov 6, 2011
Nagoya, JPN -- Nov 23, 2011 to Jan 22, 2012
Fukuoka, JPN -- Feb 9, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012
Ovo:
Calgary, AB -- Sep 7, 2011 to Oct 9, 2011
Mexico City, MX -- Oct 30, 2011 to Nov 20, 2011
Santa Monica, CA -- Jan 20, 2012 to Mar 25, 2012
Portland, OR -- TBA
Brisbane, AU -- TBA
Sydney, AU -- TBA
Melbourne, AU -- TBA
Totem:
Toronto, ON -- Aug 11, 2011 to Oct 9, 2011
San Francisco, CA -- Oct 28, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011
London, UK -- Jan 6, 2010 to Feb 5, 2012
San Jose, CA -- Mar 2, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012
Atlanta, GA -- May 8, 2012 to Jun 17, 2012
Varekai:
São Paulo, BR -- Sep 15, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011
Rio De Janeiro, BR -- Dec 8, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012
Belo Horizonte, BR -- Jan 18, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012
Brasilia, BR -- Feb 22, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012
Recife, BR -- Mar 29, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012
Salvador, BR -- May 3, 2012 to May 27, 2012
Curitiba, BR -- Jun 7, 2012 to Jul 1, 2012
Porto Alegre, BR -- Jul 11, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012
Buenos Aires, AR -- Aug 17, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012
Santiago, CL -- Sep 28, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012
------------------------------------
ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues
------------------------------------
Saltimbanco:
Asia-Pacific
------------
Auckland, NZ -- Aug 25, 2011 to Sep 4, 2011
Russia & Beyond
----------------
Shanghai, CN -- Sep 21, 2011 to Sep 25, 2011
Ekaterinburg, RU -- Oct 15, 2011 to Oct 23, 2011
Kazan, RU -- Oct 26, 2011 to Oct 30, 2011
Moscow, RU -- Nov 3, 2011 to Nov 13, 2011
St. Petersburg, RU -- Nov 16, 2011 to Nov 21, 2011
Kiev, UA -- Nov 27, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Vilnius, LT -- Dec 15, 2011 to Dec 17, 2011
Riga, LV -- Dec 21, 2011 to Dec 23, 2011
Tallin, EE -- Dec 28, 2011 to Dec 30, 2011
Graz, AT -- Feb 22, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012
Malmoö, SE -- TBA
Alegría:
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
Malaga, ES -- Dec 1, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Santiago, ES -- Dec 7, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011
Zaragoza, ES -- Dec 14, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011
Lisbon, PT -- Dec 21, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012
Granada, ES -- Jan 11, 2011 to Jan 15, 2012
Bilbao, ES -- Jan 18, 2012 to Jan 22, 2012
Toulouse, FR -- Jan 25, 2012 to Feb 29, 2012
Nantes, FR -- Feb 1, 2012 to Feb 5, 2012
Lyon, FR -- Feb 23, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012
Toulon, FR -- Feb 29, 2012 to Mar 4, 2012
Nice, FR -- Mar 7, 2012 to Mar 11, 2012
Montpellier, FR -- Mar 14, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012
Strasbourg, FR -- Mar 21, 2012 to Mar 25, 2012
Manchester, UK -- Apr 4, 2012 to Apr 7, 2012
Glasgow, UK -- Apr 11, 2012 to Apr 15, 2012
Birmingham, UK -- Apr 18, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012
Dublin, IE -- Apr 25, 2012 to Apr 29, 2012
Hambgurg, DE -- May 30, 2012 to TBA
Hanover, DE -- Jun 6, 2012 to TBA
Nuremberg, DE -- Jun 13, 2012 to TBA
Quidam:
Hartford, CT -- Aug 31, 2011 to Sep 4, 2011
Amherst, MA -- Sep 7, 2011 to Sep 11, 2011
State College, PA -- Sep 14, 2011 to Sep 18, 2011
Fort Wayne, IN -- Sep 21, 2011 to Sep 25, 2011
Hartford, CT -- Sep 28, 2011 to Oct 2, 2011
Reading, PA -- Oct 5, 2011 to Oct 9, 2011
Pittsburgh, PA -- Oct 12, 2011 to Oct 16, 2011
Milwaukee, WI -- Oct 19, 2011 to Oct 23, 2011
Philadelphia, PA -- Nov 10, 2011 to Nov 13, 2011
Washington, DC -- Nov 16, 2011 to Nov 20, 2011
Fayetteville, NC -- Nov 23, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011
Greenville, SC -- Nov 30, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Hampton, VA -- Dec 7, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011
Worcester, MA -- Dec 14, 2011 to TBA
Toronto, ON -- Dec 20, 2011 to TBA
Dralion:
Duluth, GA -- Aug 31, 2011 to Sep 4, 2011
Tupelo, MS -- Sep 6, 2011 to Sep 8, 2011
Huntsville, AL -- Sep 10, 2011 to Sep 11, 2011
New Orleans, LA -- Sep 14, 2011 to Sep 17, 2011
Orlando, FL -- Sep 21, 2011 to Sep 25, 2011
Tallahassee, FL -- Sep 28, 2011 to Oct 2, 2011
Birmingham, AL -- Oct 5, 2011 to Oct 9, 2011
Gainesville, FL -- Oct 11, 2011 to Oct 13, 2011
San Juan, PR -- Oct 19, 2011 to Oct 23, 2011
Cypress, TX -- Nov 17, 2011 to Nov 20, 2011
Beaumont, TX -- Nov 23, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011
Houston, TX -- Nov 30, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Lafayette, LA -- Dec 6, 2011 to Dec 8, 2011
Bossier City, LA -- Dec 10, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011
Little Rock, AK -- Dec 13, 2011 to Dec 14, 2011
Montreal, QC -- Dec 18, 2011 to Dec 30, 2011
Quebec, QC -- Jan 3, 2012 to Jan 8, 2012
Kingston, ON -- Jan 11, 2012 to Jan 15, 2012
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour:
2011
----
Montreal, QC -- Oct 2, 2011 & Oct 3, 2011
Ottawa, ON -- Oct 7 & Oct 8, 2011
Hamilton, ON -- Oct 12 & Oct 13, 2011
Detroit, MI -- Oct 15 & Oct 16, 2011
London, ON -- Oct 18 & Oct 19, 2011
Toronto, ON -- Oct 21, 2011 to Oct 23, 2011
Winnipeg, MB -- Oct 26 & Oct 27, 2011
Saskatoon, SK -- Oct 29 & Oct 30, 2011
Edmonton, AB -- Nov 1 & Nov 2, 2011
Vancouver, BC -- Nov 4, 2011 to Nov 6, 2011
Seattle, WA -- Nov 9 & Nov 10, 2011
Spokane, WA -- Nov 12 & Nov 13, 2011
Euguene OR -- Nov 15 & Nov 16, 2011
Portland, OR -- Nov 18 to Nov 20, 2011
Salt Lake City, UT -- Nov 28, 2011
Las Vegas, NV -- Dec 3, 2011 to Dec 27, 2011
Phoenix, AZ -- Dec 30 & Dec 31, 2011
2012
----
Boise, ID -- Jan 3 & Jan 4, 2012
Denver, CO -- Jan 6 to Jan 8, 2012
Sacramento, CA -- Jan 10 & Jan 11, 2012
San Jose, CA -- Jan 13 to Jan 15, 2012
Oakland, CA -- Jan 17 & Jan 18, 2012
San Diego, CA -- Jan 21 & Jan 22, 2012
Anaheim, CA -- Jan 24 & Jan 25, 2012
Los Angeles, CA -- Jan 27 to Jan 29, 2012
St. Louis, MO -- Feb 7 & Feb 8, 2012
Houston, TX -- Feb 10 to Feb 12, 2012
New Orleans, LA -- Feb 15 & Feb 16, 2012
Tulsa, OK -- Feb 18 & Feb 19, 2012
Kansas City, MO -- Feb 21 & Feb 22, 2012
Indianapolis, IN -- Feb 24 & Feb 25, 2012
Miami, FL -- Mar 2 & Mar 3, 2012
Jacksonville, FL -- Mar 7, 2012
Raleigh, NC -- Mar 10, 2012
Charlotte, NC -- Mar 13, 2012
Milwaukee, WI -- Mar 16, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012
Montreal -- Mar 20, 2012 to Mar 22, 2012
Quebec City, QC -- Mar 24 & Mar 25, 2012
Minneapolis, MN -- Mar 27 & Mar 28, 2012
Newark, NJ -- Mar 30 & Apr 1, 2012
New York City, NY -- Apr 3, 2012 to Apr 5, 2012
Uniondale, NY -- Apr 7 & Apr 8, 2012
Philadelphia, PA -- Apr 10 & Apr 11, 2012
Pittsburg, PA -- Apr 13, 14 & 15, 2012
State College, PA -- Apr 24 & 25, 2012
Baltimore, MD -- May 5, 2012
Worcester, MA -- May 16 & May 17, 2012
Dayton, OH -- Jun 6 & Jun 7, 2012
Columbus, OH -- Jun 9 & Jun 10, 2012
Austin, TX -- Jun 15, 2012
San Antonio, TX -- Jun 23, 2012
Atlanta, GA -- Jun 29, 2012
Montreal, QC -- Jul 6 & Jul 7, 2012
Washington, DC -- Jul 13, 14 & 15 2012
Cleveland, OH -- Jul 17 & 18, 2012
Chicago, IL -- Jul 20, 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.
