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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 12, NUMBER 7 July 2012 ISSUE #102
=======================================================================
We're off and running again!
Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque
du Soleil Newsletter. It's certainly been an interesting month for
Cirque news, hasn't it? The month started slowly and then by the
second week we began to hear about some of the changes for ZARKANA's
second (and final) season at Radio City Music Hall (which you'll find
in our news section). Then Cirque announced a partnership with MARVEL
Entertainment to make a serialized comic book out of KÀ, playing
at MGM Grand Las Vegas (which looks quite interesting if I do say
so myself). Information on Les Chemins invisibles 4 in Montreal was
announced and then an experiment with Google called Movi.Kanti.Revo.
We even got teased a bit on Cirque's upcoming 3D film "Worlds Away"
(be sure to check out the Japanese trailer link posted below).
For featured articles this month we have the first of an exclusive
two-part chat with Eric Chalifour, Analysis Manager at Cirque du
Soleil. Not sure what that means or what this department does?
Keith found out and he shares his research with us. And the
conclusion of a two-part overview that dives into the world of
Cirque Documentaries, touching on the various pieces Cirque has
released over the years. As always we've got the latest news items
posted to Fascination! Web and, of course, updates to Cirque's tour
schedule. (Note that VIVA ELVIS will now have its final performance
on August 31, 2012 instead of the earlier reported August 18th!)
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
* BigTop Shows -- Under the Grand Chapiteau
* Arena Shows -- In Stadium-like venues
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets
* Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
* Networking -- Posts on Facebook, G+, & YouTube
o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque Company History
* Odyssea -- Cirque Tour History
o) Fascination! Features
* "Before the Circus Comes to Town - Part one:
An Exclusive talk with Eric Chalifour, Analysis
Manager, Cirque du Soleil"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
* "Cirque Documentaries: An Overview
Part 2 of 2: 2006 - 2011"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
Francois Girard on Zarkanas Changes
{Jun.12.2012}
----------------------------------------------
Speakeasy (at the Wall Street Journal) caught up with Zarkanas
writer and director, Francois Girard, to discuss changes to this
summers performances, why he likes straddling the stage and the
screen and just how many accidents there have been on his watch.
# # #
WSJ: Tell us about some of the changes for this years
"Zarkana."
Francois Girard: The show now runs 90 minutes with no
intermission and the lyrics have been translated into "Cirquish"
- the invented language that Cirque has made famous. No
intermission is mostly driven by business. I like the no
intermission version. Its high energy theater, you dont want
your audience to stop and eat popcorn because the energy gets
lost. Some artists have been replaced and theres normal,
natural improvement. Youll see a tighter show, a better show.
Paul Bisson has taken over for Garou, which was planned. He
stepped up the lead in Moscow and Madrid.
WSJ: Why is the show returning to New York?
This isnt my decision. Its a big commercial enterprise. It was
always meant to start and live in New York, so its just
according to plan. That wasnt planned to go to Las Vegas. It
was a business decision to keep it there. Cirque has produced
resident shows and touring shows, this one is sort of in
between. "Zarkana" is a new breed. Theres an experimental
quality to the adventure.
# # #
Read the rest of the interview here:
< http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2012/06/11/francois-girard-on-
why-the-new-zarkana-is-better-than-last-years/ >
{SOURCE: Wall Street Journal}
Cirque and Marvel team up for "KA"MIC BOOK!
{Jun.13.2012}
----------------------------------------------
KÀ the comic book from Cirque du Soleil and Marvel Entertainment
Cirque du Soleil and Marvel Entertainment have teamed up to tell
the story of the epic Las Vegas live production KÀ through a
series of collectible comic books.
These comics follow the heroic journey of the Imperial Twins,
separated by war, who encounter adventure and peril at every
turn on their quest to reunite their kingdom.?
The first installment debuts at the Marvel booth at Comic-Con
2012, July 12 - 15, in San Diego. ??Fans can take the journey
home with them or visit it live exclusively at MGM Grand in Las
Vegas where KÀ unfolds on a colossal 360-degree rotating stage,
complete with aerial adventure, perpendicular acrobatics, and an
ever-changing theatrical landscape that conjures an entire
empire on stage.
Learn all about the Cirque du Soleil KA Comic Book here!:
< http://www.kacomicbook.com/ >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
"Worlds Away" Japanese Trailer
{Jun.14.2012}
----------------------------------------------
Check out the following Youtube link for the Japanese trailer
for Cirque du Soleils upcoming 3D movie - "Worlds Away".
< http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMO2tEFI0AM >
{SOURCE: CirqueSpotlight}
The Pixel Frontier, Les Chemins invisibles 4
{Jun.20.2012}
----------------------------------------------
This summer, the Cirque du Soleil Events group will be
presenting the fourth edition of Les Chemins invisibles in
Quebec City. Performed outside, the show will combine acrobatic
performances, dance, music and multimedia.
The show at a glance
At sunset, a childs dreams take the public on a voyage into the
heart of his imaginary world. An extraordinary universe where
traditional meets virtual, and where the child becomes aware of
the beauty of human contact through scintillating exchanges that
multiply all around him.
Learn more about the show:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/events/chemins-
invisibles/show.aspx >
{SOURCE: CirqueClub}
The Official Opus for Michael Jackson
THE IMMORTAL World Tour
{Jun.21.2012}
----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil, The Estate of Michael Jackson and Opus, the
luxury publisher, have combined their creative forces to produce
a unique publication about Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World
Tour by Cirque du Soleil, the #1 touring show celebrating the
work of the musical genius, Michael Jackson, the King of Pop.
Never before seen backstage pictures of the crew and artists
preparing for their incredible dancing and gravity defying
stunts as well as stunning photographs from the creation of the
production will be showcased in extraordinary detail in this
hand-stitched official publication, to be released later this
year.
Illuminating and touching personal stories from creators,
artisans, producers and performers coupled with exclusive images
taken by the creators during early inspiration sessions held at
Netherland and during performances, make this Opus a must have
for fans of Michael Jackson and Cirque du Soleil.
THE IMMORTAL World Tour features 32 of Michael Jacksons songs
and a cast of 64 artists from 16 countries, including musicians
who worked on previous Michael Jackson tours. By the end of the
year over 1 million spectators will have experienced THE
IMMORTAL World Tour in more than 70 cities around the world. The
tours European leg will premiere in London on October 12, 2012,
at The O2 arena.
Daniel Lamarre, Président and CEO of Cirque du Soleil, said:
"This book will transport the reader into a rarely explored
world within Cirque du Soleil as it tells the personal stories
of our artists and creative teams. For the first time in our
history, the public is granted behind-the-scenes access to one
of our shows, thanks to the extraordinary collaboration between
The Estate of Michael Jackson, Opus and Cirque du Soleil -
partners whose standard of excellence will bring great pleasure
to the fans of Michael Jackson and Cirque du Soleil."
John Branca and John McClain, Co-Executors of The Estate of
Michael Jackson, said: "We are so proud of THE IMMORTAL World
Tour. We recognize each and every person is part of its creative
fabric, bringing joy to millions. We could think of no better
way to acknowledge their participation, both as a reminder to
each of them and their friends and families of the role they
have each played in the shows success, than to hear it from
them personally in an Opus."
Karl Fowler, CEO of Opus Media Group, said: "We are absolutely
honoured to be working with Cirque du Soleil and The Estate of
Michael Jackson on such a special project. The images we have
captured behind the scenes of the show are immensely emotive;
they complement the performance photography perfectly and pay
homage to what you see on stage. I sincerely thank both The
Estate of Michael Jackson and Cirque du Soleil for giving us
this unique opportunity to create something truly special."
Expect the unexpected during the magical journey presented in
this new collectors edition. The tale lived by the creative
team from Cirque du Soleil and The Estate of Michael Jackson
overflows with love, energy and innovation, and makes this Opus
a genuinely heartfelt tribute not only to THE IMMORTAL World
Tour but also to the legendary Michael Jackson.
Opus is the worlds leading publisher of luxury collectable
limited editions, produced in partnership with iconic
personalities, brands and organisations including Formula 1,
Ferrari, Arsenal FC, Major League Baseball, Manchester United
FC, Vivienne Westwood, Sachin Tendulkar and Shah Rukh Khan.
Read the original press release here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/press/news/2012/mj-opus-
book.aspx >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
Cirque du Soleil and Google to unveil Movi.Kanti.Revo
{Jun.26.2012}
------------------------------------------------------
Movi.Kanti.Revo is a sensory Chrome Experiment uniquely crafted
by Cirque du Soleil that explores a new way for people to
journey in a digital world using tones and gestures.
Movi.Kanti.Revo comes from the Esperanto words for Moving,
Singing and Dreaming. It is indeed by gesturing and making
sounds that users navigate a beautifully surreal world, follow a
mysterious character in her adventure, enjoy surprising Cirque
du Soleil performances and live an emotional journey made of
love, doubts, hope and dreams.
Subscribe now to be alerted when Movi.Kanti.Revo is unveiled
fall 2012! Stay tuned!
SUBSCRIBE: < http://www.movikantirevo.com/ >
Note: This experiment was made possible thanks to innovative web
technologies enabled by Chrome and the creativity of Cirque du
Soleil.
See a video of Movi.Kanti.Revo at CirqueClub here:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2012-06-25-google-experiment.aspx >
{SOURCE: CirqueClub}
Worlds Away 3D: English Trailer
{Jun.26.2012}
------------------------------------------------------
A few moments ago, Cirque du Soleil released the official
English trailer for its upcoming 3D movie: Worlds Away!
Check out the movies official site here:
< http://www.worldsaway3d.com/ >
Check out the trailer here:
< http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/paramount/
cirquedusoleilworldsaway3d/ >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
{Amaluna, 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,
Believe & VIVA Elvis, Zarkana & Iris}
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.
