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Fascination Issue 104
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T h e U n o f f i c i a l
C i r q u e d u S o l e i l N e w s l e t t e r
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http://www.CirqueFascination.com
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VOLUME 12, NUMBER 9 September 2012 ISSUE #104
=======================================================================
Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque
du Soleil Newsletter.
On August 31, 2012, VIVA ELVIS gave its final performance in Las
Vegas, turning the page on the first chapter of Aria's story. Around
the same time, VIVA ELVIS' replacement - ZARKANA - held its final
curtain call at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, packing up and
heading west to take up where VIVA ELVIS left off. Can you believe the
ZARKANA marquee is already up in place of ELVIS? That was fast, no?
And they have to be... previews begin November 1st!
ZARKANA is one of the star attractions of the third annual Cirque Week
convention, which was announced toward the end of August. The multi-
day Cirque extravaganza is slated to run from December 1-8, 2012 and
we're a little disappointed in that. This is the same time frame as
last years' convention, which happened to coincide with the rodeo -
the two groups really don't mix well. But if you're so inclined to go
behind the scenes with Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas, check out
ZARKANA's new home, and don't mind putting up with the rodeo crowd, we
recommend checking out CirqueWeek packages! You can find details on
how to do that within. Be advised, however, that once again this year
LOVE and "O" will be mostly dark during this celebratory period so
choose your show tickets wisely!
Another item we'd like to call your attention to is Saltimbanco's tour
itinerary. If you've been keeping up with new city announcements on
Cirque's website you'll undoubtedly seen North American cities
appearing again. It's been rumored, talked about, and anticipated
since Saltimbanco's tour schedule began thinning out earlier this
year: would the show finally close for good? At the time it was
suggested Saltimbanco would tour select cities across North America
before a grand finale in Montreal, but there was no formal
confirmation by Cirque du Soleil. Now there is. In a press release
titled "CIRQUE DU SOLEIL TO PERFORM IN PORTLAND [MAINE] FOR THE FIRST
TIME WITH SALTIMBANCO", Cirque eludes that Saltimbanco is in its final
performance stretch: "After 20 years performing around the world,
Saltimbanco will make its final curtain call in December in Montreal,
Canada, the international home of Cirque du Soleil."
We've heard this from Satlimbanco before, of course... first in 1997
when the first big top tour ended at the Royal Albert Hall, then in
2006 when the second big top tour ended in Rio de Janeiro, only to
have Saltimbanco spring eternal and rise from the ashes to tour the
world again. Will this be the absolute final curtain call for
Saltimbanco? Everything is pointing to YES. So stay tuned for an
announcement on ticket sales for the Montreal finale soon! (Of course,
if Cirque du Soleil finds it within their hearts to upgrade the
acrobatics quite a bit, I bet they could find a nice theater to
showcase it in.. maybe even seasonal? What about in New York City? The
show IS about living in an urban environment after all!)
Moving back to Vegas: with seven Cirque du Soleil shows in town, and
another on the way (the Michael Jackson Mandalay Bay show - due to
premiere sometime in May 2013), watching them all can be a daunting
task, and a hard one on the wallet. Even more so is visiting every one
of the show's boutiques - who can resist all the Cirque stuff?! But
what is equally challenging is knowing when these stores are actually
open, you know? I don't know how many times I've walked a mile down
the strip to visit one of the Cirque stores only to find it isn't open
that day. How frustrating! Keith Johnson is ready to help you with
that, however. He took a survey of the Cirque boutiques in a recent
trip to Las Vegas and shares his findings this month.
The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil celebrates its 3,000th
performance this month as well can you believe it? To help commemorate
we thought it would be fun to take a peek back at all the rumors and
announcements that lead up to the creation of LOVE. But the cast and
crew at LOVE aren't the only ones celebrating this month - we here at
Fascination are too! With the publication of last month's issue, we
closed out our eleventh consecutive year of publication and with this
issue we begin our twelfth.
As always we've got the latest news items posted to Fascination! Web
and, of course, updates to Cirque's tour schedule!
So, let's get started.
We're off and running again!
Join us on the web at:
< www.cirquefascination.com >
Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only):
< http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 >
- Ricky "Richasi" Russo
===========
CONTENTS
===========
o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings
o) Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information
* BigTop Shows -- Under the Grand Chapiteau
* Arena Shows -- In Stadium-like venues
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets
* Networking -- Posts on Facebook, G+, & YouTube
o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Historia -- Cirque Company History
* Odyssea -- Cirque Tour History
o) Fascination! Features
* "Exit Through the Gift Shop - A Look at Las Vegas
Cirque Boutiques"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
* "LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! - Celebrating 3,000 Performances"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
=======================================================================
CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
=======================================================================
Cirque Musicians to Showcase Works at the
Santa Monica Pier Twilight Concert Series
{Aug.02.2012}
----------------------------------------------
Musicians from Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas will perform
their individual arrangements as part of the Twilight Concert
Series at the Santa Monica Pier at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 9.
2012.
Cirque du Soleil productions are known for breathtaking
acrobatics, amazing costumes and impressive music. On Aug. 9,
the musicians will break from their regular schedule and
showcase original arrangements for one night only. The concert
will feature Cirque du Soleil musicians from the Las Vegas-based
"O", Mystère and Zumanity shows who will perform an eclectic mix
of numbers ranging from Pop and Rock to Latin Jazz, Funk, Neo-
Soul and Afro-Pop.
This initiative is spearheaded by the Cirque du Soleil Global
Citizenship Service as part of the PARADE program which aims to
provide encouragement, support and resources to employees who
pursue artistic endeavors outside the scope of their work at
Cirque du Soleil. The Twilight Concert Series, which emphasizes
works by emerging artists, is a perfect platform for Cirque du
Soleil musicians to extend their reach to a large, untapped
audience, and to feature their own work outside of Cirque.
The event is free and open to the public. More information can
be found at twilightseries.org.
WHEN: 7 to 10 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012
WHERE: The Santa Monica Pier
Read the original article here:
< http://goo.gl/uIfvR >
{SOURCE: Broadway World}
Amaluna CD/DVD on the way?
{Aug.03.2012}
----------------------------------------------
According to GretchDrums via Nick on CirqueSpotlight, a
recording of the Amaluna's music is currently under way, and the
show will be filmed for home consumption once it sets up in
Toronto.
# # #
Gretsch artist, Didi Negron, has been keeping busy with this
tour! She is currently recording the drum track for the Amaluna
record, performing 10 shows a week, working on mastering the
show; and in a few months, she will start recording the DVD of
the show. We're proud of her accomplishments!
# # #
Exciting news!
Read the Original post here:
< http://goo.gl/zJFMD >
{SOURCE: Gretsch Drums, CirqueSpotlight}
Worlds Away moves from big top to big screen
{Aug.09.2012}
----------------------------------------------
The renowned circus arts company's first film in its 28-year
history, Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away, opens Dec. 21. In the
meantime, catch a few glimpses of what's in store thanks to
Cirque du Soleil and USA Today!
PICTURE 1: http://goo.gl/4YtaW
After Mia (Erica Linz, back to camera) falls instantly in love
with The Aerialist (Igor Zaripov), the two fall into a vortex
and are transported to a faraway land. Says Linz, "(Mia) lands
alone in a vast desert. Off in the distance she sees these tents
and walks toward them, beginning her adventure and search for
The Aerialist."
PICTURE 2: http://goo.gl/HVJWm
Linz calls her co-star Igor Zaripov "the best aerial straps
artist on the planet. Easily." In this scene "that's him being
super strong and acting like I don't weigh anything," she adds.
"There is a risk to what you do," Linz says of her aerial Cirque
work four stories in the air. "But there comes a certain point
where you might be upside down hanging by one foot and thinking
of your grocery list."
PICTURE 3: http://goo.gl/MgL3W
Worlds Away features many of the sets from the current Las Vegas
Cirque shows, including this number from KÁ. In "The Bird
Flight" scene, what seems to be a tent is revealed as a
spectacular flying machine called "The Bird" controlled by The
Mountain Tribe.
PICTURE 4: http://goo.gl/VLYIT
The lead from Cirque's O production called Le Vieux (played by
Benedikt Negro) opens the curtain "revealing the strange and
extraordinary world of Cirque du Soleil to Mia for the first
time," says Linz. It's much the same wonder the Colorado Springs
native felt when she saw her first Cirque show.
PICTURE 5: http://goo.gl/S45NA
The ethereal carousel horses are ridden by characters called
Comets from a scene from Cirque's O, now playing in Las Vegas.
"They go up and down and round and round," says Linz.
PICTURE 6: http://goo.gl/9T4ug
Worlds Away director Andrew Adamson, left, calls his work with
executive producer James Cameron an "incredibly enjoyable
collaboration." The two were always looking for new ways to
shoot in 3-D. While on an 80-foot catwalk above the stage they
were required to wear safety straps. "We were all over the
place, and every once in a while we'd get yelled at by the
Cirque safety people," says Adamson. "There were a number of
times we pushed the edge a little bit."
{SOURCE: USA TODAY}
Worlds Away Movie Poster Debuts!
{Aug.10.2012}
----------------------------------------------
Take a look at the poster debut of "Cirque du Soleil: Worlds
Away" - < http://cirk.me/NlXux8 >
A young couple who is separated, must journey through the
astonishing and dreamlike worlds of Cirque du Soleil to find
each other, as audiences experience the immersive 3D technology
that will allow them to leap, soar, swim, and dance with the
performers. This Holiday Season, Cirque du Soleil brings their
world to your city!
POSTER: < http://goo.gl/gtSdY >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
Cirque to Perform at the Helpmann Awards Ceremony
{Aug.27.2012}
--------------------------------------------------
Jon Nicholls, Executive Producer, 2012 Helpmann Awards Ceremony
today announced that Cirque du Soleil will perform at the annual
awards ceremony to be presented at the Sydney Opera House on
Monday 24 September.
Presented by Live Performance Australia (LPA) the Helpmann
Awards are the pinnacle industry event for Australia's live
performance industry, recognizing the very best in live
performances that annually attracts over 17 million people to
shows across the nation with revenues of over $1.3 billion.
# # #
A unique Cirque du Soleil performance is being put together for
the 2012 Helpmann Awards(r) ceremony which will feature several of
the stunning acts from the show OVO with more than 20 of its
artists and musicians participating. This will be the first time
that Cirque du Soleil has ever performed at the Sydney Opera
House.
