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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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E X P A N D E D I S S U E
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VOLUME 11, NUMBER 11 NOVEMBER 2011 ISSUE #94e
=======================================================================
Remember, remember: the fifth of November, the gunpowder treason and
plot. I know of no reason why the gunpowder treason should ever be
forgot. Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial
Cirque du Soleil Newsletter. It's the fifth of November and hopefully
you've not all forgot(en) about Fascination!
We've been in Atlanta now a little over a full month and I have to
say moving here has been one of the best things ever. The weather is
simply beautiful and with all the things to see and do around town,
we'll never be bored! Of course you're not reading this to get all
the low-down on "Hotlanta", rather, you're here to get all the
latest news, views and information about Cirque du Solil! And once
again this month there's plenty to talka bout on that front. In
October, Cirque du Soleil unleashed its latest arena production, this
one in tribute to the undisputed "King of Pop" - Michael Jackson.
Learn all about "The Immortal World Tour" within as we republish a
number of Cirque du soleil's press releases on the show.
You'll also find our continued reflections on ZED, which will be
concluded next issue (sadly also the final month ZED will be
performed.) And those interested in CirqueCon have two items inside:
one, the latest update from CirqueCon 2011 in Hollywood (not to
mention an announcement regarding a hiatus) but also a reflection
on CirqueCon 2010, which took place in April/May in New York City
(for Banana Shpeel and OVO) and Montreal (for Totem's premiere!).
Want to know what a CirqueCon is like? See within!
As always we've got the latest news items posted to Fascination! Web
and, of course, updates to Cirque's tour schedule within.
So, let's get started!
Join us on the web at:
< www.cirquefascination.com >
Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only):
< http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 >
- Ricky "Richasi" Russo
===========
CONTENTS
===========
o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings
o) Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information
* Arena Shows -- In Stadium-like venues
* BigTop Shows -- Under the Grand Chapiteau
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
* Venue Shows -- Venue & Seasonal Productions
o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets
* Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
* Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Flickr
o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History
o) Fascination! Features
* "Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation"
Part 3 of 4 - "A Living Poem"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
* "A New Twist on CirqueCon: CirqueCon 2010 -
Three Shows. Two Cities. One Event."
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
* Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour
By: Cirque du Soleil Press Materials
* MJ THE IMMORTAL World Tour Premieres! [EXPANDED]
A Special Collection of Reviews from the Press
* CirqueCon 2011 Update: One Month Away!
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
MJ Immortal Album to Debut Nov 21st
{Oct.03.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
"Immortal," a new album featuring the music of the late pop
legend Michael Jackson, will be released next month, Epic
Records announced this morning.
The album will include more than 70 of Jackson's original
recordings, but they will be "re-designed and re-imaged,"
according to a statement from Epic. To be released Nov. 21, the
album will include mashups of Jackson's hits as well as new,
never-before-heard outtakes, including an alternate take on the
Jackson 5's hit "ABC."
"Immortal" will serve as the musical inspiration for "Michael
Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour," a new Cirque du Soleil
production.
[...]
"Immortal" - the album - will be released as both a deluxe
double disc version and single disc. The album is helmed by
Kevin Antunes, who said in the release that Jackson's "musical
essence" was the driving force behind the project's creative
energy.
{SOURCE: ABC News}
Discover the Music of IRIS
{Oct.10.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
From the live Cirque du Soleil show, IRIS - A Journey Through
the World of Cinema(tm), performing exclusively at Kodak Theatre in
Los Angeles, comes its studio soundtrack by multiple OSCAR(r)
nominated composer Danny Elfman.
Best known for scoring music for television and movies (The
Simpsons and Desperate Housewives and many of Tim Burton's films
including Alice in Wonderland) and having earned numerous
honors, Elfman joins Cirque du Soleil for the first time to
compose and produce the music of a poetic phantasmagoria
inspired by the world of cinema.
The unique blend of 100 orchestral musicians - the largest
number in Cirque du Soleil recording history - spread over large
and small ensembles are mixed with the live show's eight house
musicians working with and around each other, are now brought
together on this 17-song album.
Supporting the show's kaleidoscope of movement, moods and
images, Danny Elfman evokes the language of film music,
magnifying the emotions of this surrealistic tribute of the
seventh art, cinema.
DISCOVER THE SOUNDTRACK IN FULL STREAMING:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/iris/show/music.aspx >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
IMDB on Upcoming CDS 3D Movie
{Oct.10.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Interested in learning more about the upcoming Cirque du Soleil
3D Movie by James Cameron and company? So are we! And look no
further than the Internet Movie Database (IMDB) entry for the
project:
< http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1792647/fullcredits >
{SOURCE: IMDB}
Tickets for "Cirque 2012" On Sale Now!!
{Oct.12.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Tickets for an all-new touring show to open in Montreal on the
Quays of the Old Port next spring are on sale to CirqueClub
members (Signing up is free). Cirque 2012 (working title) is the
32th production from Cirque du Soleil since its beginnings in
1984.
The Tour:
o) Montreal, QC 04/19/12 - 05/20/12
o) Quebec, QC 07/25/12 - 08/19/12
o) Toronto, ON 09/05/12 - 09/30/12
Get your tickets here:
o) Montreal: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/
cirque2012/tickets/montreal.aspx >
o) Quebec: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/
cirque2012/tickets/quebec.aspx >
o) Toronto: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/
cirque2012/tickets/toronto.aspx >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
Guy's Soyuz Capsule on Display
{Oct.19.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
According to Taiwan's NTD-TV:
On Tuesday the retired Russian Space Capsule Soyuz-TMA was
hoisted aboard the U.S. Intrepid in New York City for future
public display. The spacecraft was primary docked at the
International Space Station and carried out educational and
experimental missions. Soyuz-TMA 16 was also the first
spacecraft designed for tourist passengers. Among past space
tourists was Guy Laliberté, CEO of Cirque du Soleil. Soyuz-TMA
16 will be officially open to the public on November 14th in the
Museum aboard the U.S. Intrepid.
{SOURCE: NDTV.com}
Experience Michael Jackson Fan Fest in Las Vegas!
{Oct.21.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
LAS VEGAS - Walk through the storied gates of Michael Jackson's
Neverland Ranch, then view his personal book collection in a
study filled with his actual furniture.
Peek inside the interior of the 1999 Rolls-Royce Seraph
limousine Michael designed himself with 24-karat gold
embellishments, then check out the 10-foot-tall statue created
for the HIStory tour. Get the feel of Michael's music videos by
wandering through the spaceship set used in "Scream," sit in the
actual throne from the Egyptian-themed set of "Remember the
Time," then stand before the hostile tank from the live concert
performance of "Earth Song."
Never has there been an artist like Michael Jackson and never
has there been a more intimate and personal glimpse into the
career and life of the King of Pop than what will be assembled
during the first-ever Estate-authorized Michael Jackson Fan
Fest(tm). Scheduled for December 3-14 at Mandalay Bay Resort &
Casino, the event coincides with the kick off of the extended
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour(tm) stop in Las Vegas
during December. The Michael Jackson Fan Fest will only be in
Las Vegas and will not travel to any other tour stop.
"We are thrilled to offer Michael's fans an opportunity to
experience his life and career up close through the Fan Fest
while they also enjoy Cirque du Soleil's spectacular tribute to
his creativity as an artist in Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL
World Tour," said the Executors of the Michael Jackson Estate,
John Branca and John McClain.
"Michael Jackson Fan Fest will add an unparalleled addition to
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour's extended three-week
run at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino," says Daniel Lamarre,
President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil. "Fan Fest gives fans the
opportunity to experience Michael Jackson as a man, iconic
performer and immortalized legend."
Michael Jackson Fan Fest is designed to transport guests on a
journey through Michael Jackson's life, beginning with his rise
to stardom through his pop super stardom and beyond as he is
immortalized through fan art, photos and Michael Jackson THE
IMMORTAL World Tour. Throughout the experience, fans will have
access to rare memorabilia and have the opportunity to take
their own photos in recreated sets of the historic music videos
and to play the Michael Jackson The Experience video game with
other fans.
A wide variety of other personal items will be on display from
both his career and Neverland Ranch. Featured career memorabilia
will include costumes, the Fantasy glove collection from the
1980s, award statues, tickets, the famed rocket plane from the
"Leave Me Alone" video, a castle displayed in the living room of
Neverland and others. For a photo gallery of featured items
please click here: http://www.michaeljacksonfanfest.com/#
Each session of Michael Jackson Fan Fest will last for four
hours and will allow visitors time enjoy without overlapping
each performance of THE IMMORTAL World Tour shows December 3-14
in Mandalay Bay's Bayside Exhibit Halls. Fan Fest will be open
from 12-4pm and 5-9pm on December 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and from 2-6pm
on December 6, 7, 13, and 14. Tickets for Fan Fest can be
purchased in conjunction with Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World
Tour or individually. Fan Fest ticket prices start at $35 plus
applicable fees for general admission; $75 for VIP tickets. VIP
tickets include priority entrance into the event and all
activities within the event, a commemorative lanyard and access
to the VIP-only lounge. For more information or to purchase
tickets, guests can visit: www.michaeljacksonfanfest.com or
www.cirquedusoleil.com/lasvegas.
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
Guy Laliberte explains: Why One Drop?
{Oct.25.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil founder and CEO Guy Laliberté talks about why
he contributed $100-million over 25 years to start One Drop, an
organization that helps fight poverty by providing access to
clean water worldwide.
Check out the video at Montreal's Globe and Mail:
< http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/giving/giving-video/video-
cirque-du-soleil-founder-guy-lalibert-explains-why-he-adopted-
water-as-a-cause/article2210739/?from=sec434 >
{SOURCE: Globe and Mail}
Cirque Marks 10 Years of Support for Up-and-Coming Artists
{Oct.26.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Montreal, October 25, 2011 For the past ten years, Cirque du
Soleil has been supporting emerging artists from all disciplines
and up-and-coming artistic companies, giving them the
opportunity to present their work to the public.
Cultural action support was born from a first voluntary arts
integration project when Cirque du Soleil International
Headquarters in Montreal were built. Two public works of art
were created and incorporated into the building's architecture.
Since then, a budget has been established specifically to
support up-and-coming artists.
In ten years, the equivalent of more than $5.5 million was
given, in various forms, to more than 600 artists and artistic
companies in communities where Cirque du Soleil has permanent
facilities-i.e. Montreal and Las Vegas.
"It is essential to showcase creation projects by promising
young artists and thus contribute to their outreach," explains
Gaétan Morency, Vice-President of Global Citizenship at Cirque
du Soleil. Thanks to the cultural support program at Cirque du
Soleil, about 100 artists benefit from financial support each
year, including: Sophie Cadieux (theatre), Dominic Besner
(visual arts), Les 7 doigts de la main (circus arts), Marc-
François Blondin (theatre, cinema), Manuel Bujold (public arts),
Marcelle Dubois (literature, theatre), Chantal Gilbert (crafts),
Marie Béland (dance), D. Kimm (multidisciplinary) and Aux Z
Écuries (performance).
Sylvie François, Cultural Action Director at Cirque du Soleil,
adds: "Cirque is biased when it comes to the risk associated
with emerging artists. Without a next generation, creation
dies." The financial support offered by Cirque du Soleil comes
in the form of creative support or bursaries during various
contests set up with artistic partners such as RIDEAU and Mon
Accès à la scène. Cirque also promotes these artists in the
artistic networks it supports, contributes to artists' residency
programs and helps showcase their work.
To raise employees' awareness of various art forms through its
cultural action program, Cirque du Soleil also invites visual
artists to display their works in the designated areas of our
offices. In addition, it purchases more than 2,000 tickets for
plays, dance and music shows in which up-and-coming artists are
performing, and holds draws for employees to give these away.
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
Stark Insider goes Behind the Scenes on TOTEM
{Oct.26.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Cirque is in town with their latest touring production, Totem,
and I ventured into rehearsals armed with a Canon EOS 60D and a
willing on-air host, aka the little Loni. These are the outtakes
of some 25GB of footage we shot featuring some really amazing,
up-close demonstrations of physicality and skill.
Sometimes I just like to cut a 60-second or so preview, without
all the effects, backing tracks, etc. just to get a raw feel for
it. Plus, in this preview I'm relying merely on the Rode
Videomic shotgun mic, as syncing the separate audio (lavaliers)
takes quite a bit of time in Premiere Pro.
The show opens Friday, and once again fans should expect an
experience that only Cirque can provide.
If you've been to a show before - maybe OVO, Quidam, Mystere, O
or another - then you know already to expect artistry, amazing
human feats, and spectacular sound and sets. As you'll see in
this clip, the set is quite interesting. It doesn't feature the
huge cliff/drop that we saw in OVO, rather there is a cage-like
array of handbars, trampolines. I expect this will factor into
the story that is about mankind, and evolution.
Read the original article (with pictures!) here:
< http://www.starkinsider.com/2011/10/cirque-du-soleil-behind-
the-scenes-at-totem-in-san-francisco-video-outtakes.html >
{SOURCE: Stark Insider}
See Mystère... for FREE!
{Oct.27.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
At the Fashion Show Mall in Las Vegas!
According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Mystere, Las Vegas'
original permanent Cirque du Soleil production, will present an
afternoon of family fun Friday [October 28, 2011] at the Fashion
Show mall, 3200 Las Vegas Blvd. South.
# # #
Performances and activities begin at 1 p.m. on the first floor
runway between Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom. Admission is
free.
Hosted by "Mystere" characters, the performances will take place
on and above the stage, starting with Taiko drums at 1 p.m,
hand-to-hand strength and balancing at 1:30 p.m., hand-balancing
and the aerial cube at 2 p.m. and teeterboard at 2:30 p.m.
Between acts, guests can receive souvenir photos, and face-
painters will be on hand for a Cirque du Soleil-inspired
makeover.
# # #
If you're 21 and over, you can even enter to win two tickets to
the show!
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Review-Journal}
Dandypunk, the New Weird?
{Oct.29.2011}
-----------------------------------------------------
Check out this fascinating project by one of LOVE's artists!
"A dandypunk exists to inspire and motivate creativity, non-
conformity, whimsy, intense curiosity, do-it-yourself mentality
and everyday eccentricity in everybody. The new weird."
Watch the video here:
< http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcLut3z54Wk >
a dandypunk's website:
< http://adandypunk.com/ >
...and Facebook page:
< http://www.facebook.com/adandypunk >
starring/ directed/ choreographed/ edited/ animated/
illustrated/ laser effects/ styling/ concepts by: a dandypunk
music: jon caton - a clockwork orange (dubstep mix)
{SOURCE: Dandypunk}
Listen to "Immortal Megamix" from MJ IMMORTAL album!
{Oct.31.2011}
-----------------------------------------------------
"Immortal Megamix" Will Also be Streamed on MichaelJackson.com
IMMORTAL Set for Release on November 21
NEW YORK, Oct. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- At 11:00 AM EST today,
October 31st, the debut track from the upcoming Michael Jackson
album, IMMORTAL, entitled "Immortal Megamix", will be unveiled
to the world on www.AolMusic.com. The track is comprised of four
of Michael's greatest hits redesigned and re-imagined as never
before. Included in the unique mix are "Can You Feel It," "Don't
Stop 'Til You Get Enough," "Billie Jean," and "Black Or White."
"Immortal Megamix" is a show-stopping highlight of the Cirque du
Soleil Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour show and a
showcased track on Michael's forthcoming Epic Records release,
IMMORTAL.
Following the premiere on Aol, the "Immortal Megamix" will be
available to stream at www.MichaelJackson.com and on Michael
Jackson's Facebook page.
Starting tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1st, IMMORTAL will be
available for pre-order on iTunes in both the deluxe double disc
and single disc edition. Upon completion of a pre-order for the
deluxe double disc edition, "Immortal Megamix" will be
downloaded instantly.