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
------------------------------------
Amaluna:
Montreal, QC -- Apr 19, 2012 to Jul 15, 2012
Quebec, QC -- Jul 26, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012
Toronto, ON -- Sep 6, 2012 to Oct 7, 2012
Vancouver, BC -- Nov 23, 2012 to Dec 9, 2012
Seattle, WA -- Jan 30, 2013 to Mar 24, 2013
Corteo:
Antwerp, BE -- Jun 13, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012
Zurich, CH -- Sep 1, 2012 to Sep 23, 2012
Dusseldorf, DE -- Oct 18, 2012 to Nov 04, 2012
Berlin, DE -- Nov 29, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
Hamburg, DE -- Jan 9, 2013 to Jan 27, 2013
Koozå:
Phoenix, AZ -- Jun 8, 2012 to Jul 15, 2012
Houston, TX -- Jul 26, 2012 to Aug 19, 2012
Dallas, TX -- Sep 19, 2012 to Oct 7, 2012
Tampa, FL -- Nov 8, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
London, UK -- Jan 5, 2013 to Jan 27, 2013
Ovo:
Brisbane, AU -- Jul 14, 2012 to Sep 2, 2012
Sydney, AU -- Sep 13, 2012 to Oct 21, 2012
Adelaide, AU -- Dec 06, 2012 to Jan 6, 2013
Melbourne, AU -- Jan 17, 2013 to Feb 3, 2013
Perth, AU -- Apr 14, 2012 to Apr 28, 2013
Totem:
Boston, MA -- Jun 10, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012
Washington, DC -- Aug 15, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012
Atlanta, GA -- Oct 26, 2012 to Dec 2, 2012
Miami, FL -- Jan 9, 2013 to Mar 3, 2013
Varekai:
Curitiba, BR -- Jun 15, 2012 to Jul 15, 2012
Porto Alegre, BR -- Jul 26, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012
Buenos Aires, AR -- Sep 7, 2012 to Oct 21, 2012
Santiago, CL -- Nov 9, 2012 to Dec 30, 2012
Bogota, CO -- Jan 10, 2013 to Feb 24, 2013
Lima, PE -- TBA
------------------------------------
ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues
------------------------------------
Saltimbanco:
Catania, IT -- Jun 5, 2012 to Jun 17, 2012
Aman, JO -- Jun 26, 2012 to Jun 30, 2012
Doha, QA -- Jul 4, 2012 to Jul 7, 2012
Hong Kong, CN -- Jul 12, 2012 to Jul 22, 2012
Singapore, SG -- Jul 26, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012
Manilla, PH -- Aug 9, 2012 to Aug 19, 2012
Kaohsiung, TW -- Aug 29, 2012 to Sep 2, 2012
Taipei, TW -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 9, 2012
Alegría:
Belgrade, RS -- Jun 29, 2012 to Jul 1, 2012
Nice, FR -- Jul 18, 2012 to Jul 27, 2012
Tel Aviv, IL -- Aug 8, 2012 to Aug 18, 2012
Athens, GR -- Sep 3, 2012 to Sep 9, 2013
Instanbul, TK -- Sep 22, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Lille, FR -- Nov 21, 2012 to Nov 25, 2012
Paris, FR -- Nov 28, 2012 to Dec 2, 2012
Rotterdam, NL -- Dec 7, 2012 to Dec 9, 2012
Barcelona, ES -- Dec 26, 2012 to Jan 6, 2013
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, ES - Jan 13, 2013 to Jan 20, 2013
Geneva, CH -- TBA
Quidam:
Indianapolis, IN -- Jun 27, 2012 to Jul 01, 2012
Winnipeg, MB -- Jul 19, 2012 to Jul 22, 2012
Regina, SK -- Jul 25, 2012 to Jul 29, 2012
Lethbridge, AB -- Aug 1, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012
Edmonton, AB -- Aug 8, 2012 to Aug 12, 2012
Kamloops, BC -- Aug 15, 2012 to Aug 19, 2012
Kelowna, BC -- Aug 22, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012
Abbotsford, BC -- Aug 29, 2012 to Sep 2, 2012
Victoria, BC -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 9, 2012
Spokane, WA -- Sep 12, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012
Honolulu, HI -- Oct 4, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Eugene, OR -- Oct 25, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012
Dralion:
Chicago, IL -- Jun 27, 2012 to Jul 1, 2012
Sunrise, FL -- Jul 19, 2012 to Jul 29, 2012
Estero, FL -- Aug 1, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012
Richmond, VA -- Aug 8, 2012 to Aug 12, 2012
Raleigh, NC -- Aug 15, 2012 to Aug 19, 2012
Baltimore, MD -- Aug 22, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012
Atlantic City, NJ -- Aug 29, 2012 to Sep 2, 2012
Uniondale, NY -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 9, 2012
Charleston, WV -- Sep 12, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012
Minneapolis, MN -- Sep 19, 2012 to Sep 23, 2012
Boise, ID -- Oct 11, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Stockton, CA -- Oct 17, 2012 to Oct 21, 2012
Ontario, CA -- Oct 24, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012
Long Beach, CA -- Oct 31, 2012 to Nov 4, 2012
Fresno, CA -- Nov 7, 2012 to Nov 11, 2012
San Deigo, CA -- Nov 14, 2012 to Nov 18, 2012
Phoenix, AZ -- Nov 21, 2012 to Nov 25, 2012
Topeka, KS -- Dec 5, 2012 to Dec 9, 2012
Tulsa, OK -- Dec 12, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
Okalahoma City, OK -- Dec 19, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour:
Atlanta, GA -- Jun 29, 30 & Jul 1, 2012
Montreal, QC -- Jul 6 & Jul 7, 2012
Hershey, PA -- Jul 11
Washington, DC -- Jul 13, 14 & 15 2012
Cleveland, OH -- Jul 17 & 18, 2012
Chicago, IL -- Jul 20 & 21, 2012
Ottawa, ON -- Jul 24 & 25, 2012
Toronto, ON -- Jul 27 & 28, 2012
Buffalo, NY -- Jul 31 & Aug 1, 2012
Boston, MA -- Aug 3 & 4, 2012
Vancouver, BC -- Aug 10 & 11, 2012
Los Angeles, CA -- Aug 14 & 15, 2012
Salt Lake City -- Aug 21, 2012
Mexico City, MX -- Aug 24 to Aug 31
Europe 2012:
------------
London, UK -- Oct 12 to 19, 2012
Herding, DK -- Oct 24 & 25, 2012
Copenhagen, DK -- Oct 27 & 28, 2012
Stockholm, SE -- Nov 2 & 3, 2012
Helsinki, FI -- Nov 5 & 6, 2012
St. Petersburg, RU -- Nov 9, 10 & 11, 2012
Frankfurt, DE -- Nov 16 & 17, 2012
Oberhausen, DE -- Nov 20, 2012
Munich, DE -- Nov 24 & 25, 2012
Hannover, DE -- Nov 28, 2012
Vienna, AT -- Dec 1 & 2, 2012
Manheim, DE -- Dec 5, 2012
Leipzig, DE -- Dec 8 & 9, 2012
Hamburg, DE -- Dec 11, 2012
Cologne, DE -- Dec 15 & 16, 2012
Berlin, DE -- Dec 19 & 20, 2012
Madrid, ES -- Dec 26 to Dec 29, 2012
Prague, CZ -- Feb 8 & 9, 2013
Barcelona, ES -- Apr 17 to Apr 20, 2013
---------------------------------
RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
---------------------------------
Mystère:
Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday
Two shows Nightly - 7:00pm & 9:30pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o September 8 - 12
o November 14
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o August 6 - 12
o October 14 & 17
o December 3 - 18
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o July 24
o September 18-22
o November 27
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o August 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 31
o September 1, 2, 3, and 4
o October 23
o December 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o July 31
o August 1
o September 28 - 29
o November 20
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o August 2 - 6
o October 1
o December 6 - 19
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.
2012 Dark Dates:
o July 17-21
o September 4-11
o December 18-25
VIVA ELVIS:
Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o July 10-21
NOTE: VIVA ELVIS to have final show on August 31, 2012
ZARKANA:
New York, NY -- Jun 6, 2012 to Sep 2, 2012
Las Vegas, NV -- Oct 25, 2012 to OPEN
IRIS:
Location: Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, CA (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Friday @ 8:00pm
Saturday @ 3:00pm and 8:00pm
Sunday @ 2:00pm and 7:00pm
DARK: Monday
Select Weekday Matinee Performances
Wednesday and Friday at 3:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o July 3 and 4
o August 7
o September 4 -11
o October 23
o November 22
o December 4 and 25
=======================================================================
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
---------------------------------------
Three Cirquesters Attempt to Break Guinness
Record on Good Morning America
{Jun.15.2012}
----------------------------------------------
On May 7, 2012, three Cirque du Soleil artists set out to break
Guinness World Records live on Good Morning America!
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour aerial strap artist,
Igor Zaripov, set the record for longest time to hang suspended
in the air by his teeth with a time of 2:32 min!
The Beatles LOVE head spinner, Youssef El Toufali, attempted to
break the record for most head spins in 1 minute and though he
did not break the record (he needed 135) he made three great
efforts, coming very close, with about 120 spins.
Viva ELVIS stilt walker, Rokardy Rodriguez, attempted to break
his own record of walking 50 meters on hand stilts in under 90
seconds. He did not break the record, but again gave it his all
on a very difficult path!
Congratulations all! See the pictures of their performances at
CirqueClub!
Read the original post (with pictures) here!:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2012-06-15-
guiness-good-morning-america.aspx >
The Creative Process Behind the Amazones of Amaluna
{Jun.19.2012}
----------------------------------------------------
With Amaluna, Cirque du Soleil will present an act inspired by
the uneven bars for the very first time. And we wanted to fill
you in on how an acrobatic act comes to life.
Initial inspiration: For Amaluna, Director Diane Paulus wanted
to include a fierce and hard-core group act featuring only
women.
Stroke of genius: Rob Bollinger, the Acrobatic Performance
Designer, found inspiration in the uneven bars - a gymnastics
discipline. His idea was to combine two sets of bars to create a
multidimensional acrobatic structure.
Creation: After eight months of work, Rob Bollinger and Fred
Gérard, Acrobatic Equipment and Rigging Designer, reinvented the
acrobatic equipment, creating three triangles-two giant ones and
a smaller one placed upside down. The triangles evoke the
concept of balance while the curves of the bars represent
feminity, movement and dynamism.
Acrobatic vocabulary: The first triangle is positioned very
close to the triangle in the centre. The result: we will play
with a vocabulary that has been underused over the past few
years, and which is largely inspired by Nadia Comanecis
performances in the 1970s. The second triangle, positioned
further away, allows acrobats to perform high-level moves.
Read the rest of the article at CirqueClub:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/
2012-06-19-amaluna-new-number.aspx >
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
{Compiled by Keith Johnson}
---[ ALEGRIA ]---
{Jun.14}
Tonight Alegria is performing its 1000th arena show!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/AlegriaCirque#!/media/set/?
set=a.10151029576500746.492408.38543815745&type=1 >
---[ AMALUNA ]---
{May.14}
Amaluna - Cirque du Soleil shared a link.
LINK /// < http://vitamindaily.com/blog/[user]/behind-scenes-
cirque-du-soleil >
{Jun.13}
Charles William Pelletier / Cirque du Soleil
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/AmalunaCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=387260211335284&set=a.316111341783505.76338.