Artistic Director of OVO, Marjon van Grunsven said, "We are very
excited to be a part of this celebration of the Australian
performing arts industry. Cirque du Soleil has been regularly
coming to Australia since 1999 and our shows around the world
have included many talented Australian artists and we treasure
our ongoing strong relationship with the Australian arts
community."
# # #
Tickets for 2012 Helpmann Awards Ceremony can be purchased from
the Sydney Opera House Box Office 02 9250 7777 or
www.sydneyoperahouse.com.
Read the original post here:
< http://goo.gl/TASbT >
{SOURCE: Broadway World}
Cirque to open Mandalay Bay Night Club
{Aug.28.2012}
----------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte is reportedly opening a
nightclub in February at Mandalay Bay ahead of his new Michael
Jackson residency show starting there in the spring. It would be
Cirque's first standalone nightclub, and Andrew Sasson's Light
Group will manage it as Guy's partner.
# # #
Guy [Laliberte] promises that the Mandalay Bay space will be a
unique nightclub: "It's an opportunity to materialize what we
have been doing for 20 years with Cirque's special projects," he
said.
The new Mandalay Bay nightclub doesn't have a name yet, but the
design calls for it to welcome 2,000 party revelers nightly. It
no longer appears that the nightclub first reported here at
Vegas DeLuxe will be themed as a Michael Jackson party palace.
So far, Guy has revealed that the roof will be rigged with
Cirque technical equipment to allow performers to move up and
down from the ceiling and along walls so that "every person in
the club gets roped into the show." Call them integrated
performances among guests, dancers and DJs. Apparently,
partygoers will even be able to get costumes produced by Cirque
to really join the circus.
# # #
And what about the Michael Jackson themed show set to premiere
at Mandalay Bay in May 2013?
# # #
Pre-production is well underway, with director Jamie King moving
to Montreal next month for first rehearsals. The cast will move
to Las Vegas early next year for the load-in at the reconfigured
"The Lion King" theater in Mandalay Bay.
"It will be completely different from the 'Immortal' show,"
Jamie [said]. "This will be a theater show, not an arena tour
production. It will have a completely different feel. Both shows
must be different, and they will be. The theater is under
construction, and it has much potential. I am excited for the
future."
# # #
Read the original post here:
< http://goo.gl/30YXG >
{SOURCE: Luxe Life}
Amaluna, Behind the Scenes, Video #2!
{Aug.28.2012}
----------------------------------------------
Behind the Scenes with Cirque du Soleil - Episode 2: Balancing
Work and Life with Amaluna artist Iuliia, via Rogers, official
sponsor of Cirque du Soleil Touring Shows.
Between handstand contortions and acrobatic dives, Amaluna
artist Iuliia finds time in her busy rehearsal schedule to
connect with her husband and daughter in Ukraine as she eagerly
waits for them to join her on the tour.
See the video's page here:
< http://goo.gl/yYwFO >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil; Rogers}
Bell Canada teams with Cirque on Content Development
{Aug.29.2012}
-----------------------------------------------------
MONTREAL, Aug. 28, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Bell and Cirque du Soleil
announced today that they have formed a new, far-reaching joint
venture to develop Québec-based media content for television,
film, digital, and gaming platforms. Headquartered in Montréal,
the new company will develop entertainment projects for sale and
licensing around the world, leveraging Cirque du Soleil's
creative resources, consumer insight, and infrastructure with
Bell Media's production experience, media platforms, and diverse
distribution capabilities.
Supporting the creation of new Québec-based media jobs and
linked to Bell's pending acquisition of Astral Media, the joint
venture is another extension of Bell's strategy of investment in
the development and distribution of Québec content. Bell has
committed a separate $80 million in new investment in Québec
content development when it joins with Astral, and Bell remains
the largest private contributor to Canadian broadcasting and
content development, spending almost $600 million every year.
"Bell's multi-million dollar investment with Cirque du Soleil
represents two great Montréal companies coming together to
further develop Québec's world-renowned creative industry," said
George Cope, President and CEO of Bell and BCE. "Working closely
with Cirque du Soleil aligns perfectly with Bell's commitment to
make Québec's best content available to as wide an audience as
possible."
"Cirque du Soleil has always put creative forces from Québec in
the forefront. Like Bell joining with Astral, this commitment to
invest in Québec content and job creation benefits not only
consumers but the broader Québec creative and media industry as
well," said Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du
Soleil.
Inspired by Cirque du Soleil's unique creative process, projects
will be developed by the new company in Québec for sale and
licensing to both Canadian and international markets. Cirque du
Soleil will contribute its library of existing content and
current projects to the partnership, including the company's
previous television productions as well as the upcoming 3D
feature film Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away.
"Bell's partnership with Cirque du Soleil in this exciting new
venture instantly strengthens our ability to share Québec's
creative savoir-faire with the world," said Jacques Méthé,
Executive Producer, Cirque du Soleil.
"Cirque du Soleil's homegrown and globally admired brand is
exactly the kind of unique and compelling Québec content we are
eager to nurture," said Martine Turcotte, Bell's Vice Chair,
Québec. "This new alliance with Cirque du Soleil underscores how
eager Bell is to bring the best of Québec to every screen."
The partnership will be governed by a board of directors
including representatives from both Cirque du Soleil and Bell
Media, and managed by a programming team with input from both
partners.
Cirque du Soleil's 3D feature film Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away
will be distributed by Paramount Pictures in December. Written
and directed by Andrew Adamson (Shrek, The Chronicles of Narnia:
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe), and executive produced by
Academy Award winning filmmaker James Cameron, the 3D film
event features artistic and acrobatic performances from some of
the most elaborate Cirque du Soleil productions.
Read the press release here:
< http://goo.gl/DscT8 >
{SOURCE: Canada Newswire}
CirqueWeek 2012 Announced!
{Aug.29.2012}
------------------------------------------------
Great news! The 3rd annual Cirque Week returns to Las Vegas!
Cirque du Soleil presents the third annual Cirque Week, December
1-8, 2012, offering fans the experience of a lifetime with
access to a series of exclusive events. Cirque Week offers fans
the opportunity to get an all-access look into how these
extraordinary shows come to life nightly.
Cirque Week packages range from $150 for a two-show ticket
package to $540 which includes tickets to all seven Cirque du
Soleil productions in Las Vegas including the newest production,
Zarkana at ARIA Resort & Casino.
Cirque Club members get advanced access to specially priced show
packages; check out those packages and the scheduled events
below!
*** ACTIVITIES ***
Here is a list of activities that will take place during Cirque
Week in Las Vegas. You must purchase a Cirque Week ticket
package to attend these events. Please check back as we will be
adding more events soon:
December 1st:
"O" - BEHIND THE WATER
"O" Theatre at Bellagio
Guests are given a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the
master machine of water operate with a tour throughout the
backstage areas, including above and beneath the water and all
places in between. Tour stops include getting an up close and
personal look with major show props, visiting the areas behind
the curtain and even offering guests the opportunity to scoop
their own drops of "O" water from the pool.
* Event is capped at 100 guests.
December 2nd:
LOVE SOUND AND SET DEMONSTRATION
LOVE Theatre at The Mirage
LOVE will offer Cirque Week guests the chance to hear The
Beatles music like never before, featuring a state-of-the-art
sound demonstration through over 6,300 custom-made speakers. In
addition to the demonstration, guests will have a chance to get
up close and personal with some of their favorite scenes from
the show. During this event, fans will have an exclusive
opportunity to interact with set pieces that are used in every
performance of LOVE.
December 3rd:
MYSTERE CHINESE POLES DEMONSTRATION AND Q&A
Mystère Theatre at Treasure Island
Mystère recently added two new acts and nearly 20 performers to
the show. Members of our Artistic and Technical teams will talk
about what was like to make major changes to an existing show,
and new artists will talk about making the transition from one
Cirque du Soleil show to another. You'll also have the chance to
enjoy a demonstration of the new Chinese Poles act at Mystère.
December 4th:
GO BEHIND THE SCENES WITH ZUMANITY
Zumanity Theatre at New York - New York
Guests will have the opportunity to observe a training of one of
the show's signature acts from a vantage point seldom seen by
the outside world, followed by a Q&A session with the artists
and crew in the gorgeous Zumanity Theatre. Audience
participation at Zumanity is always highly encouraged!
December 5th:
BELIEVE "MAGIC WITH MAESTRO"
Believe Theatre at Luxor
Join Criss' right hand man, Maestro, along with his show
sidekicks Slim, Lars, and Luigi as they give guests an
interactive look at some of their favorite comedic magic tricks!
Guest are also welcome to take a tour through the newly updated
lobby experience, which includes memorabilia from Criss' days in
magic, including true-to-life sized custom choppers, a dunk tank
and even the infamous bed of nails. The visit is wrapped by a
panel discussion from show staff that give a look at the various
changes and new illusions that have been incorporated into the
show since it's opening in 2008.
December 6th:
KÀ AND MARVEL BRING THE EPIC STORY FROM STAGE TO PAGE
KÀ Theatre at MGM Grand
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil and Marvel Entertainment have teamed up
to tell the heroic journey of KÀ through an all-new, collectible
comic book: KÀ #1. Cirque Week will offer fans an exclusive copy
of the Comic Book and the chance to ask the team a series of
questions about the collaboration and creation of the book and
get photos with some of the characters who have been
immortalized by Marvel.
December 8th:
ZARKANA 101
Zarkana Theater at ARIA Resort & Casino
Learn the history of Zarkana from those who have traveled the
world with the show. Learn what it takes to move a massive set
across the planet and what it was like to perform in some of the
most prestigious theatres - Radio City Music Hall and Kremlin
State Palace Theatre. Guests will hear what changes have been
made to the show to fit its new home at ARIA.