On November 21, Epic Records in conjunction with the Estate of
Michael Jackson, will release IMMORTAL - the highly anticipated
soundtrack for Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL
World Tour. IMMORTAL will be released as both a deluxe double
disc edition and single disc.
Esteemed musical designer, Kevin Antunes, worked with Jamie
King, the writer/director of the IMMORTAL show, in redesigning
and reimagining more than 40 of Michael Jackson's greatest
original recordings to synch with the visuals on screen and the
live action on stage. After spending a year in the studio
working with Michael's original multi-track master recordings,
Kevin created a new soundscape to Michael's artistry while
preserving the power and familiarity of his unparalleled voice
and his legendary tracks.
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour includes over 100
minutes of Michael's original recordings reimagined for Cirque
du Soleil. Placing all of this incredible music onto a single
disc proved impossible hence the single disc edition which is
jam-packed with nearly 78 minutes of highlights and the double
disc edition which offers listeners the opportunity to enjoy
music from the Immortal show from start to finish as it is
experienced during the performance of the show.
To pre-order IMMORTAL, and view footage from Michael Jackson THE
IMMORTAL World Tour please visit www.michaeljackson.com.
IMMORTAL DELUXE ALBUM TRACKLISTING:
Deluxe Disc 1:
1. Workin' Day And Night (Immortal Version)
2. The Immortal Intro (Immortal Version)
3. Childhood (Immortal Version)
4. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' (Immortal Version)
5. Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground) (Immortal Version)
6. Dancing Machine/Blame It On The Boogie (Immortal Version)
7. Ben (Immortal Version)
8. This Place Hotel (Immortal Version)
9. Smooth Criminal (Immortal Version)
10. Dangerous (Immortal Version)
11. The Mime Segment: (I Like) The Way You Love Me/Speed
Demon/Another Part Of Me (Immortal Version)
12. The Jackson 5 Medley (Immortal Version)
13. Speechless/Human Nature (Immortal Version)
14. Is It Scary/Threatened (Immortal Version)
15. Thriller (Immortal Version)
Deluxe Disc 2:
1. You Are Not Alone/I Just Can't Stop Loving You
2. Beat It/State Of Shock (Immortal Version)
3. Jam (Immortal Version)
4. Planet Earth/Earth Song (Immortal Version)
5. Scream/Little Susie (Immortal Version)
6. Gone Too Soon (Immortal Version)
7. They Don't Care About Us (Immortal Version)
8. Will You Be There (Immortal Version)
9. I'll Be There (Immortal Version)
10. Immortal Megamix: Can You Feel It/Don't Stop 'Til You Get
Enough/Billie Jean/Black Or White (Immortal Version)
11. Man In The Mirror (Immortal Version)
12. Remember The Time/Bad (Immortal Version)
IMMORTAL SINGLE ALBUM TRACKLISTING:
1. Workin' Day And Night (Immortal Version)
2. The Immortal Intro (Immortal Version)
3. Childhood (Immortal Version)
4. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' (Immortal Version)
5. Dancing Machine/Blame It On The Boogie (Immortal Version)
6. This Place Hotel (Immortal Version)
7. Smooth Criminal (Immortal Version)
8. Dangerous (Immortal Version)
9. The Jackson 5 Medley (Immortal Version)
10. Speechless/Human Nature (Immortal Version)
11. Is It Scary/Threatened (Immortal Version)
12. Thriller (Immortal Version)
13. You Are Not Alone/I Just Can't Stop Loving You
14. Beat It/State Of Shock (Immortal Version)
15. Jam (Immortal Version)
16. Planet Earth/Earth Song (Immortal Version)
17. They Don't Care About Us (Immortal Version)
18. I'll Be There (Immortal Version)
19. Immortal Megamix: Can You Feel It/Don't Stop 'Til You Get
Enough/Billie Jean/Black Or White (Immortal Version)
20. Man In The Mirror (Immortal Version)
{SOURCE: PR-Newswire}
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
{Corteo, Koozå, OVO, Totem & Varekai}
o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues
{Saltimbanco, Alegría, Quidam, Dralion
& Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour}
o) RESIDENT - Performed en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, "O", La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE,
ZAIA, ZED, Believe & VIVA Elvis}
o) VENUE - Venue & Seasonal productions
{Iris & Zarkana}
NOTE:
.) While we make every effort to provide complete and accurate
touring dates and locations available, the information in
this section is subject to change without notice. As such,
the Fascination! Newsletter does not accept responsibility
for the accuracy of these listings.
.) Dates so marked (*) are not official until released by Cirque
du Soleil.
For current, up-to-the-moment information on Cirque's whereabouts,
please visit Cirque's website: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/ >.
------------------------------------
BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
------------------------------------
Amaluna:
Montreal, QC -- Apr 19, 2012 to May 20, 2012
Quebec, QC -- Jul 25, 2012 to Aug 19, 2012
Toronto, ON -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 30, 2012
Corteo:
Paris, FR -- Nov 4, 2011 to Dec 31, 2011
Barcelona, ES -- Jan 20, 2012 to Mar 11, 2012
Amsterdam, NL -- Mar 23, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012
Gijón, ES -- Jul 25, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012
Zurich, CH -- Sep 7, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Antwerp, BE -- Nov 2, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012
Koozå:
Osaka, JPN -- Aug 4, 2011 to Nov 6, 2011
Nagoya, JPN -- Nov 23, 2011 to Jan 22, 2012
Fukuoka, JPN -- Feb 9, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012
Ovo:
Mexico City, MX -- Oct 30, 2011 to Nov 20, 2011
Santa Monica, CA -- Jan 20, 2012 to Mar 25, 2012
Portland, OR -- Apr 5, 2012 to TBA
Brisbane, AU -- TBA
Sydney, AU -- TBA
Melbourne, AU -- TBA
Totem:
San Francisco, CA -- Oct 28, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011
London, UK -- Jan 5, 2010 to Feb 5, 2012
San Jose, CA -- Mar 2, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012
Atlanta, GA -- May 9, 2012 to Jun 17, 2012
Washington, DC -- Jul 11, 2012 to TBA
Varekai:
São Paulo, BR -- Sep 15, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011
Rio De Janeiro, BR -- Dec 8, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012
Belo Horizonte, BR -- Jan 19, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012
Brasilia, BR -- Feb 22, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012
Recife, BR -- Mar 29, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012
Salvador, BR -- May 3, 2012 to May 27, 2012
Curitiba, BR -- Jun 7, 2012 to Jul 1, 2012
Porto Alegre, BR -- Jul 11, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012
Buenos Aires, AR -- Aug 17, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012
Santiago, CL -- Sep 28, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012
------------------------------------
ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues
------------------------------------
Saltimbanco:
Moscow, RU -- Nov 3, 2011 to Nov 13, 2011
St. Petersburg, RU -- Nov 16, 2011 to Nov 21, 2011
Kiev, UA -- Nov 27, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Vilnius, LT -- Dec 15, 2011 to Dec 17, 2011
Riga, LV -- Dec 21, 2011 to Dec 23, 2011
Tallin, EE -- Dec 28, 2011 to Dec 30, 2011
Gdansk, PL -- Jan 19, 2012 t0 Jan 22, 2012
Malmö, SE -- Jan 26, 2012 to Jan 29, 2012
Sofia, BG -- Feb 3, 2012 to TBA
Bucharest, RO -- Feb 8, 2012 to TBA
Bratislava, SK -- Feb 15, 2012 to Feb 19, 2012
Graz, AT -- Feb 22, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012
Alegría:
Frankfurt, DE -- Nov 2, 2011 to Nov 6, 2011
Mannheim, DE -- Nov 9, 2011 to Nov 13, 2011
Malaga, ES -- Dec 1, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Santiago, ES -- Dec 7, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011
Zaragoza, ES -- Dec 14, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011
Lisbon, PT -- Dec 21, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012
Granada, ES -- Jan 11, 2011 to Jan 15, 2012
Bilbao, ES -- Jan 18, 2012 to Jan 22, 2012
Toulouse, FR -- Jan 25, 2012 to Feb 29, 2012
Nantes, FR -- Feb 1, 2012 to Feb 5, 2012
Lyon, FR -- Feb 23, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012
Toulon, FR -- Feb 29, 2012 to Mar 4, 2012
Nice, FR -- Mar 7, 2012 to Mar 11, 2012
Montpellier, FR -- Mar 14, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012
Strasbourg, FR -- Mar 21, 2012 to Mar 25, 2012
Manchester, UK -- Apr 4, 2012 to Apr 7, 2012
Glasgow, UK -- Apr 11, 2012 to Apr 15, 2012
Birmingham, UK -- Apr 18, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012
Dublin, IE -- Apr 25, 2012 to Apr 29, 2012
Budapest, HU -- May 17, 2012 to May 20, 2012
Prague, CZ -- May 23, 2012 to May 27, 2012
Hambgurg, DE -- May 30, 2012 to Jun 3, 2012
Hanover, DE -- Jun 6, 2012 to Jun 10, 2012
Nuremberg, DE -- Jun 13, 2012 to Jun 17, 2012
Vienna, AT -- Jun 20, 2012 to Jun 24, 2012
Quidam:
Philadelphia, PA -- Nov 10, 2011 to Nov 13, 2011
Washington, DC -- Nov 16, 2011 to Nov 20, 2011
Greenville, SC -- Nov 23, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011
Fayetteville, NC -- Nov 30, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Hampton, VA -- Dec 7, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011
Worcester, MA -- Dec 14, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011
Toronto, ON -- Dec 20, 2011 to Dec 30, 2011
Oshawa, ON -- Jan 4, 2012 to Jan 8, 2012
Windsor, ON -- Jan 11, 2012 to Jan 15, 2012
Detroit, MI -- Feb 2, 2012 to TBA
Hoffman Estates, IL -- Feb 8, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012
Springfield, IL -- Feb 15, 2012 to Feb 19, 2012
Baton Rouge, LA -- Feb 22, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012
Austin, TX -- Feb 29, 2012 to Mar 4, 2012
Evansville, IN -- Apr 26, 2012 to TBA
Honolulu, HI -- Oct 4, 2012 to TBA
Dralion:
Cypress, TX -- Nov 17, 2011 to Nov 20, 2011
Beaumont, TX -- Nov 23, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011
Houston, TX -- Nov 30, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011
Lafayette, LA -- Dec 6, 2011 to Dec 8, 2011
Bossier City, LA -- Dec 10, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011
North Little Rock, AK -- Dec 13, 2011 to Dec 14, 2011
Montreal, QC -- Dec 18, 2011 to Dec 30, 2011
Quebec, QC -- Jan 3, 2012 to Jan 8, 2012
Kingston, ON -- Jan 11, 2012 to Jan 15, 2012
Broomfield, CO -- Feb 8, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012
El Paso, TX -- Feb 15, 2012 to TBA
Colorado Springs, CO -- Feb 22, 2012 to TBA
Rio Rancho, NM -- Feb 29, 2012 to Mar 4, 2012
Laredo, TX -- Mar 6, 2012 to TBA
Corpus Christi, TX -- Mar 9, 2012 to Mar 11, 2012
Hidalgo, TX -- Mar 14, 2012 to TBA
Highland Heights, KY -- Mar 28, 2012 to TBA
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour:
2011
----
Edmonton, AB -- Nov 1 & Nov 2, 2011
Vancouver, BC -- Nov 4, 2011 to Nov 6, 2011
Seattle, WA -- Nov 9 & Nov 10, 2011
Spokane, WA -- Nov 12 & Nov 13, 2011
Euguene OR -- Nov 15 & Nov 16, 2011
Portland, OR -- Nov 18 to Nov 20, 2011
Las Vegas, NV -- Dec 3, 2011 to Dec 27, 2011
Phoenix, AZ -- Dec 30 & Dec 31, 2011
2012
----
Boise, ID -- Jan 3, 2012
Denver, CO -- Jan 6 to Jan 8, 2012
Sacramento, CA -- Jan 10 & Jan 11, 2012
San Jose, CA -- Jan 13 to Jan 15, 2012
Oakland, CA -- Jan 17 & Jan 18, 2012
San Diego, CA -- Jan 21 & Jan 22, 2012
Anaheim, CA -- Jan 24 & Jan 25, 2012
Los Angeles, CA -- Jan 27 to Jan 29, 2012
St. Louis, MO -- Feb 7 & Feb 8, 2012
Houston, TX -- Feb 10 to Feb 12, 2012
New Orleans, LA -- Feb 15 & Feb 16, 2012
Tulsa, OK -- Feb 18 & Feb 19, 2012
Kansas City, MO -- Feb 21 & Feb 22, 2012
Indianapolis, IN -- Feb 24 & Feb 25, 2012
Orlando, FL -- Feb 28 & Feb 29, 2012
Miami, FL -- Mar 2 & Mar 3, 2012
Jacksonville, FL -- Mar 7 & Mar 8, 2012
Raleigh, NC -- Mar 10 & Mar 11, 2012
Charlotte, NC -- Mar 13, 2012
Milwaukee, WI -- Mar 16, 2012 to Mar 17, 2012
Montreal -- Mar 20, 2012 to Mar 22, 2012
Quebec City, QC -- Mar 24 & Mar 25, 2012
Minneapolis, MN -- Mar 27 & Mar 28, 2012
Newark, NJ -- Mar 30 & Apr 1, 2012
New York City, NY -- Apr 3, 2012 to Apr 5, 2012
Uniondale, NY -- Apr 7 & Apr 8, 2012
Philadelphia, PA -- Apr 10 & Apr 11, 2012
Pittsburg, PA -- Apr 13, 14 & 15, 2012
State College, PA -- Apr 24 & 25, 2012
Columbia, SC -- Apr 27 & 28, 2012
Hartford, CT -- May 2, 2012
Baltimore, MD -- May 5 & 6, 2012
Worcester, MA -- May 16 & May 17, 2012
Dayton, OH -- Jun 6 & Jun 7, 2012
Columbus, OH -- Jun 9 & Jun 10, 2012
Nashville, TN -- Jun 12 & 13, 2012
Austin, TX -- Jun 15, 2012
San Antonio, TX -- Jun 23, 2012
Atlanta, GA -- Jun 29 & 30, 2012
Montreal, QC -- Jul 6 & Jul 7, 2012
Washington, DC -- Jul 13, 14 & 15 2012
Cleveland, OH -- Jul 17 & 18, 2012
Chicago, IL -- Jul 20 & 21, 2012
Salt Lake City -- Aug 21, 2012
---------------------------------
RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
---------------------------------
NOTE: (*) Prices are in United States Dollars (USD) unless otherwise
noted.
(*) Ticket prices exclude the 10% Live Entertainment Tax, the
$7.50 per-ticket processing fee, and sales tax where
applicable.