282374401823866&type=1&theater >
---[ CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ]---
{Jun.07}
Where would you fly away to? Enter our sweepstakes below and
tell us which show in which city you would pick!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/KYj76R >
{Jun.16}
Today, we celebrate... "28 already! In 1984, a small band of
merrymakers set out to reinvent the circus, and reinvent the
world. Since then, thanks to our employees, the fun has never
stopped. Let us continue to amaze and enthrall young and old
alike, and to cultivate joy wherever we go! Happy birthday
Cirque du Soleil!" - Guy Laliberté, Founder and Artistic Guide
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/CirqueduSoleil#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150949814322501&set=p.10150949814322501
&type=1&theater >
{Jun.18}
Cirque du Monde (http://cirk.me/LZQzHO) has just completed a
one-week social circus training session in Haïti with our local
partner, Cirque D'Haïti. Here are some photos from this amazing
experience, and you can learn more about our partner in this
video:
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/OLGEIh >
{Jun.18}
What's your favorite international cuisine? Log-on to Cirque
Club to discover a unique Japanese recipe created by our KOOZA
tour cook:
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/MDqCNh >
---[ CORTEO ]---
{Jun.01}
Corteo's artists in Antwerp earlier this week...the show opens
on June 13!
LINK /// < http://album.gva.be/foto-album/cirque-du-soleil-in-
antwerpse-stadsfeestzaal.aspx >
{Jun.04}
Corteo in Berlin ... not yet! but at the end of the year!!!
LINK /// < http://www.berliner-zeitung.de/berlin/cirque-du-
soleil-in-berlin-es-regnet-
suppenhuehner,10809148,16160114.html >
{Jun.07}
Corteo's Big Top Raising in Antwerp is on the front page of
today's Gazet van Antwerpen!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/pages/Corteo-by-Cirque-du-
Soleil/34657386178#!/photo.php?fbid=10150829662821179
&set=a.438715896178.237170.34657386178&type=1&theater >
{Jun.09}
Corteo is on the front page of today's Gazet van Antwerpen's
Citta Magazine today!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/pages/Corteo-by-Cirque-du-
Soleil/34657386178#!/photo.php?fbid=10150833203756179
&set=a.438715896178.237170.34657386178&type=1&theater >
{Jun.15}
Corteo on ATV in Antwerp
LINK /// < http://www.atv.be/item/corteo-cirque-du-soleil-
gestart-antwerpen >
{Jun.15}
Backstage during Corteo's training and rehearsals in Antwerp
LINK /// < http://album.gva.be/foto-album/laatste-repetitie-
cirque-du-soleil.aspx >
{Jun.15}
Pictures of the show and the premiere here in Antwerp!
LINK /// <http://www.sterrennieuws.be/fotos/72157630063172475/ >
{Jun.16}
Did you see the Corteo tram here in Antwerp? Pretty cool!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/pages/Corteo-by-Cirque-du-
Soleil/34657386178#!/photo.php?fbid=10150846435791179
&set=a.438715896178.237170.34657386178&type=1&theater >
{Jun.19}
Corteo was on Villa Vanthilt last night... you missed it? No
worries! Here is the link to watch it!
LINK /// < http://www.een.be/mediatheek/595595 >
---[ DRALION ]---
{Jun.03}
Congrats Niki for 5 amazing years with Cirque du Soleil! We wish
you many more adventures and travels! Yay!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151807173220195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.05}
Getting ready for Bridge Street performance on Channel 9!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151813516035195&set=a.225774950194.
283184.39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.05}
Warm-up....
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151813532130195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.07}
Congratulations to Dralion's Supervisor, Sports medicine for 5
wonderful years with Cirque du Soleil. We wish you all the best
and many more adventure! Cheers!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151821009765195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.13}
Preparing for tonight's opening performance at the Webster Bank
Arena in Bridgeport, CT!!!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151837735770195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.13}
Every Wednesday our awesome catering crew has an action station.
We get to create our own meal with a variety of different
ingredients. Our house troupe loves to cook up their own unique
items with ingredients found in traditional Chinese cuisine! If
you are lucky they will even make something just for you!! Here
a few members of our house troupe make dinner before opening
night in Bridgeport, CT!!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151838408785195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.19}
Con el equipo de Al Amanecer de Univision 23. Sigan
sintonizados!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151854883055195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.19}
No se pierdan Acceso Total por Telemundo 51! Nos vemos en breve.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151855280760195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.20}
Preparing for appearance at Windy City LIVE morning show (ABC7)
in Chicago! Show starts at 9 am, will you watch?
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151857887290195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.20}
Interview with Juggler
LINK /// < http://chiilliveshows.com/2012/06/cirque-du-soleils-
dralion-is-coming-to.html >
{Jun.20}
Interview with PR person
LINK /// < http://www.chiilmama.com/2012/06/cirque-du-soleils-
dralion-sneak-peek.html >
{Jun.20}
All set for the show at Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/dralioncirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151858653795195&set=a.225774950194.283184.
39340140194&type=1&theater >
{Jun.20}
In case you have missed this morning appearance of Dralion on
the Windy City LIVE morning show, please see link below. Enjoy!
LINK /// < http://windycitylive.com/episodes/WCLs-Whats-New:-
Dralion-performs-in-studio-/8524841 >
---[ IRIS ]---
{Jun.08}
Fun Fact: Some sequences in IRIS by Cirque du Soleil such as the
Rooftops trampoline number vibrate with bright saturated colors
and the sharp contrasts of shadows and silhouettes. However, The
shows overall color palette leans more toward earth tones -
muted oranges and yellows. This ensures that vitally important
projections are clearly visible from every seat in the vast
Dolby Theatre.
{Jun.09}
IRIS by Cirque du Soleil is out at Los Angeles Pride this
weekend! Come by the festival for an IRIS fan with a special
offer for show tickets and participate in the Green Screen
experience. See you there!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/IrisCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=407947349243611&set=a.173536262684722.34125.
161171830587832&type=1&theater >
{Jun.11}
Home of IRIS, the Kodak Theatre will now officially be called
the Dolby Theatre! Dolby is a leading brand in the audio world -
most famously known for their surround sound in movie theaters
across the world. Performers from IRIS helped welcome in Dolby
at this premier event.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/IrisCirque#!/media/set/?
set=a.409811779057168.89695.161171830587832&type=1 >
{Jun.18}
Olga Pikhienko, IRIS Hand Balancer at Beverly Hills Chamber Gala
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/IrisCirque#!/media/set/?
set=a.415931121778567.90906.161171830587832&type=1 >
---[ KÀ ]---
{Jun.01}
Resting our feet before tonight's performances!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/KA#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151033426581929&set=a.176667951928.146847.
31527171928&type=1&theater
{Jun.12}
Are you on Twitter? Use the hashtag #KAtweet to tell us about
your love of KÀ and your tweet could appear on our stream in the
MGM Grand Las Vegas lobby!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/KA#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151058004796929&set=a.176667951928.146847.
31527171928&type=1&theater >
{Jun.20}
Behind the scenes of KÀ Issue #1 from Cirque du Soleil & Marvel!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/KAComic >
---[ KOOZA ]---
{Jun.17}
What to do in Phoenix? Check "Things to do"!
LINK /// < http://www.azcentral.com/thingstodo/stage/articles/
20120610cirque-du-soleil-kooza-glendale.html >
{Jun.17}
Are you still debating coming to KOOZA? Check the photo gallery
on abc15.com!!
LINK /// < http://www.abc15.com/gallery/news/news_photo_gallery/
kooza-cirque-du-soleil-comes-to-glendale >
---[ LA NOUBA ]---
{Jun.15}
La Nouba Interactive Video Wall at Orlando International Airport
Next time youre in the Orlando International Airport, make sure
to check out our new interactive video wall in baggage claim!
(embedded video - very cool!)
---[ MJ IMMORTAL ]---
{Jun.10}
Check it out! Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour by Cirque
du Soleil aerial artist is now officially a two-time Guinness
World Record holder!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/mjimmortaltour#!/photo.php?
fbid=440443965980471&set=a.277498785608324.71073.
163439450347592&type=1&theater
{Jun.18}
Artistic Director Tara Young and two of our extraordinary
dancers, Davi Lorenzo & Leo Moctezuma, are in Mexico today to
announce our upcoming shows in August in Mexico City!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/mjimmortaltour#!/photo.php?
fbid=444596675565200&set=a.277498785608324.71073.
163439450347592&type=1&theater
---[ MYSTERE ]---
{Jun.01}
Keeping it nice and organized in wardrobe!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Mystere#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150992373199919&set=a.121054974918.123251.
18155469918&type=1&theater
{Jun.04}
Check out this video on our very own clown, Brian Dewhurst!
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIk-
ZAn1cLs&feature=plcp >
{Jun.05}
Here's a look at some of our artists with Glee's Dianna Agron at
Saturday's GLAAD Awards in San Francisco!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Mystere#!/photo.php?
fbid=10151002730134919&set=a.121054974918.123251.
18155469918&type=1&theater >
---[ «O» ]---
{Jun.01}
It's getting hot here in Vegas, but luckily we have a pool! Do
you plan on spending this summer around a pool?
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Ocirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150939898474417&set=a.98604589416.79108.
26000574416&type=1&theater >
{Jun.12}
From the floor of the stage, it is 110 feet up to the grid!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Ocirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150964620634417&set=a.98604589416.79108.
26000574416&type=1&theater >
{Jun.20}
Do you have a favorite prop in "O"?
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Ocirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150981474799417&set=a.98604589416.79108.
26000574416&type=1&theater >
{Jun.26}
Join select "O" cast members at the Park City Food & Wine
Classic July 5-7! We will be mingling with guests at the Toast
of Park City Grand Tasting and giving guests a taste of "O" with
a performance at the Best of the Best Closing Party.
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/M1Pm7e >
---[ OVO ]---
{Jun.18}
Good news for our Australian friends!!! The Brisbane season has
been extended by another two weeks. OVO will now be playing
until September 2. This is the last possible extension for OVO
in Brisbane. Tickets for the 17 additional shows are now on sale
at www.cirquedusoleil.com/ovo. Don't wait and get your tickets
now.
---[ QUIDAM ]---
{May.31}
Quidam in the Grand Rapids media...
Quidam skipper and spokesperson with Jordan Carson WOOD TV8
LINK /// < http://www.woodtv.com/dpp/eightwest_blog/
jordan_carson/cirque-du-soleil-to-hit-grand-rapids >
Quidam skipper putting Todd Chance to the test!