*** TICKET PACKAGES ***
Choose from the following selection of Cirque du Soleil show
packages in Las Vegas
o) 2 show package, starting at $150*
o) 3 show package, starting at $210*
o) 4 show package, starting at $300*
o) 4 show VIP package, starting at $330*
o) 6 show VIP package, starting at $480*
o) 7 show VIP package, starting at $540*
o) 2 Show Package A: includes KÀ, pick one from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 2 Show Package B: includes "O", pick one from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 2 Show Pacakge C: includes LOVE, pick one from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity.
o) 2 Show Package D: includes Zarkana, pick one from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 3 Show Package A: includes KÀ, pick two from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 3 Show Package B: includes "O", pick two from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 3 Show Pacakge C: includes LOVE, pick two from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity.
o) 3 Show Package D: includes Zarkana, pick two from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 4 Show Package (D): Includes KA and Zarkana, pick two from:
Believe, Mystère or Zumanity.
o) 4 Show VIP Package A: Includes LOVE, "O" and KÀ; pick one
from: Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 4 Show VIP Package B: Includes "O", KA, and Zarkana; pick one
from: Believe, Mystère or Zumanity.
o) 4 Show VIP Package C: Includes KA, Zarkana, and LOVE; pick
one from: Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 4 Show VIP Package D: Includes Zarkana, "O" and LOVE; pick
one from: Believe, Mystère or Zumanity
o) 6 Show VIP Package: Includes KA, "O", The Beatles LOVE and
Zarkana; pick two from: Criss Angel Believe, Mystere or
Zumanity.
o) 7 Show VIP Package: Includes Criss Angel Believe, KA,
Mystere, "O", The Beatles LOVE, Zarkana and Zumanity
*** NOTES ***
* Prices do not include tax and service fee. Prices,
performances and seating locations are subject to
availability. Management reserves all rights. Ticket packages
prices are per person and cannot be combined or shared. Ticket
package show selections are set, no substitutions.
** "O" performances are only available Dec 1-2 before going on
extended dark. The Beatles LOVE performances are only
available Dec 1-3 before going on extended dark.
*** VIP Package includes improved seating locations.
All packages include:
- Access to Cirque Week events, unless otherwise specified.
- Access to the Cirque Week Headquarters and Lounge.
- Cirque Week commemorative gift.
Check out Cirque Week 2012 today!
< http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/promo/cirque-week/home.aspx >
{SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil}
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
{Amaluna, Corteo, Koozå, OVO, Totem, & Varekai}
o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues
{Saltimbanco, Alegría, Quidam, Dralion
& Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour}
o) RESIDENT - Performed en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, "O", La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE,
Believe, Zarkana & Iris}
NOTE:
.) While we make every effort to provide complete and accurate
touring dates and locations available, the information in
this section is subject to change without notice. As such,
the Fascination! Newsletter does not accept responsibility
for the accuracy of these listings.
For current, up-to-the-moment information on Cirque's whereabouts,
please visit Cirque's website: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/ >.
------------------------------------
BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
------------------------------------
Amaluna:
Toronto, ON -- Sep 6, 2012 to Nov 4, 2012
Vancouver, BC -- Nov 23, 2012 to Dec 9, 2012
Seattle, WA -- Jan 31, 2013 to Mar 24, 2013
Edmonton, AB -- April 5, 2013 to May 12, 2013
Corteo:
Zurich, CH -- Sep 1, 2012 to Oct 7, 2012
Dusseldorf, DE -- Oct 18, 2012 to Nov 11, 2012
Berlin, DE -- Nov 29, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
Hamburg, DE -- Jan 9, 2013 to Jan 27, 2013
Koozå:
Houston, TX -- Jul 26, 2012 to Sep 9, 2012
Dallas, TX -- Sep 19, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012
Tampa, FL -- Nov 8, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
London, UK -- Jan 5, 2013 to Feb 3, 2013
Knokke, BE -- Jul 18, 2013 to Aug 4, 2013
Ovo:
Sydney, AU -- Sep 13, 2012 to Nov 25, 2012
Adelaide, AU -- Dec 06, 2012 to Jan 6, 2013
Melbourne, AU -- Jan 17, 2013 to Apr 3, 2013
Perth, AU -- Apr 14, 2012 to May 5, 2013
Totem:
Washington, DC -- Aug 15, 2012 to Oct 7, 2012
Atlanta, GA -- Oct 26, 2012 to Dec 2, 2012
Miami, FL -- Jan 10, 2013 to Mar 3, 2013
Varekai:
Buenos Aires, AR -- Sep 7, 2012 to Oct 21, 2012
Santiago, CL -- Nov 14, 2012 to Dec 2, 2012
Bogota, CO -- Jan 10, 2013 to Feb 24, 2013
Lima, PE -- TBA
------------------------------------
ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues
------------------------------------
Saltimbanco:
Taipei, TW -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 9, 2012
Portland, ME -- Oct 10, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Pittsburg, PA -- Oct 19, 2012 to Oct 21, 2012
Reading, PA -- Oct 25, 2012 to Oct 27, 2012
Boston, MA -- Oct 31, 2012 to Nov 4, 2012
Pensacola, FL -- Nov 6, 2012 to Nov 8, 2012
San Juan, PR -- Nov 15, 2012 to Nov 18, 2012
Santo Domingo, DO -- Nov 22, 2012 to Nov 25, 2012
Cedar Park, TX -- Dec 12, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
Alegría:
Athens, GR -- Sep 3, 2012 to Sep 9, 2013
Instanbul, TK -- Sep 22, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Pesaro, IT -- Nov 1, 2012 to Nov 4, 2012
Bologna, IT -- Nov 8, 2012 to Nov 11, 2012
Milan, IT -- Nov 15, 2012 to Nov 18, 2012
Lille, FR -- Nov 21, 2012 to Nov 25, 2012
Paris, FR -- Nov 28, 2012 to Dec 2, 2012
Rotterdam, NL -- Dec 7, 2012 to Dec 9, 2012
Turin, IT -- Dec 13, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
Geneva, SZ -- Dec 19, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012
Barcelona, ES -- Dec 26, 2012 to Jan 6, 2013
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, ES - Jan 13, 2013 to Jan 20, 2013
Stockholm, SE -- Mar 6, 2013 to Mar 10, 2013
Helsinki, FI -- Mar 13, 2013 to Mar 17, 2013
Turku, FI -- Mar 22, 2013 to Mar 24, 2013
Tallinn, EE -- Apr 3, 2013 to Apr 6, 2013
Riga, LV -- Apr 11, 2013 to Apr 13, 2013
Vilnius, LT -- Apr 18, 2013 to Apr 20, 2013
Quidam:
Victoria, BC -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 9, 2012
Spokane, WA -- Sep 12, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012
Honolulu, HI -- Oct 4, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Eugene, OR -- Oct 25, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012
West Valley City, UT -- Nov 1, 2012 to Nov 4, 2012
Broomfield, CO -- Nov 7, 2012 to Nov 11, 2012
Loveland, CO -- Nov 14, 2012 to Nov 18, 2012
Columbus, OH -- Dec 6, 2012 to Dec 9, 2012
Grand Forks, ND -- Dec 13, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
Sioux City, IA -- Dec 18, 2012 to Dec 20, 2012
Des Moines, IA -- Dec 22, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012
Kansas City, MO -- Dec 26, 2012 to Dec 30, 2012
Wichita, KS -- Jan 1, 2013 to Jan 6, 2013
El Paso, TX -- Jan 23, 2013 to Jan 27, 2013
Laredo, TX -- Jan 29, 2013 to Jan 31, 2013
Corpus Christi, TX -- Feb 2, 2013 to Feb 3, 2013
Hidalgo, TX -- Feb 6, 2013 to Feb 10, 2013
Dralion:
Uniondale, NY -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 9, 2012
Charleston, WV -- Sep 12, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012
Minneapolis, MN -- Sep 19, 2012 to Sep 23, 2012
Boise, ID -- Oct 11, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012
Stockton, CA -- Oct 17, 2012 to Oct 21, 2012
Ontario, CA -- Oct 24, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012
Long Beach, CA -- Oct 31, 2012 to Nov 4, 2012
Fresno, CA -- Nov 7, 2012 to Nov 11, 2012
San Deigo, CA -- Nov 14, 2012 to Nov 18, 2012
Phoenix, AZ -- Nov 21, 2012 to Nov 25, 2012
Topeka, KS -- Dec 5, 2012 to Dec 9, 2012
Tulsa, OK -- Dec 12, 2012 to Dec 16, 2012
Okalahoma City, OK -- Dec 19, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour:
London, UK -- Oct 12 to 21, 2012
Herding, DK -- Oct 24 & 25, 2012
Copenhagen, DK -- Oct 27 & 28, 2012
Stockholm, SE -- Nov 2 & 3, 2012
Helsinki, FI -- Nov 5 & 6, 2012
St. Petersburg, RU -- Nov 9, 10 & 11, 2012
Frankfurt, DE -- Nov 16 & 17, 2012
Oberhausen, DE -- Nov 20, 2012
Munich, DE -- Nov 24 & 25, 2012
Hannover, DE -- Nov 28, 2012
Vienna, AT -- Dec 1 & 2, 2012
Manheim, DE -- Dec 5, 2012
Leipzig, DE -- Dec 8 & 9, 2012
Hamburg, DE -- Dec 11, 2012
Cologne, DE -- Dec 15 & 16, 2012
Berlin, DE -- Dec 19 & 20, 2012
Madrid, ES -- Dec 26 to Dec 29, 2012
Kazan, RU -- Jan 17, 18 & 19, 2013
Moscow, RU -- Jan 22 to 27, 2013
Prague, CZ -- Feb 8 & 9, 2013
Barcelona, ES -- Apr 17 to Apr 20, 2013
---------------------------------
RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
---------------------------------
Mystère:
Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday
Two shows Nightly - 7:00pm & 9:30pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o September 8 - 12
o November 14
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o October 14 & 17
o December 3 - 18
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o September 18-22
o November 27
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o September 1, 2, 3, and 4
o October 23
o December 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o September 28 - 29
o November 20
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o October 1
o December 6 - 19
BELIEVE:
Location: Luxor, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 10:00pm
NOTE: Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by
an adult. Children under the age of five are not permitted
into the theater.
