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Fascination Issue 125
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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 14, NUMBER 6 June 2014 ISSUE #125
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Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque
du Soleil Newsletter.
One Hundred and Twenty-Five. Isn't that something? The last time I
eluded to how far we've come I shared with you a few thoughts of a
personal nature, contemplating as I was on shutting down Fascination.
The reasons I gave were simple: my interest in Cirque du Soleil had
greatly evolved from our early - and somewhat heady - days, and that
the newsletter, although a great service, and loved, was becoming more
and more a labor. But then, just when I thought there was little left
to say about Cirque, that Fascination had indeed run its course, and I
could feel comfortable ending its legacy, everything changed. The
global outlook changed. Cirque changed. I changed. I found myself
enthused about Cirque in ways I hadn't felt in years. But what to do
about it? The thought experiment reminded me of a conceptual quote
from Alegría I shared at the time that in just thirteen words,
perflectly reflected the turmoil within - « Once everything has been
said and done, who says you can't start over? » It gave me the impetus
with which to continue forward.
Over the last two and a half years I think we've accomplished that
goal. Fascination has in many ways started over. We re-doubled our
efforts to be the best Cirque news source we could be, renewing our
spirit and our vigor for everything Cirque du Soleil along the way.
And we've explored Cirque's creations (past and present) in ways we
never had before. Mission Accomplished. So now what? Back then I
suggested keeping a weather eye out for June 2014... that although I
could not guarantee that Fascination would be around forever, our
renewed interest would push us through to issue #125. Only then would
we reassess the situation. Well, here we are... What's the verdict
going to be?
Ask me again when we reach Issue #150!
This month Cirque du Soleil celebrates its 30th anniversary. Can you
believe that? It's also quite an auspicious milestone for me
personally - I'm celebrating 15 years of following the sun. That's a
lot for some, not long for others, but for me that's worth
commemorating. To celebrate that personal milestone (as well as
Cirque's 30th) I've been working on a few projects behind the scenes
here. I'm calling it "Richasi's Summer of Cirque" and on select days
between June 16th and the end of August, I'll be releasing some of
these projects to you. What am I talking about?
First up, in celebration of Cirque du Solel's 30th anniversary, I've
put together a "book" entitled « Artisans de L'Imaginaire: 30 Ans du
Cirque du Soleil », which looks at the company (and its projects) from
a fan's point of view. Collected here, and massaged into articles, are
a combination of texts that have either been published here within the
pages of Fascination or on my Cirque site - Le Grand Chapiteau, each
stepping through the Cirque's major projects year over year. In
deference to Cirque du Soleil's IP, it's mostly text-based, but if you
ever wanted those "look back" articles we've been publishing recently
and/or parts of "The Grand Chapiteau" organized more as a book, this
is it!
In July, two more releases join the fray: « Le Grand Tour: Une
Aventure du Cirque du Soleil » and « Live to Cirque: 15 Ans Après le
Soleil » (Live to Cirque: 15 Years Following the Sun). Both of these
are collections that feature my personal experiences with Cirque du
Soleil. The first, "Le Grand Tour", is a collection of articles that
first appeared in Fascination throughout 2002, the year I embarked on
a "mission" to see all then currently running Cirque shows - Varekai,
Mystère, "O", Alegría, La Nouba, Journey of Man, Dralion, Quidam and,
lastly, Saltimbanco - within the span of one year. The second title,
"Live to Cirque", is a second edition collection of other Cirque-y
based adventures, from fan gatherings (CirqueCon, Celebri and
Cirquesters) to other adventures undertaken to new and exciting places
because of Cirque du Soleil. Many of these articles have also been
published in the pages of Fascination over the years, neatly
collected here for those interested (namely me!)
Then, in August, we celebrate Fascination's launch (August 31, 2001)
with a three-volume collection of best-of materials - enhanced for
this release. Volume One - "In Their Own Words" - consists of the 20
plus interviews Keith and I have done (mostly Keith) over the years
for Fascination, collected here for your reading pleasure. Volumes
Two and Three - "Behind the Curtain" and "Beyond the Bigtop"
respectively - take the best of the rest (in my opinion) articles that
we've published here, and re-releases them, with flair! What's that
mean? It could mean some articles that originally existed over multi-
issues are collected as one, it could mean some articles that were
out-dated, but still have merit, have been brought up to date, or it
could mean that some articles that were started but never finished
(and therefore never published) have been completed - just for this
collection.
And who knows, there may be a few unscheduled additions between now
and then, too.