LINK /// < http://videos.mlive.com/grpress/2012/05/cirque_show_-
_rosa_parks_circl.html >
Quidam skipper at The WGVU Morning Show with Shelley Irwin
LINK /// < http://www.wgvu.org/wgvunews/audio/fplayer1.cfm?
styid=16414 >
MLIVE's John Gonzalez visits Quidam backstage
LINK /// < http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2012/05/
cirque_du_soleils_quidam_conti.html >
Backstage photos - Paul Jendrasiak for GRnow.com
LINK /// < https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.10150949082639105.437458.19176404104&type=1 >
Tim Motley for stellafly
LINK /// < https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.473567632660498.130918.114949308522334&type=1 >
{Jun.08}
Quidam in the Toledo media
Quidam Skipper and spokesperson
LINK /// < http://www.toledonewsnow.com/category/195970/video-
landing-page?clipId=7216967&autostart= >
Quidam John Character
LINK /// < http://www.thetruthtoledo.com/story/2012/
052312/ward.htm >
Interview with Spanish Web performers
LINK /// < http://www.toledoblade.com/local/2012/06/07/
Cirque-du-Soleil-performs-at-Huntington-Center.html >
Photo Gallery from rehearsals
LINK /// < http://www.toledoblade.com/gallery/6-06-Cirque-du-
Soleil-Quidam-rehearsal >
{Jun.16}
Quidam in the Rockford Media
LINK /// < http://www.examiner.com/review/quidam-thrills-the-
senses-and-rouses-the-imagination >
LINK /// < http://www.examiner.com/article/a-chat-with-cirque-
du-soleil-s-danila-bim >
LINK /// < http://www.rrstar.com/newsphotos/x1106454555/Cirque-
du-Soleil-performers-rehearse-for-Quidam-in-Rockford >
LINK /// < http://www.reicherstudios.com/Music/Cirque-du-Soleil-
Quidam/23569205_JPz92N#!i=1906820773&k=XbsNTkb /
{Jun.22}
Quidam in the St Louis media
LINK /// < http://www.alivemag.com/blog/index.php/2012/06/on-
target-interview-with-ardee-dionisio-of-cirque-du-soleil/>
LINK /// < http://fox2now.com/2012/06/20/tims-travels-cirque-du-
soleil-presents-quidam-in-st-louis/ >
LINK /// < http://www.ksdk.com/news/local/story.aspx?
storyid=325016 >
LINK /// < http://www.stlamerican.com/entertainment/living_it/
article_6e86d9d0-b5d6-11e1-b4cf-0019bb2963f4.html >
LINK /// < http://www.stltoday.com/entertainment/arts-and-
theatre/st-louis-drummer-keeps-beat-for-cirque-du-soleil-
show/article_a18e6ba8-b49c-11e1-831b-0019bb30f31a.html >
LINK /// < http://www.scanews.com/2012/06/s1137/113704/ >
LINK /// < http://www.examiner.com/article/behind-the-scenes-
look-at-cirque-du-soleil-s-quidam >
{Jun.27}
What does the Quidam Hand to Hand couple do during their day
off? check them out in Indianapolis!
LINK /// < http://www.indystar.com/article/20120626/
ENTERTAINMENT/120626041/2-Cirque-du-Soleil-cast-members-
give-hint-feats-come-Indy-run-Quidam-?odyssey=mod%
7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CIndyStar.com%7Cp >
---[ SALTIMBANCO ]---
{Jun.05}
Opening tonight in Sicily!! Interview with the singer Anna Bille
LINK /// < http://spettacolo.lasiciliaweb.it/index.php?id=78236>
{Jun.06}
Due settimane in Sicilia !
LINK /// < http://www.lasiciliaweb.it/index.php?id=78370%
2Fteatro%2Focchi-sognanti-dei-bimbi-al-circo >
{Jun.09}
Saltimbanco in the streets of Catania, Sicilia !
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/SaltimbancoCirque#!/
photo.php?fbid=10151028688307959&set=a.10151028687352959.
487587.41245692958&type=1&theater >
{Jun.19}
The show is getting ready to fly on board two cargo 747 planes
to Amman, Jordan!
{Jun.24}
Currently setting up the show inside the Prince Hamzah Hall in
Amman, Jordan!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/SaltimbancoCirque#!/
photo.php?fbid=10151061553417959&set=a.121288542958.
129859.41245692958&type=1&theater >
{Jun.28}
Thanks Jordan for a warm welcome! Great crowds, even the Queen
Rania of Jordan attended last night performance!
---[ THE BEATLES LOVE ]---
{Jun.01}
Our green room is a very friendly place!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/TheBeatlesLOVE#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150929594698666&set=a.101066423665.92500.
14653468665&type=1&theater >
{Jun.19}
Happy Birthday, Sir Paul McCartney! The cast of The Beatles LOVE
wishes Sir Paul McCartney a very happy birthday!
---[ TOTEM ]---
{Jun.03}
Metro Boston published a preview article about TOTEM coming to
town, only 7 days to go before Opening Night!
LINK /// < http://www.metro.us/boston/entertainment/article/
1144353--cirque-du-soleil-s-totem-perform-like-the-world-
is-a-zoo >
{Jun.08}
Good morning Boston! We are putting the final touches to the
Frogs costumes prior to our Dress Rehearsal tomorrow at the
Marine Industrial Park.
LINK /// < http://instagr.am/p/LnU97mlEso/
{Jun.09}
Come celebrate with our street team at the Boston Pride Parade
this afternoon!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/TotemCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=433169176703778&set=a.111837202170312.12495.
111798252174207&type=1&theater >
{Jun.09}
Come see our street team at the Boston Pride and get your own
TOTEM Frog mask!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/TotemCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=433177773369585&set=a.111837202170312.12495.
111798252174207&type=1&theater
{Jun.12}
Have you seen the TOTEM cabs invading Boston? ;)
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/TotemCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=434929459861083&set=a.111837202170312.12495.
111798252174207&type=1&theater
{Jun.17}
TOTEM in the Boston News!! Read the Boston Globe review while
our cast and crew members are finishing-up the first
performances of the day at the Boston Marine Industrial Park.
LINK /// < http://bostonglobe.com/arts/theater-
art/2012/06/15/cirque-soleil-totem-showcases-artistry-
with-nod-science/EicD8X4raDTuaju7q46QVI/story.html >
{Jun.22}
Our Love Birds, Louis-David Simoneau and Rosalie Ducharme,
teaching trapeze live on FOX Morning News in Boston!
LINK /// < http://www.myfoxboston.com/video?
clipId=7422626&autostart=true >
{Jun.23}
It is anniversary week on TOTEM! We performed our 800th show
yesterday and our Russian Bars porter Anatoli Baravikou received
his 10-year anniversary Cirque du Soleil jacket!
Congratulations!!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/TotemCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=441421195878576&set=a.111837202170312.12495.
111798252174207&type=1&theater
{Jun.25}
On the set of Let's Talk Live on Channel 8 in DC!! TOTEM opens
on August 15 at National Harbor!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/TotemCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=442614182425944&set=a.111837202170312.12495.
111798252174207&type=1&theater >
{Jun.25}
A lot of action for TOTEM today, our singer Esi Acquaah-Harrison
is getting ready to sing the Canadian National Anthem at the
Boston Red Sox game against the Toronto Blue Jays tonight at the
Boston Fenway Park!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/TotemCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=442655112421851&set=a.111837202170312.12495.
111798252174207&type=1&theater >
---[ ZARKANA ]---
{Jun.01}
Here's a look from the wings at our hand-balancing performance
on Live with Kelly this morning! Did you tune in?
LINK /// < http://dadt.com/live/special/livestage/ >
(search for Zarkana)
{Jun.12}
Celebrate Pride in New York City in a way only Zarkana fans can!
Enter you and a guest for your chance to ride the official
Zarkana bus in the Pride parade on June 24, 2012! Only the first
25 people to RSVP at the link below will be invited to ride the
bus with one guest. First come, first serve!
LINK /// < http://cirqueclub-zarkana-pride.eventbrite.com/
{Jun.13}
Just climbed by our 30 minute call - it's almost time to raise
the curtain on opening night back in New York!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/ZarkanaCirque#!/photo.php?
fbid=400805366638025&set=a.197727416945822.59030.
139797212738843&type=1&theater >
{Jun.18}
Exclusive Facebook access to Zarkana in Vegas pre-sale!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/ZarkPSFB >
{Jun.24}
Pride 2012 with the Zarkana Street Team and Zarkana fans!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/ZarkanaCirque#!/media/set/?
set=a.406666389385256.101934.139797212738843&type=1 >
---[ ZUMANITY ]---
{Jun.01}
It's almost the weekend and Izzy's found herself a drink! Which
Zumanity artist would you love to run into in a bar?
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Zumanity#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150922316413847&set=a.103927633846.92609.
13931088846&type=1&theater >
{Jun.22}
Edie, our mistress of sensuality, kicks off Zumanity at San
Francisco Pride with a visit to Facebook!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Zumanity#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150967446098847&set=a.103927633846.92609.
13931088846&type=1&theater >
{Jun.24}
Artists from Zumanity took a ride for San Francisco Pride!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/Zumanity#!/photo.php?
fbid=10150971620843847&set=a.103927633846.92609.
13931088846&type=1&theater >
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts at a Glance about Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque Company History
o) ODYSSEA - Cirque Tour History
---------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------
In celebration of Totem's milestone last month (they celebrated their
800th performance!), all the facts in DidYaKnow pertain to... TOTEM!
o) TOTEM is considered a "hybrid show" - the first Cirque du Soleil
Big Top show to be created in such a way that it can be adapted to
the reality of arenas and other venues from the very outset.
o) The large oval framework on stage represents the skeletal
substructure of a huge turtle shell that serves both as a
decorative set element and as acrobatic equipment. The motifs on
the surface of the stage itself are a collage of hand-drawn images
inspired by the patterns on the plastrons of several turtle
species. At the start of the show it is covered with a cloth
printed with the shell markings of a forest turtle, reproduced
through macro photography. Depending on the artistic needs, the
skeleton is raised to the top of the tent or opened at an angle
like an enormous shell.
o) The turtle skeleton weighs 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg), includes 2
horizontal bars and is completely covered in a non-slip finish.
o) Bordering the marsh upstage is a marsh lined with reeds near an
island (the stage) on which images are projected. Tilted slightly
forward, the image marsh acts both as a stage entrance and as a
projection surface. Through the magic of moving images it becomes a
virtual swamp, a river source, a marsh, a lake, an ocean, a
volcanic island, a pond and a starry sky. The reeds conceal the
artists and some set elements before they enter. To save weight and
facilitate storage on tour, the reeds are inflatable.
o) Some of the projections on the marsh interact with the movements of
the artists in real time. Infrared cameras positioned above the
stage and around the marsh detect their movement and produce
kinetic effects such as ripples, splashes and reflections in the
water and the flames. The images in the projections are drawn from
nature and were shot for the production in various parts of the
world, including Iceland, Hawaii and Guatemala. Even the images of
boiling lava were filmed by Image Content Designer Pedro Pires.
o) The "Scorpion Bridge" serving as a mobile platform connects the
marsh to the scene features variable geometry, allowing it to adapt
to each tableau. In one of the clown numbers, for example, it
becomes the prow of a boat then rises to become a plane in flight,
and finally a rocket taking off. In another scene, the bridge is
configured to look like a vertical totem pole.
o) The concept of the Scorpion Bridge was loosely based on a
retractable pedestrian bridge in London. Built of steel and
weighing 10,000 lbs, its 8 powerful mineral oil hydraulic motors
allow it to rise, descend, extend, retract and curl in on itself
like a scorpions tail. Its reflective surfaces, which shine like
mirrors, are made of stainless steel plates. The base of the bridge
houses lighting equipment, a laser, speakers and cameras. During
the show, the bridge is monitored by an operator using four
infrared cameras.
o) During the rings trio number, the Scorpion Bridge turns into an
Indian carpet that unrolls on the beach in a reference to the
Bollywood aesthetic that inspired the overall look of this scene.
o) Photographs taken by Guy Laliberté during his 2009 Poetic Social
Mission aboard the International Space Station are integrated in
the show.
o) The unicycles are 7 ft (2 m) tall but very light, which makes them
easier to manoeuvre down the ramp at the beginning of the act.
o) The perch poles are made of duralumin, an alloy used in
aeronautics. The tallest pole is about 33 ft (10 m) high.
o) The show theme reflected in the costumes is the cycle of the
seasons, which underscores the importance of nature to the show.