2012 Dark Dates:
o September 4-11
o December 18-25
ZARKANA:
Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
Previews begin in Las Vegas November 1, 2012
Regular performance begin November 11, 2012
2012 Dark Dates:
o None
IRIS:
Location: Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, CA (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Friday @ 8:00pm
Saturday @ 3:00pm and 8:00pm
Sunday @ 2:00pm and 7:00pm
DARK: Monday
Select Weekday Matinee Performances
Wednesday and Friday at 3:00pm
2012 Dark Dates:
o September 4-11
o October 23
o November 22
o December 4 and 25
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE's SOCIAL WIDGETS
=======================================================================
o) Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, Youtube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
{Compiled by Keith Johnson}
---[ ALEGRIA ]---
{Aug.25}
Preparing for load-out Tel Aviv - at Nokia Arena, Tel Aviv.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/vVyOI >
---[ AMALUNA ]---
{Aug.15}
Behind the scenes at Amaluna - Episode 1: Making the music!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/RWP7wy >
{Aug.28}
Behind the Scenes at Amaluna - Episode 2: Balancing Work and Life
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/PLUkp5 >
{Aug.31}
The Big Top is going up for the premiere in Toronto on Sept. 6!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/PH24dz >
---[ CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ]---
{Aug.01}
Did you know? Cirque du Soleil has a contemporary art collection
of over 860 works of art and each year an acquisition committee
composed of six employees from various sectors influence the
artistic direction of our collection...
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/X8XLo >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/ayoQX >
{Aug.09}
Tomorrow, at 3:00 pm (BST), the Canadian National Senior
Synchronized Swimming Team presents its Cirque du Soleil-
inspired routine at the London 2012 Olympics! Among the musical
pieces for the routine are "Terre aride", "Alegría",
"Incantation", "Poursuite" and "Taiko"!
{Aug.12}
Did you know that August 12 was named the International Youth
Day by the UN in 1985 and that to encourage and promote the
potential of youth is one of the values of Cirque du Soleil?
Since 2005, in collaboration with MR3 Relève Montréal, Cirque du
Soleil has offered one-week internships to 129 young people aged
14 to 17 years to guide them in their career choices. This year,
more than 32 employees gave presentations on their professions
to these young visitors! For more information on the activities
of the Student Business program...
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/NrQP6h >
{Aug.16}
Want to score free tickets to see Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL
World Tour by Cirque du Soleil in Europe? Enter now for your
chance to win a trip for two, tickets to the show and $500 cash!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/KTwAII >
{Aug.23}
Summer might be ending soon, but the end-of-season deals at our
eBoutique are just beginning! Save 40% on Desigual Inspired by
Cirque du Soleil, SAFEWALLS and Zarkana collections. Discover
these great bargains and more here:
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/Pdk8Yf >
{Aug.31}
In the latest adventure courtesy of Infiniti JX, inspire your
sense of taste with a tour of top-rated Zagat restaurants in
Seattle. Then take in our newest creation, Amaluna - Cirque du
Soleil, where we can dazzle your other senses!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/urEN4q >
---[ CORTEO ]---
{Aug.07}
Did you know it was in a small church in Lugano, Switzerland
that Daniele Finzi Pasca first got inspired for Corteo?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/mdzO8 >
{Aug.08}
Meet Daniele Finzi Pasca (Corteo's creator, in the middle)
surrounded by Maria Bonzanigo (composer of Corteo's music) and
Hufo Gargiulo (acting coach). This picture was taken this
morning in Magadino, Switzerland.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/vP6PC >
{Aug.12}
Corteo and its creator Daniele Finzi Pasca are featured on
today's Sonntags Zeitung paper in Zurich
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/9abh1 >
{Aug.16}
Did you know that more than 75 trailers are needed to transport
the 1,200 tons of equipment that Corteo carries around!!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/nuS4U >
{Aug.17}
What do you think of our new billboard in Zurich? We love it!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/BRFEJ >
{Aug.26}
Did you know the White Big Top is 66 feet high and has a
diameter of 167 feet? Impressive!!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/xy80c >
{Aug.31}
Corteo featured in Neue Zürcher Zeitung in Zurich! Our 1st
show in Zurich is tomorrow September 1, 2012!!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/AAtAu >
---[ CRISS ANGEL BELIEVE ]---
{Aug.06}
What were your thoughts entering Believe Theatre?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/VGVrL >
{Aug.21}
The coffin in Believe Theatre was used in Season 5 of Criss
Angel Mindfreak, in which Criss was buried alive under 6 feet of
snow.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/EVXgT >
{Aug.22}
We would like to wish our technician Ali from Believe the best
of luck during America's Got Talent! Check out Ali from The
Bandbaz Brothers wild card performance:
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/Pdt2Vw >
---[ DRALION ]---
{Aug.07}
Load-in in Richmond, VA | Can you guess how much time it will
take to set up the stage? It takes our crew 12 hours to load-in
the 400,000 pounds of equipment each week!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/SWCxY >
{Aug.13}
Warming up before the live performance on Twin Cities Live!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/mih6z >
{Aug.14}
Coming up on KARE 11 Sunrise!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/G5CPR >
{Aug.14}
Warm-up time at WCCO in downtown Minneapolis!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/sjKuC >
{Aug.26}
Cast and crew taking in the sights - Washington DC!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/5yYE2 >
---[ IRIS ]---
{Aug.02}
There are 204 nations participating in the 2012 Summer Olympic
Games in London. Here at IRIS 16 different countries are
represented by artists in our show. This sneak peek backstage
gives you an idea of which countries those are!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Ucsja >
{Aug.09}
IRIS street team and stilt walkers awe and entertain guests on
the Santa Monica Pier! Come on out to experience music from
Cirque musicians and get great deals on tickets to IRIS!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/nXR2l >
---[ KA ]---
{Aug.14}
Check out this look with our musical director Richard Oberaker!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/XEvHg
{Aug.16}
Tune into Trip Flip TONIGHT at 9 p.m. on the Travel Channel and
watch as two Vegas visitors take on a series of challenges,
including hands-on training from our coach Al Light and artists
from KÀ!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/jfKLB
{Aug.21}
Did you know we keep a record of every shoe used by every artist
in our show? It's all right here in the "Shoe Bible" in the
wardrobe department!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/7Lubr
---[ KOOZA ]---
{Aug.26}
All of the performers apply their own completely by themselves!
There are over 30 makeup steps to transform into the Trickster.
Double that number and you've got how many minutes it takes to
complete the transformation!
{Aug.29}
Our 273 individual props take 90 hours a week to maintain.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/po4p7 >
---[ LA NOUBA ]---
{Aug.23}
Check out the La Nouba inspired chair created by Trapeze artist
Jedi Ojeda!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/9a1tL >
---[ MJ IMMORTAL ]---
{Aug.01}
Fun Fact: The incredible IMMORTAL crew broke their own record
last week for fastest load-out... 2 hours and 12 min!! (The
former time was over 2.5 hours.) For comparison, it takes about
10 hours to load-in.
{Aug.07}
Join us in congratulating the entire IMMORTAL family for
receiving the Creative Content Award at the upcoming 2012
Billboard Touring Awards!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/wV1zN >
{Aug.14}
Fun Fact: this tap machine weighs 1200lb (544 kilo)!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/3zW7T >
{Aug.25}
The incredible IMMORTAL crew gets to the arena before anyone
else. They build the stage in under 10 hours and load-out in
less than 2.5. This crew is an integral part of the IMMORTAL
family - the work they do is amazing!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/ElQh7 >
{Aug.28}
IMMORTAL visit to the Pyramids! (15 photos) On a day off in
Mexico City, IMMORTAL cast and crew had an amazing experience
visiting the pyramids in Teotihuacan!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/zRx3n >
{Aug.29}
On this date in history some incredible things happened...
including Michael Jackson's Birthday! A very happy birthday to
the King of Pop! We're celebrating Michael Jackson's Birthday in
Mexico City! Every night we get on stage for you, but tonight is
obviously even more special! Happy Birthday.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/0Wpsp >
---[ MYSTERE ]---
{Aug.03}
Mystère went out on the town last week with a Southwest Flight
Attendant Event at Gilley's in Treasure Island! Here's a look at
some of the fun!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/cpCg6 >
{Aug.09}
Here's a great look at our aerial cubist Paul Bowler and the
road he took from being a British gymnast to a Cirque artist!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Z9Ej1 >
{Aug.21}
We've got a rainbow of threads in wardrobe!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/CVb3c >
---[ OVO ]---
{Aug.03}
Dylan Evans from the Scene Magazine in Brisbane took beautiful
pictures during the Dress Rehearsal. Check out his work!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/KmH9V >
{Aug.07}
Did you know our Duo Butterfly - Svitlana Kashevarova and
Dmitriy Orel - are not only a couple on stage, but also in real
life?
{Aug.16}
OVO knowledge test!!! How many different types of insects can
you identify in OVO? If you said 20 insects, you are correct.
There are indeed 20 different types of insects in OVO. Here is
the list: The Fleas, The Ants, The Crickets, The Scarabs, The
Cockroaches, 4 types of Spiders: white, red, black, silver; The
Butterflies, a Cocoon, Caterpillars, a Wood Bug, a Mosquito, a
Rups (creatura), a Dragonfly, a Firefly, a Beetle, a fly and a
Ladybug.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/lzFOv >
{Aug.29}
Watch our behind-the-scenes video to see how our artists prep
for the show, step-by-step. (Check back next week for more
exclusive footage!)
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/PuKoMs >
---[ QUIDAM ]---
{Aug.07}
Did you know Adrienn, our skipper, still holds the World record
for consecutive triple-unders? Guess how many. Try 330!
{Aug.10}
This is what we did with our time off in Edmonton!
LINK /// < http://youtu.be/a-dythY9Kpc >
{Aug.28}
Bunny getting ready for her big CTV performance around 8:40am!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/LnXW2 >
---[ SALTIMBANCO ]---
{Aug.05}
Just finishing in Singapore! Hey Manila, did you know that we
will be performing for two weeks at the Mall of Asia Arena,
starting on August 8? Something not to miss according to the
Manila Times! Magnifico, grandioso, Saltimbanco!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/4uhYk >
{Aug.08}
Currently setting up inside the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila!
Did you know that it took two full 747 cargo planes to carry
Saltimbanco, all its technical material and thousands pieces of
costume from Singapore to Manila.
{Aug.14}
Just getting ready to start our second week in Manila! Did you
watch this morning short performance on Mornings@ANC?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/KTR1D >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/HHtbf >
---[ THE BEATLES LOVE ]---
{Aug.08}
On August 8th, 1969 The Beatles held up traffic to take this
special photo. Here's one of the photos, which wasn't selected
for the cover of Abbey Road.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/MH8X8 >
{Aug.09}
We're back for our first show after a dark & the Walrus is
getting air-brushed for tonight!