Mystère:
Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday
Two shows Nightly - 7:00pm & 9:30pm
2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12):
o Category 1: $109.00 / $54.50
o Category 2: $99.00 / $49.50
o Category 3: $79.00 / $39.50
o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50
o Category 5: $60.00 / $30.00 (Limited View)
2011 Dark Dates:
o November 2
2011 Added Performances:
o December 30th
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2011 Ticket Prices:
o Orchestra: $150.00
o Loggia: $130.00
o Balcony: $99.00
o Limited View: $93.50
2011 Dark Dates:
o October 9
o December 5-18
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2011 Ticket Prices (adults) / (child 3-9):
o Category 0: $120.00 / $97.00
o Category 1: $105.00 / $85.00
o Category 2: $85.00 / $69.00
o Category 3: $69.00 / $56.00
o Category 4: $55.00 / $45.00
2011 Dark Dates:
o November 22
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday
Dark: Wednesday & Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2011 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!):
o Duo Sofas: $129.00
o Orchestra Seats: $105.00
o Upper Orchestra Seats: $79.00
o Balcony Seats: $69.00
o Cabaret Stools: $69.00
2011 Dark Dates:
o October 17-18
o December 16-20
2011 Added Performances:
o November 23rd
o December 31st
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12):
o Category 1: $150.00 / $75.00
o Category 2: $130.00 / $65.00
o Category 3: $99.00 / $49.50
o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50
2011 Dark Dates:
o November 15-16
2011 Added Performances:
o November 27
o December 26
o December 31
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2011 Ticket Prices:
o Lower Orchestra: $150.00
o Upper Orchestra: $130.00
o Lower Balcony: $99.00
o Middle Balcony: $93.50
2011 Dark Dates:
o October 3
o December 1-12
2011 Added Performances:
o December 28th
o December 31st
ZAIA:
Location: Venetian, Macao (China)
Performs: Every Day, Dark: Wednesday
One to Two Shows Daily - Times Vary
2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 2-11):
o VIP Seating: MOP$ 1288 / MOP$ 1288
o Reserve A: MOP$ 788 / MOP$ 394
o Reserve B: MOP$ 588 / MOP$ 294
o Reserve C: MOP$ 388 / MOP$ 194
ZED:
Location: Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo (Japan)
Performs: Varies
One to Two Shows Daily - Showtimes vary
2011 Ticket Prices (Non-Peak / Peak Time):
o Category 1 ("Premium"): ¥15,000 / ¥16,000
o Category 2 ("Stage-Side"): ¥12,500 / ¥13,500
o Category 2 ("Center"): ¥12,500 / ¥13,500
o Category 3 ("Wide View"): ¥9,500 / ¥10,500
o Category 4 ("Value"): ¥7,500 / ¥8,500
BELIEVE:
Location: Luxor, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 10:00pm
NOTE: Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by
an adult. Children under the age of five are not permitted
into the theater.
2011 Ticket Prices (all):
o Category 1: $160.00
o Category 2: $130.00
o Category 3: $109.00
o Category 4: $89.00
o Category 5: $59.00
2011 Dark Dates:
o December 6-17
VIVA ELVIS:
Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2011 Ticket Prices
o Category 1: $175.00
o Category 2: $150.00
o Category 3: $125.00
o Category 4: $99.00
2011 Dark Dates:
o November 8-12
2011 Added Performances:
o November 27th
o December 26, 31
--------------------------------------
VENUE - Venue & Seasonal Productions
--------------------------------------
Zarkana:
Madrid, ES -- Nov 12, 2011 to Dec 31, 2011
Moscow, RU -- Feb 4, 2012 to Apr 8, 2012
New York, NY -- Summer 2012
IRIS:
Location ///
Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, CA (USA)
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/iris/
tickets/los-angeles.aspx >
Performances ///
Times: Performances are held from Tuesday through
Friday at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm & 8pm (with the
exception of Saturday December 24 at 1pm), and
Sundays at 1pm (with the exception of July 24 & 31
at 6:30pm) and 6:30pm. There are no performances on
Monday.
2011 Dark Dates:
o October 10-19
o November 24
o December 5, 6, 7, 25
Tickets ///
Weekday Matinees:
o Category Premium - $253.00 USD
o Category 1 - $123.00 USD
o Category 2 - $93.00 USD
o Category 3 - $68.00 USD
o Category 4 - $43.00 USD
Saturday Matinee & All Evening Performances:
o Category Premium - $253.00 USD
o Category 1 - $133.00 USD
o Category 2 - $103.00 USD
o Category 3 - $78.00 USD
o Category 4 - $43.00 USD
=======================================================================
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
---------------------------------------
A Clock to Celebrate Every Show
{Oct.07.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
At Cirque du Soleil, the beginning of a new show was always
marked with gifts, chosen for their symbolic value. In 2005,
individual gifts - often clothing items or objects bearing a
good luck message-given by the Head office in Montreal to the
artists and crew, were replaced by a collective gift that would
travel with the show throughout its life. We needed an item
better represented the link between creation and performance.
That was when the thought of a custom-made clock inspired by the
new show came into being.
The first, given to Corteo in 2005, was designed by Robert
Massicotte, who was inspired by the storyboard he had made for
the show. This gift represented a welcome to the family and a
souvenir of the time spent at the Studio-the time taken to
create the show and the time dedicated to sharing it, to
"invoking, provoking and evoking." And a clock was given to
every new show since then.
Since a picture is worth a thousand words, check out the link to
CirqueClub to see a few of the clocks presented over the years!
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/2011-
09-30-show-clocks.aspx >
{SOURCE: CirqueClub}
Exclusive New Videos from IRIS
{Oct.13.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Members of CirqueClub, get ready for some exclusive behind-the-
scenes footage of IRIS!
With these two new IRIS videos, see firsthand the ins and outs
of such a cinematic creation.
The Technical Aspects of IRIS
Denise Biggi, Artistic Director explains the technical aspects
of IRIS, from special effects to awesome costumes!
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/photos-
videos/videos/galleries/iris-technique.aspx >
The Power of Human Performance - IRIS
Meet, Boris Verkhovsky, Acrobatic Performance Designer for IRIS
who explains the emotions conveyed by acrobatic prowess.
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/photos-
videos/videos/galleries/iris-acrobatics.aspx >
Read the original article:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/2011-
10-12-iris-videos.aspx >
Give a Cirque Twist to Your Mask this Halloween
{Oct.14.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Have a look at the following videos for make-up tips to add
Cirque du Soleil "WOW" to your Halloween mask!
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/
2011-10-13-halloween-mask-makeup.aspx >
Safewalls - What's New?
{Oct.17.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Nine months have passed since the creation of SAFEWALLS - an art
project that pairs up with cutting-edge artists to create
original art posters - and they have been very busy ones! 16
posters have been created so far, revisiting the colorful
universes of shows like: TOTEM, OVO, Corteo, Zumanity, Zarkana,
and KÀ.
Don't miss the launch of SAFEWALLS next limited edition poster
dedicated to IRIS!
Collect the limited hand numbered posters on our online store at
www.safewalls.org
Take a look at Cirque's exclusive photo gallery featuring
SAFEWALLS artwork and get a sneak peek at the upcoming poster of
IRIS at www.cirqueclub.com! Become a member today!
Halloween Make-up Ideas from Cirque!
{Oct.24.2011}
-------------------------------------------------
Stand out this Halloween by creating your own Cirque du Soleil
make-up! This year, the Cirque du Soleil make-up designers are
offering you three step by step printable tutorials to help
transform you into characters from KOOZA, TOTEM and "O".
Download our tutorials and start painting in minutes:
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/
2011-10-13-halloween-makeup.aspx >
Go as The Grim Reaper from KOOZA, The Amerindian Dancer from
TOTEM or a Zebra from "O"!
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
---[ "O" ]---
{Oct.03}
Took a peek into the Textile Shop at International Headquarters
and found this fabric, which is about to become a costume for
"O"!
LINK /// <http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=
10150346900099417&set=a.98604589416.
79108.26000574416&type=1&ref=nf >
---[ ALEGRIA ]---
{Oct.16}
Rehearsals in Berlin, Germany - a picture set
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150406490255746.417663.38543815745&type=1 >
---[ CORTEO ]---
{Oct.31}
Corteo was featured yesterday on TF1...the show opens on
November 4 at Île Seguin - Boulogne-Billancourt.
LINK /// < http://videos.tf1.fr/sept-a-huit/dans-les-coulisses-
du-cirque-du-soleil-6797930.html >
{Oct.28}
Corteo dans TELERAMA!
LINK /// < http://sortir.telerama.fr/evenements/spectacles/
cirque-du-soleil-corteo,50185.php >
{Oct.28}
Exclusivité : Carré Sénart accueille Corteo du Cirque du Soleil
du 31 Octobre au 5 Novembre pour une semaine d'animations
exclusives. Toutes les informations en cliquant ici:
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/carre.senart?
sk=app_192229990808929 >
{Oct.23}
Corteo dans LE PARISIEN!
LINK /// < http://www.leparisien.fr/hauts-de-seine-92/le-cirque-
du-soleil-debarque-sur-l-ile-seguin-22-10-2011-
1679852.php >
{Oct.21}
"Exclusivité : Rosny 2 accueille Corteo du Cirque du Soleil du
24 au 29 Octobre pour une semaine d'animations exclusives.
Toutes les informations en cliquant ici :
LINK /// < https://www.facebook.com/rosny2?
sk=app_197602066931325
{Oct.15}
"Exclusivité : Le Forum des Halles accueille Corteo du Cirque du
Soleil du 17 au 22 Octobre pour une semaine d'animations
exclusives. Toutes les informations en cliquant ici :
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/forum.des.halles?
sk=app_197602066931325 >
---[ DRALION ]---
{Oct.27}
Dralion in Santo Domingo - a Picture Series
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150907820425195.767199.39340140194&type=1 >
{Oct.21}
One year ago, Dralion began its journey in Arenas across North
America! As of today, we performed 328 Arena shows in 2
countries (USA and Canada), 20 States, 4 Provinces and 43
cities! Congratulations to everyone on a great first year! Look
for us in your area soon! Cheers!
{Oct.18}
Load-in @ the Coliseo de Puerto Rico
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150889433755195.763502.39340140194&type=1 >
{Oct.04}
Cirque du Soleil's newest show opened this past weekend Michael
Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour by Cirque du Soleil Dralion and
other Cirque tours created a flashmob in celebration. Check it
out!
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_W9tzAbsqBk >
---[ IRIS ]---
{Oct.31}
Tonight we celebrated our 100th performance. Time really does
fly when you're having fun!
{Oct.05}
Preview of IRIS!
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LBajou7a_g >
---[ KÀ ]---
{Oct.31}
We recently asked some audience members to describe KÀ for us!
Here's what they had to say! What would YOU say?
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hj_vkCt8P6Y >
---[ KOOZA ]---
{Oct.26}
This picture was taken during our filming of the SMAP SMAP show
in April, in Tokyo. What a great day!
LINK /// < http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-
ash4/s320x320/297738_10150326954746339_
34324811338_8454143_2053727111_n.jpg >
{Oct.23}
KOOZA Photo exhibition, part 2 at RIHGA ROYAL HOTEL in
Nakanoshima, Osaka.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=
10150323519971339&set=a.71836936338.88957.
34324811338&type=1&ref=nf >
{Oct.10}
Trickster did the first pitch at Nagoya dome!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=
10150313128426339&set=a.10150313128216339.
335409.34324811338&type=1&ref=nf >
{Oct.04}
This picture was taken in March 2011 when Zed and KOOZA spent
time together in Macau. We were welcomed so well by the Zaia
family at the Venetian. It is the first time we had the cast and
crew from 3 different productions together.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=
10150254674086164&set=a.10150144377101164.
342824.41326571163&type=1&ref=nf >
---[ LA NOUBA ]---
{Oct.25}
A Clown Nose Epidemic!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150344564229902.352645.16315569901&type=1 >
{Oct.21}
Party for the Senses 2011
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150339190284902.351427.16315569901&type=1 >
{Oct.06}
The immense height of the La Nouba theatre enables scenic and
acrobatic equipment to be stored in the fly space - around 80
ft. above the stage. For the first time in its history, Cirque
du Soleil designed the La Nouba trapeze net to be mechanically
lowered from above and secured with no visible stagehands. Can
you recall other set pieces that are lowered from the fly space
during the show?
Two trampolines, nine flying doors, the petite fenêtre volante
(we call it the New York window), two pedestal platforms and
four trapezes, five aerial silks, five upstage silks, the door
(aerial cradle act), the singer pod (above the trampowall), a
chandelier, the Green Bird's red trapeze and a moon rock. For
bragging rights: What else appears from "above" that isn't a set
piece or prop? If you blink you might miss it (or them)...
The skippers! They drop down from the 9th level on bungees, but
it happens so quickly it is easy to miss!
---[ MJ THE IMMORTAL ]---
{Oct.31}
Here is the link to watch the ABC News 20/20 interview with Guy
Laliberté, founder of Cirque du Soleil, and Barbara Walters
featuring THE IMMORTAL World Tour rehearsal footage!
LINK /// < http://abcnews.go.com/2020/ >
{Oct.27}
Video: Michael Jackson's Music, Cirque's Magic
LINK /// < http://abcnews.go.com/2020/video/michael-jacksons-
music-cirques-magic-14827286 >
{Oct.27}
We're happy to bring you today video of a special tribute
performance by Cirque du Soleil employees from our World
Premiere weekend. Headquarters employees in Montréal, joined in
video by artist and employees from around the world, followed
steps from choreographer Travis Payne.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Br8Sc8NTRc8 >
{Oct.18}
Have you heard? "IMMORTAL", the musical tapestry for the show
hits stores this coming November, yet you can pre-order it now:
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/qvyb6A >
{Oct.17}
You missed the feature story on THE IMMORTAL World Tour this
morning on Good Morning America? Watch it online!
LINK /// < http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/michael-jacksons-
music-opens-cirque-de-soleil-14752762 >
{Oct.14}
We're making our U.S. debut tomorrow in Detroit - where Michael
started with Motown back in the day. Here's Journalist Brian
McCollum's review of the show:
LINK /// < http://www.freep.com/article/20111014/ENT05/
111013069/With-video-Cirque-du-Soleil-Michael-
Jackson-show-heads-Detroit?cid=lg%3Ab1m&odyssey=tab%
7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE&utm_medium=
post&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=ypp+-+mj >
{Oct.06}
Performer Gianinni captured the last moments before taking the
stage on World Premiere night (Oct. 2 '11) - including a special
word from Writer-Director Jamie King.
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOiO86Xg4WE >
{Oct.04}
The premiere night audience is raving about the show! Our
special correspondent Randi Zuckerberg gathers reactions...
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVXepVtdsiI >
{Oct.02}
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour by Cirque du Soleil -
OFFICIAL SHOW PREVIEW
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5kPTl4jEFo >
---[ MYSTERE ]---
{Oct.28}
The Mystère Taiko drummers just finished, and the Hand-to-Hand
performers are about to take the stage at Fashion Show Mall.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=
10150422529709919&set=a.121054974918.123251.
18155469918&type=1&ref=nf >
{Oct.27}
Yesterday the Mystère performers were rehearsing for their
performance at Fashion Show Mall. Come join us tomorrow at
Fashion Show Mall (Oct. 28th) at 1PM for a no-cost event! Click
here for more info: http://cirk.me/tCj9yN
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php
?v=10150887031315046 >
---[ OVO ]---
{Oct.23}
Fotografías de la filmación del comercial de Trident.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150360140719614.369096.62744104613&type=1 >
{Oct.20}
Fotografías del levantamiento de carpa de OVO.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150355546044614.368199.62744104613&type=1 >
---[ QUIDAM ]---
{Oct.21}
Quidam in the Milwaukee media
LINK /// < http://www.expressmilwaukee.com/article-16295-
gravity_defying_circus.html >
LINK /// < http://www.onmilwaukee.com/ent/articles/quidam.html >
LINK /// < http://blogs.99wmyx.com/kiddoshea/
2011/09/23/quidam-is-coming/ >
LINK /// < http://beta.realmilwaukeenow.com/2011/
tony-visits-with-cirque-du-soleil/ >
LINK /// < http://www.fox6now.com/videobeta/a2f90ec9-aa2f-4785-
b2c2-b2599f444b72/Entertainment/Cirque-Du-Soleil-
performer-gives-Tony-a-demonstration >
LINK /// < http://www.fox6now.com/videobeta/55d775d4-e530-4f4a-
9450-1f56321f9674/Entertainment/Tony-tries-out-some-
Cirque-Du-Soleil-equipment >
LINK /// < http://beta.realmilwaukeenow.com/2011/tony-visits-
with-cirque-du-soleil/ >
LINK /// < http://www.jsonline.com/entertainment/multimedia/
photos/132194968.html#id_57992943 >
{Oct.05}
View from the Administrative office - how can we get any work
done!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=
10150315089972046&set=a.10150315089602046.