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 September 3-7
o November 2
2011 Added Performances:
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 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 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 September 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 August 30 - September 7
o November 15-16
2011 Added Performances:
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: $93.50
2011 Dark Dates:
o October 3
o December 1-12
2011 Added Performances:
o December 28th
o December 31st
ZAIA:
Location: Venetian, Macao (China)
Performs: Every Day, Dark: Wednesday
One to Two Shows Daily - Times Vary
2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 2-11):
o VIP Seating: MOP$ 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-Peak / Peak 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 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 September 13-14
o November 8-12
2011 Added Performances:
o November 27th
o December 26, 31
--------------------------------------
VENUE - Venue & Seasonal Productions
--------------------------------------
IRIS:
Location ///
Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, CA (USA)
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/iris/
tickets/los-angeles.aspx >
Performances ///
Times: Performances are held from Tuesday through
Friday at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm & 8pm (with the
exception of Saturday December 24 at 1pm), and
Sundays at 1pm (with the exception of July 24 & 31
at 6:30pm) and 6:30pm. There are no performances on
Monday.
2011 Dark Dates:
o Septemeber 6, 20, 25, 27
o October 10-19
o November 24
o December 5, 6, 7, 25
Tickets ///
Preview Performances (July 21 - September 24):
o Category Premium - $203.00 USD
o Category 1 - $100.50 USD
o Category 2 - $78.00 USD
o Category 3 - $59.25 USD
o Category 4 - $33.00 USD
Weekday Matinees:
o Category Premium - $253.00 USD
o Category 1 - $123.00 USD
o Category 2 - $93.00 USD
o Category 3 - $68.00 USD
o Category 4 - $43.00 USD
Saturday Matinee & All Evening Performances:
o Category Premium - $253.00 USD
o Category 1 - $133.00 USD
o Category 2 - $103.00 USD
o Category 3 - $78.00 USD
o Category 4 - $43.00 USD
ZARKANA:
Location ///
New York, NY -- Jun 9, 2011 to Sep 4, 2011
Madrid, ES -- Nov 9, 2011 to Jan 1, 2012
Moscow, RU -- Feb 4, 2012 to Apr 8, 2012
Performances ///
Full Schedule:
< http://static01.cirquedusoleil.com/en/~/
media/shows/zarkana/pdf/new-york-schedule.pdf >
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 4-5, 12, 19, 26
o October 3
=======================================================================
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
---------------------------------------
WATERWORKS AT "O" IN LAS VEGAS
{Aug.01}
-------------------------------------------------
"O" creates a world of surealism and romance
AT EVERY GIVEN POINT, THERE ARE AS MANY AS 30 PEOPLE IN THE 1.5-
MILLION-GALLON POOL THAT IS THE CENTERPIECE OF THE "O" THEATER.
An underwater stage may pose some difficulties for pulling off a
perfect show everytime, but with impeccable organization, the crew
behind "O" brings it all together. Created with the elegance of water
in mind "O" at Bellagio celebrates the beauty of this every-changing
element. Each act in "O" seems to move fluidly from one reality to the
next, and the stage itself continually shifts from water to land to
air, bringing a range of talents and performances to one single
seamless show. From a floating ship acting as a plateform for graceful
aerial maneuvers to a high dive situated an astonishing 60 feet above
the stage, diving acrobatics, swimming and daredevilry are
inextricably combined.
Eight of the divers in the pool are the equivalent of stagehands in
full scuba gear. There are "handlers", whose task is to make shure the
performers have access to air at all times; and safety divers,
outfitted with full face masks. Those masks are equipped with with
voice transmission and reception capability and are the main point of
contact for the underwater world.
At any given point, there are as many as 30 people in the 1.5-million-
gallon pool that is the centerpiece of the "O Theatre. Seventeen
synchonized swimmers, executing perfectly orchestrated movements in
tune to both the music and each other. These swimmers add an
unexpected component of dance to this water world. Suprisinglly, the
costumes in "O" are just as detailed as those in other Cirque du
Soleil productions, despite their submergence in water. Transforming
performers into frolicking zebras, macabre aquatic creatures or regal,
masked men in formal atire, the assemblage of characters align with
the surrealistic atmosphere, as they seem to appear from a dream.
Illustrating the beauty of performance art in all its forms, "O" is a
breathtaking example of the infinite possibilities of theater and the
imagination.
GERALDINE CAMPBELL - Reporter Insider magazine
Read the original article here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-07-16-o-waterworks.aspx >
GET A CLOSER LOOK AT IRIS
{Aug.02}
-------------------------------------------------
The synopsis
A poetic phantasmagoria inspired by the world of cinema IRIS explores
this magical medium, as it evolves from black and white to colour in a
world of shadows and light. IRIS transposes into a language of dance
and acrobatics all of cinema's splendor, inventiveness and, above all,
its sense of wonder.
The two young heroes - Buster and Scarlett - find themselves plunged
into a universe that brings to life a succession of cinematic genres.
Their escapades transport the spectator into a kaleidoscope of
movement, moods and images supported by a strong orchestral score
composed by Danny Elfman.
IRIS conjures up a place between motion and picture, light and sound,
that shifts constantly between reality and make-believe. Iris extends
the limits of acrobatics by offering acts of the likes of performance
acrobatics, hand-to-hand, contortion, trampoline, hand-balancing,
trapeze bungee and so much more. By combining dance, acrobatics, live
video, film footage and intractive projections, the show illustrates
both the mechanics of cinema and its extraordinary power to deceive
the eye.
Take a look at our exclusive photo gallery and be the first ones to
catch a glimpse of IRIS:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-04-iris-premiere.aspx >
KÀ MARVELS DISPLAYED AT COMIC-CON
{Aug.05}
-------------------------------------------------
At eye level and above, KÀ at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino is a show
unlike any other on the Las Vegas Strip. "How did they do that?"
frequently echoes from the audience, as spectators bear witness to
scenes crafted with precise choreography, daring acrobatics and a
flurry of movement.
The Massive Theatre
The KÀ Theatre measures a massive Nine Stories and with approximately
300 cues in the show, a completely choreographed show with-in-a-show
is a way to describe what goes on backstage. The adventure starts 51
feet below the stage in the "the pit", where swarms of 195 carpenters,
riggers, lighting technicians and crew members work together with the
precision of a Swiss watch.
The Seven Stages
As much a star of the show as its performers, the seven stages that
make up the performance space inside the KÀ Theatre appear as if from
nowhere and are used to create such varying environments as a beach, a
cliff, and a hideout for evil-doers. The main stage alone, referred to
as the "Sand-Cliff Deck" is an engineering marvel. The 80,000-pound,
50 foot long stage moves from the bottom of the pit, rotates 360
degrees and tilts past 90 degrees, almost reaching the top of the
theatre. One of the most memorable stunts involves a performer falling
nearly 60 feet at over 40 miles per hour - an ingenious combination of
some of the world's largest acrobatic nets and air bags make sure the
teeth-clenching fall always ends in a soft landing.
KÀ Special Appearance at San Diego Comic-Con
These death-defying stunts were witnessed in a totally new setting on
Comic-Con's opening night, Thursday, July 21st, with a dramatic
showdown on the outside walls of PETCO Park in San Diego. Especially
created for the occasion, the outdoor performance took place directly
across the street from the San Diego Convention Center and included a
display of dazzling 3-D projections.
Have a look at these amazing acrobatics:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-07-28-above-ka.aspx >
FLOODING ON VIVA ELVIS
{Aug.09}
-------------------------------------------------
It finally rained in Las Vegas, and we have the water to prove it.
While the cast was enjoying two weeks of rest and relaxation at the
beginning of July, the rest of Viva ELVIS got a taste of what of our
"O" family must feel like every day. Indeed, a very unlikely rainstorm
hit Las Vegas.
The temperature outside may have been in the 90s, but the rain came
down in torrents and the city definitely felt the after-effects.
Streets were flooded, trees toppled into house roofs and the Viva
ELVIS loading dock turned into a mini pool. Luckily, we had all of our
technicians ready and willing to get a little wet, and the water never
made it passed the loading dock door.
Some pants were unfortunately ruined, but really, who needs pants when
the weather is only going to jump back to 100 degrees in less than a
day? All in all, everyone made the most of it and worked hard to avoid
any damages. Our loading dock got an impromptu cleaning and our
technicians got a little impromptu shower.
Take a look at our exclusive photo gallery and see the crew of Viva
ELVIS under-water!
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-05-viva-elvis-flood.aspx >
EXCLUSIVE NEW VIDEOS FROM ZARKANA
{Aug.12}
-------------------------------------------------
Get ready for some exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of Zarkana!
With these three new Zarkana videos, see firsthand the ins and outs of
working on such an awe-inspiring creation.
Pushing Back Acrobatic Limits - Zarkana gravity-defying acrobatic
acts: Philippe Aubertin, Head Coach, reveals just how much the limits
of acrobatics have been pushed back for Zarkana.
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-05-zarkana-videos/zarkana-acrobatic-limits.aspx >
Zarkana - A Taste of the Strange: Meet, Ann-Marie Corbeil, Artistic
director on Zarkana, explains the different inspirations of this odd
experience.
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-05-zarkana-videos/zarkana-surreal.aspx >
Technical Scope of Zarkana: Dave Churchill, Production Technical
Director, talks about the sheer scope of the technical difficulties
and prowess involved in bringing Zarkana to life.
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-05-zarkana-videos/zarkana-big-technical.aspx >
Read the original article here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-05-zarkana-videos.aspx >
LA NOUBA WELCOMES TWO EXCITING ACTS
AND ITS 8 MILLIONTH VISITOR!