LINK /// < http://instagr.am/p/OIJ4RaRI_z/ >
{Aug.14}
Come see our new pillars on Mathew Street in Liverpool!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/9AoPh >
{Aug.31}
The Beatles LOVE parade at The Mirage Hotel and Casino!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/mzb0B >
LINK /// < http://instagr.am/p/PA2qGHxIyv/ >
LINK /// < http://instagr.am/p/PA6Hs9xI2H/ >
---[ TOTEM ]---
{Aug.02}
Our Green Frogs (High Bar artists) are currently rehearsing to
integrate a new trick this week in their act!
{Aug.07}
Our road cases are now packed in our 64 trucks! Thank you Boston
for the amazing time! Washington, be ready as TOTEM opens on
August 15 for a limited engagement at National Harbor!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/wyxoZ >
{Aug.09}
The Big Top will soon be up in the DC National Harbor sky!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/55xKj >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/hZA5N >
{Aug.10}
Our director Robert Lepage's interview with the Washington Post!
5 days to go before Opening Night!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/hUkQM >
{Aug.16}
TOTEM is now opened in DC! Look at our city buses!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Z1NIi >
{Aug.19}
Always wondered what a day at TOTEM looks like? Read this great
article by Brightest Young Things who spent a day backstage and
met Joe Putignano, the Crystal Man.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/t20fG >
{Aug.22}
TOTEM was live on DC FOX 5 Morning News yesterday! Watch our 3
main segments online!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/lZFv8 >
{Aug.28}
Our artists are now busy doing their warm-up and rehearsals for
the first show of the week!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/j9nX0 >
---[ VAREKAI ]---
{Aug.08}
Face painting in the park in Porto Alegre, Brasil!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/VKDKc
---[ VIVA ELVIS ]---
{Aug.31}
Thank you to all our fans! We've had a great journey and it's
been an honor to celebrate The King of Rock 'n' Roll.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/ikA12 >
LINK /// < http://instagram.com/p/PBgfW2RIwB/ >
---[ ZARKANA ]---
{Aug.07}
Check out this behind-the-scenes look at Zarkana! Which costume
would you like to get a better look at?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/u9OnH >
---[ ZUMANITY ]---
{Aug.03}
Did you miss Willie Bronco on last night's episode of "Watch
What Happens Live"? Get another fill of Willie on the WWHL After
Show at Bravotv.com and check him out in the bartender photo
gallery at the link below!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Cz5Fu >
{Aug.14}
A fun from our Mistress of Sensuality, Edie!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/bGkYE >
{Aug.31}
We're very excited to be bringing a little bit of Vegas to
Henri Bendel for this year's Fashion's Night Out! Check out
the sneak peak below! Our Fashion's Night Out fete on 9/6
is a nod to Sin City, our newest home! Join us as we turn
our atrium into a lavish Las Vegas casino with the help of
Zumanity - The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil. Here is a
sneak peak of the Swarovski encrusted costumes that will be
on display!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Z7fFr >
=======================================================================
COMPARTMENTS -- A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
=======================================================================
o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts at a Glance about Cirque
o) HISTORIA - Cirque Company History
o) ODYSSEA - Cirque Tour History
---------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------
Here's a few facts about LOVE, which is celebrating its 3000th
performance this month!
o) The Trains of Light, which are operated manually by technicians,
drive within inches of a 20 foot drop. To ensure safety, the Trains
have been fitted with a custom breaking system at the rear that
will automatically engage if it senses the front of the train
dropping off the stage.
o) The smallest prop in the show is Sgt. Pepper's whistle!
o) The Culbutto (Fireman's) Ladder weighs 1,500 lbs. - 500lbs for the
ladder and wheels, and another 1,000lbs of counterbalance weight.
o) The VW Bug Crash/Breakaway Car is much more expensive than a real
car. It has no internal parts, is so light the entire car can be
pushed with one finger, and the 11 sections are all held together
with magnets.
o) 15,296 confetti streamers burst out each year in 478 performances.
o) There are over 540 LED lights in the SUN from HERE COMES THE SUN.
o) The LOVE theatre features 24 digital projectors that are used in
the show. Everything is digital, from source to screen, making the
impressive 100-foot-wide high-definition panoramic images possible.
o) There are over 6,500 speakers in the theatre (compared to Mystère's
78), which create one of the most panoramic surround-sound systems
in the world-like IMAX for the ears! Each seat is fitted with six
speakers so the Beatles' music can be heard like never before.
o) The Performers wear 331 multi-layered costumes during performances.
o) The stage is made up of seven lifts, two sloats, various traps and
one turntable. Each lift is capable of lifting 20,000 pounds.
o) Cirque uses 204 moving lights, 1,000 dimmers... and one finger to
control it all.
o) The theatre seats 2,013 guests.
o) Salt Lake City-based 3Form Inc's architectural resin panels are
featured in Cirque du Soleil's LOVE. You'll find these panels at
the entrance to LOVE's theater; each step activates neon-colored
lights in a custom glass and acrylic floor.
o) Architect: Marnell Corrao
o) 3 different materials are used in the construction of the panels:
Starphire Glass, Ecoresin, and Acrylic
o) ecoresin is made from spectar PETG co-polyester resin with 40%
post-industrial recycled content, and is also a non- toxic, non-
offgassing material used in architectural and designer applications
(from their FAQ).
o) 3Form developed the process required for laminating the flat and
curved panels to produce a clarity, light, and strength that is
unique.
o) Each panel is cut to size by a waterjet machine, digitally
programmed for precision cutting.
o) The panels are lit using LED lighting panels that slide in behind
or beneath the panel installations.
o) Each panel is removable thanks to a custom-made mechanical
attachment, created to keep the seamless illumination of panels.
o) The panels can withstand up to 2700 pounds per square foot and a
deflection (bending) of .45 before shattering. This is well above
the 200 pounds per square foot requirement.
o) Even when the panel does fail, only the bottom 1/4 is broken,
allowing the illusion to continue until a new one can be
fabricated.
o) Each panel has a fritted surface to comply with Las Vegas's non-
skid floor code requirements.
------------------------------------
HISTORIA: Cirque Company History
------------------------------------
* Sep.01.2003 -- Tapis Rouge CD released (BMG/CDS Musique)
* Sep.01.2003 -- "Parade of Colors" Book Published
* Sep.05.2005 -- Cirque held 5th Run Away with Cirque du Soleil 5k
Run and 1 Mile Walk at Paseo Verde Park in Henderson
* Sep.06.2005 -- "O" CD released in US (CDS Musique)
* Sep.06.2005 -- La Nouba CD released in US (CDS Musique)
* Sep.06.2005 -- Mystère (Live) CD released in US (CDS Musique)
* Sep.09.2009 -- Name of CirqueVaudeville Released [Banana Shpeel]
* Sep.12.2005 -- Zumanity celebrated its 1000th performance
* Sep.15.2002 -- Fire Within premiered in Canada [7:00pm EST/Global TV]
* Sep.15.2005 -- Name of "Cirque MGM" released - KÀ
* Sep.15.2008 -- Mystère celebrated 7,000th performance [9:30pm]
* Sep.20.2003 -- Zumanity Gala Premiere (Previews End)
* Sep.21.2001 -- Alegría celebrated 2,500th performance [Brisbane]
* Sep.21.2003 -- Cirque wins Outstanding Nonfiction Program award
* Sep.21.2004 -- "Le Best of..." CD Released (CDS Musique)
* Sep.22.2002 -- Cirque lost Emmys (nominated Jul.18.2002)
Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special
- Alegría
Outstanding Choreography for 74th Academy Awards
- Debra Brown
* Sep.25.2002 -- Cirquedusoleil.com won four awards for its website:
"Best of Show", "Experience", "Content & Information",
And "Experimental"
* Sep.27.1994 -- Alegría CD released in Canada (RCA/Victor)
* Sep.27.2001 -- Dralion opened in Philadelphia
* Sep.27.2003 -- Cirque du Soleil HQ Open House
* Sep.30.2009 -- Guy Laliberté, Cosmonaut!