339562.35752277045&type=1&ref=nf >
---[ SALTIMBANCO ]---
{Oct.30}
Great photo gallery of Saltimbanco opening show in Kazan!! A big
thank you for your great welcome in your city! Spasiba!
LINK /// < http://www.business-gazeta.ru/photo/45701/ >
{Oct.27}
LIVE photos from the colorful Saltimbanco show in Russia!!
LINK /// < http://inkazan.ru/cirque-du-soleil-pryzhok-na-skamyu-
udalsya/ >
{Oct.27}
Opening Night of Saltimbanco in Kazan,Russia!!
LINK /// < http://www.business-gazeta.ru/article/48536/ >
{Oct.18}
Very good review in Yekaternburg, Russia!!
LINK /// < http://www.ria.ru/culture/20111016/460590104.html >
{Oct.14}
Behind-the-scenes at Saltimbanco in Yekaterinburg, Russia!!
LINK /// < http://www.nakanune.ru/news/2011/10/14/22249445/ >
---[ THE BEATLES LOVE ]---
{Oct.27}
Great review of LOVE from our friend at MTV UK, James Barnes!
LINK /// < http://www.mtv.co.uk/news/the-beatles/335330-cirque-
du-soleil-the-beatles-love-review >
{Oct.18}
Loving this acoustic rendition of "Blackbird" by the beautifully
talented Alicia Keys
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrTbf_ws9Is >
{Oct.14}
Can you guess which European city this wall exists? Hint - This
city resides in Eastern Europe, and is a popular tourist
attraction when visiting.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=
10150372977558666&set=a.101066423665.92500.
14653468665&type=1&ref=nf >
---[ TOTEM ]---
{Oct.30}
Review: 'Totem' one of the most magical Cirque du Soleil
productions in years - San Jose Mercury News
LINK /// < http://www.mercurynews.com/entertainment/
ci_19226853 >
{Oct.20}
Big Top Raising San Francisco
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
284064201614277.75222.111798252174207&type=1 >
---[ VIVA ELVIS ]---
{Oct.07}
Elvis & Us exhibit - a Picture Series
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
10150309346084109.337605.167136344108&type=1 >
---[ ZAIA ]---
{Oct.10}
Hi ZAiA fans, come and watch this video! You will find out some
hints of our new acts in the show!!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php
?v=10150325555652333 >
{Oct.07}
Wanna know what happened behind the scene of ZAiA 3rd
Anniversary Ceremony on 1 September? Check this out!!
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php
?v=10150320973207333 >
---[ ZARKANA ]---
{Oct.21}
Zarkana Set up in Madrid.
LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.
251683998216830.70607.139797212738843&type=1 >
{Oct.10}
Over the next 7 days, we will load up 61 trucks to transport
everything to four 747 airplanes to take the show to Madrid!
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts at a Glance about Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History
---------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------
o) The Bateau (or boat) in "O" has parallel bars with catch chairs
positioned on opposite sides. Did you know this was first time
these two disciplines have been combined in one single apparatus?
o) Did you know that the automation in Believe has over 3 miles of
network cable, which has the ability to move people or scenery at
10' persecond?
o) The principle of Icarian games - one of the oldest circus arts
disciplines - calls for a porter lying on his back spinning an
acrobat with his feet. This dazzling number in IRIS features eight
acrobats who literally blur the lines between reality and the
impossible as they push the act far beyond its traditional
boundaries with cool daring.
o) Boris Verkhovsky, Acrobatic Performance Designer for IRIS, was
formerly the head coach of the Canadian National Trampoline and
Tumbling Team.
o) François Bergeron, a long time collaborator with Cirque du Soleil
and Sound Designer for IRIS, took part in the creation of the Tokyo
DisneySea theme park in Japan for Walt Disney Entertainment.
o) IRIS features 20 video projectors.
o) During 'aerial ball' in IRIS, one operator is running 11 automated
axis and flying 4 artists.
o) At one point during IRIS, there are twelve artists and two
technicians riding the lifts.
o) any of the fog effects in KÀ are created using liquid nitrogen,
which has a temperature of approximately -300° Fahrenheit. They
then accomplish this effect, by mixing it with hot water, which in-
turn creates a low fog effect.
o) To create the interactive projections that follow an artist's
movement in KÀ, the artists are captured by an infrared-sensitive
camera above the stage and their movements are tracked by a
computer.
o) Every seat in the KÀ Theatre has two speakers built into its
headrest which allows sound effects to be targeted, manipulated,
and customized to any of 16 seating zones.
o) There are a total of 18 winches used to pull two safety nets into
the many different configurations needed for KÀ. Each winch rope
has a tensile strength of 30,000 pounds.
o) On top of doing ten shows a week, most of the artists train
regularly on their own in addition to one or two scheduled
trainings on stage. The Flying Trapeze team trains three times a
week at La Nouba.
o) Mystère's Alice the Snail weighs over 2,000 pounds and is pushed by
four carpenters. She travels approximately 165 feet per show, which
means she's traveled over 1.3 million feet or 261 miles.
o) The Mystère Wardrobe department applies more than 2,500 sequins to
the Bungee Girl costumes by hand! It takes about 20 hours to re-
sequin just one costume.
o) Do you know why the American flag in the "Return to Sender" scene
at Viva Elvis only has 48 stars? There are 48 stars in the 'Return
to Sender' scene, because Elvis entered the service in 1958. This
was the year before Alaska and Hawaii were admitted to the Union.
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History
------------------------------------
* Nov.01.1996 -- Alegría opened Hong Kong
* Nov.01.2004 -- "20 Years Under the Sun" Book Published
* Nov.02.2004 -- Region 01 DVD Release: Fire Within and La Nouba
* Nov.02.2006 -- Saltimbanco opened Rio de Janiero, Brazil
* Nov.03.1999 -- Quidam opened Madrid, Spain
* Nov.03.2005 -- Quidam opened Hong Kong
* Nov.03.2010 -- Cirque Announces CIRQUE MJ
* Nov.04.2001 -- Dralion wins 3 Emmys:
Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special
Outstanding Directing for a Variety or Musical
Outstanding Costumes for a Variety or Music Program
* Nov.04.2004 -- Quidam opened Brisbane
* Nov.04.2004 -- Varekai opened Dallas
* Nov.04.2009 -- Corteo opened Tokyo
* Nov.04.2010 -- OVO opened Atlanta, GA
* Nov.04.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Boise, ID
* Nov.04.2010 -- Tickets go on sale for Cirque MJ Extravaganza
* Nov.05.2002 -- Varekai CD released in Canada (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Nov.05.2002 -- NBC purchased BRAVO, the Official Network of Cirque in US
* Nov.05.2004 -- Dralion celebrated its 2000th performance [Madrid, Spain]
* Nov.05.2010 -- Varekai opened Barcelona, ES
* Nov.06.2002 -- Quidam opened Tampa Bay
* Nov.06.2003 -- Alegría opened San Francisco
* Nov.06.2009 -- Cirque officially announces VIVA ELVIS name
* Nov.07.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Frankfurt
* Nov.07.1997 -- Alegría opened Dusseldorf
* Nov.07.2002 -- Varekai opened San Francisco
* Nov.07.2002 -- Varekai canceled in San Francisco due to Wind Gusts
* Nov.07.2009 -- Mystère/KÀ performs at Latin Grammy's
* Nov.08.1987 -- Cirque Réinventé (Vol 1) CD Released (Nâga)
* Nov.08.1994 -- Cirque Réinventé CD Released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Nov.08.1994 -- Mystère CD released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Nov.08.2007 -- Corteo opened Orange County, California
* Nov.09.1999 -- Dralion CD released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Nov.09.2006 -- Varekai opened Brisbane
* Nov.09.2010 -- VIVA ELVIS CD Released
* Nov.10.1992 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened in Las Vegas
* Nov.10.1995 -- Saltimbanco opened Vienne
* Nov.10.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Houston, TX
* Nov.10.2010 -- Dralion Arena opened Youngstown, OH
* Nov.11.2005 -- Corteo opened San Francisco
* Nov.12.1996 -- Mystère Live CD released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Nov.12.1998 -- Alegría opened Frankfurt
* Nov.12.2010 -- Koozå opened Miami, FL
* Nov.12.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Prague, CZ
* Nov.13.2002 -- Dralion opened Phoenix
* Nov.13.2003 -- Cirque presented at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto
to Honor Prime Minister Jean Chrétien
* Nov.13.2008 -- Corteo opened Miami
* Nov.14.2009 -- ZAIA celebrated 500th Performance
* Nov.15.1993 -- "Cirque du Soleil" 10th Anniversary Book Published
* Nov.16.1995 -- Alegría opened Atlanta
* Nov.16.2001 -- Dralion opened Dallas
* Nov.16.2007 -- Quidam opened Mexico City, Mexico
* Nov.16.2007 -- Koozå opened San Francisco, California
* Nov.17.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Guadalajara
* Nov.17.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Zagreb, HR
* Nov.17.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Phoenix, AZ
* Nov.17.2010 -- Dralion Arena opened Windsow, ON
* Nov.18.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Atlanta
* Nov.18.2005 -- Dralion opened Bilbao
* Nov.19.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Atlanta
* Nov.19.1998 -- "O" CD Released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Nov.19.2001 -- Region 01 DVD Release: Inside La Nouba
* Nov.19.2002 -- Alegría premiered on Bravo at 8:00pm EST
* Nov.20.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened San Diego
* Nov.20.1997 -- Quidam opened Houston
* Nov.20.2006 -- Diesel Marketing (Cirque Website) becomes Sid Lee
* Nov.20.2008 -- Varekai opened Madrid
* Nov.21.1993 -- Nouvele Expérience closed in Las Vegas
* Nov.21.2006 -- LOVE CD Released in US (Capitol Records)
* Nov.21.2008 -- ZED Celebrated 100th Performance
* Nov.21.2010 -- Curtain falls on Quidam Bigtop Tour (Bogota, Columbia)
* Nov.22.2001 -- Quidam opened London
* Nov.22.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Mexico City
* Nov.22.2007 -- Alegría opened Belo Horizonte, Brazil
* Nov.23.2009 -- Dralion Juggling act on Mexican Awards Show, Los Premios
* Nov.24.1998 -- "O" CD Released in US (RCA/Victor)
* Nov.24.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Belgrade, SB
* Nov.24.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Tucson, AZ
* Nov.24.2010 -- Dralion Arena opened Oshawa, ON
* Nov.25.1999 -- Saltimbanco opened Singapore
* Nov.25.2004 -- Saltimbanco opened Lille
* Nov.26.2004 -- KÀ Premiered (Preview Performances Begin)
* Nov.26.2009 -- Dralion opened Mexico City
* Nov.27.2008 -- Asociación de Cronistas del Espectáculo awards Alegría
* Nov.27.2008 -- Dralion opened Brisbane
* Nov.27.2009 -- OVO opened San Francisco
* Nov.28.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Phoenix
* Nov.28.2002 -- "Run Before You Fly" documentary premiered on BRAVO
* Nov.28.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Valencia
* Nov.29.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Atlanta
* Nov.30.2000 -- Dralion opened Atlanta
* Nov.30.2002 -- "Fire Within" premiered on ArTV in Canada
* Nov.30.2003 -- "SOLSTROM" premiered on CBC
* Nov.xx.1999 -- Region 01 DVD release: Alegría: Le Film
* Nov.xx.2001 -- Quidam celebrated 2000th performance [Zurich]
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
o) "Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation"
Part 3 of 4 - "A Living Poem"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) "A New Twist on CirqueCon: CirqueCon 2010 -
Three Shows. Two Cities. One Event."
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour
By: Cirque du Soleil Press Materials
o) MJ THE IMMORTAL World Tour Premieres! [EXPANDED]
A Special Collection of Reviews from the Press
o) CirqueCon 2011 Update: One Month Away!
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
"Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation"
Part 3 of 4 - "A Living Poem"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
Shocking news hit the Cirque du Soleil fandom around Noon on Sunday,
July 24th- ZED, Cirque du Soleil's resident show in Tokyo, Japan would
cease operations and close as of December 31, 2011 - and it was the
proverbial shot heard around the world for Cirque fans. It was no
surprise to learn that ticket sales and attendance had plummeted since
the 2011 Tokoku earthquake and tsunami, and Oriental Land Company
(OLC), Cirque du Soleil's partner in Japan, said the decision to close
the show amounted to just that - low attendance and a bleak overall
outlook on the show's future.
Thankfully this will not be the last time we hear from the world of
ZED, as pieces of the show will be salvaged and used to upgrade VIVA
ELVIS and MYSTERE on the Las Vegas Strip. While we absorb the full
impact and meaning of this closure, and contemplate the knowledge that
we may never again see ZED staged whole, I'd like to take a moment to
reflect upon my experience with ZED and highlight the fascinating
characters and acts we'll now miss once the final curtain is called.
* * *
When I last left you, my friend (and fellow Cirque du Soleil fan) Rich
Alford and I had entered the ZED theater complex on the afternoon of
November 8 2008 in triumph, though huffing and puffing from the walk,
with only a few moments to spare before the curtain would rise again
on ZED, Cirque du Soleil's then newest resident production. We had
found ourselves at Tokyo DisneySEA that morning as hosts to a
CirqueCon lunch for a table of eight patrons at Magellan's, then made
our way to the Theater for the afternoon performance. When we arrived,
though, we were in for a bit of a shock: our seats were occupied, and
our tickets were issued in error!
With about a minute before curtain call and with the box office on the
phone to Kyoko Hasegawa (our friendly contact at Cirque Tokyo), they
found us alternative seats, which we took quickly, settling down to
gaze over the white canvas that keeps the world of ZED tightly
wrapped, discovering then the wondrous theater and stage the show
would play upon.
And now I'll continue with a look at the show's theme and characters.
The Theme
---------
ZED is a timeless evocation that draws together an imaginary world
based on the Tarot and its arcana. It is a world that conjures the
vitality of the human condition and holds up a mirror to our true
selves.
As a living poem, ZED is the meeting of two worlds: the heavens -
where iridescent colors, paler shades and pearl and silver predominate
- and the earth, which emphasizes ochre, green, turquoise, gold and
Venetian blue explode before us. At the center of it all is a wide-
eyed, white-clothed harlequin named Zed (played with energy and
innocence by Reda Guernick), who represents all of humanity in all its
guises: from wisdom to folly and from discovery to adventure. Zed
grows as he discovers the world on his journey of initiation, bridging
the gap between the People of the Sky and the People of the Earth.
This world of the arcana, in which ZED finds its inspiration, teems
with life and vibrant characters, including the Great Goddess, The
Magician, The Sphinxes and the Satyrs - all engaged in a lyrical
odyssey to the heart of the human experience. And through eleven
different performances, featuring an eclectic cast of mixed progeny
one expects from Cirque du Soleil, these characters weave an
incredible story of the human condition - from birth, to discovery, to
the realization of purpose - sharing and growing.
He takes us through eleven different performances (Batons, Bungees,
Lassos, Poles & Trampoline, Solo Tissue, High Wire, Juggling,
Banquine, Straps, Hand-to-Hand and Flying Trapeze), featuring the
eclectic cast of mixed progeny one expects from Cirque du Soleil. But
he doesn't merely walk us through the individual numbers; he helps
thread the tapestry that binds them to each other, and us all,
completing stunning images framed in breathtaking tableaux from which
an entire world is sewn.