{Aug.15}
-------------------------------------------------
La Nouba performing at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida has
recently added two acts to its unforgettable story. Inspired by the
playfullness of childhood, a juggling act aided by a green bird,
features a juggler throwing balls, hoops and clubs in the air in
unprecedented numbers at amazing speeds. This juggler is considered
the best in the world!
And also, to start off the show, a new opening scene with a thrilling
feat involving skipping rope sets the stage for what's to come. This
act gives way to vibrant dance, acrobatics and a steady stream of
solo, duo and group jumps and formations. Two skippers combine artful
moves, exceptional agility and impressive speed. The Skipping Ropes
act brings a new dimension and high energy to the opening of the show.
The speed of their movements is truly unbelievable.
Gabi de Mello Costa - Reporter Insider magazine
Read the original article here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-10-lanouba-8million.aspx >
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT: AN ACROBATS JOURNEY
FROM THE BIG TOPS TO THE BIG TIME
{Aug.19}
-------------------------------------------------
It's hard not to fall in love with The Beatles LOVE at The Mirage.
Cirque du Soleil has certainly engraved its brand on the Strip with
this crowd pleasing and critically acclaimed show based on the
discography of The Beatles. LOVE manages to pay homage to the music of
the famous four Brits through the show's soundtrack while creating a
dynamic, original story full of war, heartbreak and - of course -
love.
On Board From the Very Start
One key performer in LOVE is Katya, whom you can find defying gravity
in numbers such as Something and Here Comes the Sun. As one of LOVE's
original cast members, Katya has been part of the action since Cirque
du Soleil built this show from the ground up back in 2005. "I feel
very priviledged to be a part of LOVE," Katya says "It has been voted
best show in Las Vegas for many years in a row. People from all around
the world come to see it and be part of this unique show that brings
The Beatles' music - songs we all know and love - to life on stage."
Born for the Circus
The opening of LOVE was hardly Katya's first time on stage. The circus
veteran has been in the business since she was practically in diapers,
performing as Snowflake in the Great Moscow Circus at two and a half
years old. Despite being the youngest cast member, she relished her
time onstage. "I think that performing was simply in my blood," she
says "I am the third generation of a great family of Russian circus
performers. I grew up in the circus world, and it's what I knew best
so it seemed like I was destined to follow the family tradition."
For the Long Run
Katya joined Cirque du Soleil in 1990 and was part of the first North
American Tour for Nouvelle Expérience, which had stoped in Vegas
inside the big top in The Mirage Parking lot. Since then, the company
- and Katya - have come a long way, giving a new spin on the idea of
the traditional three-ring circus. "Cirque was one of the first in
North America to change the image of circus to an innovative
theatrical experience." Katya says. "I believe this is what led to
Cirque's huge sucess. They are never afraid to push back the
boundaries and bring performance to a new level, and LOVE is the
perfect example of this."
SHARON KEHOE - Reporter Insider magazine
Read the original article here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-15-love-at-first-sight.aspx >
QUIDAM: ORIGINAL COSTUME SKETCHES
{Aug.22}
-------------------------------------------------
Quidam turned 15 this year! This original production inspired by
surrealist painters such as Delevaux and Magritte was the first to use
everyday clothes into its acrobatic acts. This poetic and meaningful
examination of our own world inspires people to dream and embrace
their individuality. To pay tribute to the original and street
inspired costumes created by Dominique Lemieux, we're opened the
archive coffers and offer a look on the original costume drawings and
the costumes that still perform today.
Read the original article here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-10-quidam-costume-sketches.aspx >
ORIGINAL SALTIMBANCO COSTUME SKETCHES
{Aug.24}
-------------------------------------------------
Saltimbanco is almost 20 years young! This colourful and imaginative
show has been touring the world briging spectators to experience an
allegorical and acrobatic journey into the the heart of the city. The
costumes are as young and vibrant now as they were first created by
Dominique Lemieux. The craftmasnhip is intricate as nearly every
caracter has his own unique costume. The inspiration was drawn from
city life, urbanity and inter-woven relationships. The paradoxes of
urban life is revealed in these unique costumes.
Check out the Original Saltimbanco Costume Sketches at CirqueClub:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2011/2011-08-25-saltimbanco-costumes.aspx >
MJ IMMPORTAL TOUR CHOREOGRAPHERS ANNOUNCED!
{Aug.26}
-------------------------------------------------
A team of 10 diverse choreographers, some of whom worked alongside
Michael Jackson, will contribute their distinctive talents and
understanding of Michael's unique creative choreography to the new
Cirque du Soleil show Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour in
collaboration with the show's Writer and Director Jamie King. The
world premiere of this unique tribute to Michael Jackson's musical
legacy will take place in Montreal on Sunday, October 2, 2011 at Bell
Centre and the show will then travel throughout North America and the
rest of the world.
These high-profile choreographers all have an impressive list of
credits to their name and have, in addition to the work some did with
Michael, they have all worked with many other international stars in
the music industry.
The team of choreographers is comprised of (see bios below):
o) Travis Payne
o) Rich and Tone Talauega
o) Debra Brown
o) Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo
o) Jamal Sims
o) Cloud and Tamara Levinson
o) Mandy Moore
"The creative force of 10 cutting-edge choreographers brings
complexity and depth as we work together with the performers to bring
Michael Jackson's music to life," explains Chantal Tremblay, Director
of Creation of Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour.
With the addition of the 10 choreographers, the creative team of
Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour is the largest ever for a
Cirque du Soleil production.
The other creators include:
Guy Laliberté - Creative Guide
Gilles Ste-Croix - Creative Guide
Chantal Tremblay - Director of Creation
Jamie King - Writer and Director
Carla Kama - Associate Show Director
Kevin Antunes - Musical Designer
Greg Phillinganes - Music Director
Mark Fisher - Set Designer
Michael Curry - Props and Scenic Designer
Zaldy Goco - Costume Designer
Germain Guillemot - Acrobatic Performance Designer
Scott Osgood - Rigging and Acrobatic Equipment Designer
Olivier Goulet - Projection Designer
Martin Labrecque - Lighting Designer
François Desjardins - Sound Designer
Florence Cornet - Makeup Designer
About the show
A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses
audiences in Michael's creative world and literally turns his
signature moves upside down, Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour
unfolds Michael Jackson's artistry before the eyes of the audience.
Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael's
creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence,
soul and inspiration of the King of Pop, celebrating a legacy that
continues to transcend generations.
The Immortal World Tour takes place in a fantastical realm where we
discover Michael's inspirational Giving Tree-a wellspring of
creativity that illuminates for the audience Michael's thoughtful
inner world, offering new paths to express his love for music, dance,
fairy tale and magic, and the fragile beauty of nature.
The underpinnings of The Immortal World Tour are Michael Jackson's
powerful, inspirational music and lyrics-the driving force behind the
show-brought to life with extraordinary power and breathless
intensity. Through unforgettable performances Michael Jackson The
Immortal World Tour underscores Michael's global messages of love,
peace and unity.
CHOREOGRAPHERS
MICHAEL JACKSON - THE IMMORTAL WORLD TOUR
Travis Payne
Twice Emmy-nominated choreographer, director, and producer Travis
Payne is an acknowledged innovator of screen, stage, and song. Born
and raised in Atlanta, Payne's work encompasses some of the most
influential visual and musical moments of contemporary pop culture,
created for and performed by global entertainment icons from Michael
Jackson, Beyonce, Shakira, and Usher to Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, The
Pussycat Dolls' Nicole Scherzinger, and Madonna. Payne was a
collaborator on and off for more than 15 years with the late Michael
Jackson. He served as the co-choreographer with Michael as he prepared
for his series of sold-out shows in London in July 2009 and was the
associate producer on the award winning film, Michael Jackson's This
Is It, documenting those rehearsals. Payne began his career as a
dancer on Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814 World Tour and was soon
choreographing for Jackson and En Vogue as well as Madonna, Sting,
Lenny Kravitz, Paula Abdul, Faith Hill, and Ricky Martin. In addition
to his Emmy Awards, Payne is a two-time recipient of the Music Video
Producers Association Award for Outstanding Achievement in
Choreography, an Obie Award winner, and a four-time winner of the MTV
Video Music Award for Best Choreography. This is his first
collaboration with Cirque du Soleil.
Rich and Tone Talauega
Rich + Tone Talauega are two of the most sought after creative
directors, choreographers, producers, and directors in today's film,
music, TV and commercial industries. As teenagers, Rich + Tone were
discovered by Michael Jackson's choreographer while free-styling at a
club in Oakland, California. Within months of moving to Los Angeles,
Rich + Tone toured with both Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. They
continued to work with Michael over the years on various projects and
were the choreographers chosen to work on the short film for
"Hollywood Tonight" from the posthumous Michael Jackson album,
Michael. Rich + Tone have proven themselves as world class
choreographers, having multiple MTV Award nominations, as well as an
Emmy nomination for Best Choreography. The two are renowned for their
diversified abilities and unique style. Their elite echelon of clients
includes Madonna, Chris Brown, Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani, and
Christina Aguilera to name a few. They have also choreographed for
multiple motion pictures, which include Step Up 3D, StreetDance
Together, Take the Lead. As Producers they brought light to the dance
form Krumping in the critically-acclaimed documentary Rize. Now with
an established production company they are actively taking on new
projects and broadening their horizons. Rich + Tone will be part of a
Cirque du Soleil production for the first time.