------------------------------------
ODYSSEA: Cirque Tour History
------------------------------------
* Aug.01.2005 -- Quidam opened Singapore, SG
* Aug.01.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Berlin, DE
* Aug.01.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Kamloops, BC
* Aug.02.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Amherst, MA
* Aug.03.1987 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Los Angeles, CA
* Aug.03.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Amherst, MA
* Aug.03.2009 -- Ovo opened Toronto, ON
* Aug.04.2002 -- Saltimbanco opened Brussels, BE
* Aug.04.2008 -- Koozå opened Boston
* Aug.05.2007 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Syracuse, NY
* Aug.05.2012 -- Dralion Arena opened Pittsburgh, PA
* Aug.05.2012 -- Quidam Arena opened Victoria, BC
* Aug.06.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Tupelo, MS
* Aug.07.2011 -- Alegría Arena opened Oberhausen, DE
* Aug.07.2011-- Quidam Arena opened Boston, MA
* Aug.07.2011 -- Corteo opened Sevilla, ES
* Aug.07.2011 -- Ovo opened Calgary, AB
* Aug.08.1985 -- Grand Tour 1985 opened Montréal, QC
* Aug.08.1995 -- Alegría opened Boston, MA
* Aug.08.2005 -- Dralion opened Zurich
* Aug.08.2006 -- Corteo opened Boston
* Aug.08.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Munich, DE
* Aug.08.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Victoria, BC
* Aug.09.1988 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Washington, DC
* Aug.09.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Boston, MA
* Aug.09.1999 -- Saltimbanco opened Perth, AU
* Aug.09.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Syracuse, NY
* Aug.09.2010 -- Ovo opened Washington, DC
* Aug.10.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Buffalo, NY
* Aug.10.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Huntsville, AL
* Aug.11.1990 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened San Jose
* Aug.11.2008 -- Quidam opened Sevilla, ES
* Aug.12.1986 -- Magie Continue opened Toronto, ON
* Aug.12.1997 -- Alegría opened Vienna, AT
* Aug.12.2003 -- Varekai opened Los Angeles
* Aug.12.2007 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Wilkes-Barre, PA
* Aug.12.2012 -- Dralion Arena opened Charleston, WV
* Aug.13.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Chicago
* Aug.13.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Zurich, SZ
* Aug.13.2012 -- Ovo opened Sydney, AU
* Aug.14.2007 -- Alegría opened Curitiba
* Aug.14.2011 -- Alegría Arena opened Leipzig, DE
* Aug.14.2011 -- Quidam Arena opened State College, PA
* Aug.14.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened New Orleans, LA
* Aug.15.1995 -- Saltimbanco opened Düsseldorf, DE
* Aug.15.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Tacoma, WA
* Aug.15.2011 -- Varekai opened Sao Paulo, BR
* Aug.16.2004 -- Varekai opened Washington DC
* Aug.16.2008 -- Corteo opened Ottawa
* Aug.16.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Albany, NY
* Aug.16.2010 -- Koozå opened Houston, TX
* Aug.17.1998 -- Alegría opened Zurich, CH
* Aug.17.2003 -- Quidam opened McLean,VA
* Aug.17.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Trenton, NJ
* Aug.17.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Stockholm, SE
* Aug.17.2009 -- Dralion opened Monterrey.MX
* Aug.17.2010 -- Varekai opened Zurich, CH
* Aug.18.2009 -- Quidam opened Brasilia, BR
* Aug.19.2002 -- Varekai opened Philadelphia
* Aug.19.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Zurich, SZ
* Aug.19.2007 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Greensboro, NC
* Aug.19.2012 -- Dralion Arena opened Minneapolis, MN
* Aug.19.2012 -- Koozå opened Dallas, TX
* Aug.20.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Santa Monica, CA
* Aug.20.2001 -- Saltimbanco opened Yokohama, JP
* Aug.21.2011 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Shanghai, CN
* Aug.21.2011 -- Alegría Arena opened Stuttgart, DE
* Aug.21.2011 -- Quidam Arena opened Fort Wayne, IN
* Aug.21.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Orlando, FL
* Aug.22.1997 -- Quidam opened Denver, CO
* Aug.22.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Mexico City, MX
* Aug.22.2005 -- Varekai opened Hartford
* Aug.22.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Zaragoza, ES
* Aug.22.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Spokane, WA
* Aug.23.1999 -- Dralion opened Santa Monica, CA
* Aug.23.2005 -- Corteo opened Minneapolis
* Aug.23.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Helsinki, FI
* Aug.23.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened Rochester, NY
* Aug.24.2008 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened St. Paul, MN
* Aug.25.1996 -- Quidam opened Santa Monica, CA
* Aug.25.2008 -- Varekai opened Vienna, AS
* Aug.26.2002 -- Quidam opened Cleveland, OH
* Aug.26.2007 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened State College, PA
* Aug.27.2001 -- Dralion opened Phidelphia, PA
* Aug.28.2006 -- Quidam opened St. Louis, MO
* Aug.28.2011 -- Alegría Arena opened Munich, DE
* Aug.28.2011 -- Quidam Arena opened Albany, NY
* Aug.28.2011 -- Dralion Arena opened Tallahassee, FL
* Aug.28.2012 -- Varekai opened Santiago, CL
* Aug.29.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Granada, ES
* Aug.30.1996 -- Alegría opened Fukuoka, JP
* Aug.30.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Turku, FI
* Aug.30.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened State College, PA
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
o) "Exit Through the Gift Shop - A Look at Las Vegas
Cirque Boutiques"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
o) "LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! - Celebrating 3,000 Performances"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
"Exit Through the Gift Shop - A Look at Las Vegas
Cirque Boutiques"
By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
My wife and I suffer from two weaknesses that, unfortunately for our
pocketbooks, coincide - Las Vegas and Cirque du Soleil souvenirs.
Every time we're in Vegas we inevitably devote several hours to
visiting the Boutiques of the seven resident Vegas shows to check out
their latest offerings. And we always end up buying something at each
one, which means our luggage quickly reaches its 50-pound weight
limit.
Yet more than once we have fought our way through Las Vegas traffic
only to find that the Boutique we were trying to visit wasn't open yet
or, worse, was closed that day. But this need not be your fate! On
our last trip in May we thought we'd perform a public service - we'd
survey and review the offerings of the Las Vegas Cirque Boutiques for
our readers. (If only we were getting paid to write for Fascination!,
we could have written the whole trip off our taxes!) Our timing meant
that we visited the now-gone Viva Elvis boutique, and haven't seen how
the shop and merchandise will be redressed for Zarkana.
There are several things common to all the Boutiques. They are all
managed and staffed by the individual hotels, not Cirque. They are
all open fewer hours on their shows dark days. They all have DVD and
CD sections which include relatively complete selections from the
entire Cirque canon (some better than others). Surprisingly, it isn't
uncommon to find one shows clothing in another shop; you'll find "O"
and LOVE stuff in KA's shop, "O" stuff is also in Mystere's shop.
As we have found during all our visits to the Vegas Boutiques, there
are items in these shops that aren't available in Cirque's online
Boutique. So it is gratifying to know that they all can ship
purchases! Policies vary, but are generally based on the weight of
the package. Expect to pay $12.00 or more for a shipment. They will
also take orders over the phone. So if you've been jonesing for a Las
Vegas Cirque t-shirt but won't be visiting for awhile, give them a
call.
We've summarized our findings in an easy-to-read spreadsheet, which
can be found here: (http://goo.gl/8XyYa). It includes shop phone
numbers and open hours. We include representative items in our
survey. For example, you can see that Zumanity and Mystere have the
cheapest programs at $15.00, with "O" the most expensive (and the most
recently updated) at $20.00. The BeLIEve program is between editions,
the version 2.0 program still hasn't been printed as of press time.
CD's run $20.00 except for LOVE which is a bit less. DVD pricing
varies widely, from $25.00 for Mystere to $43.00(!) for Zumanity. Mug
pricing is pretty consistent, at between $12-14.00.
T-shirts are widely variable in designs, colors, sizes, and pricing.
There really was no way to do a comprehensive survey or comparison of
the style and types of shirts in the various shops. A common trait
was to have a standard "logo" shirt available in unisex style for
$24.00, with bejeweled womens shirts selling for $40.00. Of late
Cirque has taken to charging more for their shirts (two visits back we
saw "25th Anniversary" limited edition t-shirts going for $50.00! For
t-shirts!). Each shop had a small selection of the designer-fashion
Desidual line at their highly inflated pricing, though they do look
attractive.
Most of the shops also had small "sale" racks with reduced pricing on
older items. The amount in the racks varied, with KA having quite a
rack and LOVE not having any we could see.
Below are quick looks at all seven of the Boutiques.
MYSTERE @ Treasure Island
Shop Phone: 702-894-7758
Hours: Noon to midnight, except till 6pm Thu & Fri
The first Cirque Vegas Boutique is also the smallest. But it turns
out to have the most interesting show-specific items of all the shops.
A small maquette of Alice the snail cost $15.00. They had four
different postcards available for $1.00 each. And they had six(!)
different character mini-snowglobes for $15.00 each.
"O" @ Bellagio
Shop Phone: 702-693-7909
Hours: 10am-12:30am, except till 6pm Mon & Tue
This tended to have the highest pricing of all the shops, which isn't
surprising considering this is Cirques most popular Vegas production.
They had a larger than average CD selection. From time to time they
have unique interesting items such as prints or maquettes, though they
are priced quite high.
ART OF RICHARD MCDONALD @ Bellagio "O" Lobby
Shop Phone: 702-730-3990
Hours: 10am-11pm, except till 1am Fri & Sat
Situated inside the entryway to the "O" theater, this shop dedicated
to sculpture really isn't a Cirque Boutique per se. Prices here are
generally in the "if you have to ask..." range, though they have some
smaller pieces that cost less.
ZUMANITY @ New York-New York
Shop Phone: 702-740-3125
Hours: 5:15pm-midnight, CLOSED Wed & Thu
Keeping the most restricted hours with one of the most interesting
shop designs is Zumanity. Not only does it wait to open until late
afternoon, but it closes completely on the shows dark days of
Wednesday and Thursday. Interestingly, they have more various types
of clothing than usual. An orange corset would set you back $28.00.
The shop has other non-branded items for sale fitting the sensual
theme of the show, such as oils, powders, masks, blindfolds, and other
sexy stuff.
KA @ MGM Grand
Shop Phone: 702-891-7917
Hours: Noon-11:30pm
With what looks to us to be one of the larger shops, KA has a very
wide selection of show shirts. Like "O" they had a good CD & DVD
selection. They also had one of the larger "sale" racks in the back
of the store. And in an interesting twist, members of MGM Grand's
MLIFE card program at the gold, platinum, or noir levels (the three
highest tiers, naturally) enjoy a 10-15% discount!
THE BEATLES LOVE @ Mirage
Shop Phone: 702-792-7729
Hours: 10am-midnight, except till 6pm Tue & Wed
This brightly lit shop features a moderate amount of show-related
merchandise, and lots of non-show related Beatles paraphernalia. The
wildest items were the $400 throw rugs on the wall. They also have
all of the Beatles CD's for sale at $19.00, though you can get them
cheaper through other sources. And, for a show is second in
popularity only to "O", you'd think they would have a more current
program (the available program was printed in November of 2010). The
shop has the most interesting soundtrack as well, of older and lesser
known Beatles tracks.
CRISS ANGEL BELIEVE @ Luxor
Shop Phone: 702-730-5944
Hours: 5pm-midnight Tue, Fri & Sat, till 9:30pm Wed & Thu, CLOSED Sun
& Mon
If looks like this shop is in a state of transition. With the most
varied hours of all the shops you also get the least "BeLIEve" related
material. There was no program available when we visited as we were
told it was being revamped and would be available soon. It also opens
much later in the day as Zumanity does, and closes on BeLIEve's dark
days.
VIVA ELVIS @ Aria
Shop Phone: 702-590-8723
Hours: 10am-midnight, except till 6pm Sun & Mon
Now closed, we could tell this shop was preparing for the end when we
visited in May. The program was the oldest of all the shows, never
having been reissued since it was first printed in November of 2009.
There was no show merchandise available except for the CD and program.
In fact, we got a 30% off coupon inside our ticket envelope, which
applied to everything in the store except the Disidual clothing. That
included the voluminous selection of Elvis CDs and DVDs, which brought
the price down to nearly wholesale! The staff commented that after a
redesign they would be reopening along with Zarkana, so the only thing
that might stay current about this review is the phone number and
perhaps the hours.
If we could make one recommendation to Cirque/MGM Mirage based on our
observations, it would be to have all the shops open seven days a
week. It sure is a bummer to get to a shop with your wallet at the
ready only to find it closed for the day!