The Characters
--------------
Though the stage upon which this story takes place is impressive,
above all ZED is driven by its vast characters, which've drawn their
inspiration from the mysteries of the Tarot.
ZED - the Traveler
Inspired by "The Fool" of the Tarot, Zed resembles a Pierrot. Wearing
a Rasta wig and dressed in all white, his paleness allows him to take
on the coloring of the various tableaux in which he appears, and
reflects his eagerness to know everything. Called to undergo a
transformation, he is both multiple and omnipresent. The initial state
of Zed is associated with the unconscious and chaos: his imbecility is
obvious, but his silliness is touching because it reveals his
vulnerability and naivety. By the end of the journey, Zed represents
consciousness, restored harmony and the reversal of the order of
things through laughter.
NOUIT - the Great Goddess
The creator of the firmament, Nouit (Johanna Lillvik, singer) is the
incarnation of the Great Goddess, Mother of the Sky and of all beings
who inhabit it. As a representation of the starry sky (she is fitted
with wings, decorated with 400 LEDs), Nouit expresses an infinite
compassion for all beings and is an ally of Zed, whom she understands
and quietly watches over, making every effort to help him achieve his
quest.
ABRAKA - King of the Earth
Inspired by "The Magician" of the Tarot, the magus Abraka (Kevin
Faraci) is the Father of the Earth and procreator of all the creatures
who inhabit it. Abraka is all-powerful - he wears a chain mail coat
and a large royal collar. When he raises his arms, his four wings,
which range gradually from purple to gold, spread out over 18 meters -
but his power is earthbound and subject to the omnipotence of the
Shaman. He is the guardian of the liberating, jubilant power of Zed.
THE SHAMAN & DJINN - Masters of the Arcana
Inspired by "The Pope" of the Tarot, the Shaman is clad in a
transparent copper-colored outfit coupled with white-painted tribal
patterns that contrast with his black skin. As the carrier of the
magic incantation of the universe, he presides over the birth of Nouit
and Abraka, who submit to him. It is also he who awakens the elements.
In him, Zed finds a guide to initiate him into the secrets of the
arcane and accompany him on his path to self-realization. The Shaman
is accompanied by Djinn, his accomplice and apprentice. Covered in
gold leaf and smartly adorned, Djinn is the bringer of light and fire,
opening the way wherever the Shaman may go.
KERNOUN - the God of Hell
Kernoun, inspired by "The Devil" in the Tarot, embodies the troubled
forces of the unconscious. Covered in the burning hues of reds,
oranges, yellows and ochres, he reigns over the subterranean depths, a
kingdom that is one of fire where the Satyrs are his unwitting
subjects.
CLOWNS - Playing the Fool
Oulaï and Nalaï; one is a vindictive petty dictator who seeks to
control everything, while the other is just plain lazy and always
finds a way to do as little as possible. Together, they form an
inseparable duo of buffoons with the splendid naivety and great poetry
to both move us and make us laugh.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Next time: the conclusion to our story where I delve into the show's
acts and offer up my thoughts about the show, as viewed on November 8,
2008.
---------------------------------------------------------
"A New Twist on CirqueCon: CirqueCon 2010 -
Three Shows. Two Cities. One Event."
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
Over the years, CirqueCon has journeyed across oceans and transcended
borders, reaching fans of Cirque du Soleil in Canada, North America,
and Japan to great success. And while it had only been a few short
months since we'd wrapped up our very successful multi-cultural event
in Monterrey, Mexico (CirqueCon 2009; thanks to all!), before long we
were ready to jump back into the fray and announce our next exciting
CirqueCon adventure - CirqueCon 2010: New York City.
But as we gathered for the seventh time since our inception, not only
did we find ourselves once again witnessing the evolution of some of
Cirque du Soleil's newest productions - BANANA SHPEEL, a new traveling
venue concept staged at the historical Beacon Theater in Manhattan and
OVO under the Grand Chapiteau at Randal's Island Park, both in New
York City, and TOTEM, a new traveling spectacle opening under the
Grand Chapiteau on the Quay's of the Old Port of Montréal - we also
found ourselves part of a nouvelle expérience at CirqueCon.
There'd be more to our 2010 event than just exploring "The Big Apple";
for the first time we expanded our traditional weekend to encompass
two separate locations spanning a distance over five-hundred
kilometers: one, a new and exciting metropolis for Passionates to
explore, a city that never sleeps; the other, a cobblestone-lined
historical village, with the familiarity of a heartwarming homecoming.
To accommodate both cities we added two extra fun-filled days to our
schedule!
So as we now come close to unleashing CirqueCon 2011 in Hollywood for
Cirque du Soleil's IRIS, and scaling back our traditional weekend so
Passionates may incorporate CirqueWeek in Las Vegas should they choose
(not to mention reveling in the festivities surrounding MICHAEL
JACKSON THE IMMORTAL WORLD TOUR performing at Mandalay Bay during that
time), I'm excited to relive CirqueCon 2010: New York City & Montréal
with you. Think you're ready for a CirqueCon experience? Then join us
for IRIS in Hollywood!
Bridging oceans and transcending borders while taking in three Cirque
du Soleil productions (two of which were brand new at the time) was an
exciting step for us. One we hoped everyone enjoyed to the fullest.
THREE SHOWS. TWO CITIES. ONE EVENT.
DAY ONE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28TH ///
-----------------------------------
A hallmark of CirqueCon is our Meet & Greet; it's a chance to
socialize as a group in a much more relaxed, slow-paced setting. In
years past we've partied with the cast and crew of La Nouba after an
incredible group show (at CirqueCon 2007: Orlando), raised such a
ruckus that the hotel staff tried to shut us down twice (at CirqueCon
2008: Tokyo), and took a cruise down the Paseo Santa Lucía to the
Macroplaza (our cultural answer to CirqueCon's traditional Meet &
Greet activity for CirqueCon 2009: Monterrey). We kicked off our New
York City excursion early in the morning (from 8:30am to 9:30am),
holding our Meet & Greet in the lobby of our Headquarters Hotel,
within a specially designated space at The "On The Ave" Hotel. I was
there handing out our Convention Packet (consisting of our annual
Programme Book, specially created buttons, and our identity badges),
fulfilled our official T-Shirt orders and even had posters for
Passionates to make their mark upon. It was a nice get-together on our
first morning together, filled with friends, fun, food and
festivities!
With our group viewing of OVO scheduled for later in the evening (at
7:00pm), the rest of the day was open to all Passionates, and we let
them loose upon Manhattan accordingly. Where they would go and what
they would do was up to each guest, but for one Passionate and I, we
were in to fulfilling dreams. As it was Josh McCall's first-ever visit
to New York City, he not only wanted to see the Statue of Liberty from
a close vantage point, he also wanted to climb to the top of her
crown. Since the National Park Service recently re-opened the crown to
the general public (shut down after the September 11th terrorist
attacks on the World Trade Center towers), I booked us an excursion
time (many months in advance) and away we went!
If there's one thing you have to see when visiting the Big Apple, it
is lady Liberty. Many know that the Statue of Liberty was a gift to
the United States by France in 1886 to commemorate the centennial of
the United States' Declaration of Independence from Great Britain and
the friendship our two nations established during the American
Revolution. She stands triumphantly in New York Harbor, lighting the
way to the land of prosperity, and if you miss the opportunity to see
her (whether in good weather or bad), you'll be really disappointed. A
journey to Liberty from Manhattan starts down at the Circle Line
docks, as ours did, but ours did not end until we climbed all 354
steps to the crown (that's 192 to reach the top of the pedestal and
another 162 to reach the crown). And with spiral steps only 19 inches
wide, shallow and tapered at one end, with barely a 6-foot clearance,
doing so was clearly an arduous affair, but so very, very worth it.
Did you know the rays on liberty's crown are meant to evoke the seven
seas and the seven continents of the world?
The entire experience - getting through security at the docks, riding
the boat over to Liberty Island, getting our tickets and armband for
crown access, going through a second security check to gain access to
the pedestal, and climbing to the top and back (oh my god, the
stairs!) took about four to five hours total; the majority of our free
time in the afternoon. Once done, we met Rich Alford (friend and
fellow Cirque fan; and Josh's relative) at Hard Rock Café in Times
Square for a bite to eat before making our way to Randal's Island for
OVO.
Getting there proved to be an adventure and a half.
Special New York Transit X80 event busses were scheduled to leave for
Randall's Island from Lexington Avenue and East 125th Street, easily
accessible via the Lexington Avenue 4/5/6 Subway and from Metro North
125th Street Station. With busses running from at least 70 minutes
before show time to 30 minutes following the performance, getting to
and from the venue should have been a breeze. For the majority of our
Passionates this was the case - Keith and Lucy led a contingent from
the Hotel to the subway station where they all caught the busses at
the same time; for Rich, Josh and I, because of our location at that
time day, we were forced to choose a different route. And though we
too tried the busses at Lexington and East 125th street, none of the
appropriately labeled ones ever made stops near us, so we did the next
best thing - hailed a cab! And strangely enough, we made it to
Randall's Island only a few moments before the busses carrying our
brethren - whodathunk?
By then we were all primed for the show.
OVO (pronounced oh-voh) takes its name from the Portuguese word for
Egg, an animal reproductive body consisting of an ovum together with
its nutritive and protective envelope. "When a mysterious egg appears
in the insect's midst," the story goes, "they are awestruck and
intensely curious about this iconic object;" a timeless symbolic
representation of birth. The enigma and its importance to the
insectoid microcosm embodies the underlying thread of the show, which
is also communicated graphically as OVO hides an insect in its name:
The two letter "Os" represent the eyes while the letter "V" forms the
nose. "OVO is overflowing with contrasts. The hidden, secret world at
our feet is revealed as tender and torrid, noisy and quiet, peaceful
and chaotic. And as the sun rises on a bright new day the vibrant
cycle of insect life begins anew."
And we enjoyed it!
Immediately following the performance Cirque du Soleil invited us to
stay in our seats to meet a few of the creepy crawlies of OVO and get
a chance to ask some of the cast and crew a few of our most burning
and pressing questions. We were joined at the thrust of the stage by
Lee John Brearley (Creaturea Manipulation artist), Michelle Matlock
(who plays the "ladybug" character), and the company publicist.
It was a fantastic ending to a great day!
DAY TWO: THURSDAY, APRIL 29TH ///
----------------------------------
The second day started just as early, but on a more personal note.
Since our activities with Banana Shpeel wouldn't be until later in the
afternoon, our early-morning registration window wasn't opened until
an hour before our activities; therefore, I had more free-time to
explore the streets of Manhattan. That morning Rich, Josh and I had an
appointment at 30 Rock, 30 Rockefeller Plaza that is - the home of NBC
Studios in New York and the starting point for the NBC Studios tour.
Since 1993, NBC has offered this historic tour that takes you through
the halls and into the studios of NBC's New York operations. An NBC
Page will be your guide to the world of the Peacock Network. Some NBC
Pages have gone on to become famous entertainment personalities,
including Willard Scott, Ted Koppel, Regis Philbin, Steve Allen, Marcy
Carsey, Kate Jackson, Michael Eisner, and Dave Garroway.
Though our guide isn't destined to become an NBC star (nor did we see
any such personalities on our tour), we had a good time touring the
facilities.
The first stop on the tour is the NBC History Theatre, where you learn
about NBC's early days in radio. Your NBC Page will tell you about
some of the network's early sound effect techniques and NBC's
transition into television. Then Katie Couric and Matt Lauer (on
video) take you down memory lane to show you where NBC has been and
where the network is today. From there the Tour gives a backstage peek
at some of the most famous studios in television, including: Studio 3C
- Home of NBC Nightly News, Studio 3B - Home of Dateline, Studio 3K -
Home of NBC Sports, and Studio 8H - Home of Saturday Night Live. And
in addition to these, a stop at Broadcast Operations, the Make-Up
Room, the set for Dr. Oz., and our very own chance to produce a news
and weather program in the High Definition Mini-Control Studio.
A visit to "The Top of the Rock" (a separate ticket) brought a
fantastic end to our visit to NBC Studios.
Rich, Josh and I met a small contingent of Passionates (Rodolfo
Elizondo, Steve Long, and Heather & Jim) for lunch at Juniors, a
famous and award-winning restaurant most noted for its cheesecakes,
and then I parted with the group to see the King Tut Exhibit at the
Discovery Center, where 130 artifacts from Tut's reign were on display
(some seen in America for the very first time!) in over 10 separate
galleries. As a fan of Egypt and with a passing familiarity with
Egyptology in general, spending even an hour here would be too hard to
pass up.
We all re-assembled at ON THE AVE around 2:30pm for the open
registration period, scheduled for those who might have arrived late
and who still needed to pick up their convention credentials (a badge
would be needed to attend the activities at Banana Shpeel, for
instance), and to give Passionates a place to gather before-hand. ON
THE AVE was chosen as our headquarters hotel this year because of its
proximity to the Beacon Theater - it was just 300 yards south!
The experience was billed as being an invite from Mr. Schmelkey, of
schmelkey Productions, inviting the entire CirqueCon Group to come to
his theater and witness last-minute rehearsals for his show BANANA
SHPEEL before that night's performance. In doing so we'd also get a
chance to speak with a member of the creative team. Watching a last-
minute rehearsal we did, but did you know we did it with Mr. Serge
Roy, Director of Creation for the show?
WOW!
He was as excited to speak about his new show as we were to sit and
listen, but unfortunately we had to bid Monsieur Roy adieu an hour
later - it was time for our Group Meal at Amsterdam Ale House. Billed
as a charming neighborhood restaurant on the Upper West Side of
Manhattan, the Amsterdam Ale House is committed to serving the finest
ales and lagers available. Not to mention a fine selection of foods
one comes to expect from a great ale house. And at 76th Street and
Amsterdam Avenue - it was just a couple of blocks from ON THE AVE, our
Headquarters Hotel and from the Beacon Theater where we later
assembled for BANANA SHPEEL following dinner; it was a great location!
And the food was good too...
For appetizers (which was served family style) each patron had their
choice of Buffalo Wings (accompanied with carrots & celery and a side
of blue cheese), Ale House Quesadillas (made with spinach, onion and
cheddar cheese baked in a flour tortilla and served with all the
fixings), or a house salad.
For entries we had a choice between Pan Seared Tilapia (topped with a
light white wine tomato and caper sauce, served with rice and sautéed
spinach), Pasta Primavera (a choice of pasta tossed with the season's
fresh vegetables in a light garlic sauce), Pasta Bolognaise (a rich
red wine, herbed tomato and beef sauce over a choice of pasta),
Chicken Fajitas, or Chipotle Beef Chili in a Bread Bowl (topped with
melted cheddar cheese and sour cream, and served with a side of mixed
greens salad). And to finish off this fine meal we had our choice of
two desserts: a Chocolate Fondant or a refreshing Mango sorbet.
Yuuumy!
At 8:00pm we settled in our seats for Cirque du Soleil's new twist on
Vaudeville, BANANA SHPEEL.
Banana Shpeel, the latest show from producer extraordinaire Marty
Schmelky, features a colorful array of slapstick comedy, eclectic
dance and unique acrobatic acts. This larger-than-life personality
presents the diverse talent he has gathered from around the world, as
zany characters spread chaos throughout the theatre.
In his long and illustrious career, Schmelky has created such
unforgettable hits as The Phantom of the Banana; Annie Get Your
Banana; Fiddler on the Banana; The Best Little Banana in Texas; Bring
in da Noise, Bring in da Banana; and Gentlemen Prefer Bananas. With
Banana Shpeel, Schmelky is moving in a new direction from his previous
shows. "I'm mixing together lots of different ingredients in a big
blender that will combine dance, comedy and circus arts in the fancy
schmancy Beacon Theatre on the Upper West Side."