Debra Brown
Debra Brown is world renowned for her unique choreographies blending
acrobatics and dance. She joined Cirque du Soleil in 1987 as a
choreographer for We Reinvent the Circus and went on to choreograph
the shows Nouvelle Expérience, Saltimbanco, Alegría, Mystère, Quidam,
"O", La Nouba, Corteo, one act in Zumanity, ZED and Zarkana. She has
also worked with artists and groups from a wide variety of disciplines
including the 1990 Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain (Paris), the
John Corigliano's opera The Ghosts of Versailles, presented at the
Metropolitan Opera in New York and Wagner's Ring Cycle, put on by the
Lyric Opera of Chicago. In 1994, Debra created and produced Apogée, a
50-minute trampoline-based ballet which premiered in Toronto and was
also presented in both Los Angeles and San Francisco at "Passport
'96," an AIDS benefit hosted by Elizabeth Taylor and Magic Johnson. In
1995, she worked with Luciano Pavarotti on the Metropolitan Opera's
production of La Fille du Régiment (The Daughter of the Regiment) in
New York. Debra also choreographed Aerosmith's Jaded video and
energetic performance for the American Music Awards in 2001, as well
as Madonna's Drowned world tour. Debra has worked with major musical
acts such as Shakira, Wyclef Jean, Céline Dion and Madonna. Her film
work includes Catwoman, Van Helsing and Barney's Great Adventure. She
received the Innovative Choreography Award in honour of her
exceptional contribution to choreography and dance at the 14th Bob
Fosse Awards in Los Angeles in 1997. In 2002, she received an Emmy
Award for her choreography of an act created by Cirque du Soleil for
the Academy Awards.
Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo
Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo have contributed their choreography and
directing talents to every genre of the entertainment industry. They
have been featured choreographers for multiple seasons on the hit TV
show So You Think You Can Dance, for which they received an Emmy
nomination. They were the Supervising Choreographers of America's Best
Dance Crew on MTV for multiple seasons and directed the live US tour.
Their work can also be seen on American Idol, the FOX show Mobbed, as
well as the feature film Cobu. Other credits include Christina
Aguilera's Back to Basics Tour, Céline Dion's Taking Chances Tour, as
well as the 2009 Emmy Awards and the season premiere of The Ellen
DeGeneres Show. They have also worked with such artists as Jennifer
Lopez, Ricky Martin and Carrie Underwood. The Dumos travel the globe
as master teacher for the dance conventions, Monsters of Hip Hop,
Shock and Coastal Dance Rage, teaching and inspiring the next
generation of dancers. They are contributing choreographers for Cirque
du Soleil's Viva Elvis and have been invited back for Michael Jackson
THE IMMORTAL World Tour.
Jamal Sims
Jamal Sims has an impressive list of credits as artistic director and
choreographer in many areas including film, television, music videos,
tours and live shows. He has worked with Britney Spears (Circus tour),
Madonna (Sticky and Sweet tour), the Spice Girls and Céline Dion,
among others. In film and television, Jamal has collaborated on
productions that include Step Up, Step Up 2 the Streets and Step Up
3D, Dancing with the Stars (Miley Cyrus), Dancing with the Stars -
Macy's Stars of Dance, Hannah Montana, Get Smart, Hairspray, Footloose
(2011 release) and the 82nd and 83rd Annual Academy Awards. He has
also directed and choreographed one episode of the Web series LXD and
has contributed his talent to music videos for Austin Brown, John
Travolta, Enrique Iglesias, Jennifer Lopez and many more. Jamal is
working on a Cirque du Soleil show for the first time.
Daniel "Cloud" Campos
Internationally renowned dancer, choreographer, actor, and director
Daniel "Cloud" Campos is one of the industry's top artists. A master
of the art of movement, Daniel's ability to transcend space and time
with his effortless prowess has made his work both captivating and
unique. A Florida native, Daniel began his early dance career as
member of the Al Fuentes High Voltage Extreme Acrobatic Dance Team.
Recognized for his work with Madonna (The Re-Invention Tour,
Confessions Tour, Live 8 and Live Earth), Daniel has worked with
several high profile artists such as Shakira, Mariah Carey, Paulina
Rubio, Jennifer Lopez, and Chris Brown. He has numerous film and
television credits including Step Up 3D directed by John Chu, Grace
starring Debbie Allen, Bolden! starring Jackie Earl Haley and Anthony
Mackie, and The Muppets starring Jason Segel and Amy Adams. Commercial
and print credits include works for several national campaigns. He is
also a member of the world famous dance crew Skills Methodz. As a
director, Daniel has made his mark as a rising talent. He has directed
and co-directed several short films including the award-winning short
Heaven Awaits (2005 Filmerica Challenge: Best Cinematography, Best
Editing, Best Audio, Best Editing, Best Horror Film, and the 2005
Grand Prize). Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour will be Daniel's
first collaboration with Cirque du Soleil.
Tamara Levinson
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Tamara Levinson is one of the
highest-ranked American rhythmic gymnasts in history. Although her
competitive career was relatively short, she influenced a generation
of up-and-coming U.S. performers. Levinson then transferred her dance
skills to the New York theatre scene, where she has performed in many
different shows including the popular off-Broadway productions
Fuerzabruta and De La Guarda. She has also danced for several famous
hip-hop musicians. Her credits include Madonna (Drowned, Confessions
and Re-Invention world tours), Gwen Stefani and Avril Lavigne. She was
recently inducted into the USA GYMNASTICS hall of fame. Michael
Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour will be her first collaboration with
Cirque du Soleil.
Mandy Moore
Two-time Emmy Award nominee Mandy Moore is a world-class director,
choreographer and dancer best known for her ground-breaking work on
the global television hit So You Think You Can Dance. Mandy's
contemporary and jazz choreography has been performed on television,
in film and on concert and theater stages around the world. Her long
list of credits include: Did You Hear About The Morgans with Hugh
Grant, Austin Powers with Mike Meyers, American Idol, The Drew Carey
Show, Malcolm in the Middle, That '70s Show, Dancing With The Stars,
So You Think You Can Dance (where she also appears as a Guest Judge),
Nickelodeon's Fresh Beat Band, Céline Dion's Taking Chances concert
tour and the Los Angeles Ballet's innovative New Wave LA program.
Mandy also directed and choreographed a crowd-pleasing theater
production of The Wedding Singer and she continues to teach in Los
Angeles at Edge Performing Arts Center and internationally for the
JUMP dance convention, private studios and independent performers.
Mandy Moore is choreographing for Cirque du Soleil for the first time.
ORIGINAL DRALION COSTUME SKETCHES
{Aug.29}
-------------------------------------------------
Dralion has completed over 4000 shows in its 11 year existence! Over 7
million spectators have enjoyed its unique blend of eastern and
western influences. A driving force behind the show rests upon Eastern
philosophy's quest to achieve the delicate balance between human and
nature. The primary inspiration sources for the costumes were drawn
from China, India and Africa. Each of the four elements and its
associated family are represented by their own unique color. Blue is
identified with air, green symbolizes water, red is for fire, and
ochre represents the earth. We invite you to take a look at the
original sketches Designer François Barbeau and the costumes that
still perform to this day.
Check out the original costume sketches at CirqueClub:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/
2011-08-25-saltimbanco-costumes.aspx >
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
---[ ALEGRIA ]---
{Aug.17}
Thank you North America! 752 shows in 90 cities and many
beautiful memories which we will cary with us on the road
ahead.
PIC [1] /// < http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/
296327_10150337596725746_38543815745_9539648_
2657028_s.jpg >
{Aug.05}
30 fantastic photos of our training and opening night in
Charlotte, NC!
LINK /// < http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/
08/03/2501642/alegria.html >
---[ CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ]---
{Aug.29}
SAFEWALLS, an art project curated by Cirque du Soleil.
FOTO [7] /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?s
et=a.10150207785347501.376589.144074117500&type=1 >
---[ DRALION ]---
{Aug.22}
Dralion is returning from tour break and very excited about our
upcoming shows in Atlanta and Duluth! In the meantime, meet our
lead male vocalist Cristian Zabala!
LINK /// < http://www.thegavoice.com/index.php/aae/theater/
3128-cirque-show-features-openly-gay-lead-singer >
{Aug.30}
Good morning Atlanta! Stay tuned as Stacey Elgin from Good Day
Atlanta Road Warrior is visiting Dralion in Gwinnett Arena on
Wednesday, August 31st! Don't miss Stacey trying the Aerial
Hoop and Trampoline!
LINK /// < http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/subindex/
good_day_atl/road_warrior >
---[ LA NOUBA ]---
{Aug.01}
La Nouba is Voted as Best Entertainment Experience by Orlando
Magainze
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.10150250650324902.330566.16315569901&type=1 >
{Aug.16}
We Celebrate our 6,000 performance!!
PHOTO [25] /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.10150262590424902.334391.16315569901&type=1 >
---[ MJ THE IMMORTAL ]---
{Aug.03}
Ladies! Get your EXCLUSIVE Michael Jackson THE IMMPORTAL World
Tour limited-edition tee now (it won't be sold at the show!)
BONUS: Facebook fans get 10% off with this coupon code;
MJ10CDS.
LINK /// < http://on.fb.me/nxf5BU >
{Aug.08}
Hear what Zaldy Goco, designer, has to say about his experience
in making the costumes for Michael Jackson The Immortal World
Tour and catch a glimpse of what he is up to...
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/oeOOO6 >
{Aug.09}
Stay hydrated this summer with your EXCLUSIVE Michael Jackson
THE IMMORTAL World Tour limited-edition reusable bottle -
available exclusively online for a limited time (it won't be
sold at the show!) BONUS: Facebook fans get 10% off with this
coupon code: MJ10CDS.