----------------------------------------------------------
"LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! - Celebrating 3,000 Performances"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
The first whiff of something new brewing in Las Vegas wafted over to
us in late 2003, following an October 3 accident which saw Ray Horn
(of the magical duo Siegfried & Roy) mauled by seven-year-old male
tiger Montecore, severely injuring the magician (and bringing an end
to a Las Vegas era that stretched back to 1990). According to the Las
Vegas Sun, over the Thanksgiving holiday rumors were flying that
Cirque du Soleil and MGM-Mirage had struck a deal to open yet another
show on the Las Vegas Strip (both Zumanity for 2003 and KÀ for 2004
had been announced during the summer of 2002), housing the show in The
Mirage's Siegfried & Roy Theater and beginning performances by June
2005. The theater was to remain dedicated to the magical duo, however,
but the rumor was quite substantial at the time; it would place five
Cirque du Soleil shows in one city and three new shows in the same
number of years!
A CIRQUE DU SUBMARINE?
----------------------
By February 2004 further details regarding the potential concept began
to come forward: Cirque du Soleil and the Beatles would come together
to turn the psychedelic movie "Yellow Submarine" into a stage
production. There were no real details on the project, but according
to Reuters, "Beatles' company, Apple Corp. Inc., confirmed in 2001
that a Cirque show in London was under consideration, but Beatle
George Harrison, who was friends with Cirque Chief Executive Guy
Laliberte, died shortly after that announcement." Alan Feldman, an
MGM-Mirage spokesman, also said at the time it was "fairly likely"
that Cirque du Soleil would produce a show for the vacant Siegfried &
Roy Theater. It also had been rumored that "Hairspray", the Broadway
musical that swept the 2003 Tony Awards, might also claim the theater.
"Hairspray" would eventually join "Mama Mia!" at Mandalay Bay, as the
next Broadway-style show to hit The Strip.
A few months later (July 2004) we heard "The Beatles Meet Cirque du
Soleil" show had been green-lit by Apple Corps, MGM/Mirage and Cirque,
but it would take another couple months to learn even the most minute
details regarding the production. Thanks to Timothy McDarrah, intrepid
reporter for the Las Vegas Sun (and with the translating skills of
fellow reporter Molly Ball), we had more to report for the Beatles-
inspired Cirque-produced show. Among other interesting tidbits, the
article revealed that Dominic Champagne would direct the show (he
directed 2002's Varekai), which would debut in early 2006. Other
interesting quotes from the article which appeared September 10 in the
"Vegasbeat" column were:
"According to a report this week in a French-language Montreal
newspaper, and confirmed to VegasBeat by two additional sources, the
new Cirque show will feature music by the Beatles, but will definitely
not be a production show similar to "Mamma Mia!," which wraps a plot
around a popular music catalog. "It will embrace the imagery and
spirit of the Beatles, and the best of what Cirque has to offer,"
Stephane Baillargeon of the newspaper Le Devoir told us in a phone
conversation Thursday.
The unnamed Beatles-themed show began life several years ago in Cirque
founder Guy Laliberte's Montreal living room when he was visited by
George Harrison after a Formula One race. The two struck up a
friendship and hit upon bringing a Cirque show to London based on
"Yellow Submarine," the psychedelic 1968 animated film. After
Harrison died, Laliberte convinced Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and
Yoko Ono to take in some Cirque productions, and eventually got
permission from them to use Beatles music in a show, Baillargeon
explained. "In the end they decided 'Yellow Submarine' as a show was
too '60-themed, and they wanted to do something that was more
current."
Le Devoir reported that the deal was done. The contract, it reports,
"authorizes the creators of Cirque du Soleil to pick from the richest
catalog of the most famous rock band in history. Even better,
according to documents obtained by Le Devoir, Cirque also got
authorization to remix musical passages at will. The Beatles have
never before authorized sampling of their catalog."
COME TOGETHER
-------------
On October 14, 2004, Cirque du Soleil announced to the world that it
too had been swept up in Beatlemania:
Cirque du Soleil, Apple Corps Ltd. and The Mirage announce a
partnership in which they will celebrate the musical legacy and
extraordinary experience of The Beatles in an unprecedented live
theatre production opening in 2006. This joint artistic venture
marks the first time that The Beatles' company, Apple Corps, has
agreed to a major theatrical partnership.
The production will be Cirque du Soleil's fifth resident show in
Las Vegas and will be presented at The Mirage, the resort that
changed the face of Las Vegas when it opened in 1989.
The project was born out of a personal friendship and
professional admiration between the late George Harrison and
Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté. "This show is about
living The Beatles experience," said Guy Laliberté. "We want to
bring the magic of Cirque du Soleil together with the spirit and
passion behind the most beloved rock band of all time to create
a single, simple statement of delight."
Neil Aspinall, Managing Director of Apple Corps, said, "In the
past The Beatles have been approached with theatrical proposals
which never promised much beyond a traditional presentation.
However, in Cirque du Soleil, Apple is fortunate to have found a
creative partner with the same passion for innovation and
excellence."
Robert H. Baldwin, President and CEO of Mirage Resorts, said,
"This partnership builds on the solid relationship that already
exists between MGM MIRAGE and Cirque du Soleil. We too are
thrilled that the union between two premier entertainment icons,
The Beatles and Cirque, will come together at The Mirage."
Gilles Ste-Croix, Vice President of Creation and New Project
Development at Cirque du Soleil, revealed key members of the
artistic team will include Cirque du Soleil writer-director
Dominic Champagne and The Beatles producer Sir George Martin.
Sir George, who will oversee the music element of the show, said
today, "After spending more than 40 years of my life working
with The Beatles and their wonderful music, I am thrilled to be
working with them once again, on this exciting project with
Cirque du Soleil. The show will be a unique and magical
experience."
While the project has the approval of Sir Paul McCartney, Ringo
Starr, Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison, Paul and Ringo will not
appear in the production. "It is a fantastic project for us and
I personally am excited to collaborate with such a great
creative team," Paul McCartney said.
"How excited can I get -- The Beatles, Cirque du Soleil, an
incredible venue in Las Vegas - what could be better," said
Ringo. "I'm looking forward to the first show 'cause I'm going
to be there and I hope you are too."
"The Beatles and Cirque; I think it's a great combination: The
Beatles' agile mind and Cirque's agile body," said Yoko Ono.
"George and Guy shared the same vision. They planned to utilize
the extraordinary creativity of the Beatles and Cirque du Soleil
to produce an uplifting moment in time. We are all very happy
to see this project come to fruition," said Olivia Harrison.
Additional details of the content of the show, which aims to
revisit the excitement of the remarkable era when Beatlemania
ignited the world, are in creative incubation.
And they'd remain there for two years until Cirque du Soleil was ready
to announce the show to the world.
HERE COMES THE SUN
------------------
On April 19, 2006, Cirque du Soleil revealed its view of The Beatles
to the world:
Using the master tapes at Abbey Road Studios, Sir George and Giles
have created a unique soundscape for LOVE. "I think we will achieve a
real sense of drama with the music, the audience will feel as though
they are actually in the theatre with the band. People are going to be
knocked out by what they are hearing!" said Giles Martin.
Dominic Champagne directed and wrote the original concept for the show
which captures the essence of love that John, Paul, George and Ringo
inspired during their astonishing adventure together. LOVE evokes the
exuberant and irreverent spirit of The Beatles. "When we embarked on
this extraordinary adventure in 2002," said Gilles Ste-Croix, Show
Concept Creator and Director of Creation, "we set out to create a
timeless, three-dimensional evocation of The Beatles music. Drawn from
the poetry of the lyrics, we developed a preliminary concept that
explored the content of the songs in a series of scenes inhabited by
real and imaginary people." The international cast of 60 channels a
raw, youthful energy underscored by aerial performance, extreme sports
and urban, freestyle dance.
LOVE will be presented in a custom-built theatre at The Mirage
featuring 360 degrees seating and advanced high definition video
projections with 100-foot digital, moving images. The panoramic
surround sound system will envelop the audience who will experience
The Beatles music like never before...
Apple Corps Ltd. is planning to release the album through EMI Music
later this year.
Cirque du Soleil Creative Team:
Guy Laliberté - Guide, Show Concept Creator
Dominic Champagne - Director, Show Concept Writer
Gilles Ste-Croix - Director of Creation, Show Concept
Chantal Tremblay - Associate Director of Creation
Jean Rabasse - Theatre and Set Designer
Philippe Guillotel - Costume Designer
Jonathan Deans - Sound Designer
Yves Aucoin - Lighting Designer
Francis Laporte - Video Projection Designer
Hansel Cereza and Dave St-Pierre - Choreographers
Guy St-Amour - Acrobatic & Rigging Designer
Daniel Cola - Acrobatic Performance Designer
Nathalie Gagné - Make-up Designer
Patricia Ruel - Props Designer
Michael Curry - Puppet Designer
Guest Creators:
André Simard - Aerial Acrobatic Designer
Alexis Martin - Dramaturge Consultant
François Pérusse - Comic Audio-clips Designer
For Apple Corps Ltd.:
Sir George Martin - Music Director
Giles Martin - Music Director
Neil Aspinall - Executive Producer
SHOW SCHEDULE: Preview performances will be presented nightly at
7:00pm. In addition, there will 10:30pm performances on limited dates.
Please consult the most current show schedule at
www.cirquedusoleil.com . Schedule is subject to change without notice.
Following the preview period, LOVE will be performed Thursday through
Monday with no shows on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Beginning July 1,
there will be two shows nightly at 7:30pm & 10:30pm.
ALL TOGETHER NOW
----------------
LOVE brings the magic of Cirque du Soleil together with the spirit and
passion of The Beatles to create an intimate and powerful
entertainment experience. It captures the essence of love that John,
Paul, George and Ringo inspired during their astonishing adventure
together. Using the master tapes at Abbey Road Studios, Sir George
Martin and Giles have created a unique soundscape for LOVE. "We wanted
to make sure there are enough good, solid hit songs in the show, but
we don't want it to be a catalog of 'best of's'," said Sir George
Martin. "We also wanted to put in some interesting and not well-known
Beatles music and use fragments of songs. The show is a unique and
magical experience."
Dominic Champagne, who directed and wrote the original concept for the
show, explained his vision for LOVE. "I wanted to create a Beatles
experience rather than a Beatles story, taking the audience on an
emotional journey rather than a chronological one, exploring the
landscapes and experiences that have marked the group's history," said
the director.