Neon-bright colours, vivid, shiny fabrics and playful details lend
a summer atmosphere to the Bollywood-inspired beach scene. To
suggest a time of harvest and the abundance of fall, the
unicyclists costumes feature seed pods, flowers, trees and leaves.
And the two rollerskaters are dressed in white and silver to help
create a winter tableau.
o) To recreate such a broad range of textures, colours and markings
found in nature, the designer concentrated on the treatment of
fabrics rather than on the fabrics themselves: advanced printing
techniques, fluorescent pigments, mirror fragments and crystals
allowed her to "paint" on canvases as varied as Lycra and leather,
with results that constantly interact with and adapt to the shows
ever-changing lighting.
o) The Crystal Man-a recurring character-represents the life force.
His dazzling costume (literally) is entirely covered of small
mirrors and crystals. The glittering mobile mosaic is made up of
about 4,500 reflective components on a stretch velvet leotard.
o) The Hoop Dancers costume is inspired by the traditional,
ceremonial clothing of a number of North American Indian tribes,
rather than an accurate portrayal of any one culture. It includes a
Hopi cross and a headdress, and features extensive use of leather.
o) In the opening scene the marsh is populated by fish and frogs.
Their patterns and colours came from real fish and frogs-including
the most poisonous frog in the Amazon jungle-and are replicated by
the pixelation of the image in the screen printing process. The
textures of the fabrics are also a close match to the skin of fish
and frogs found in nature. The end result resembles a community of
human amphibians.
o) Each unicyclist has her own look, but together they form an
integrated unit. The base costumes are printed in earth tones, with
small details sewn onto them-including bolts and screws as well as
feathers and insects. The line of the costumes and the stylized
tutus create flirty ballerina silhouettes.
o) The costumes worn by the foot-juggling duo are based on Lycra body
stockings. Each is adorned with 3,500 crystals and the 2
headdresses are each encrusted with a further 1,000.
o) The Cosmonauts are wearing two costumes in one: when they first
appear (under black light), their body-hugging Lycra suits glow
dramatically in the dark, but as soon as the stage lights kick in,
their look is completely transformed. Some of the printed motifs
recall Mayan drawings, and each artist is wearing an individual
variation on the theme.
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque Company History
------------------------------------
* Jul.01.1990 -- Cirque Réinventé (Vol 2) CD Released (Nâga)
* Jul.02.2002 -- La Nouba Boutique pepper spray incident forces evacuation
* Jul.04.2007 -- Cirque named top Canadian Brand by Brand Finance Canada.
* Jul.06.2008 -- René Dupéré named "Chevalier" in the Order de la Pléiade
* Jul.07.2006 -- Lovesick documentary released to DVD
* Jul.10.2009 -- La Nouba celebrated 5,000th performance [9:00pm]
* Jul.11.2008 -- LOVE celebrated 1000th performance [Friday]
* Jul.11.2009 -- La Nouba celebrated 5000th performance
* Jul.12.2004 -- Dralion CD released in Canada (CDSMC-10016)
* Jul.13.2003 -- Cirque nominated for 1 Emmy - 55th Emmy Awards
Outstanding Nonfiction Program Alternate - Fire Within
* Jul.18.2002 -- Cirque nominated for 2 Emmys in 54th Emmy Awards
Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special - Alegría
Outstanding Choreography for 74th Academy Awards - Debra Brown
* Jul.19.2012 -- Cirque's New Website Launches
* Jul.20.2004 -- Varekai CD released in Canada (CDSMC-10018)
* Jul.20.2004 -- Alegría CD released in Canada (CDSMC-10007)
* Jul.20.2007 -- Corteo Nominated for Emmys
o) Category 6: Art Direction for a Variety,
Music Program orSpecial
o) Category 28: Picture Editing for a Special
(Single of Multi-Camera)
* Jul.23.2006 -- Varekai NAT 1 Ends (2002-2006)
* Jul.24.2011 -- Official Statement of ZED Theater Closing
* Jul.25.2006 -- Delirium CD released in Canada (CDSMC-10026)
* Jul.27.2004 -- Varekai CD released in US (CDSMC-10018)
* Jul.27.2009 -- LOVE celebrated 1,500th performance [7:00pm]
* Jul.29.2010 -- La Nouba celebrated 5500th performance [9:00pm]
* Jul.31.2003 -- Zumanity Begins Preview Performances
* Jul.31.2004 -- Quidam celebrated 3000th performance [Sat, 1:00pm/Calgary]
------------------------------------
ODYSSEA: Cirque Tour History
------------------------------------
* Jul.02.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Regina, SK
* Jul.02.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Providence, RI
* Jul.02.2010 -- Totem opened Quebec City, QC
* Jul.03.2009 -- Koozå opened Minneapolis/St.Paul
* Jul.04.1996 -- Quidam opened Ste-Foy, QC
* Jul.04.2012 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Doha, QA
* Jul.05.1984 -- Grand Tour 1984 opened Rimouski, QC
* Jul.05.1985 -- Grand Tour 1985 opened Québec, QC
* Jul.05.1986 -- Magie Continue opened Québec, QC
* Jul.05.1990 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Seattle
* Jul.05.2007 -- Varekai opened Adelaide
* Jul.05.2007 -- Koozå opened Quebec City
* Jul.06.2000 -- Saltimbanco opened Seattle, WA
* Jul.06.2006 -- Quidam opened Philadelphia, PA
* Jul.06.2011 -- Alegría Arena opened Raleigh, NC
* Jul.06.2011 -- Quidam Arena opened St. John's, NL
* Jul.06.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Edmonton, AB
* Jul.07.1987 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Québec, QC
* Jul.07.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Dublin, IE
* Jul.08.2004 -- Alegría opened Philadelphia
* Jul.08.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Estero, FL
* Jul.08.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Manchester, NH
* Jul.08.2011 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Brisbane, AU
* Jul.09.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Winnipeg, MB
* Jul.09.2009 -- Quidam opened Olinda / Recife, BR
* Jul.09.2009 -- Varekai opened Gijon, ES
* Jul.10.2002 -- Saltimbanco opened Vienna, AT
* Jul.10.2003 -- Alegría opened Vancouver
* Jul.10.2009 -- Dralion opened Auckland, NZ
* Jul.10.2010 -- Quidam opened Santiago, CL
* Jul.11.1990 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Montréal, QC
* Jul.11.1997 -- Alegría opened Berlin, DE
* Jul.11.2009 -- Quidam opened Fortaleza, BR
* Jul.12.1984 -- Grand Tour 1984 opened Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, QC
* Jul.12.1992 -- Saltimbanco opened San Francisco, CA
* Jul.12.1994 -- Alegría opened San Francisco, CA
* Jul.12.2000 -- Quidam opened Rotterdam, NL
* Jul.12.2012 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Hong Kong, CN
* Jul.13.2011 -- Alegría Arena opened Florence, SC
* Jul.13.2011 -- Quidam Arena opened St. John, NB
* Jul.13.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Saskatoon, SK
* Jul.14.1992 -- Fascination opened Osaka, JP
* Jul.14.2006 -- Alegría opened Amsterdam
* Jul.14.2006 -- Corteo opened Chicago
* Jul.14.2012 -- Ovo opened Brisbane, AU
* Jul.15.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Cypress, TX
* Jul.15.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Newark, NJ
* Jul.16.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Kansas City,MO
* Jul.17.2003 -- Varekai opened Chicago, IL
* Jul.17.2008 -- Dralion opened Sydney, AU
* Jul.18.2012 -- Alegría Arena opened Nice, FR
* Jul.19.1984 -- Grand Tour 1984 opened Baie-Saint-Paul, QC
* Jul.19.2003 -- Quidam opened Osaka, JP
* Jul.19.2012 -- Quidam Arena opened Winnipeg, MB
* Jul.19.2012 -- Dralion Arena opened Sunrise, FL
* Jul.20.2011 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Newcastle, AU
* Jul.20.2011 -- Alegría Arena opened Sunrise, FL
* Jul.20.2011 -- Quidam Arena opened Halifax, NS
* Jul.20.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Winnipeg, MB
* Jul.21.1995 -- Saltimbanco opened Berlin, DE
* Jul.21.1999 -- Saltimbanco opened Adelaide, AU
* Jul.21.2005 -- Dralion opened Oostende
* Jul.21.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Nottingham, UK
* Jul.22.1998 -- Quidam opened Chicago, IL
* Jul.22.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Houston, TX
* Jul.22.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Wilkes-Barre, PA
* Jul.22.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Winnipeg, MB
* Jul.22.2010 -- Koozå opened Vancouver, BC
* Jul.23.1984 -- Grand Tour 1984 opened Baie-Comeau, QC
* Jul.23.1988 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Toronto, ON
* Jul.23.1997 -- Quidam opened San Jose, CA
* Jul.23.1998 -- Alegría opened Antwerp, BE
* Jul.24.1992 -- Fascination opened Sapporo, JP
* Jul.24.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Oostenade, BE
* Jul.24.2003 -- Dralion opened Columbus, OH
* Jul.24.2008 -- Quidam opened Alicante, ES
* Jul.25.2002 -- Quidam opened Boston, MA
* Jul.25.2007 -- Dralion opened Osaka, JP
* Jul.25.2012 -- Quidam Arena opened Regina, SK
* Jul.25.2012 -- Corteo opened Gijon, ES
* Jul.26.1984 -- Grand Tour 1984 opened Québec, QC
* Jul.26.1985 -- Grand Tour 1985 opened Toronto, ON
* Jul.26.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Toronto
* Jul.26.1995 -- Alegría opened Chicago, IL
* Jul.26.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Angers, FR
* Jul.26.2001 -- Quidam opened Copenhagen, DK
* Jul.26.2012 -- Varekai opened Porto Alegre, BR
* Jul.26.2012 -- Koozå opened Houston, TX
* Jul.26.2012 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Singapore, SG
* Jul.26.2012 -- Amaluna opened Quebec, QC
* Jul.27.2004 -- Varekai opened Boston
* Jul.27.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Regina, SK
* Jul.27.2011 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Sydney, AU
* Jul.27.2011 -- Quidam Arena opened Providence, RI
* Jul.27.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Frisco, TX
* Jul.28.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Chicago, IL
* Jul.28.2007 -- Alegría opened Gijon
* Jul.28.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened London, UK
* Jul.28.2011 -- Corteo opened Alicante, ES
* Jul.29.1999 -- Dralion opened Toronto, ON
* Jul.29.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Phoenix, AZ
* Jul.29.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Hamilton, OH
* Jul.29.2009 -- Corteo opened Osaka, JP
* Jul.29.2010 -- Varekai opened Oostenede, BE
* Jul.30.2009 -- Ovo opened Quebec City, QC
* Jul.31.1990 -- Cirque Réinventé opened London, UK
* Jul.31.2007 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened London, ON
* Jul.31.2008 -- Varekai opened Oberhausen, DE
* Jul.31.2008 -- Corteo opened Calgary
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
o) "Before the Circus Comes to Town - Part One:
An Exclusive talk with Eric Chalifour, Analysis
Manager, Cirque du Soleil"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
o) "Cirque Documentaries: An Overview
Part 2 of 2: 2006 - 2011"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
"Before the Circus Comes to Town - Part One: An Exclusive
talk with Eric Chalifour, Analysis Manager, CDS"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
Upon strolling onto a Cirque show site one is impressed by the
grandeur of it all - from the fences that corral ticket holders, to
the imposing spires of the tent and the bright blue and yellow colors
of the canvas, not to mention the anticipation at the wonders within.