Of course, my personal whims aren't the only exciting developments. At
the beginning of the month, Cique and Grupo Vidanta finally unveiled
the name, theme and plans for JOYÀ, the intimate and immersive
theatrical and culinary experience the two are developing in Riviera
Maya near The Grand Mayan resort. The name JOYÀ, rooted in the Spanish
joya meaning jewel or pearl, alludes to a person or event of great
value. JOYÀ will combine culinary and performing arts in an intimate
theater setting to engage the audiences five senses. Drawing on
Mexicos history and heritage, JOYÀ tells the story of an alchemist
and his granddaughter embarking on a transformative quest to uncover
the secrets of life. It's an interesting concept to be sure! A group
of Cirque Passionates - the Cirquesters, under the guidance of Rodolfo
Elizondo - are planning on making the trek to Riviera Maya to see the
show debut. Check out their Event page http://goo.gl/guD0Ib - if
youre interested in joining them. (Youll need to log in to Facebook
to view the event.)
Then, just when we thought show announcements couldn't get any
weirder, Cirque du Soleil surprised us all by announcing a partnership
agreement with Academy Award-winning filmmaker James Cameron to
develop an arena-touring show inspired by the world of AVATAR. This
"live experience", announced during the international business C2MTL
Commerce + Creativity Conference in Montreal, is slated to debut
sometime late 2015, featuring the creative signature drive of Cirque
du Soleil in association with Camerons and Jon Landaus Lightstorm
Entertainment. Although nobody knows what we're in store for, the show
is expected to debut before the first of three upcoming AVATAR
sequels. We'll have to wait and see the finished product to know
whether or not this is a good idea, but at first blush I'd have to say
no. But what do I know?
In keeping with the theme this month we have: "A Baroque Odyssey:
Cirque's Amazing Journey", a historia celebrating Cirque du Soleil's
30th Anniversary. For fans of Cirque, much of what this overview
covers will be nothing new. In fact, much of the text came directly
from Cirque du Soleil in one source or another - from "Spectaculara",
"Historia" or "Aurora" sections of past Cirque Websites, from various
programme book histories over the years, with a few additions by yours
truly when needed. The overview is by no means comprehensive, just
hitting the highlights. And why not? Turning 30, following for 15
years, or publishing 125 issues is a big deal! Something worth
celebrating!
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!
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
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CONTENTS
===========
o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings
o) Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information
* BigTop Shows -- Under the Grand Chapiteau
* Arena Shows -- In Stadium-like venues
* Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre
o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets
* Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
* Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque
* Networking -- Posts on Facebook, G+, & YouTube
o) Fascination! Features
* "A Baroque Odyssey: Cirque's Amazing Journey"
A Historia, celebrating Cirque's 30th Anniversary
Edited by: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
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CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
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Guy Laliberté on a mission to rejuvenate his Cirque
{May.07.2014}
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In 2009, even the sky wasnt the limit for Guy Laliberté. He
blasted into space on a Soyuz rocket after selling a fifth of
the Cirque du Soleil to Dubai investors that promised him the
world.
But the Cirques midlife crisis has brought its co-founder back
to earth with a critical mission: Fix the iconic yellow and blue
Big Top that he built over 30 years. And its not a task that
Mr. Laliberté, the Roi Soleil as some employees nickname him,
is taking lightly.
I am a warrior, he says in a two-hour interview at the
companys headquarters in the Montreal borough of St-Michel. The
restructuring is two years in the making, but Mr. Laliberté has
never publicly discussed the Cirques problems and his comeback
plan until this week.
A year ago, Mr. Laliberté discreetly reclaimed half of the 20-
per-cent stake in the Cirque du Soleil he had sold to Dubai
investors in 2008 after the publicized partnership turned into a
mirage.
But just as Istithmar World Capital and Nakheel PJSC, two
affiliates from Dubai World, the countrys sovereign wealth
fund, are looking into disposing their remaining 10-per-cent
interest, the Cirques controlling shareholder is searching for
another strategic partner to propel his companys growth.
There are people knocking at the door, Mr. Laliberté said. Mr.
Laliberté is ready to sell between 20 and 30 per cent of his
live entertainment group. A decision will be made before the
end of the year, he added.
The Cirque du Soleil was to lend its shows and its creative
design talent to the two Dubai firms.
However, when the financial crisis crushed their global real
estate ambitions, the indebted Emirati investors could no longer
hold their end of the deal. Expecting accelerated growth,
however, the Cirque had beefed up its organization at great
expense, Mr. Laliberté explained.
That expansion contributed to the Cirques financial
difficulties, which culminated with 400 layoffs in January,
2013. The Cirque that once boasted a staff of 5,000 now employs
4,000 workers, 1,700 of which are based in Montreal.
The financial repercussions of the financial crisis were also
felt in Las Vegas, where hotel groups gave into discounting,
forcing their circus partner to follow suit, Mr. Laliberté said.
The Cirque generates close to half of its $850-million in annual
revenue from its eight Vegas shows. The rising Canadian dollar,
which swelled production costs, also hit the bottom line,
shaving off at least $50-million in profits per year, he
added.