Banana Shpeel featured an international cast of 38 performers
including the main character of Schmelky, played by Broadway veteran
Danny Rutigliano, best known for his role as Timon in The Lion King.
Assisting Schmelky are two slapstick sidekicks performed by Daniel
Passer and Wayne Wilson and his wacky assistant Margaret played by
Shereen Hickman. As Schmelky works to complete his latest show, he is
disrupted by a comedic trio: Claudio Carneiro, Patrick de Valette and
Gordon White. The show offers incredible acrobatic performances,
including Russian hand balancer Dmitry Bulkin; Vietnamese hat juggler
Tuan Le; Spanish foot juggler Vanessa Alvarez; Canadian Hand to Hand
duo Preston Jamieson and Kesley Wiens; and Russian contortionists
Tsybenova Ayagma, Tsydendambaeva Imin and Zhambalova Lilia. Banana
Shpeel featured diverse dance elements, including brother-sister tap
dance duo Joseph and Josette Wiggan and a talented ensemble comprised
of Robyn Baltzer, Kassie Brown, Adrienne Jean Fisher, DeWitt Fleming
Jr., Karida Griffith, Luke Hawkins, Kathleen Hennessey, Adrienne Reid,
Anthony J. Russo, Melissa Schott, Josh Scribner, Alexis Sims and
Steven T. Williams.
Banana Shpeel turned out to be a roller-coaster mix of styles that
blended comedy with tap, hip hop, eccentric dance and slapstick, all
linked by a hilarious narrative that ignites a succession of wacky
adventures. It wasn't circus, or a musical or a variety show, or even
vaudeville. It was Banana Shpeel, and it wasn't half bad!
* * *
Our time in New York City ended with Banana Shpeel that night, but our
CirqueCon adventure continued in Montréal, where we held another Meet
& Greet, Group Meal, and Group Show. Much like for our CirqueCon 2005
event, we hosted our Montreal meet-and-greet from our hotel rooms at
the Headquarters Hotel - Springhill Suites Vieux Port! And Passionates
who joined us in Montréal for CirqueCon 2005 may remember the
Restaurant du Vieux Port, a wonderful historical restaurant situated
in the heart of the Old Port of Montréal and just a few moments walk
to/from the Grand Chapiteau perched on the Quays at the waterfront. We
loved them so much we went back!
And, of course, we saw Totem... but that's a story already told.
(See Fascination! Newsletter Issue #72 for our take on TOTEM).
As for BANANA SHPEEL, it unfortunately did not last its entire New
York City run. The show originally had a run from February 25th
through May 30th, with previews going from February 25th through March
22nd; however, production delays (following not-so-nice reviews in
Chicago) pushed previews to April 29th through May 16th (we saw one of
the first public preview shows). Normal shows would have then begun
from May 17th through August 29th; however, scathing reviews and
dwindling attendance forced the show to close at the Beacon on June
27th, two months after CirqueCon was in the house. BANANA SHPEEL
didn't fare any better in its next stop - Toronto - folding there and
for good on October 10th, 2010.
Interested in attending CirqueCon 2011: Hollywood for IRIS?
Find out more about us at our website:
< http://www.cirquecon.com/ >
Visit us on Facebook:
< http://www.facebook.com/pages/CirqueCon/272446895013 >
Or Follow us on Twitter:
< http://www.twitter.com/CirqueCon/ >
---------------------------------------------------------
"Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour"
By: Cirque du Soleil Press Room Materials
---------------------------------------------------------
A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses
audiences in Michael's creative world and literally turns his
signature moves upside down, Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour
unfolds Michael Jackson's artistry before the eyes of the audience.
Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael's
creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence,
soul and inspiration of the King of Pop, celebrating a legacy that
continues to transcend generations.
THE IMMORTAL World Tour takes place in a fantastical realm where we
discover Michael's inspirational Giving Tree - the wellspring of his
creativity. The secrets of Michael's inner world are unlocked - his
love of music and dance, fairy tale and magic, and the fragile beauty
of nature.
The underpinnings of THE IMMORTAL World Tour are Michael Jackson's
powerful, inspirational music and lyrics - the driving force behind
the show-brought to life with extraordinary power and breathless
intensity. Through unforgettable performances Michael Jackson THE
IMMORTAL World Tour underscores Michael's global messages of love,
peace and unity.
CREATIVE TEAM
--------------
o) Jamie King -- Writer and Director
o) Chantal Tremblay -- Director of Creation
o) Kevin Antunes -- Musical Designer
o) Greg Phillinganes -- Musical Director
o) Mark Fisher -- Set Designer
o) Michael Curry -- Props and Scenic Designer
o) Zaldy Goco -- Costume Designer
o) Germain Guillemot -- Acrobatic Performance Designer
o) Scott Osgood -- Rigging and Acrobatic Equipment Designer
o) Olivier Goulet -- Projection Designer
o) Martin Labrecque -- Lighting Designer
o) François Desjardins -- Sound Designer
o) Travis Payne -- Choreographer
o) Rich and Tone Talauega -- Choreographer
o) Debra Brown -- Acrobatic Choreographer
o) Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo -- Choreographers
o) Jamal Sims -- Choreographer
o) Daniel "Cloud" Campos -- Choreographer
o) Tamara Levinson -- Choreographer
o) Mandy Moore -- Choreographer
o) Florence Cornet -- Makeup Designer
THE SCENES
-----------
Transposed in the theatrical and acrobatic language of Cirque du
Soleil, Michael Jackson's music and his messages have taken on a life
of their own.
Childhood
In front of the gilded gates of Neverland, the Mime awakens the bronze
statues that inhabit this magical place.
Wanna be Starting Something
In a wild, high-powered number, dancers and acrobats in tribal
costumes climb up and down the tree and hurl themselves onto the
stage.
Fanatics - Shake Your Body Down to the Ground
In a playful atmosphere, five "fanatics" take pictures of members of
the audience jump on stage to groove to Michael's music booming from a
jukebox and dance. When they arrive in front of the gates to
Neverland, their only hope is to slip inside, but the doors remain
closed.
Dancing Machine
In a scene that evokes an ironworks factory, a group of welders fly
and swing on motorized cables. They perform various "dancing
machines," paying tribute to different dance styles.
Ben
A tableau that celebrates Michael's love of animals.
This Place Hotel
Suspended in the air, artists perform a sensual aerial tango as if
they were in an anti-gravity nightclub.
Smooth Criminal
Fleets of foot dancers perform a choreography that showcases Michael
Jackson's iconic moves, including his famous leaning motion.
Dangerous
Surrounded by gangsters, a female acrobat performs a "dangerous" pole-
dancing act.
Fanatics Medley
In front of Neverland, the Fanatics take part in a friendly
competition as they lip-sync and perform to the sounds of a Jackson 5
medley, which finally lets them in to Neverland.
Mime
Suddenly inhabited by Michael Jackson's spirit, the Mime is completely
transformed and infused with Michael's talents as he performs a funky
beat box number.
Human Nature
While a 3D version of the Neverland log (Michael as a boy sitting on
the crescent of a moon) is suspended above the stage, artists
representing the constellations wearing multicolored LED costumes
swoop, soar and float in the air.
Scary Story - Is it Scary
Like a mind-bending storyteller, a contortionist comes out of a giant
Book of Tales. As beautiful as she is strange, she turns the pages in
the most unusual positions.
Bats - Threatened
Suspended upside down at first, artists wearing striking winged bat
costumes perform a dramatic choreography.
Thriller
This scene re-imagines Michael Jackson's original choreography for
Thriller and showcases his iconic moves. Tree branches are on the
ground as acrobats dressed as mummies perform a free-running parkour
act through the branches, roots, coffins and tombstones in a cavalcade
of jumps, leaps and bounds.
Swans - I Just Can't Stop Loving You
Appearing as a black and a white swan, two artists emerge from a lake
to perform a graceful straps duo.
Beat It
Embodied and manipulated by the Fanatics, Michael Jackson's signature
accessories - his famous hat, glove and penny loafers - jump to life.
In the final moments of the scene, an electric guitar and an electric
cello engage in a rock-infused duel on centre-stage.
Jam
Inspired by the video Michael Jackson made with basketball superstar
Michael Jordan; artists play with basketballs and perform a hip-hop-
inspired choreography.
Earth Song
In a menacing atmosphere, the Mime gets tangled in the tree, which is
now turned upside down.
Scream
Acrobats execute a perfectly synchronized tumbling act, flinging
themselves in the air and belly flopping onto the stage as Ninja-style
aerial dancers suspended above interact with the Japanimation-inspired
sequences projected on the screens. The scene evokes the destruction
of the world: the tree is ablaze and the planet is in peril.
Gone Too Soon
With images of a merry-go-round filling the screens in the background
to the sounds of this moving ballad, four animal heads, each carrying
an artist, are gently cradled by the Mime.
They Don't Care About Us
In a reenactment of the number that was designed for THIS IS IT
concert tour, artists dressed like soldiers wearing robot suits with
LED breastplates line up to perform a powerful choreography in unison.
Heal the World - Will You Be There
As the soldiers' breastplates begin to glow, artists come down from
the audience onto the stage holding red glowing hearts in a scene that
evokes rebirth and conjures up Michael's spirit on stage, as his image
appears on the Giving Tree.
Mega Mix - Can You Feel It/Don't Stop Till You Get Enough/Billie
Jean/Black or White
This sequence is a fusion of music, dance and acrobatics. During Can
You Feel It, acrobats execute a Swiss rings act moving from stage to
sky. This scene segues into a riveting dance number on Don't Stop Till
You Get Enough. Michael's famed choreographic style is showcased once
more during the Billie Jean sequence; his silhouette is revealed by
the dancers' LED costumes. For Black or White, performers manipulate
flags in a tribute to the nations and dance styles of the world,
including African, Spanish, Thai and Georgian dances.
Man in the Mirror
The show's finale culminates with the song Man in the Mirror - a song
Michael often chose to end his concerts - in a celebration of the
legacy of an immortal.
THE MUSIC
----------
Hard-wired into Michael Jackson's inspirational music and lyrics, THE
IMMORTAL World Tour conjurers up the extraordinary power and emotional
intensity of Jackson's unforgettable concert performances.
"It starts with the music," says Director Jamie King. "Michael's voice
is what drives the show. I have the opportunity to carry on Michael's
legacy, to take all that energy - all that he was and was going to be
- and build it into this production."
Looking forward
To weave together the all-important musical components of the show,
Jamie King called upon Musical Designer Kevin Antunes, who was given
unprecedented access to the master recordings, and Musical Director
Greg Phillinganes, who has worked with Michael for more than 25 years,
providing an unparalleled depth of knowledge of his music and live
performances. "Our goal is not to simply cover Michael, but to take
his music to a whole new level," King explains. The Director wanted to
integrate as many songs into the 100-minute production as possible, so
this meant mash-ups, remixes and new arrangements. It also meant
moving them forward emotionally, weaving songs together in new ways so
that the music feels new and fresh all the while respecting Michael's
essence and his voice.
Michael's voice - the driving force behind the show
To say Michael's voice drives the show is somewhat of an
understatement. "In some of his song," Antunes says, "Michael would
let the groves breathe and he would tuck his voice underneath the
music. In this show, the world is going to hear Michael's voice like
they've never heard it before."
Banding together to keep Michael's spirit alive
To showcase Michael's voice and support the huge cast, Musical
Director Greg Phillinganes has rounded up a stellar group of
musicians, including Jonathan "Sugarfoot" Moffett, who played drums
for Michael for 30 years. "I wanted to handpick everybody on the
band," he explains. "I knew exactly whom I wanted. We have a full
band, including horns and an electric cello. I wanted to have as many
players as possible with a direct, personal history with Michael
Jackson. We are all doing this because of the love we have for
Michael. His spirit will live in this show."
Music Close-Ups
o) THE IMMORTAL World Tour features 32 of Michael's songs, in
addition to numerous bits and pieces of songs that have been
used for the soundscapes and transitions.
o) Musical Designer Kevin Antunes has created a very intimate
experience. The audience can even hear Michael snap his
fingers or stomp his feet in some audio segments.
o) For the song Ben a sonic rainforest was created with all
kinds of animal sounds and Asian instruments such as Taiko
drums that provides a transition to introduce the song.
o) During Dancing Machine scene, cinematic sound effects were
added to blend the music with the acrobatic performance.
o) Instead of hearing the string section in Childhood in normal
stereo, the whole orchestra spreads out and the audience will
experience this song in a new light.
o) Michael's phrase "Cause we're all the same!" from Can You
Feel It was added in between the choruses of Black or White.
o) They Don't Care About Us features a previously unreleased
choir that Michael recorded.
o) The Jackson 5 song ABC features a never-heard-before outtake
call and response that Michael recorded when he was young.
o) The voice of Naiomi Campbell and elements of the song In the
Closet were blended into the intro to the Dangerous scene.
o) In the "Scary" section the creepy voice-over segment during
the Book of Tales segment was performed by Kevin Antunes.
o) The song Ease on Down the Road from the movie The Wiz was
added as traveling music for one of the Fanatic characters'
numbers.
COSTUMES
---------
Few stage performers have created iconic looks that are directly
related to specific songs. Say "Billie Jean" and the black sequin
jacket, black white-striped tuxedo pants and fedora hat immediately
come to mind. As for "Thriller," one unmistakably sees the red leather
jacket with the two black diagonal stripes. In THE IMMORTAL World
Tour, there are references galore to Michael Jackson's legendary
outfits.
"Michael is our narrator, leading us on a journey through his lyrics,
his poetry, his visuals, his moves and, of course, how he dressed,"
explains Director Jamie King. Michael's world was the wellspring of
Costume Designer Zaldy Goco's creativity. "My approach has been to
draw upon and respect Michael's iconic style while creating something
new and fresh. I placed subtle references throughout the costumes in
the show," says Zaldy, who was also Michael Jackson's exclusive
designer for the THIS IS IT concert series.
Keeping Michael's Legacy Alive
For Zaldy, playing a role in THE IMMORTAL World Tour had a special
emotional resonance. "The prospect of working on this show," he points
out, "was not so much a second chance with regard to THIS IS IT as
much as an opportunity to honor Michael and keep his legacy alive with
new ideas."
Flights of Fancy
The color palette in THE IMMORTAL is rich and lively. Michael loved
gold and all things ornate and shiny. He was fond of Swarovski
crystals - aurora borealis in particular. The show's costumes are a
rainbow of colors and called for innovative materials and techniques.
"In particular, we explored techniques such as 3D printing and LED,
pushing the limits just as Michael would," says Zaldy.
The production brims with imaginative costumes and outfits. Gangster
types have surreal guns that seem to be tucked in their pockets but
are only shapes; when they pull the trigger built into their "gun
gloves", streams of pyro shoot out. The ghoulish Thriller characters
wear pure white, shiny outfits; the bloody innards that show behind
the wrappings reflect Michael's love for horror movies. The straps duo
artists appear as magnificent swans; covered in Swarovski crystals,
their costumes are corseted and laced in reference to Michael's
corseted wrist in his Black or White video.
o) The bat costumes are made of ultra lightweight paper used for
shipping parcels. The huge, lifelike gold wings create a
stunning effect.
o) The "fanatics" in the Shake Your Body Down to the Ground act
wear gold, glittery cartoon-inspired costumes and don the
legendary white socks and penny loafers.
o) The "welders" copper-colored costumes with zippers in Dancing
Machine directly reference Michael's red, silver-meshed,
zipper-clad jacket in Beat It.
o) The soldiers' costumes in They Don't Care About Us are
essentially made of mytex (foil transfer) on a polyester
frame with padding.
o) The shoulder pads on the gangster costumes are made using 3D
printing.
o) Each costume in the Celestial/Human Nature scene is equipped
with 275 blinking LED lights specially designed for the show.