LINK /// < http://on.fb.me/nxf5BU >
{Aug.10}
Production Journal Day 1
LINK /// < http://youtu.be/93Jg1UeP0CA >
{Aug.11}
Production Journal Day 2 - Greg Phillinganes runs into Kevin
Antunes, Musical Designer for the show. They talk about how
they're working together to blend Michael's voice with the live
band for fans to experience something they have never heard
before.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hv9DAiZ5e64 >
{Aug.12}
Production Journal Day 3 - Greg Phillinganes introduces Jory
Steinberg, background singer on the show. Sporting a vintage
Michael Jackson t-shirt, Jory, shares a bit about herself and
her return "home" to Canada to join the show.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlteCZY1Cn8 >
{Aug.15}
Meet some of the cast from Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World
Tour by Cirque du Soleil as they explore the streets of
Montreal
LINK /// < http://www.vimeo.com/25303373 >
{Aug.16}
Production Journal Day 4 - In today's installment, Kevin
Antunes gives us a glimpse of the studio and sound gear
assembled especially for him to work creating the 360' surround
sound for the show, from his unprecedented access to Michael
Jackson's master recordings.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6XS0xLV0zM >
{Aug.17}
Production Journal Day 5 - Greg Phillinganes is excited to
share that, for the first time, hornes will be part of a
Michael Jackson band. Saxophonist Mike Phillips and trumpeter
Keyon Harrold give us a little sample of what they can throw
down.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7gxEZdNe14 >
{Aug.18}
Production Journal Day 6 - Next up in our series: Kevin Antunes
elaborates on how his work and the work of Musical Director
Greg Phillinganes, along with the live band, blend together to
make the show.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIZmb9GS2LU >
{Aug.19}
Production Journal Day 7 - An excited Greg Phillanganes coming
to you from "eighty four hundred" (Cirque du Soleil Int'l
Headquarters' address) introduces three new band members: Tina
Guo, Fred White and Taku Hirano. Each share what they're
brining to the band's musical range.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wql4wV_jLv4 >
{Aug.22}
Production Journal Day 8 - Greg Phillanganes introduces 32-year
veteran drummer Jonathan "Sugar foot" Moffat who kicked-off his
professional career with Michael Jackson and the Jacksons
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BSBcEKMJ_4 >
{Aug.23}
Production Journal Day 10 - Further insights from Kevin
Antunes, Musical Designer, for MJ The Immportal World Tour, on
working with the band for the show.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKAzYoUD2bM >
---[ MYSTERE ]---
{Aug.04}
It's Mystery Character Time: Writer/Director Franco Dragone
describes this part of Mystère this way: "Human dreams taking
flight, borne by the hopes of a new millennium." Who are they?
The rest of the description goes: "The pendulum movement
emphasizes that time continues but never stops passing. The
benefits outweigh the risks, for the adventure is the reward."
So, who are they? AERIAL HIGHBAR.
{Aug.23}
Mystère animation at Magic.
FOTO [14] /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.10150339243194919.391104.18155469918&type=1 >
---[ OVO ]---
{Aug.03}
Ovo performed live this morning on ABC7 Chicago's Windy City
LIVE - you can view the performance and listen to the interview
by Artistic Director Marjon Van Grunsven!
LINK /// < http://windycitylive.com/episodes/
Cirque-Du-Soleils-OVO/8286350 >
{Aug.23}
Backstage at OVO, Part 1:
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAV-LD0STJ8 >
{Aug.26}
Calgary offers you the chance to win tickets and a backstage
tour on September 16th!
LINK /// < http://www.visitcalgary.com/cirque-du-soleil-ovo?
ref=home%2Ffeature%2Fcirque >
{Aug.29}
Cirque du Soleil's Grand Chapiteau began taking shape yesterday
in Calgary's Stampede Park for the big opening on September 7.
CTV Calgary was there!
LINK /// < http://calgary.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/
20110828/CGY_cirque_ovo_110828/20110828/
?hub=CalgaryHome >
{Aug.31}
Calgary says hello to Cirque du Soleil's OVO
LINK /// < http://www.calgarysun.com/2011/08/28/
calgary-says-hello-to-cirque-du-soleils-ovo >
---[ QUIDAM ]---
{Aug.18}
Take a sneak peek at Quidam in Chocolate City!
LINK /// < http://www.abc27.com/video >
{Aug.19}
Review of Quidam in Hershey, PA by MODE Magazine
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/notes/harrisburgpa/
cirque-du-soleil-quidam-at-hershey-giant-
center-aug-18-21-2011/10150263588915994 >
---[ SALTIMBANCO ]---
{Special}
Behind the Scenes of Saltimbanco Webisode Series:
{May.03} Episode #1: "Australian Premiere"
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCSFKD-jJNg >
{May.17} Episode #2: "Costume & Makeup"
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=litMKf9Ej8A >
{Jun.03} Episode #3: "How Cirque Comes Together
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Qo1WSaCwzs >
{Jun.23} Episode #4: "Life in Cirque"
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sh2rPmvEWHA >
{Jul.05} Episode #5: "The Creative Side of Cirque"
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBVQ5U_9gUg >
{Jul.26} Episode #6: "The Music of Cirque"
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQ9CCtuiD7M >
{Aug.03} Episode #7: "The Show Goes On"
VIDEO /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSY5ewm49n8 >
{Aug.16}
An inside look at our Costume Wonderland
LINK /// < http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/arts/
5441079/Dressing-the-Cirque-du-Soleil >
{Aug.23}
Cirque du Soleil's oldest running show comes to NZ
LINK /// < http://www.3news.co.nz/Cirque-du-Soleils-longest-
running-show-comes-to-NZ/tabid/368/articleID/
223082/Default.aspx >
{Aug.25}
Excellent review by the NZ Herald on Saltimbanco Opening Night
in Auckland!!!
LINK /// < http://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/news/
article.cfm?c_id=1501119&objectid=10747490 >
{Aug.26}
Saltimbanco coming to Vector Arena
LINK /// < http://tvnz.co.nz/entertainment-news/saltimbanco-
coming-vector-arena-1-45-video-4367289 >
---[ TOTEM ]---
{Aug.04}
Thinking of a career at Cirque du Soleil? Why not?
LINK /// < http://www.metronews.ca/toronto/comment/article/
934048--circus-career-why-not >
{Aug.04}
Review: Laveau comes full cirque
LINK /// < http://www.torontosun.com/2011/08/03/
leveau-comes-full-cirque >
{Aug.09}
Review: Inside Toronto article - Cirque du Soleil's big top
pitched in the port lands
LINK /// < http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/
1053040--cirque-du-soleil-s-big-top-pitched-
in-the-port-lands >
{Aug.11}
Beautiful Opening of TOTEM last night in Toronto!
FOTO [31] /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.250887594931938.67594.111798252174207&type=1 >
{Aug.11}
Review: News Hour New Cirque Show / Global Toronto
LINK /// < http://www.globaltoronto.com/video/new+cirque+
show/video.html?v=2087320423&p=5&s=dd#video >
{Aug.12}
Review: Cirque du Soleil's Totem is a dazzling history of
humankind
LINK /// < http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/
cirque-du-soleils-totem-is-a-dazzling-history-
of-humankind/article2126817/ >
{Aug.13}
Review: New Cirque show takes acrobatics to another level
LINK /// < http://www.postcity.com/Eat-Shop-Do/Do/August-
2011/Cirque-goes-big-under-Grand-Chapiteau/index.php >
{Aug.18}
Review: Totem is Cirque du Soleil's most entertaining show in
years!
LINK /// < http://www.toronto.com/article/695271--review-
totem-is-cirque-du-soleil-s-most-entertaining-show-
in-years >
{Aug.24}
Crystal Ladies live performance on Canada AM this morning!
LINK /// < http://www.ctv.ca/canadaAMPlayer/
index.html?video=521686 >
---[ VIVA ELVIS ]---
{Aug.02}
Here's a video trivia question from Kevin Owens, our head of
audio here at Viva ELVIS!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php
?v=10100754043612439 >
{Aug.04}
Here's the answer to Kevin's video trivia question about
speakers!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php
?v=10100756448577869 >
{Aug.06}
Check out the cover story and great photos in this week's Las
Vegas Magazine!
LINK /// < http://lasvegasmagazine.com/gallery-viva-elvis/ >
{Aug.16}
Pictures from Elvis Week at VIVA ELVIS
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.10150252451824109.324236.167136344108&type=1 >
{Aug.19}
Check out this behind the scenes video from our friends at
VEGAS.com
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/vegas#p/u/2/JTTnKt1VVDo >
---[ ZAIA ] ---
{Aug.11}
Hello ZAIA Fans!! This fanspage will be our official ZAIA
fanspage from September 2011. There will have some surprises on
the page by then!
LINK /// < www.facebook.com/ZaiaCirque >
---[ ZARKANA ]---
{Aug.03}
Zarkana premiere photos!
FOTO [33] /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.214342041951026.62362.139797212738843&type=1 >
{Aug.24}
Zarkana themed food and beverages around NYC
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/notes/zarkana-by-cirque-
du-soleil/zarkana-themed-food-beverages-around-
nyc/224885374230026 >
{Aug.30}
Get a free download today only of the Ralphi Rosario remix of
"Whenever" from our show at MP3.com!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/ZRemix >
---[ ZUMANITY ]---
{Aug.08}
We recently asked some audience members to describe Zumanity
for us! Here's what they had to say!