The Cirque co-founder concedes his company is to blame. I am
not trying to shovel responsibility in my neighbours yards. In
the end, we should have been more watchful, Mr. Laliberté said,
taking a drag on his Gauloise.
As of 2008, Mr. Laliberté turned his attention to his five kids,
his One Drop Foundation and his widely publicized trip into
space, leaving Cirque management in the hands of a team presided
by Daniel Lamarre. I thought I had put in place a solid team
that could manage the circus gang without me being there, he
said.
Mr. Laliberté returned in the summer of 2012 after a concerning
look at the books. The Cirque wasnt losing any money but
profits were falling precipitously. I realized that if we
didnt commit to a serious shift in direction, we would hit a
wall, Mr. Laliberté said.
Internal spending controls were slack, as the Cirque was more
focused with creating new shows and driving revenue than with
the profitability of projects. Moreover, there were fiefdoms
within the circus where each led a number of pet projects with
dubious business cases, he added.
We fell into the trap of thinking we could do all things
entertainment-related. In the end, you realize that you dont
always have the internal expertise and that people cant deliver
on their promises, the 54-year-old entrepreneur said.
But what really hurt the Cirque, according to Mr. Laliberté,
were its failed shows, a first in the circuss 30-year history.
Some, like the closing of the Z show in Tokyo following the 2011
tsunami, were unforeseen. Others were entirely avoidable. The
high-priced Iris show, shown in a Los Angeles theatre, failed to
attract thrifty tourists that whisked through the Hollywood
district only to take pictures of sidewalk stars. That failure
rests squarely on a poor market study, Mr. Laliberté said.
The acclaimed Zarkana show is losing money because its
production costs were underestimated. The Cirque should also be
making a killing with Michael Jackson One, one of the top-
grossing live shows of all times, Mr. Laliberté said, but the
show is barely profitable because of its high production costs.
In his office cluttered with family photos and art work,
including a monumental oil painting entitled Dragon by Riopelle,
the former fire breather disputes the notion that the Cirques
recent failures are revealing of a circus company that has lost
its creative edge. Sorry, but I sell between 14 and 15 million
tickets per year, he said. Why would I change a winning
formula?
The Cirques falling profits were nonetheless a wake-up call
for management. Through a detailed examination of the
organization, the crisis committee led by Messrs. Laliberté and
Lamarre identified $110-million worth of inefficient spending
in the past year alone. And the Cirque owner hit what he
describes as the reset button, restructuring the companys
organization to give it a sharper focus and a tighter financial
discipline.
To protect its core circus business, Mr. Laliberté expects the
live entertainment company to choose its projects more carefully
even if that translates into lower revenues. It has to make
business sense: Misery is not an option, he said. Growth,
however, will come from new initiatives outside of its more
traditional Big Top and permanent hotel shows. There is a limit
to the number of circus shows that we can produce and to the
number of hotel partners that are rich enough to build theatres
for us, Mr. Laliberté said.
New initiatives will fly on their own, as independent joint
ventures led both by a creative director and an entrepreneur.
At one point, I had too many intellectuals making business
decisions, Mr. Laliberté lamented.
The Sandbox hospitality group will develop and operate new
concepts for clubs, restaurants and hotels, for example. 45
Degrés will organize events, galas and weddings. 4U2C, a
partnership between the Cirque and Solotech, will rival
Montreal-based Moment Factory in the multimedia and video space.
The Cirque has its own ticket office, Outbox Enterprises, with
partner Jean-Françoys Brousseau. It resells vacation and show
packages through Florida-based EBG and its partner, Brett
Reizen. The Cirque is also developing a new generation of theme
parks, focused on multimedia experiences rather than traditional
rides.
Despite its setbacks, the Cirque has big dreams in its latest
five-year business plan Mr. Laliberté has mapped the companys
growth that way ever since its creation in 1984. To finance
those new ventures and to reduce his own financial risk, Mr.
Laliberté is now seeking outside investors. Not only is the
Cirque owner willing to sell a minority stake in his company,
but he hopes to attract investors in three new funds.
A real estate fund would give the Cirque minority stakes in
projects and allow it to steer work toward its own constellation
of creative companies. An intellectual property fund would
permit the Cirque to reduce the royalty fees it pays for shows
such as Michael Jackson One while allowing investors to profit
from the rise in catalogue value following the release of shows.
A production fund would allow investors to invest into a
collection of shows such as the Broadway shows the Cirque is
preparing in the hopes of finally cracking the New York market.
Within five years, Mr. Laliberté hopes to double the companys
operating earnings, to $350-million annually. Then he will
decide what he does next. In 2019, his oldest daughter will
reach 23 and may wish to play a more active role in the company.