They change color during the song to evoke constellations.
o) When Director Jamie King asked Zaldy Goco to design "non-
choir choir robes" for the Will You Be There number, the
costume designer decided to create shirts inspired by those
Michael loved and would wear on the cherry picker during his
concerts with the wind blasting from underneath.
o) There are a total of 252 costumes in the show.
SET DESIGN
-----------
THE IMMORTAL World Tour invites the audience inside an imaginary world
inspired by Michael Jackson's Neverland. Once inside the gilded gates,
we discover the Giving Tree, a representation of the great oak tree in
which Michael would climb up to seek inspiration and write his songs
and poems.
Setting the Stage
Neverland was also the venue chosen to hold the first meeting of the
show's creative team. "I remember going to Neverland with the creative
team and meeting the grounds people who have remained faithful to
Michael," Jamie King reminisces. "I recall seeing the Giving Tree
where he wrote among other things most of the Dangerous tour that I
danced on, and I truly felt that I was at the right place creating
this show." The Giving Tree was chosen early on as the main scenic
element to anchor the project.
Set Designer Mark Fisher created a tree that is not a replica of the
original tree; it has many personalities and undergoes various
transformations during the show. The structure is articulated and can
break apart depending on the scene. It turns into a root system for
the Thriller scene and becomes a hi-tech object toward the end of the
show. A metaphor as well as a centralizing piece, the Giving Tree
creates a symbolic world for Michael's memory to occupy.
"Working on a rock show without a live artist can be challenging,"
Fisher explains. "In this case, the set design takes on a whole new
meaning. Its role is to fill the shadows as it were, and to evoke the
artist's presence."
The props as storytelling devices
Props and Scenic Designer Michael Curry, who was one of the designers
on the THIS IS IT concert tour, has developed props that serve as
storytelling devices. For example, a huge book of tales and an upside
down tree serve as acrobatic devices. Michael's famed glove, hat and
shoes become giant props inhabited by nimble dancers. Curry's goal was
to tap into and trigger the fans' memories of Michael, and to focus
attention on the performance. Many of the props are subtext for the
songs or support the narrative.
The projections - in Michael's image
The projections in THE IMMORTAL World Tour not only act as
storytelling devices, they play a key role in making Michael's
presence palpable. Projection Designer Olivier Goulet has integrated
video content such as footage of Michael's performances and real-time
projections of the performances on stage.
Set design close-ups
THE IMMORTAL's versatile stage is highly technical with multiple lifts
for scene changes. A large, multi-purpose LED screen was developed: it
starts flat on the stage, stands up to act as a projection surface,
turns into a ramp, and surrounds the Giving Tree like a gradient LED
ramp. In the middle of the stage, there are large drawers that serve
as steps for artists to perform on.
o) The stage out in the house - called the B Stage or runway -
is equipped with a conveyor belt, a lift and video screen.
o) The tree is 12 m high and weighs 5,500 kg.
o) The elephants are more than 2 m tall and weigh 9 kg each.
They are manipulated by two hidden acrobats and were inspired
by Baba and Gypsy, the two elephants given to Michael by
Elizabeth Taylor.
o) The giant shoes directly reference Michael Jackson's famous
penny loafers. They are 2.4m long and are created from
orthopedic foam with a vinyl skin.
o) The giant hat is large enough for two performers to hide
inside. It is constructed in a way that mimics the softness
of a real hat.
o) The glove is a soft sculpture that allows the dancers inside
to create various hand positions using their full body. The
glove is 1.8 m tall and is light-weight.
o) The scrim (translucent screen) is equipped with four 20K
projectors; there are four 10K projectors and two 20K
projectors on B stage; the tree has two 10K projectors.
o) The total projection surface in the show is 500 m2.
o) The young Michael in the balloon is an animatronics puppet
(animated by means of electromechanical devices) styled after
Michael when he was six years old.
o) The balloon and its equipment weigh only 4 kg. Free flight is
made possible by using a helium balloon outfitter with drive
fans. It is remote-controlled by a ground-based technician.
o) It took more than 9,000 hours to create the props and
puppets.
---------------------------------------------------------
MJ THE IMMORTAL World Tour Premieres! [EXPANDED]
A Special Collection of Reviews from the Press
---------------------------------------------------------
Reviews are in for the premiere of Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL
World Tour, which kicked off in Montreal last night.
"MJ THE IMMORTAL World Tour A Dazzling Show"
FROM: The Montreal Gazette
---------------------------------------------
How do you stage a Michael Jackson show without Michael Jackson? With
high energy dancing and acrobatics, plenty of razzle dazzle, tons of
ingenuity and lots of carefully selected video clips of Jackson
himself.
That seems to be more or less the recipe adhered to by the Cirque du
Soleil in creating Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour which had
its world premiere at the Bell Centre last night (Sunday, Oct. 2,
2011). It plays here again tonight before moving on to Ottawa, then to
about 60 other North American cities.
This $60 million arena show that sold $40 million worth of tickets
within 24 hours when it was first announced, is not like anything the
Cirque has done before, although its genre is similar to that of Viva
ELVIS and LOVE (the Beatles show) in Las Vegas.
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour has circus acts, but its not
a circus. Nor is it a rock concert or dance show, exactly, either.
Insofar as people are expecting any one of the above, they may feel a
bit shortchanged. But if they go with the multi-media performance art
flow of it all, they are not likely to be bored.
This is a dazzling, fast-paced arena spectacle for people with short
attention spans, flitting from one song to the next, seldom settling
down with one for a complete number. All is deftly rearranged, using
live music and Jacksons recorded voice. Musical director/keyboardist
Greg Phillinganes and musical designer Kevin Antunes reinvent, sample,
do mash-ups, yet respect the material, and, above all, the voice. MJ
sings again, touching the heart as only he knew how to do.
The audience is overwhelmed with images, some of them on screens,
others created through manipulation of quirky props and puppets (by
Michael Curry), like a mega-sized white glove, a huge Jackson hat that
conceals several dancers or a pair of giant shoes and socks, with
dancers inside. The music carries a thunderstorm of percussion, while
lights flash from all directions.
Mark Fishers golden Tree of Life set is at its best when an image of
Jackson flickers, then disappears into its trunk.
Theres no real attempt to tell Jacksons life story, but it all
begins with a five-clown band, evoking the Jackson Five. (Not the most
successful idea in the show, given their moves arent nearly as slick
as the originals and their bad afro wigs dont become them well.) But
its great to hear the J5 songs and see Michael on the screen as a
child.
The show offers a fairly comprehensive sampling of Jacksons better-
known songs. Early on, theres a poignant rendition of Have You Seen
My Childhood? Some songs, like Dancing Machine and Black or White
(done with international flag-waving, so we get the point), get more
of a workout than others. Fantasies of Neverland come alive, one after
another, sometimes at very high volume. Theres quiet time, too, with
Jackson speaking his own lyrics.
A solo dancer/acrobat in sparkling white (Salah Benlemqawanssa) does
mime shtick that reminds us where the moonwalk came from. He returns
again and again throughout the show, at one point doing a series of
startling backwards cartwheels. (Do not try this at home.) Hes got
the moves.
Aerial acts are used frequently to conquer the cavernous space of the
Bell Centre. The sky-high pas de deux for I Just Cant Stop Loving You
is exquisite. And the human constellations sparkling for Human Nature
mesmerize. The song, Ben (Who but Jackson would write a song for a
rat?) starts out in a puzzling way with dancing elephants but ends
beautifully with a sketch of a rat appearing on kite-like screens held
by the dancers.
A single contortionist worms her way out of a giant storybook, in
another cleverly choreographed (by Debra Brown) blend of circus and
dance.
With 10 choreographers credited, theres a certain confusion of
movement style. (In addition to Brown, who has a special knack for
acrobatics, theres Travis Payne, Rich and Tone Talauega, Mandy Moore,
Tamara Levinson and Daniel Cloud Campos, Jamal Sims, and Tabitha and
Napoleon Dumo.) But that makes for plenty of surprises. Costume
designer Zaldy Gocos costume tricks include robots with flashing
hearts.
Unlike most Cirque shows, this one, directed by Jamie King, is
prepared to do a couple of encores. And on Sunday night it was clear
that about 13,000 people wanted more. And more.
"Cirque debuts Michael Jackson tribute 'The Immortal'"
FROM: The Las Vegas Review-Journal
------------------------------------------------------
In California, acourtroom debate rages over how Michael Jackson died.
But Sunday, on a cold, rainy night on the opposite side of North
America, Cirque du Soleil set out to resurrect his heart.
The heart -- as in the red Valentine kind -- was a dominant image of
"The Immortal," Cirque's sports arena tribute to Jackson that bowed to
a capacity hometown crowd at the Bell Centre in Montreal, the
company's headquarter city.
Jackson was a known fan of Cirque du Soleil and took in many of the
company's Las Vegas-based titles, including "Mystere" with his
children in 2008. "I think it's a perfect match," Cirque co-founder
and chief executive Guy Laliberte told reporters on the red carpet
before the show. "This guy came from the same planet that we're coming
from."
On Cirque's planet, however, that means strange sites such as (a
costumed actor as) Jackson's pet chimp, Bubbles, as the dee-jay,
spinning tracks from an aerial pod as aerialists performed underneath.
It also meant a break-dancing mime and a rockin' female cellist with a
bare midriff. And a childhood representation of Jackson giving one of
those red valentine hearts away after coasting to the stage in a hot-
air balloon. The hearts even lit up on the chests of menacing robot
figures who marched down the stage for "They Don't Care About Us."
The venture in cooperation with Jackson's estate will tour for two
years, including a Dec. 3-27 stint at the Mandalay Bay Events Center.
A different incarnation will eventually settle into the theater now
hosting "The Lion King" in 2013.
"This is the biggest thing we've ever done," Laliberte told reporters
before the show. "This guy was so big. Not only in a certain
generation but the entire span of generations."
The arena tour has seen record pre-sales, he said. "When we announced
this project our Internet site crashed because there were so many
people trying to get information."
The product that awaits them, at least in its debut, is one in which
Cirque's acrobatics take a backseat to Jackson's music, recreations of
his inimitable dance moves and sometimes spoken-word recordings of his
own voice. Crowd reaction was strong for segments that most closely
matched their source video, such as zoot-suited gangsters on a
nightclub set in "Smooth Criminal."
"The Immortal" embraced every aspect of the pop legend's legacy, from
a whimsical depiction of '70s era Jackson 5 to an environmental
message in "Earth Song" and a dance sequence that paid homage to all
his show business influences from ballet to tap.
The tribute also ventures far from the greatest hits and aims for
poignant moments. All human performers vanish during footage of
Jackson as a boy performing "I'll Be There" on the giant video panels.
The gates of his Neverland estate and a symbolic "Giving Tree" from
the ranch were among the many show elements representing Jackson's
loss of a normal childhood in the show designed for sports arenas.
The live band was in the hands of Greg Phillinganes, a musical
collaborator with Jackson in life. "It's not like this is a career
move. It's a labor of love ... to maintain Michael's legacy,
Phillinganes told reporters on the red carpet.
Asked if he felt the pressure of Jackson's brothers and children
attending the tour debut, Phillinganes answered, "We put the press on
ourselves. It's not like, 'Oh, the family's here. We better get it
right.'?"
Phillinganes noted that on one visit to Cirque's headquarters, Jackson
"got stuck in the costume department and didn't want to leave."
The red carpet festivities were mostly limited to Jackson's family and
the show's creative team, with one odd exception: Acoustic-folk
leaning singer-songwriter Rufus Wainright.
A friend of the show's costumers, he said he had never covered a
Michael Jackson song in one of his own shows.
"But I'm from Montreal originally so it makes sense. I usually come
here for a hockey game."
"Cirque Stages world premiere of MJ's World Tour"
FROM: The Detroit Free Press
-------------------------------------------------
The event: The music, moves and legacy of Michael Jackson got the
fantasy treatment Sunday night as Cirque du Soleil staged the world
premiere of The Immortal World Tour. It's the biggest project formally
authorized by the estate since the star's 2009 death.
The crowd: A capacity audience of 13,000 included brothers Tito,
Jackie and Marlon Jackson, mom Katherine and Michael's kids Prince,
14; Paris ,13; and Blanket, 9.
The tour: Today's show launched a 47-city North American tour that
will make its U.S. debut Oct. 15 in Detroit. The tour - which will
include a December residency at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las
Vegas - is slated to wrap up July 20 in Chicago, though more dates are
likely. A variation of the show will establish a permanent Vegas home
in late 2013.
The fans: On a wet and chilly night in Montreal, Sunday's opening drew
fans from Brazil to Los Angeles, some decked out with glittery white
gloves and classic Thriller jackets.
The music: The show was an ecstatic barrage of hits from Jackson's
solo career and Jackson 5 years. With vocal parts extracted from
original studio tapes and mixed with a live band (directed by Jackson
keyboardist Greg Phillinganes), it was a four-dimensional funky swirl
of sound. The set ran through a host of moods - a night where the
tender Childhood seamlessly segued into the crackling Wanna Be
Startin' Somethin'.
The performance: The Jamie King-directed show featured Cirque's
typical attention to detail, from meticulously constructed props
(glowing hearts, a handsome hot-air balloon) to exquisite cast numbers
choreographed by longtime Jackson associates such as Travis Payne.
Unlike traditional Cirque shows, Immortal was presented less as a
nouveau circus than a fantasy concert, with some of Jackson's
signature moves cast through Cirque's whimsical prism.
The centerpiece: A re-creation of Jackson's Giving Tree, the backyard
spot at his Neverland Ranch where he often retreated for musical
inspiration.
The wow factor: Human Nature featured performers dangling over the
stage, gorgeously dotted with lights against a backdrop of stars. A
giant white glove and dancing shoes appeared for Beat It, and the
Giving Tree sprouted a sprawling set of claws for Thriller, which
featured mummies and white-tuxedoed zombies. Peace symbols adorned the
chests on the robotic warriors of They Don't Care About Us. While the
show featured no singular story line, broad themes of compassion,
human connection and global consciousness were sketched throughout.
The King of Pop: Jackson's images were a constant presence, and he
occasionally had the stage to himself: I'll Be There featured just his
voice accompanied by a live piano, childhood footage playing on a big
onstage screen.
The brothers: Backstage, three beaming Jackson brothers declared that
the show captured Michael's spirit. "That was Michael's message - to
help us understand that love is so important," Tito says. The family
was particularly moved by the interpretation of Gone Too Soon. "Our
mother is probably bawling out there somewhere," Jackie says.
"'A gift from beyond': MJ IMMORTAL World Tour"
FROM: The Canadian Press
----------------------------------------------
Michael Jackson had always hoped to do a show with Cirque du Soleil,
and on Sunday that dream came true.
The "Immortal World Tour" debuted at the Bell Centre, combining
acrobatics and dance with the King of Pop's massive catalogue of hits
spanning more than four decades.
From "ABC" to "Thriller," the high-octane performance did not
disappoint. It was also a tribute to Jackson's lasting impact on dance
and fashion from his patented moonwalk to his iconic white glove. At
one point, a pair of giant dancing black dress shoes with white socks
graced the stage, and at another, a pack of acrobatic werewolves. But
Jackson and the circus? It's a perfect fit, according to his brother,
Jackie.
"First of all, Michael is a great fan of Cirque (du Soleil). He's seen
all the shows," Jackie, who arrived with his brothers Tito and Marlon,
told reporters just before the show. "And to have Cirque and Michael
together, you expect to see something fantastic."