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coUNSZVtpTc >
{Aug.16}
Sexy fun at the ZU
FOTOS /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.10150284805583847.354583.13931088846&type=1 >
{Aug.25}
Ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at our sexy Midnight Bath
act? Here our very talented artists Willie and Agnes take Vegas
Minute's Denise Pernula on a wild ride in the tub!
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/vegas >
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts at a Glance about Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History
---------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------
{"O"}
o) Did you know it takes 1,450 gallons of fuel each year for the fire
acts?
o) Did you know each carousel horse in "O" weighs more than 900 lbs?
o) Did you know the clown house weighs more than 7,000 lbs?
o) Did you know that 1,800 towels are needed every night to do 2
performances of the show?
o) Did you know all the props in the show are driven by performers or
technicians? No tracks in the water are used to bring pieces on
and off.
o) Did you know that each performer in "O" has an average of 5
different looks they wear on stage? there are 3 to 5 copies of
each of the costume items. With 85 performers in the show, this
adds to thousands of costume pieces, wigs, masks, headpieces, etc.
{Dralion}
o) Over 5,000 meters (16,000 feet) of fabric were used in creating
Dralion's costumes. The fabrics come from regions around the
globe, including China, the United States, Italy, France, England
and Quebec.
o) To create the texture on the chest plate on the singer's Costume
in Dralion, bugs were glued on and then molded into different
shapes.
o) Dralion has close to 1500 costume pieces including shoes, hats and
accessories.
o) Over 300 pairs of shoes are cleaned and painted by hand every week
at Dralion.
{IRIS}
o) Did you know: around 2,000 brushes have been distributed to the 72
artists in IRIS to complete their make-up kits? That's 28 per
person!
o) IRIS features 8,300 square feet of floor surface, but that's the
tip of the iceberg.
o) Did you know that close to 50 people are involved in costume
creations for IRIS? They develop all of the 200 costumes needed
for the show.
o) All together, the costume team for IRIS worked around 70,000 hours
and they sewed more than one kilometer of fabric to deliver all
the costumes.
o) In order to prepare the space for the performances, IRIS required
digging 40 feet underneath Kodak Theatre to install massive stage
lifts.
o) Jean-Francois Bouchard, Director of Creation for IRIS, joined
Cirque du Soleil in 1998 to create the interior design of the
boutique connected to Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba theater in
Orlando.
{KA}
o) The Counselor's Son character has the most complex make-up
application, involving 33 steps and 8 different brushes, 4
sponges, and 1 powder puff.
o) Did you know the Sand Cliff Deck and Gantry Crane have a combined
weight of approximately 280,000 pounds? That's 140 tons!
{La Nouba}
o) La Nouba celebrated its 8 millionth guest on Saturday,
July 16, 2011 at 6:00pm
o) Did you know there are 10 bikes in La Nouba? 1 upside down bike,
1 blue bike on the stage during the high wire act, 1 penny
farthing on the high wire, 3 bikes for Les Cons (the fourth one
rides a scooter), 2 stunt bikes (mountain and BMX), 1 Little
Walker's mini bike AND 1 unicycle on the back wall.
{Mystere}
o) The glue used on the Chinese Poles to give the artists a better
grip when performing is made from 15 pounds of rosin rock and 8
bottles of castor oil melted together in a large pot. We go
through 90 pounds of rosin rock and 768 ounces of castor oil per
year!
o) 22 miles of bungee cord are used in the show.
{Quidam}
o) There are approx 250 costumes, 500 costume accessories and 200 to
300 shoes in Quidam.
o) Each Quidam artist has between 2 and 7 costumes
o) The Quidam tour travels with washers and dryers to allow the
wardrobe staff to care for the costumes. All costumes are washed
daily.
o) Eighty percent of the fabric used in Quidam's costumes is custom
dyed. These fabrics are usually white and are hand-dyed and
printed in custom colors in the Montreal costume workshop.
{The Beatles LOVE}
o) The Trains of Light, which are operated manually by technicians,
drive within inches of a 20 foot drop. To ensure safety, the
Trains have been fitted with a custom breaking system at the rear
that will automatically engage if it senses the front of the train
dropping off the stage.
o) The smallest prop in the show is Sgt. Pepper's whistle!
{Saltimbanco}
o) Most artists in Saltimbanco have three to five costumes each which
can include up to 12 individual pieces.
o) There are more than 80 different kinds of buttons that are used to
maintain the costumes on the Saltimbanco Arena tour.
o) Over 2,500 costume items travel with Saltimbanco from city to city
in more than 50 road cases and one complete van to bring
everything they need to destination.
o) There are more than 250 pairs of custom-made shoes for
Saltimbanco. Shoes for the Chinese pole act are repainted before
each performance.
{Viva ELVIS}
o) The drummers in our live band go through 7,550 drum sticks and
2,500 drum heads a year, while the guitarists use 7,000 guitar
strings every year.
{ZED}
o) Our high wire artist Pedro Carrillo holds an amazing Guinness
world record for "The most consecutive turns skipping with a rope
on a high-wire"
{ZUMANITY}
o) Did you know 136 yards of silk is required to make one of the
large red capes? We rotate capes for the show and nine are always
kept active. That means more than 1,200 yards of silk is needed to
keep the show running at any given time.
o) 3,460 hand strung beads are used for ONE Dance Bead costume!
o) 23 different types of stones for a total of 3,316 stones are used
on the bra cubs for the La Muerte bra!
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
------------------------------------
* Sep.01.2003 -- Tapis Rouge CD released (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Sep.01.2003 -- "Parade of Colors" Book Published
* Sep.01.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Berlin, DE
* Sep.01.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Kamloops, BC
* Sep.02.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Albany, NY
* Sep.03.1987 -- Le Cirque Réinventé opened Las Angeles
* Sep.03.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Boston
* Sep.03.2009 -- Ovo opened Toronto, ON
* Sep.03.2010 -- Quidam opened Lima, PE
* Sep.04.2002 -- Saltimbanco opened Brussels
* Sep.04.2008 -- Koozå opened Boston
* Sep.05.2005 -- Cirque held 5th Run Away with Cirque du Soleil 5k
Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk at Paseo Verde Park
* Sep.06.2005 -- "O" CD released in US (CDS Musique)
* Sep.06.2005 -- La Nouba CD released in US (CDS Musique)
* Sep.06.2005 -- Mystère (Live) CD released in US (CDS Musique)
* Sep.08.1985 -- 1984 Tour opened Montréal
* Sep.08.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Santa Monica
* Sep.08.1995 -- Alegría opened Boston
* Sep.08.2005 -- Dralion opened Zurich
* Sep.08.2006 -- Corteo opened Boston
* Sep.08.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Munich, DE
* Sep.08.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Victoria, BC
* Sep.09.1988 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Washington DC
* Sep.09.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened in Boston
* Sep.09.1999 -- Saltimbanco opened in Perth
* Sep.09.2005 -- Quidam opened Singapore
* Sep.09.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Syracuse, NY
* Sep.09.2009 -- Name of CirqueVaudeville Released [Banana Shpeel]
* Sep.09.2010 -- OVO opened Washington, DC
* Sep.11.1990 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened San Jose
* Sep.11.2008 -- Quidam opened Barcelona, Spain
* Sep.12.1986 -- Le Magie Continue opened Toronto
* Sep.12.1997 -- Alegría opened Vienna
* Sep.12.2003 -- Varekai opened Los Angeles
* Sep.12.2005 -- Zumanity celebrated its 1000th performance
* Sep.13.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Chicago
* Sep.13.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Zurich
* Sep.14.2001 -- Quidam opened Zurich
* Sep.14.2007 -- Alegría opened Curitiba, Brazil
* Sep.14.2010 -- Banana Shpeel opened San Francisco, CA
* Sep.15.1995 -- Saltimbanco opened Düsseldorf
* Sep.15.2002 -- Fire Within premiered in Canada [7:00pm EST/Global TV]
* Sep.15.2005 -- Name of "Cirque MGM" released - KÀ
* Sep.15.2008 -- Mystère celebrated 7,000th performance [9:30pm]
* Sep.15.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Milan, IT
* Sep.15.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Tacoma, WA
* Sep.16.2004 -- Varekai opened Washington DC
* Sep.16.2008 -- Corteo opened Ottawa
* Sep.16.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Amherst, NY
* Sep.16.2010 -- Koozå opened Calgary, AB
* Sep.17.1998 -- Alegría opened Zurich
* Sep.17.1998 -- Quidam opened McLean
* Sep.17.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena Tour Begins in Europe
* Sep.17.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Stockholm, SE
* Sep.17.2009 -- Dralion opened Monterrey, Mexico
* Sep.17.2010 -- Varekai opened Zurich, CH
* Sep.18.2009 -- Quidam opened Brasilia, Brazil
* Sep.19.2002 -- Varekai opened Philadelphia
* Sep.19.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Zurich
* Sep.20.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Santa Monica
* Sep.20.2001 -- Saltimbanco opened Yokohama
* Sep.20.2003 -- Zumanity Gala Premiere (Previews End)
* Sep.21.2001 -- Saltimbanco opened in Yokohama
* Sep.21.2001 -- Alegría celebrated 2,500th performance [Brisbane]
* Sep.21.2003 -- Cirque wins Outstanding Nonfiction Program award
* Sep.21.2004 -- "Le Best of..." CD Released (CDS Musique)
* Sep.22.2002 -- Cirque lost Emmys (nominated Jul.18.2002)
Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special - Alegría
Outstanding Choreography for 74th Academy
Awards - Debra Brown
* Sep.22.2005 -- Varekai opened Hartford
* Sep.22.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Zargoza, ES
* Sep.22.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Spokane, WA
* Sep.23.1999 -- Dralion opened in Santa Monica
* Sep.23.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Helsinki, FI
* Sep.23.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Rochester, NY
* Sep.24.2008 -- Cirque2009 tickets go on sale!