But not as obvious upon first glance is the workhorse power behind the
grandeur - not just the electrical cables snaking their way through
the site like veins, or the water or sewer digestive tract, but the
hiding-in-plain-sight network of beams, masts, supports, and cables -
the bones and muscle - that hold the tent skin taut and upright.
Bringing a Cirque show to a city involves much more than just setting
up the big top. It takes months, often several months of planning.
Numerous departments and many people are involved. They are what you
might consider the pioneers, the leading edge, of Cirques visit to a
city.
If youve ever watched Cirque prepare a site, set up their tent,
perform and then leave, you might have observed the transformation a
site goes through. Parking lots become barren blacktop pads, park
fields get massively terra-formed. The results of the efforts of the
pre and post-visit crews were first made clear to my wife and me when
Alegria visited Seattle in the summer of 2003. Before Cirque moved to
its current Marymoor Park site Cirque set up in an expansive parking
lot in the city of Renton, easily visible from the freeway. The
parking lot was normally used as overflow parking for a Boeing
aircraft manufacturing facility. Though the area was flat it had any
number of curbs, streetlights, and markings. We were impressed when
we visited the show how completely the lot had been restructured to
accommodate Cirques small city. All of those offending obstructions
had been completely removed, to the point it was hard to tell they had
been there at all. And when we returned three weeks after the show
had left, we found the site had been returned to almost exactly how it
looked before - the curbs were in their proper place, landscaping and
beauty bark had been placed and the area had been restriped. You
could hardly tell Cirque had ever been there.
What we saw with Alegria fascinated us, so we decided to investigate
further the next time Cirque came to town. We thought visiting a tent
site prior to the arrival of the big top would be a good place to
start. But beforehand we wanted to get some background information on
what is actually involved before the circus arrives.
Back in April 2006, several weeks before Varekai arrived in Seattle,
we spoke with Eric Chalifour, Analysis Manager for Cirque du Soleil,
from his office in Montreal. Mr. Chalifour had been with Cirque du
Soleil for four years at the time of our conversation. "I'm a land
surveyor. I was working at my own company doing road surveys and
locating buildings. But now instead of locating buildings I'm locating
big tops!"
While it might seem like any number of sites might be able to host a
Grand Chapiteau, it isnt that simple. Long before the big top
arrives, a small army of people have visited - measuring, analyzing,
preparing. Mr. Chalifour started by explaining the process and his
responsibilities.
"Site survey analysis is really important. We have six tours around
the world with many site surveys being done at the same time. When the
tour plan says we need to go to a particular city we have a department
that seeks sites. So they visit a city and look for possibilities.
Once possibilities are [identified] they ask me to visit the sites and
measure them to see if there are any obstacles according to our
tolerances. [We have to identify] parking facilities, visibility,
sewer connections, availability of phone lines - many issues that need
to be covered before saying that a site is correct for us. And we have
[to create] a lot of drawings for permits such as evacuation & fire
[prevention]. As a manager I supervise those activities and I'm in
charge of drawings as well."
Their measurements can tell a lot about the suitability of a site, but
its only one ingredient in the mixture of factors Cirque considers.
"Sometimes because of our recommendation they don't go [to a site]
because we tell them not to go because it's a mistake. And sometimes
they don't listen. (Laughs) [...] But there are other issues than ours.
Visibility and availability of sites are sometimes a problem. The best
sites logistically and construction-wise and cost-wise may not be
available, but another site that might cost more might be available
within our timeframe. There are many issues that determine which sites
we will use. But when the Site Selection Committee meets they take our
recommendations into account."
What size makes for an ideal site? "We ask for 100 x 180 meters
(around 300 x 600 feet). It can't be flat because of rainwater, which
is usually an issue for our patrons, so we always try to avoid water
accumulation. When we do site construction and we have to start from
scratch, say in a soccer field, we usually do a crown shape to let
water flow down each side of the site. Under the big top we try to
have as flat a surface as possible, because our stage and sets and
backstage have close tolerances and there is no rain accumulation
since we have a roof. But in the grandstand area we can have a little
bit of slope."
It is interesting to note that, though they will occasionally set up
in parks, they never set up on bare grass. "Not the patron area [or]
the big top area, those two areas will be paved. The back of the site
and the rest of the area will be [well-compacted] gravel filling
material. Because if we don't compact it well our trailers will sink.
We have to have a strong surface but not necessarily entirely paved;
it's costly to pave everything. The main issue for us is the patron.
So we always try to figure out where the patrons will go and pave
those areas."
For Seattle, the size that has hosted Cirque du Soleil tents for
several shows has been a specially-constructed pad of asphalt about 15
miles east of Seattle in Marymoor Park in the city of Redmond. <
http://www.kingcounty.gov/recreation/parks/inventory/marymoor.aspx >
(It can be seen as "Recreation and Event Area" in the top center of
this map, between the cricket fields and the Velodrome just above Lot
I. < http://your.kingcounty.gov/dnrp/library/parks-and-
recreation/documents/marymoor/marymoor_park_map_web_09.pdf >.)
Mr. Chalifour discussed how the Marymoor Park site is different from
many of the other types of sites they use, and how the site was
created. "I was there personally at Marymoor Park. At the time it was
a soccer field and they decided to develop the area into a park event
area. They told us we were the biggest event they would have so if
they build their [site] according to our specs they would be able to
receive any other event. So we gave them our recommendations and they
did the job according to our specs. They filled the place with gravel
and added asphalt over a huge area to allow us to install our stuff.
It has several fire hydrants, a sewer connection to catch our
wastewater - the whole system is there. And after the work had been
done we sent a guy to survey the site and it was perfectly done, so we
are keen to go there. It's already perfect for us. So we will do a
week of marking without any site construction needed. And they can
also use it for other events."
GETTING THE SITE READY
We asked Mr. Chalifour what happens after the site has been decided
upon. "If we look at the preparation of the site (before the tent
arrives) and its restoration (after the tent leaves), we have two
departments that work together: my department, Site Analysis and
Marking, and Site Construction. We have a civil engineer in Site
Construction who is the manager of several supervisors who go on-site
and assist the contractor during site construction to make sure that
their work is according to our specs. And we work together with them."
"We first locate obstacles and analyze the situation and recommend any
construction. We do a topographic survey where we do a drawing to read
the surface. And when a slope is too high we know we need to correct
it. So we calculate the amount of filling material we need, give the
drawings to the civil engineer (in Site Construction) and hell hire
someone to do the job."
Sometimes quite a bit of work is needed to make a site suitable.
"Depending upon the amount of work that needs to be done they might
start one week or one month before or maybe two months if it's a huge
parcel with lots of obstacles. And we keep in touch with them during
the construction process. And then we arrive one week before the first
day of the setup."
They are on a strict timetable, because the circus is on its way. "The
last show occurs on Sunday and we remove everything by Tuesday, they
travel on Tuesday night and start to set up in the new city on
Wednesday. But all the markings have been done and the anchors and
plates have been put in place ready for them, because we have two
plate and stake kits. Then it takes nine days of set up before the
premiere."
"We use one supervisor with six temporary staff. My people do the
locating of everything and the marking and stake driving. We rent a
Bobcat and put a hydraulic hammer on it and [use it to] drive the
stakes properly. I am the manager, I usually stay in Montréal, but we
have a supervisor on-site."
While the supervisor on-site is a Cirque employee, the rest of the
crew are temporary Cirque staff. "They travel from one site to
another. We call them fly-ins because they fly everywhere. We have a
long list of fly-ins that we ask to travel from one site to another."
One crew travels the West Coast while another travels the East Coast.
"Usually some stay in Europe and some in America because we have
demands everywhere, but sometimes we don't have a choice and we must
call [Europeans] to help in the United States."
MAKING THEIR MARK
After major site construction has been completed, and about a week
prior to the arrival of the tent, Mr.Chalifours crew arrives. "We
[first] need to prepare the site with markings. What we mean by
markings is we note all the [site] infrastructure. We have to mark the
location of the main tent, the main anchor, all the other tents and
containers. It's like a little city; it's a lot of stuff. So we have
to mark every single thing precisely because we don't usually have
lots of space. We take as little space as possible because the more
space we take the more rent we have to pay. So we always take as
little as we can."
"We have the usual survey equipment, not just a single measuring tape.