Jackson's mother Katherine and his three children were also at the
show, making a brief appearance beforehand for a photo-op. The family
made the trip to the premiere from Los Angeles, where the involuntary
manslaughter trial of Dr. Conray Murray, Jackson's doctor, is
underway.
The show packed 60 hits into about an hour and a half, starting with
the Jackson 5 and ending with Jackson's last studio album. It did not,
however, dare imitate the man himself no single performer plays the
role of Jackson. "We were very clear on this, and I think the family
was too," said Daniel Lamarre, president and CEO of Cirque du Soleil.
Lamarre said he had the blessing of Jackson's mother to go ahead with
the show. "Many people were interested in doing shows to pay tribute
to Michael Jackson," Lamarre said. "His mother said Michael has always
wanted to do a show with the circus, so if there is a show about
Michael, it will be Cirque du Soleil."
While a wholehearted tribute, the performance didn't glaze over
Jackson's eccentricities, with Bubbles the chimpanzee making more than
one appearance. It also alluded to a darker side. To the tune of
Jackson's song "Childhood," where he laments never having had one,
dancers swayed above the entry sign to the now infamous Neverland
Ranch while a child looked longingly through a window.
In another tune, Jackson is heard pleading "I need my privacy, get
away" as clips of the TV news media play in the background.
The $60-million tour has stops in cities across Canada and the United
States, with Ottawa as the next stop on Oct. 7.
The Jackson estate authorized and took part in the project.
Before the show, more than 100 fans waited in the rain for a glimpse
of the famous family on the red carpet. One group of women wore single
white gloves and black leather jackets in homage to Jackson. "I've
been a fan since I first saw him on TV in 1969 when I was nine," said
Montrealer Shirley Elvis. "When I first heard this show was coming, I
think everyone was in a really dark place and when we heard that they
were going to do this it was like another gift from Michael from
beyond."
"Michael Jackson The World Tour Theater Review"
FROM: The Hollywood Reporter
-----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil combining dance-inspired circus acts with popular
Michael Jackson songs will have the late pop star's fans cheering and
his detractors scratching their heads. The show, which had its world
premiere in Montreal on Sunday night, features a circus mime, a
contortionist, acrobats and dancers performing to the late King of
Pop's songs.
The Gloved One may be dead, but thanks to Cirque du Soleil, the late
pop star's life remains a circus with Michael Jackson: The Immortal
World Tour saluting the King of Pop Sunday night with a world premiere
in Montreal.
Here was another full on production from iconic concert director-
choreographer Jamie King, a veteran concert tour director for Madonna,
Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Celine Dion.
But a concert being live performance, King's latest tour creation
suffered without a star live performer to anchor the show and provide
a focus.
Sure, Jackson's digitally recorded voice, fronted by a live band and
around 60 dancers and circus performers, drives the show. But Cirque
du Soleil, for all its legendary inventiveness, can't match Michael
Jackson, for all his iconic song-writing and dancing flamboyance, step
for step, music performance for music performance.
In the late pop star's place, King's stage setting offers a
fantastical realm, in keeping with Jackson's otherworldly persona. And
the framing story is a plea for global love and peace embodied in a
Giving Tree, one of the giant oak trees at the Neverland Ranch, and
the apparent source of Jackson's song-writing creativity.
Set designer Mark Fisher's 12-meter-high Giving Tree, which opens to
the concert audience via the Neverland Ranch gates, eventually gives
way to a fantasy-driven world of ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, draw
bridges and toy trains.
"Have you seen my childhood," the audience hears Jackson's digital
voice intone, as we recall his best Peter Pan plea that all along,
Jackson was just a kid at heart, trying to relive a childhood he never
knew.
We see on stage in The Immortal World Tour elephants, a giant hat big
enough to hold two dancers, and a soft sculpture glove by which
performers create varied hand positions.
And we see a young Michael as an animatronics puppet during the "Ben"
track float in a giant balloon into the arena, to the applause of the
capacity Bell Arena audience in Montreal.
It's all classic Cirque du Soleil, except, of course, for the absence
of the late, great entertainer himself.
His absence is all the more glaring each time Jackson shows up on a
giant LED screen or the stage-length scrim, via video of his old gigs
like the 1987 Bad World Tour, or the pyrotechnics and illusions of the
1992 Dangerous World Tour.
King makes the most of the absence.
The red jacket, the sequins, the glittering glove and white sock/dance
shoes are all represented with props. Dancers showcase the deceased
singer's iconic steps, including the moonwalk and his famous leaning
motion. Zombie dancers rise from the grave during the "Thriller"
track, accompanied by pulsing synths and power choruses.
And there's the predictable Cirque du Soleil touches: a mime and a
monkey figure dance together during the "Blame It on the Boogie" scene
and four performers swing high in the air on ropes during the "Human
Nature" track.
But a circus mime, a contortionist, acrobats, and dancers and their
sweat-breaking choreography can't replace the Real Deal. And make no
mistake: Michael Jackson The Immortal Tour is not Jackson's life
story.
We see a familiar character arc that took Jackson from musical boy
wonder as a fifth of the Jackson 5 to global pop genius.
But a Cirque du Soleil production sanctioned by the Jackson family
could well offend the pop star's detractors for dismissing much that
held Jackson's fans and the paparazzi in thrall until his untimely
death in 2009: the "sleeping with boys" allegations, Jackson in
handcuffs and on trial, the pill popping, the bleached white skin, the
spending sprees and the botched plastic surgery.
King's quasi-metaphysical storyline of Jackson¹s music and songs, and
his quest for global love and protecting the world¹s children, instead
never strays from a fantastical, circus sensibility.
But the magic of Michael Jackson: The Immortal Tour is the King of
Pop's detractors will be left shaking their heads over what all the
circus that's come to town means, and Jackson's legions of fans will
know exactly what their idol is saying, seemingly from beyond the
grave.
"Cirque's tribute to Michael Jackson a spectacular show"
FROM: The Toronto Star
---------------------------------------------------------
When I first heard that Cirque du Soleil was planning a show based on
the life and works of Michael Jackson, I felt a shudder of fear.
To begin with, I doubted the wisdom of the famous company drawing too
heavily off the presence of pop idols, so soon after they failed to
ring the bell with Viva Elvis!
And as I walked into the Bell Centre on Sunday night, I also
questioned what was to be gained by sifting through the ashes of
Jacksons sad demise so soon after the event, especially with the
manslaughter trial of his physician, Conrad Murray, about to enter its
second week, reminding us over and over of The King of Pops tragic,
drug-induced death.
Well, about 15 minutes into the opening of Michael Jackson The
IMMORTAL World Tour, I heard a voice in my head saying Oh ye of
little faith.
Not only is Cirques latest show their most spectacular to date, but
for almost all of its 2-hour length, it succeeds in distilling a sad
and powerful poetry out of the enigma that was Michael Jackson.
Credit Jamie King, the writer and director with succeeding in erecting
a tower of glory on top of what could have been a potential minefield.
Things click from the very opening, where were about to start
groaning at the presence of a quintet of typical Cirque clowns, only
to realize theyre blessedly multi-racial, genuinely funny and larger-
than-life comic portraits of The Jackson Five.
Soon after, we tap into a vein of sweet nostalgic bliss for a happy
childhood that Michael never really had, taking us through the lost
and found of my heart and asking a question he would pose until his
death: Where is my childhood?
A little child in a hot air balloon floats over the golden gates of
Neverland and disappears over our heads in the spectacular arena
staging King and his collaborators have created.
They turn the cavernous Bell Centre into a place of magic and I cant
wait to see them repeat the trick in Torontos ACC later this month.
In a show so packed with visual wonders, its impossible to catalogue
all the beauty on display, but you wont forget the aerial acrobats
all in black, whose bodies are wired with an assortment of lights that
turn them into human star sculptures of breathtaking beauty.
And when it comes to the Ghost Stories sequence, we all wait to see
whats going to be done with the archetypal Jackson number,
Thriller.
But instead of a mere imitation of the video we all know so well, King
and company turn it into a mind-blowing voodoo funeral, all in white,
with the spectre of Baron Samedi hovering over the familiar dance
steps.
As the show goes on, we start to realize how much of Jacksons vision
of the world was ebony-hued and how sadly potent that darkness was.
In fact, we literally see how certain images came to overwhelm the
reality of Jackson by having his trademark hat, shoes and glove all
appear 20 times larger than life as the song Beat It is ironically
sung.
But as the driven Michael keeps dancing towards his death on the
numerous video screens, we also see giant clock wheels spinning madly
out of control, just as time did for the superstar.
There is no one playing Jackson per se, but a solitary performer, clad
all in silvery white, with a childlike cap, fills the role of our
central figure who becomes hero and victim all at once.
As the end comes closer, it gets almost unbearably moving when we hear
Jacksons prophetic lyric, Gone Too Soon, with its lines about Born
to amuse, to inspire to delight/Here one day and gone one night.
A stage full of performers with illuminated red hearts beat faster and
faster, before fading out one by one. Then from the darkness, we see
the entire company with hearts glowing anew, filling the aisles of the
theatre while we watch a video of the very young Michael singing Ill
Be There with that unique voice which could hurt and heal at the same
time.
I would have been happy to have the show end in simplicity, right
there, but it goes on to an acrobatic upbeat finale, with greatest
hits like Billie Jean, Black or White and Man in the Mirror.
But this is just the very first performance of a world-wide tour and
since they have so much of it right already, theres no reason to
doubt that Cirques tribute to Michael Jackson will shimmer in
complete glory before too long.
The capacity audience of 13,000, who stayed cheering on their feet
long after the show had ended, adored it, as did the Jackson Family
members who attended: mother Katherine; brothers Tito, Jackie and
Marlon; and Michaels three children, Prince, Paris and Blanket.
Somehow the sad fact that many of the Jacksons were flying back to Los
Angeles early Monday morning to return to Dr. Murrays manslaughter
trial drove the shows theme home with incredible poignance.
Michael Jackson: gone too soon, yet somehow alive again on stage.
---------------------------------------------------------
"CirqueCon 2011 Update: We Are A Month Away!"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
---------------------------------------------------------
GREETINGS, PASSIONATES! Trick or Treat!! Keith calling with some
updates and announcements, as we are now just a month away from
CirqueCon 2011: Hollywood!
LET'S UPDATE OUR NUMBERS - Here's how things stand:
Total members - 66
Total memberships - 41
IRIS tickets - 76 according to our special ticket website. That's
more than we have members, so if you have purchased tickets to our
"official" performance and aren't a member of CirqueCon 2011, please
let me know.
Group Meal - 14
Rooms at the Highland Gardens Hotel - 10
HAVE YOU GOT YOUR HOTEL ROOMS/SHOW TICKETS/GROUP MEALS? - Our
exclusive deals are still available, through the links we've sent to
members previously - but not for long (see more about our deals at our
website, www.cirquecon.com ).
HOTEL ROOMS - Don't wait too much longer before reserving, when the
hotel reaches a certain occupancy level the offer will expire.
IRIS TICKETS - There are only 24 of our specially reserved seats for
our show on Friday at 8pm. If you haven't gotten your tickets, get
them now! After November 7, it is likely the seats will be released
back to Cirque for sale.
GROUP MEAL - What better way to prepare for a fantastic evening Cirque
show than with a delicious meal (and sparkling conversation)
beforehand? If you are interested in chatting with other Passionates
at our Group Meal on Friday evening at The Grill, get your payment to
us now! We will be able to hold slots open until the latter part of
November.
ANYBODY INTERESTED IN TOURS? LAST CALL! - In our last message we
mentioned the possibility of getting group purchase tickets for either
a tour of the Kodak Theatre or the Beatles LOVE exhibit at the Grammy
Museum in downtown LA. So far we have not recieved enough response to
justify making it happen (we need a minimum of 10 in both cases). If
you are interested in either, please let me know by Sunday, November 6
AND NOW, AN ANNOUNCEMENT - CirqueCon 2011: Hollywood! will be the
eighth consecutive year of Events for us. In those years we've been
to wonderful places such as Vancouver, Montreal (twice!), Mexico,
Orlando as well as Las Vegas, New York City, Tokyo and soon LA. As
fellow tourists we know we've had many indelible memories, met many
many new friends and taken several "trips of a lifetime", and we hope
you have, too.
In those eight years the landscape of Cirque du Soleil has changed
greatly as well. Cirque Week now seems to be an annual event in Las
Vegas, and we like to think in our own small way we helped show Cirque
the power that Passionates have when gathered in one place. Cirque
has also taken to opening multiple new creations each year, some in
exciting far-flung cities of the world.
As you might imagine, organizing an event like CirqueCon takes a lot
of work by a lot of people. And after eight years of planning and
executing it is time for us to take a break (though we will work hard
to make CirqueCon 2011: Hollywood what you have come to expect of us).
This means that CirqueCon 2011: Hollywood! will be the last CirqueCon
for awhile. We are going on hiatus and will return if we find a
compelling reason and a compelling city in which to gather. We plan
to indulge in some of our other passions for awhile.
So if you've ever considered attending a CirqueCon and experiencing
for yourself the power of gathered Passionates sharing the wonder of
Cirque du Soleil together, now is the time. We'd love to meet you,
get newly or re-aquainted with you and introduce you to some
interesting people who share your passion. And see a wonderous Cirque
show to boot.
THESE NEXT TWO ITEMS ARE FOR EVERYBODY - EVEN IF YOU'VE ATTENDED
CIRQUECON IN THE PAST BUT WON'T BE JOINING US THIS YEAR - WE WANT TO
HEAR FROM YOU, TOO!
LET'S GATHER YOUR CIRQUECON MEMORIES! - We can't tell you how many
times we have heard what wonderful memories you've created through
attending CirqueCon. Now is the time to share them!! And we've got
several ways to do it.
CIRQUECON HAIKU - Here's a contest; condense your thoughts about
CirqueCon into haiku! Use the 5-7-5 format and create a haiku that
tells us what you've thought and how you feel, we'll put them in our
program book. We'll pick one winner, who'll get something special
(though we have no idea what it will be). Have fun, be creative, be
Cirque-ey!! Deadline is November 17, 2011.
AND SEND US YOUR STORIES! Since we will be taking a break, we'd like
our Hollywood program book to be full of fantastic CirqueCon memories.
If you can't focus it into a haiku, write up your favorite memories of
CirqueCon; what it has meant to you, an unforgettable encounter, or
what you will remember most.
Long stories or short, the more the better! We'll do everything we
can to include everyone's stories and haikus. If you have pictures to
illustrate, please send them along as well. We Passionates enjoy
hearing other's experiences. Send them to Hollywood@cirquecon.com, by
November 17, 2011.
We love and appreciate everyone who has attended, helped, or
facilitated our events over the years. And we have one more great one
to go! And it's getting closer!!
Thank you for continuing to believe in us and we'll be talking again
soon. Just one month left!
Live Passionately!
Keith, Lucy and Ricky
Your CirqueCon 2011: Hollywood! team
Email: < Hollywood@cirquecon.com >
On the Web: < www.cirquecon.com >
Facebook: < http://www.facebook.com/pages/CirqueCon/272446895013 >
Twitter: < http://www.twitter.com/CirqueCon/ >
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 11, Number 11 (Issue #94) - November 2011
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2011 Ricky Russo, published by Vortex/RGR Productions, a
subsidiary of Communicore Enterprises. No portion of this newsletter
can be reproduced, published in any form or forum, quoted or
translated without the consent of the "Fascination!
Newsletter." By sending us correspondence, you give us permission
(unless otherwise noted) to use the submission as we see fit, without
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Newsletter." "Fascination! Newsletter" is not affiliated in any way
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Copyright (c) and are registered trademarks (TM) of Cirque du Soleil,
Inc., and Créations Méandres, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No copyright
infringement intended.
{ Nov.05.2011 }
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