* Sep.25.2005 -- Corteo opened Minneapolis
* Sep.25.1996 -- Quidam opened in Santa Monica
* Sep.25.2002 -- Cirquedusoleil.com won four awards for its website:
"Best of Show", "Experience", "Content & Information",
"Experimental"
* Sep.25.2008 -- Varekai opened Vienna, Austria
* Sep.26.2002 -- Quidam opened Cleveland
* Sep.27.1994 -- Alegría CD released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Sep.27.2001 -- Dralion opened in Philadelphia
* Sep.27.2003 -- Cirque du Soleil HQ Open House
* Sep.28.2003 -- Cirque du Soleil HQ Open House
* Sep.28.2006 -- Quidam opened St. Louis
* Sep.29.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Granada, ES
* Sep.30.1997 -- Quidam opened Denver
* Sep.30.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Turku, FI
* Sep.30.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened State College, PA
* Sep.30.2009 -- Guy Laliberté, Cosmonaut!
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
o) "The KÀ App for Android - a Quick Review"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) "CirqueCon Update #6 - We Have a Group Meal!"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
o) "Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation"
Part 1 of 4 - "The Meeting of Two Worlds"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
"The KÀ App for Android - a Quick Review"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
On Tuesday, August 17th, a tweet from Cirque du Soleil regarding a new
app resource came across my mobile phone that piqued my general
interest. Usually I ignore those messages because although Google's
Android is one of the most popular mobile phone platforms world-wide
now, Cirque du Soleil and its mobile partners seem to develop only for
the iOS platform, the platform for Apple's iPhone and iPad series of
devices. What, we on Android are second-class citizens? Not so! So
when this tweet suggested there was indeed a Cirque app now available
for the Android platform...
"@Cirque: We've got 3 options for KA apps now! iPad
(http://t.co/VTM3vUo), Android (http://t.co/VTM3vUo) & iPhone
(http://t.co/kH9cY5q)"
As an owner of an HTC EVO, I took quite an interest and downloaded the
app.
Here's what I found:
Hitting the Menu key on your phone brings up four options: SHARE THIS
APP, GENERAL SETTINGS, SEARCH and ACCOUNTS.
SHARE THIS APP gives you the option to shave via SMS, Twitter or
Facebook. SEARCH brings up a general search bar. ACCOUNTS will allow
you to sign-in to either your Facebook or Twitter profiles (no doubt
for ease of sharing), and it's relatively simple to set-up. And
GENERAL SETTINGS contains your basic operations, such as turning
on/off: push notifications, direct messaging, email updates, and
location services.
And if you happen to be on another page, the "Share this App" button
becomes HOME.
On the Homescreen you have: CIRQUE NEWS, VIDEOS, PHOTOS, FAN WALL,
ABOUT KA, KA CHARACTERS, QR SCANNER, MY PROFILE and CIRQUECLUB on the
first home screen, and TOP USERS, FAVORITES and COPYRIGHT on the
second home screen as options to choose from.
CIRQUE NEWS - is not what I expected at first blush. I thought perhaps
this would be a RSS feed from CirqueClub or some other aggregation
with Cirque-based headlines available to read. What it is, however, is
a tweetdeck featuring all tweets where Cirque du Soleil (@Cirque) is
mentioned, or tweets @Cirque themselves sends out into the
twitterverse. Options to select ALL TWEETS, OFFICIAL and MENTIONS
exist for further organization. Although just incorporating twitter
feeds, this is a nice feature to have if you don't have a Twitter
account.
VIDEOS - at the time of review, the video's section of the app only
has four options to choose from: "Inside KA at G4", "Make-Up
Tutorial", "Extreme Engineering" and "Trailer". The "Inside KA at G4"
option opens up two videos: "Airbag Training" and "Battle Wall".
"Make-up Tutorial" opens up a native video called "KA: All Made Up".
"Extreme Engineering" opens up a video on the engineering behind KA.
And "Trailer" is, of course, the official Cirque du Soleil trailer for
the show.
PHOTOS - this section offers a number of photo categories for you to
choose from, opening up your selection natively in the app:
CHARACTERS, CREATIVE STORYBOARDS, BACKSTAGE, LIVE AT MGM GRAND, and
SCENES FROM KA.
FAN WALL - is exactly what it sounds. Similar to the Facebook Wall,
where friends and family post comments about their general life, you
can do the same about KA right here through the app. There are a few
comments out there today and like the old CirqueClub forum, open to
any topic. Don't expect more than you'd see on an average Facebook
wall here.
ABOUT KA - takes us to a page full of text from Cirque du Soleil's
press release on the show, giving us a brief overview of the concept,
acts, plot and the company at large.
KA CHARACTERS - is a visual listing of the myriad of characters that
exist in the world of KA. Although laid out like a photo album (each
character is on one screen, with its name below), running your finger
over the picture will take you to another screen where the character's
motivation (aka description) is foretold. And, unfortunately, there is
a tab where you can leave comments about the character (much like the
Fan Wall).
QR SCANNER - is obviously to be used in conjunction with Cirque du
Soleil and the show KA; however, it is just a generic scanner option.
MY PROFILE - takes you to the before-mentioned profile options,
allowing you to connect with either your Facebook or Twitter accounts
(or both!).
CIRQUE CLUB - This is an option that takes you to an in-app page for
you to sign up for CirqueClub announcements via email, regrettably,
not a link to a mobile version of the Cirque Club site or an
aggregation of its content in-app. Of all the options available in the
app that had the most promise, this one was it, and there's just
nothing to it.
TOP USERS - is a section that breaks down the app's top users in
Daily, Weekly, Monthly and All Time categories. This is interesting
because users actually earn points for just about everything they do
in the app (so the more you do the more you earn) and when you fulfill
certain activities (like commenting, sharing and the like), users earn
specific badges (like Gowalla, FourSquare and GetGlue) that can also
be shared and displayed.
FAVORITES - is a place where all the topics you "hearted" are saved.
As I didn't "heart" any, there weren't any for me to see. But should
you choose to do so (no doubt earning you points and badges in the
process), they'll be displayed here.
COPYRIGHT - Last, but not least, the generic copyright page. It's so
generic I'm surprised anyone bothered to make it an option from the
home screen menus, but there you have it.
The application, developed by Mobile Roadie, can be currently found in
the Android Marketplace - it's 2.44 MB in size and is currently
sporting version 0.1.3.1.
It's free so if you have an Android-based phone, love KA and enjoy
interacting with the show as much as possible, this app is for you.
Enjoy!
---------------------------------------------------------
"CirqueCon 2011 Update #6 - We Have a Group Meal!"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
Greetings, Passionates!
We want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to our poll
about where to eat. In an interesting turn (though perhaps not,
considering Cirque Passionates? lack of hesitation to spend money)
though we presented options at several different price points it
turned out the most expensive option was the most popular. So, as on
America's Got Talent, we will go with America's decision! More on
that below.
HAVE YOU GOT YOUR ROOMS/TICKETS - Our exclusive deals for tickets and
hotel rooms are still available, through the links we've sent to
members previously (see more about our deals at our website,
www.cirquecon.com ). Don't wait too much longer before reserving,
when the hotel reaches a certain occupancy level the offer will
expire.
ANNOUNCING OUR GROUP MEAL! - One of the highlights of CirqueCon is
when Cirque fans gather at a local eating establishment, enjoying a
meal and getting acquainted (or re-acquainted) with each other. It's
something that brings us together as a community. In looking for a
restaurant to hold our Group Meal, we looked at all the restaurants in
the Hollywood & Highland complex (www.hollywoodandhighland.com) as
well as the block surrounding it, providing several options at several
price points to you, our members, for input.
YOUR CHOICE?
------------
THE GRILL ON HOLLYWOOD
< http://thegrill.com/locations/the-grill-on-hollywood >
6801 Hollywood Boulevard, #407
Hollywood, CA 90028
323-856-5530
They are located on the fourth floor of the Hollywood & Highland
complex. The entrance to the Kodak Theatre is on the second floor.
HOW MUCH?
---------
PRICE - $59.00 EACH, $61.00 EACH VIA PAYPAL. This includes food,
beverage, gratuity and tax. (Instructions on how to reserve a space
below.)
THE FOOD?
---------
The menu is:
Starter:
Caesar Salad - romaine, parmesan cheese, garlic croutons, ceasar
dressing
Main Course (choose one of these):
o) Chicken Piccata - chicken breast medallions, lemon butter
caper sauce, chef vegetable
o) Charbroiled Atlantic Salmon - salsa fresca, chef vegetable
o) Charbroiled Skirt Steak - marinated in citrus juices, soy
sauce and special seasonings, chef vegetable
o) A vegetarian option available upon request
Dessert:
Fresh Baked Cobbler - whipped cream
Drink:
House Brewed Ice Tea, Coffee, Hot Tea or Soft Drink (Coke, Diet
Coke or Sprite). Refills are free. Beer ($6-7), wine ($9) or mixed
drinks ($8-11) are on your own.
We will be sitting in a glassed-off section of the restaurant near the
back (check out the ?360-degree virtual tour? on the website.
HOW TO PAY:
-----------
We accept Check, Money Order, International Money Order (in USD) and
PayPal. Note that due to PayPal's fee structure the cost will be
higher through PayPal than by other means.