LOVE is a Rock 'n' Roll poem, a magical mystery tour into the heart
and soul of The Beatles music through an exploration of the aesthetic,
political and spiritual trends of the 1960s. Inspired by the poetry of
the lyrics, the creative team designed a series of scenes inhabited by
colorful characters in extravagant costumes; they are:
Because
Creating a portrait reminiscent of the ports of Liverpool, sailors
climb dramatically on ropes toward the Heavens. The a cappella voices
of John, Paul and George pave their ascent. Each pull of the rope
elevates the intensity of anticipation, foreshadowing The Beatles
revival. Anchored at the other end of their lifelines is a scene from
Savile Row. In an instant the sailors descend from their summits and
raise the set, taking us from the place where it all began to The
Beatles' final performance in 1969 atop the roofs of London.
Get Back
The bombastic pulse of the Abbey Road drum solo fast forwards the
scene from Liverpool to The Beatles' farewell concert. An explosion of
energy, light and color burst onto the stage powered by The Beatles'
rock anthem, "Get Back." Nostalgia of the 1960s is juxtaposed with
newfangled dance styles -- "House" and "Jacking" -- and an unusual
bungee tête-a-tête, as the celebration barrels toward an unsuspecting
conclusion.
Glass Onion
Marked by the ending strings from "Glass Onion," the festivities are
brought to a startling finish and we flash back still further to the
war years of The Beatles youth. The vibrancy and levity become
shrouded by the grim realities of WWII that shaped the four boys'
revolutionary attitudes and musical tastes. Sgt Pepper's band is
symbolically destroyed amid the chaos and devastation, and the grim
landscape soon becomes a setting for change and renewal.
Eleanor Rigby
Depicting the resurrection and resilience of a post-war nation,
Eleanor Rigby pulls the weight of her past through the rubble.
Interpretation of key characters from The Beatles musical and
historical narratives emerge including Father McKenzie, The Queen, Mr.
Piggy, the Children of Liverpool and The Fool. Interwoven in this
homage to The Beatles tragic heroine are hints of "Julia," "Strawberry
Fields Forever" and "A Day in the Life."
I am the Walrus
The fresh, enchanting presence of The Walrus glides onto the stage in
a hypnotic hybrid of "Popping," "Waving" and "Boogaloo" dance. A
creature of glamour and unbridled youth, he spreads his contagious
energy and breathes new life into the stodgy world of the Old School
English Establishment.
Rock'n'Roll Fun
An upbeat "I Want to Hold Your Hand" followed by a medley of "Drive My
Car", "What You're Doing" and "The Word" signal the euphoric onslaught
of Beatlemania. Crazed fans and screaming groupies bombard the stage
in flurry of acrobatic activity. Teeter boards and trampoline beds
launch the ensemble to new heights just as these early hits launched
The Beatles to astronomical fame.
Abbey Road
A collage of sound bytes create a fictionalized conversation between
John, Paul, George and Ringo. Using The Beatles master tapes,
Québecois comedian François Pérusse pieced together this intimate
exchange, which is illustrated by the projection of shadow figures.
Grik Nus / Something
Introduced by "Sun King" played backwards, this sensual choreography
shows how fleeting and fragile love can be. Set to the classic tune
"Something," a young male solo dancer is tantalized by four women who
fly in and out of his reach.
For the Benefit of Mr. Kite
The topsy-turvy world of fame gone awry comes to life. Mr. Kite's
macabre circus is populated by a dizzying frenzy of nightmarish
creatures and faceless characters. Indicative of the media frenzy and
controversy that surrounded The Beatles during their meteoric rise to
fame, the Russian Swing artist whirls and twirls high over the crowd
performing 360-degree feats of aerial acrobatics. Excerpts from "Cry
Baby Cry," sound effects from "Good Morning Good Morning," laughter
from "Piggies," noises from "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" "Helter
Skelter" and audio snippets of The Beatles joking around during
recording sessions can be heard throughout this delirious mix.
Help!
Four extreme sports athletes take to the stage in this fast-paced,
nail-biting number. The skaters take blading to the extreme, leaping
11-foot tall ramps -- and each other -- with a continuous barrage of
flips, twists and jumps.
Blackbird
In this comedic interpretation of The Beatles poetic lullaby "Black
Bird," Dr. Robert vainly attempts to help four mangled, disenchanted
black birds find their wings and take flight again.
Yesterday
Reminiscent melancholy rooted in the love that once was and the
longing of what could be.
Jam Session
A lively repartee between the four band members. Created from the
authentic recordings at Abbey Road Studios, the sound bytes evoke the
presence of The Beatles within an intimate studio setting.
Strawberry Fields
Assembled around a mysterious piano, Dr. Robert introduces the Nowhere
Men to an unusual tea drinking ritual. This euphemistic stimulant
launches them and the show itself on a psychedelic trip. The surreal
"Strawberry Fields" is underscored in the closing stages by "Penny
Lane," "In My Life," "Piggies" and "Hello Goodbye."
Parade
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band comes back to life in its full
regalia in a moment of hallucinogenic hilarity. Continuing the
experimental journey, the parade emerges reborn with instruments
imbued with fantasy and whimsy.
Within You, Without You
Turn off your mind, relax and float down stream ... Here the children
of Liverpool are taken on a wild ride atop a billowing bed sheet, a
visual psychedelic stream, which envelops the audience, launching them
on a magical journey. "Within You Without You" can be heard over the
drums from "Tomorrow Never Knows."
Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds
The trip continues with the glittering daughter of the heavens, Lucy,
soaring through the air in this aerial contortion number. Connecting
with the earthy Fireman who keeps her aloft, Lucy lets her hair down
and rejoices in this moment of exaltation.
Octopus' Garden
The surreal voyage takes a plunge into the Octopus's Garden, where
marine creatures perform a slow-motion aquatic ballet.
Lady Madonna
Celebrating the strength, beauty and courage of motherhood, Lady
Madonna dances with children at her feet. The dance ensemble performs
high-energy "Gumboot" choreography. Accompanied by her rock 'n' roll
lover, Sugar Plum Fairy, they celebrate love in all its joys and
hardships.
Here Comes the Sun
This tranquil moment of enlightenment is the climax of the psychedelic
trip, bridging Western values and Eastern culture. Four female artists
perform aerial yoga in a garden of contemplative light, evoking the
spiritual journey taken by The Beatles and their new-found state of
consciousness.
Come Together
Led by a Krishna-like figure, this sensual dance is an unbridled
release of sexual energy, wrapped in a political statement of the
times. It's an exhibition of free love in rebellion of the accepted
conventions of order.
Revolution / Back in the USSR
In this energetic trampoline performance, long-haired free-spirits
playfully attempt to tame and jostle the authorities with their
daring, fast-paced acrobatics.
While My Guitar Gently Weeps
A solo female dancer ponders the sad loneliness of unrequited love.
She contemplates her past in a soulful dance under a rain of falling
love letters.
A Day in the Life
This somber yet whimsical tale features a dramatic aerial straps act
and a poetic recounting of personal loss and eternal love.
Hey Jude
Red poppy petals swirl as a symbol of remembrance. The consoling
lyrics and soothing melody are a chant of reconciliation.
Sgt. Pepper (Reprise)
In this explosion of joy, performers soar on latex tubes and Korean
ropes as the entire cast revels in Beatlemania euphoria with the
audience.
All You Need is Love
A montage of The Beatles projected on red Kabuki curtains that fills
the audience with wonderful nostalgia and a message of LOVE.
LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
--------------------
Since The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil had its premiere in 2006
the show has celebrated a number of highlights, such as:
On September 22, 2006, almost 200 Cirque du Soleil "Passionates"
descended upon the theater for the 7:30pm performance, giving their
brand of LOVE to the performers. (CirqueCon 2006: Las Vegas!)
On June 26, 2007, in celebration of its first anniversary, Paul
McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono Lennon, Olivia Harrison and Cirque du
Soleil founder Guy Laliberté took part in a special dedication
ceremony in honor of John Lennon and George Harrison. Two plaques
designed by Cirque du Soleil creators were unveiled in the LOVE
Theatre Lobby to celebrate the two former Beatles and their
contributions to the production, LOVE. Paul McCartney said, "It's
great to be unveiling this because the guys aren't here and the show's
been such a great success. They were magnificent men and it is an
honor to unveil this plaque to them." Ringo Starr said, "George was a
great musician, he was a dear friend. I love him and miss him. God
bless him and I'm sure wherever he is, he's smiling right now."
Yoko Ono said, "I'd just like to say that John would have been very
happy and glad that this show was such a success and also that Paul,
another magnificent man is here to present John's plaque." Olivia
Harrison said, "I'd like to thank The Mirage for giving us a home here
and also to Guy and to Cirque and their artists. This show is so
demanding on them and their lives revolve around 10 performances a
week. I don't think George would be surprised at the success of this
collaboration." Guy Laliberté said, "It's our first anniversary but I
think it's much more than that. I think it's a celebration of a great
journey that started a year ago. And you know at Cirque du Soleil, we
can only be proud to have done what we've done in Vegas so far."
On July 11, 2008, LOVE celebrated its 1,000th performance, announcing
1,947,238 visitors had seen the show since it premiered.
On August 20, 2010, LOVE celebrated its 2,000th performance.
* * *
It's been a long and winding road from initial spark to the eventual
staging of The Beatles LOVE, but through dedication and working hard
eight days a week, Cirque du Soleil has given us a smashing spectacle
that's just getting better all the time.
We congratulate the cast and crew of The Beatles LOVE on reaching its
3,000th performance, and though tomorrow never knows, we hope for
many, many more to come!
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
=======================================================================
Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 12, Number 9 (Issue #104) - September 2012
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2012 Ricky Russo, published by Vortex/RGR Productions, a
subsidiary of Communicore Enterprises. No portion of this newsletter
can be reproduced, published in any form or forum, quoted or
translated without the consent of the "Fascination!
Newsletter." By sending us correspondence, you give us permission
(unless otherwise noted) to use the submission as we see fit, without
remuneration. All submissions become the property of the "Fascination!
Newsletter." "Fascination! Newsletter" is not affiliated in any way
with Cirque du Soleil. Cirque du Soleil and all its creations are
Copyright (c) and are registered trademarks (TM) of Cirque du Soleil,
Inc., and Créations Méandres, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No copyright
infringement intended.
{ Sep.08.2012 }
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