We need a theodolite or Total Station to measure everything. This
operation takes a few days to a whole week - a few days to localize
things and a few days to drive the stakes into place." (A Total
Station is an instrument (otherwise called a theodolite) used in
modern surveying, which incorporates the traditional transit with a
distance meter to read distances from the instrument to a specific
point. See a picture and read more at <
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_station >.)
"The marking operation is to place our equipment as well as locate any
underground utilities. We usually set up in parking lots, and usually
there are electrical cables that feed lampposts and occasionally water
lines. When a water line is crossing the site we don't want to hit
that, so we localize the utility and see if we can avoid it. If we
cant we have a lot of tricks, we can weld wider metal plates under
our usual plates and drive the stakes a bit wider than usual to avoid
the line."
Ah yes, the stakes. These are the unsung and overlooked workhorses of
any Cirque site. Look carefully around the perimeter of a tent and you
will see a series of these stakes hammered into the ground and holding
supporting wires. The amount of stakes varies from 300 to 1200
depending on the tour. The stakes are 5 feet long and 2 inches in
diameter and weigh 20-25 pounds each, and, as Mr. Chalifour mentioned,
are hammered into the ground by a hydraulic hammer placed onto the end
of a Bobcat small bulldozer.
PULLING UP STAKES (and trees)
Each site presents its own challenges, some more severe than others.
"Sometimes we've had to remove a number of major trees. Those are the
kinds of issues we don't like to deal with because we don't like to
remove trees. Sometimes it's a nice park, a nice landscape, and we
have to remove everything and put it back later. Sometimes we can keep
[the trees alive] and put them back afterward. And sometimes the
landowner says they want the area clear for major events anyway, so
they ask us to prepare the site the way we want and leave it as-is
afterwards. But the reason the trees are removed is the circus."
"[But] removing a wall or a fence is not a major issue for us.
Sometimes there's a slope on the site where well need to put in a lot
of fill material that can cost a lot. But the environmental side of
site preparation can be a challenge. We don't like to remove things."
"So that's about it," he summarized. "Localize any underground
utilities or infrastructure, drive the stakes, put the utilities and
anchor system in, and then the tent crew arrives to put up the tent."
Occasionally, despite the best planning, things can go completely
awry. Such as in August 2005 when Hurricane Emily swept through the
Gulf Coast wreaking havoc on Monterrey, Mexico, where Saltimbanco was
just about to open. "They had a flat area for sporting events with a
[nearby] parking lot that was right above the Rio Grande River. But
because of a hurricane the water level raised and the flow rate of the
river raised a lot as well. And part of the site was removed by the
river. We were about to lose too much space so we decided to remove
all the stakes and all the plates and get out of there. And in 24
hours we had to find another site, survey it and sign contracts with
the owner. In the end, 48 hours later we had a new site and we were
able to drive the stakes."
"The tour manager and tour crew were already there so my team, the
construction team and the tour staff had to work together to
[evacuate] and find another place, and do all the marking and stake
driving (at the new site) as quickly as possible. So [while] we were
removing anchor plates and stakes we were driving those same plates a
few hours later in the new site. It was heroic but we had help from
the local people there and we made it happen."
There are, of course, two parts to a city visit. Weve talked at
length about what happens to a site before the circus comes to town,
but what about after the circus leaves?
How long it takes to return a site to its former condition varies.
"Once the last stake has been removed (from the old site), it takes a
few days to fill the holes. If we just had to remove a fence and fill
holes it takes a few days. If we have to landscape and reinstall lamps
and such it can take up to two or maybe three weeks. Sometimes we
import a lot of filling material, and sometimes they tell us we can
leave it because they now have a level area they can use for other
events. Sometimes they ask us to remove everything. But a usual
restoration takes three weeks. We do asphalt repairs, reinstall
fencing, and remove all the trash. And usually that's about it."
But hearing about whats involved in preparing a site for a Cirque
show is only half the story. And so we scheduled a visit to a site in
process, to check it out. Thats NEXT month!
My sincere thanks go to: Mr. Chalifour for so graciously spending time
with us, Chantal Côte, Corporate PR Manager, And my wife LouAnna for
putting up with my sometimes obsessive hobby.
----------------------------------------------------------
"Cirque Documentaries: An Overview
Part 2 of 2: 2006 - 2011"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
Documentary (n.) a movie or television problem intended to document
some aspect of reality, primarily for the purpose of instruction or
maintaining a historical record that tells the facts about actual
people and events.
Through the efforts of out filmworks division - first Télémagik
(formed in 1988 to release the original 90-minute version of "Le Magie
Continue" as well as various other Cirque shows up to Saltimbanco in
1994) and later with Cirque du Soleil Images (Télémagik was renamed
CDSi in May of 1997 to better brand the multimedia company with its
parent) - Cirque du Soleil has produced a variety of documentaries
over the years. So many that its hard to keep up with them all, their
availability and just where to get them.
Would you believe that as of this writing there are over twenty in
all?
In order to help with the confusing status of many of Cirque du
Soleils documentaries, we here at Fascination continue this overview.
We took a look at the first of these documentaries in a previous
installment (those produced from 1991 through to 2005), now well
conclude by examining those from 2006 through 2011. Dont worry, there
isnt a quiz at the end but we do have a Cliff-Notes version of these
documentaries!
Shall we conclude?
/// PART TWO: 2006-2011
Lovesick (2006)
---------------
Dare to enter the sensual world of LOVESICK an adult-themed, reality-
based drama that explores the eccentric lives lead by Sin City's most
provocative performers.
Filmed over two years and set in Las Vegas during the creation of the
cabaret-style production, ZUMANITY, ANOTHER (later "THE SENSUAL") SIDE
OF CIRQUE DU SOLEIL, LOVESICK discloses the disturbing reality of the
talented and entrancing artists who put their flesh and audacity
centre stage to create this edgy new show.
Meet Alex, the flirtatious Cuban stripper; Joey, the sassy but
endearing New York City drag queen; Laetitia, the elegant and
ambitious British dancer; Jonel, the audacious debutant; Andrew, the
Director of Creation; and Spymonkey, the spontaneous clown quartet all
of whom will challenge their own limits and be forced to redefine
their identities.
Sexy, poetic and intensely erotic, LOVESICK slips inside a startling
universe where men dress up as women, brides perform in staged orgies,
and love affairs are exposed under the show's glaring spotlights.
"Lovesick" was released as a stand-alone region one DVD on May 30,
2006 and is currently in print and available for purchase on the
Cirque du Soleil Online Boutique.
The Mystery of Mystère (2007)
-----------------------------
Cirque du Soleil presents "Mystery of Mystère!", a captivating
documentary on Mystère, the critically acclaimed theatrical production
playing at the Treasure Island in Las Vegas. Meet world renowned
anthropologist Philippe Frey, geneticist David Suzuki, physicist Fred
Alan Wolf and astrophysicist Trinh Xuan Thuan as they boldly explore
The Mysterey of Mystère through each of their fascinating and
distinctive scientific field of expertise.
As the documentary plays on, the show and its mythology are
continuously explored through seemingly less and less relevant
conversational clips from the scientists, and the meaning of their
contributions become more and more mysterious (read: boring).
Discussions about the origin of man and his relationship to the desert
notwithstanding, how do relativity theory and quantum physics concepts
relate?
Other bonus features include:
o) "Franco Dragone meets the Scientists" (13:33) -- As the title
suggests, Mystère's Director joins the crew poolside at Treasure
Island and an even more banal conversation with these universal
experts ensues.
o) "Food for Thought" (16:00) -- This selection gives the scientists a
chance to voice their concerns about topics foremost on their minds,
while characters from the show interact with the desert backdrop
behind them.
o) "Impressions and Interrogations" (2:37) -- Earlier weve heard from
the scientists about what the mystery of Mystère is, now its time to
hear from the artists who put on the show: why does Mystère remain
popular after all these years? We hear from Brian Dewhurst (Clown),
Florence Gaillard (Dancer), Eligiusz Skoczylas (Chinese Poles), Ashley
Jean Lamb and Vladislav Lissenkov (Korean Plank), Michelle Cronje
(Dancer), Arnaud Bertrand (Dancer), Paul Cameron, and Steel Wallis in
this very short montage.
The "Mystery of Mystère" is a stand-alone DVD (#508747, UPC: 4-00005-
08747-9), released on September 1, 2007. It is currently in print and
available for purchase on the Cirque du Soleil Online Boutique.
FLOW (2007)
-----------
Cirque du Soleil presents FLOW, a poetic immersion into the Depths of
"O" and over the meandering Colorado River! A metaphorical musing of
human presence on the blue planet is raised as the artists of "O"
express and explore the intimacy they share with the four elements:
Fire, Air, Earth and Water.
Drawing a cue from Mystery of Mystère (submerging the shows
characters in real-life settings like the Colorado River and
surrounding desert) but taking it in an entirely different direction
(no scientists!), FLOW takes us on a journey of discovery: how water
relates to the show and how the show and its space relate to water.
There are wonderful insights into the creative aspects of «O» within -
quips with creators and artists alike - as well as beautifully shot
scenes from each of the accompanying acts.
The discs bonus features are also equally compelling:
o) "Steps below the Surface" (6:09) -- A wonderful birds-eye view (or
is that scuba-eye view?) of the carefully crafted ballet that ensues
below the stage in the depths of the pool. Watch the water change from
blue to red to green as we witness the changes from a point of view
that only a select few have seen... until now.
o) "Water in the Desert" (9:51) -- "Water is the memory of the world
and theater is the expression of memory" and many other insights are
gleaned from this piece, a look into the Creation of «O». We hear from
Director Franco Dragone and Director of Creation Gilles Ste-Croix, as
they sit pool-side at the Treasure Island and reminisce about creating
Cirque du Soleil's first aquatic show.
o) "Russian Swing" (3:51) -- Complete from beginning to end, see the
entire Russian Swing number as presented in the show!
"FLOW: A Tribune to the Artists of «O»" is a stand-alone DVD (#508746,
UPC: 4-00005-08746-2), released on September 1, 2007. It is currently
in print and available for purchase on the Cirque du Soleil Online
Boutique.
A Thrilling Ride Through Koozå (2007)
-------------------------------------
Starting in early 2007 and taking us through to the official premiere,
we embark on a journey that starts at the humble beginnings of some of
Cirques creative pioneers as they share their personal voyage - and a
few revealing anecdotes - that highlight the multiple stages of the
creation of a live show. We hear from Director David Shiner the ideas
and thoughts behind what kind of show he was looking to create (one
that brought us back to Cirques roots - thrills, chills and emotions)
and all the work that he put in to conceiving a show of this caliber.