** CREDIT CARD via PAYPAL. We have our PAYPAL account for those that
wish to pay via credit card. Please send $61.00 USD per person to
PAYPAL account Hollywood@cirquecon.com . Be sure to also advise us of
your entrée selection.
** By CHECK, MONEY ORDER, OR INTERNATIONAL MONEY ORDER (in USD).
Please send $59.00 USD per person. Be sure to also advise us of your
entrée selection. Checks should be made out and sent to:
Keith Johnson
31241 4th Avenue South
Federal Way, WA 98003-5203
DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2010 (the day before Thanksgiving).
So there ya go. All of the major pieces of CirqueCon are now in
place: our Hotel, Ticket Deal and now Group Meal. Now we start the
countdown to another wonderful weekend!
Thank you again for believing in us.
In the meantime,
Live Passionately!
Keith, Lucy and Ricky
Your CirqueCon '11: Hollywood! Team
www.cirquecon.com
Hollywood@cirquecon.com
---------------------------------------------------------
"Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation"
Part 1 of 4 - "The Meeting of Two Worlds"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
Shocking news hit the Cirque du Soleil fandom around Noon on Sunday,
July 24th- ZED, Cirque du Soleil's resident show in Tokyo, Japan would
cease operations and close as of December 31, 2011 - and it was the
proverbial shot heard around the world for Cirque fans. It was no
surprise to learn that ticket sales and attendance had plummeted since
the 2011 Tokoku earthquake and tsunami, and Oriental Land Company
(OLC), Cirque du Soleil's partner in Japan, said the decision to close
the show amounted to just that - low attendance and a bleak overall
outlook on the show's future.
Thankfully this will not be the last time we hear from the world of
ZED, as pieces of the show will be salvaged and used to upgrade VIVA
ELVIS and MYSTERE on the Las Vegas Strip. While we absorb the full
impact and meaning of this closure, and contemplate the knowledge that
we may never again see ZED staged whole, I'd like to take a moment to
reflect upon my experience with ZED and highlight the fascinating
characters and acts we'll now miss once the final curtain is called.
* * *
"Hey, I saw you guys running around before the start of the show...
what happened?"
With only a few moments to spare before the curtain would again rise
on ZED, Cirque du Soleil's then newest resident production in Tokyo,
Japan, my friend (and fellow Cirque du Soleil fan) Rich Alford and I
entered the theater complex on the afternoon of November 8, 2008 in
triumph, though huffing and puffing from the rather long and extensive
walk we took from inside this beautiful gem in Disney's resort crown,
located at 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu-shi, Chiba-ken - DisneySEA.
Tokyo DisneySEA, which is a take on DisneyLAND, opened next to Tokyo
Disneyland Park on September 4, 2001 at a cost of ¥338 Billion, and is
divided into seven "ports of call", or themed lands, containing a
number of unique as well as time-honored Disney attractions:
Mediterranean Harbor (offering the old-world charm of a romantic
southern European seaport as its backdrop), Mysterious Island (a very
foreboding, rocky and devoid place set within a South Pacific volcanic
caldera of the 1860s - "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" and "Journey to
the Center of the Earth" attractions are here), Mermaid Lagoon (a
whimsical "under the sea" world of fun and play with Ariel, the little
mermaid), Arabian Coast (harking back 10 centuries to the mysterious
enchantment of Arabian Nights - "Sinbad's Seven Voyages", "Caravan
Carousel" and "Aladdin" are here), Lost River Delta (the foreboding
jungles of Central America in the 1930s on the shores of El Rio
Perdido, the Lost River' - "Indiana Jones and the Temple of the
Crystal Skull" and "Mystic Rhythms" attractions are here), Port
Discovery (the marina of the future as inspired by the futuristic
writings of Jules Verne as sseen from the 1800s - "StormRider" and
"Aquatopia" can be found here), and American Waterfront (which
recreates two distinct American harbors at the dawn of the 20th
Century - New York and Cape Cod; "The Tower of Terror" can be found
here.)
Styles, themes, attitude, atmosphere and ambiance of each land are all
richly invoked and distinctly themed to the likes I've never before
seen in a Disney Park. You'll literally lose yourself within it - I
know I have - and enjoyed every moment doing so, as if I were a kid in
a candy store! I could wax poetic about this park, and have on
multiple occasions in the past, but there just isn't time for that
here.
Getting back on point, we found ourselves at Tokyo DisneySEA, that
morning as hosts to a CirqueCon lunch for a table of eight patrons at
Magellan's, a fantastic exploration-themed restaurant under the golden
globe of Fortress Explorations, the citadel anchoring Mediterranean
Harbor on the foothills of Mount Prometheus, the park's signature
volcanic icon.
The atmosphere of the restaurant recalls the glory days of oceanic
explorers, with a deeply detailed décor that screams refinement, but
the food is distinctly western. CirqueCon held three tables for lunch
for the maximum accompaniment (eight), at three different times:
11:00am, 12:00pm and 1:00pm. Rich and I hosted a table of 8 at
11:00am, Keith hosted at Noon and Lucy at 1:00pm. Heather & Jim and
the Duval party made up our eight; it was a great time to socialize.
Rich and I chose the early table so we would be free to attend ZED's
early show, and once the hour struck Noon, we were on our way to the
Cirque du Soleil Theater as soon as we could say our goodbyes (likely
we'd not see many of these people again on this trip) and make our way
over.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
CirqueCon - the Unofficial Gatherings of Cirque du Soleil Passionates
- is a fan-organized assembly of like-minded individuals who share a
singular passion: that of the Québécois circus arts.
Our humble story began with fans proposing a small gathering in 2004
during the Vancouver run of Quidam, a show which had just delighted
audiences throughout the Japan the year prior. Add a little ingenuity
and hard work by the fans, and a touch of folly from Cirque du Soleil
and viola - CirqueCon came to be. While the tale of our genesis is
somewhat more complicated than just a "coming together", since our
inaugural event we've made similar journeys across the continent
seeking out our favorite avant-garde circus whenever possible. It's a
drive which has taken us to a number of cities across two continents:
Vancouver (2004), Montreal (2005), Las Vegas (2006), Orlando (2007),
Tokyo (2008), Monterrey (2009), New York City & Montreal (2010) and
Hollywood (2011).
When the announcement that Cirque du Soleil was creating a new
resident show specifically crafted for and performed exclusively to
audiences in Japan fell upon the council chambers at CirqueCon (of
which I am a founding member), we knew exactly where our group was
headed in 2008: Tokyo!
Thus ZED, the name of thisnew creation, became the impetus for yet
another return to the Land of the Rising Sun.
Although the lunch at Magellan's was not the last official CirqueCon
outing of the weekend - most of the important activities having
occurred the day before - it was also not the last. The day before we
held a Meet & Greet at our Headquarters Hotel (the Tokyo Disneyland
Hilton) from 10:00a - 11:30a, allowing Passionates to mingle with one
another; followed by a Training Session/Q&A at the Cirque Theater from
2:30p - 3:30p, Inside we watched a rehearsal with members from the
artistic staff to explain what was going on (which wasn't necessary -
we know a flying trapeze when we see it!), but we did appreciate the
time spent with us answering our questions and pandering to our
curiosity about all things Cirque; then a Group meal at the Ikispari
Rainforest Café from 4:00p - 6:00p, set by ourselves in the "Cave"
room; ZED from 7:00p - 9:45p, a show that completely exceeded my
expectations; and lastly, a Group Photo with some of the cast and crew
atop the stage just after the show bows.
Good stuff!
Despite our hurried nature, as both Rich and I looked very much
forward to our second performance of the show (we, of course, attended
the official CirqueCon performance the previous evening), we paused in
the sprawling lobby only to compose ourselves before entering through
the portal gates and into the theater proper.
After gaining control of our heaving chests, we entered the theater,
spotting a number of our friends from various corners of the North
American continent - Wayne Leung from Ottawa, Canada; Rodolfo Elizondo
from Monterrey, Mexico; Heather Smith & Jim Strain from New York City,
USA and many, more. But what we never expected was to spot someone
sitting comfortably in our seats. With a quick glance at our tickets,
our worst fears were realized...
"Oh man, these are not our tickets!"
The billets issued to Rich upon arrival were not only not from the
show we had requested - today's 2:00pm performance - rather, they were
for the later 6:00pm time-slot, a time we couldn't see the show! They
weren't even in Rich's name!
With only a few short minutes before the start of the show we were at
a loss of what to do. Figuring out that we received the wrong person's
tickets, we dashed down to guest services to try and straighten things
out. Had we been in America, the urgency wouldn't be quite as
pressing, but here in Japan, where everything is virtually lost in
translation, what should have been a simple check at the box office
turned into a very stressful fiasco for all parties involved.
Unfortunately the theater folks did not understand our sense of
urgency - the show would be starting any minute and someone was in our
seats! - nor did they seem to comprehend we paid for tickets to that
particular showing.
"It's all sold out," we were advised, over and over.
We knew that, of course. That's why we bought tickets in advance.
With about a minute before curtain call and with the box office on the
phone to Kyoko Hasegawa (our friendly contact at Cirque Tokyo), we
dashed back into the theater advising them we were going to take a set
of secondary seats they offered us while it all got straightened out.
We weren't about to miss the opening of the show!
And we didn't... they found us another set of alternative seats, which
we took quickly, settling down to gaze over the white canvas that
keeps the world of ZED tightly wrapped.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Next time: we'll take a peek behind "the vortex" and discover a little
bit about ZED's performance space.
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 11, Number 9 (Issue #92) - September 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.
{ Sep.02.2011 }
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