We're taken on the journey the costume, make-up, and set designers
must undergo in order to bring the spectacle to life. We meet the
clowns and acrobats that bring Koozå to life as these audacious
performers discuss their experience and share a few insights into this
daring acrobatic show - from studio rehearsals to the big top raising,
to settling into everyday Cirque life to the world premiere in
Montreal! And what did Guy think about the show a month before the
first public performance? Watch and see!
"A Thrilling Ride through Koozå" was released as a stand-alone region
zero DVD on December 13, 2007 (#509122, UPC: 4-00005-09122-3) and as a
"Bonus Feature" on the "Cirque du Soleil Presents Koozå" DVD (#509941,
UPC: 8-43277-01738-4), which was released on June 24, 2008. Both are
currently in print and available for purchase at the Cirque du Soleil
Online Boutique.
LOVE: All Together Now (2008)
-----------------------------
All Together Now is a feature-length documentary that chronicles the
making of The Beatles and Cirque du Soleil collaboration project LOVE.
The film details the story behind the unique partnership between The
Beatles and Cirque du Soleil that resulted in the creation and launch
of the stage show and the double Grammy-winning album of the same
name. The film is dedicated to the memory of Neil Aspinall, a former
assistant to the band and head of Apple Corps.
"All Together Now" faithfully recounts how the LOVE project came into
being, borne from the personal friendship between George Harrison and
Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte. George saw how the twin
talents of Cirques artistry and The Beatles music could be fused
into something new and totally original. The title of the DVD refers
to The Beatles song "All Together Now".
The director, Adrian Wills, records early meetings between the Cirque
& Apple Corps' creative teams, as well as contributions from Sir Paul
McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono Lennon and Olivia Harrison discussing
how The Beatles' music can be used in a different way. The film
touches on the decision to utilize the combined talents of Sir George
Martin and his son Giles Martin to produce what became a 90-minute
soundscape created from The Beatles' multi-track recordings and how
this new audio adventure was being quietly worked on in the famous
Abbey Road Studios in London, England whilst the first creative ideas
for the show were being formulated in Montreal, Canada.
These early stages of the project were all filmed, as were the first
rehearsals in the theatre of The Mirage in Las Vegas, which was
completely rebuilt with a one-of-a-kind sound system and complex round
staging to house the Love show. George and Giles Martin, the shows
musical directors, were involved with the Cirque du Soleil creative
team, performers and backroom staff.
It wasnt all "plain-sailing" and there has been no attempt to
disguise some of the disagreements that took place along the way
regarding how some of the songs would be portrayed visually. These
creative differences, a necessary part of the overall process of
bringing "LOVE" to its most vibrant life, illustrate the participants
love and respect for the music and vision of The Beatles.
The All Together Now documentary provides fascinating insight into
the creative skills and passion that went into making this project a
groundbreaking critical and commercial success.
The DVD won the Grammy Award for Best Long Form Music Video, in 2009,
for the director, Adrian Wills, and the producers, Martin Bolduc and
Jonathan Clyde. The Beatles did not receive the award as they did not
perform in the video. They did however receive an award in the same
category several years earlier for the Beatles Anthology Video
release.
Bonus Features include:
o) Changing The Music" (22:00): An in-depth look at the decision to
rework and remix the Beatles music for the show.
o) "Music in the Theatre" (09:00): A look at the process of creating
the LOVE show's unique audio design in the theater.
o) "Making 'LOVE'" (10:00): A backstage pass to explore the design of
LOVE, including the art direction, costumes, props, screen imagery and
the use of The Beatles' voices in the stage production and soundtrack.
"LOVE: All Together Now" was released as a stand-alone region one DVD
on October 21, 2008 (#509992-17067-90, UPC: 5099921706790). It is
currently in print and available for purchase on the Cirque du Soleil
Online Boutique.
ZED in Tokyo (2010)
-------------------
Lamenting the closure of Cirque du Soleil's ZED? Then relive the
fantasy of this expansive and epic show through "ZED in Tokyo", a
fantastic peek into Cirque du Soleil's world of the Tarot. Discover
the lyrical, sensitive spirit of the ZED show, a creation captained by
stage and screen director François Girard. By way of a series of
vignettes, ZED in Tokyo follows the team through the creative process,
both on stage and in the wings, as they make their way from Montreal
to the busy streets of Tokyo. This documentary portrays the strange
and edifying encounter between the land of Cirque du Soleil and the
Land of the Rising Sun as expressed by the work of creators, artists
and technicians from several different cultures who joined forces to
stage a truly extraordinary show.
Filmed in 2010, this 67-minute peek into the world of ZED is not as
expansive as we would like, but it is complete. A number of the show's
elements make it to the screen here, even if just for a moment's
glimpse, giving those who have seen the show a wonderful flowing
memory of what was. Though "ZED in Tokyo" will not replace a full-
fledged recording of the show, this documentary does a much better job
at capturing the essence of ZED's epic nature than does "Crossroads in
Macau" for ZAIA. Fans of the show are also in for a treat; Japan is
the land of anime and the documentary comes complete with its very own
anime-style introduction montage, which helps takes us out of the real
world and into the metaphysical world of ZED.
Special Features include "The Tarot", a look into Tarot and how it
inspired the creation of ZED early on; "The Composer", a brief look at
composing ZED with René Dupéré (Cirque's long-time musical
collaborator); a "Then & Now" segment, a brief video montage covering
all of Cirque du Soleil's creations, from 1984 through to today; "Let
Your Talent Shine", a montage from Cirque du Soleil scouting; "On-
Stage Career Opportunities, an advertisement for Cirque du Soleil's
Casting department (interested in joining the Cirque? Pay attention -
here's how!); and "A Message from ONE DROP".
"ZED in Tokyo" was released as a stand-alone region one DVD on October
15, 2010. It is currently in print and available for purchase on the
Cirque du Soleil Online Boutique.
Flowers in the Desert (2010)
----------------------------
Over the last 25 years, Cirque du Soleil has captured the imaginations
of 100 million spectators in over 300 cities on five continents with
an original mixture of circus arts, theatre, choreography, live music,
imaginative costumes, technical innovations and an artistic vision
that continues to challenge and entertain.
Since 1993, Cirque du Soleil has produced seven original, permanent
shows in Las Vegas, creating a garden of delights that has transformed
the very nature of entertainment in this desert oasis. Now the
artistic universe of Cirque du Soleil is captured in a new performance
special, CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: FLOWERS IN THE DESERT, an extraordinary
entertainment experience that was part of special programming
premiering on PBS stations in December 2010.
"CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: FLOWERS IN THE DESERT presents mesmerizing
performances, recorded in high definition, of Mystère, "O", KÀ, LOVE,
and their latest production, Viva ELVIS, as well as sneak peeks of
Zumanity and CRISS ANGEL Believe. Behind the scenes interviews and
backstage footage allow the viewers to explore the creative process
behind the performances."
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: FLOWERS IN THE DESERT explores a garden of exotic
flowers growing in the Nevada desert. Flowers open to reveal rich,
imaginative worlds within, and as we enter one of these worlds, a
Cirque show begins. This transformation provides our entry into and
exit from the different worlds created by Cirque du Soleil in Las
Vegas.
"Flowers in the Desert" is available on DVD through a generous gift to
your local PBS station. As such it is not available for direct
purchase through other means.
ZAIA: Crossroads in Macao (2011)
--------------------------------
Inspired by the vastness and diversity of the cosmos, writer and
director Gilles Maheu soaked up a few dozen cultures to create a show
imbued with the vibrant colors and flavors of the world: ZAIA. A great
challenge awaits the artists and craftspeople of this odyssey, who
will have to relearn how to move and communicate. They will explore
new territories and make the "Crossroads in Macau" their meeting
point. Discover the spectacular and poetic world of ZAIA.
This documentary, filmed in 2010, takes viewers on the journey from
initial spark to premiere of ZAIA at The Venetian Macao. What makes
this show different from previous efforts by Cirque du Soleil is the
market in which it is presented - China. Follow the trials and
tribulations of a cast and crew trying to give Cirque du Soleil a
foothold in this Chinese gambling Mecca while at the same time finding
inspiration in the show's theme: space. And though I did not get a
chance to see ZAIA performed live, I've gained a much better
appreciation of the show by watching this documentary. It'll never
replace a live viewing of the show, nor will it replace a recording
(if one should ever be produced); however, "Crossroads in Macau" will
give you a taste of what the show is like, even if it is only 68
minutes long and representative of the show before its huge change in
its last year.
Special Features include "Trampoline and Double Teeterboard (X-Board)"
and "Chinese Poles on Globes", full recordings of those acts
respectively as if performed in front of a live audience; a "Then &
Now" segment, a brief video montage covering all of Cirque du Soleil's
creations, from 1984 through to 2011; "ZAIA - Experience the
Unforgettable", the show's video trailer; "On-Stage Career
Opportunities", an advertisement for Cirque du Soleil's Casting
department; and "A Message from ONE DROP".
"Crossroads in Macao" was released as a stand-alone region one DVD in
2011. It is currently in print and available for purchase on the
Cirque du Soleil Online Boutique.
/// IN CONCLUSION: THE CLIFF NOTES VERSION
In this series weve listed and spoke about quite a number of
documentary programs Cirque du Soleil has either produced or released
over the years. And if youre lost about which ones are currently in
print and/or available for purchase, look no further. Heres the
"Cliff Notes version":
[Not Available in Any Form]
.) Quel Cirque
.) Saltimbanco's Diary
.) Run Before you Fly
.) 20 Years under the Sun
[Released as Stand-Alone Products]
{Out of Print}
.) Truth of Illusion: Alegría (VHS)
.) Full Circle: The Making of Quidam (VHS)
.) Journey of Man: Behind the Scenes (VHS)
.) A Baroque Odyssey (VHS/DVD)
.) Inside La Nouba (VHS/DVD)
{In Print}
.) KÀ Extreme (DVD)
.) Lovesick (DVD)
.) Mystery of Mystère (DVD)
.) FLOW: A Tribute to the Artists of "O" (DVD)
.) A Thrilling Ride through Koozå (DVD)
.) LOVE: All Together Now (DVD)
.) ZED in Tokyo (DVD)
.) Crossroads in Macao: ZAIA (DVD)
.) Flowers in the Desert (DVD)
[Released only as a DVD "Bonus Feature"]
.) In the Heart of Dralion - Dralion DVD
.) Making of an Angel - Varekai DVD
.) Through the Curtain - Corteo DVD (and Corteo CD Bonus)
Happy hunting!
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 12, Number 7 (Issue #102) - July 2012
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2012 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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Newsletter." By sending us correspondence, you give us permission
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Newsletter." "Fascination! Newsletter" is not affiliated in any way
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infringement intended.
{ Jul.01.2012 }
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