I always said I wont be here forever, he said. But Mr.
Laliberté wont leave the Cirques yellow and blue Big Top until
it is totally straightened up.
{ SOURCE: Globe and Mail | http://goo.gl/El408D }
Cirque & Grupo Vidanta Unveil JOYÀ!
{May.07.2014}
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Cirque du Soleil, a leading entertainment company, and Grupo
Vidanta, a leading developer of world-class resorts and tourism
infrastructure in Mexico, unveiled the name and plans for JOYÀ,
an intimate and immersive theatrical and culinary experience
that will open this fall and take residency exclusively at the
Cirque du Soleil Theater in Riviera Maya near The Grand Mayan
resort.
Mexico Secretary of Tourism Claudia Ruiz Massieu said, We are
extremely excited for what the partnership between Cirque du
Soleil and Grupo Vidanta offers to all visitors of Cancun and
Riviera Maya. JOYÀ will be a world-class attraction for Mexico.
JOYÀ combines culinary and performing arts in an intimate
theater setting to engage the audiences five senses. Drawing on
Mexicos history and heritage, JOYÀ tells the story of an
alchemist and his granddaughter embarking on a transformative
quest to uncover the secrets of life. Through their wonderfully
disorienting journey they will discover a hidden gem in the
mangrove, passing along the poetry of love and life to future
generations.
About the name
The name JOYÀ is rooted in the Spanish joya meaning jewel or
pearl, and alludes to a person or event of great value. Through
the performance, the alchemists granddaughter will discover joy
and wisdom by sharing an extraordinary experience in an unlikely
place.
Stage Director Martin Genest and Culinary Designer Alexis
Bostelmann of Grupo Vidanta, who created the culinary
experience, will begin preview performances of JOYÀ on November
8, 2014, and it will Premiere on November 21, 2014.
This new creative collision of cuisine and immersive
performances is tailor made for Cancun and Riviera Maya, said
Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil. We
reveled in the creative challenge of introducing something
completely different in JOYÀ. Through the integration of premium
food and beverage service into a Cirque du Soleil theatrical
experience that draws on Mexicos rich culture and heritage,
JOYÀ will deliver an immersive, multisensory offering beyond
anything that currently exists for residents and visitors of
Mexico, or elsewhere in the world.
JOYÀ will be housed in a 600-seat theater custom-built for
Cirque du Soleil, which draws inspiration from the natural
beauty of the surrounding jungle.
The premium dinner service will feature international gastronomy
and the finest beverages including champagne from Mercier, one
of the worlds most renowned champagne producers, located in the
Épernay region of northern France incorporated into a
theatrical prelude to JOYÀ.
Along with Stage Director Martin Genest, JOYÀ will bring
together a team of 15 creators and 24 artists in a performance
that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Preview performances for JOYÀ will begin on November 8, 2014, at
the Cirque du Soleil Theater in Riviera Maya near The Grand
Mayan resort.
To reserve tickets today:
o) Go to cirquedusoleil.com/joya
o) Call 1-844-247-7837 (U.S. & Canada) or
1-800-247-7837 (Mexico)
Ticket prices (USD) are:
o) High Stools Show $65.00
o) Show $80.00
o) Show and Champagne $110.00
o) Show Dinner and Champagne $165.00
o) VIP Show Dinner and Champagne $225.00
Delivery fees are not included.
For more information on JOYÀ, visit cirquedusoleil.com/joya, or
follow Facebook.com/JOYA and on Twitter at #JOYA.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
KURIOS Cabinet of Curiosities | Official Trailer
{May.08.2014}
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Take a peek into our Cabinet of Curiosities! KURIOS by Cirque du
Soleil is now playing in Montreal?! Get your tickets now:
http://cirk.me/1gS2g1n
See the video here!
LINK ///< http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMSmGgG9grI >
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
KOOZA Celebrates 7 Years, 2500 Shows
{May.14.2014}
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A very busy start to Vienna! Kooza celebrates 7 years and
2500 shows! BRAVO to all & thank you for the incredible
support over the years! Many, many more to come!
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
Google Glass at Zarkana?
{May.19.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleils Zarkana at Aria will become the first show
on the Strip, according to Strip Scribbles writer Robin Leach,
and the first Cirque production anywhere in the world, to use
the new Google glasses technology incorporated into the audience
experience.
# # #
Google glass is a miniaturized computer that fits over a
persons line of sight permitting the wearer to take video.
Users can store those Google images and use them for video chats
and mapping locations or in Cirques case screen them directly
to audiences on big screens.
In the case of Zarkana, Ive learned that artists will wear
the Google inventions to give audiences a birds-eye view to
experience the same feelings and sensations that the performers
do.
A new advertising and promotional campaign will unveil the new
Zarkana at the beginning of June. It will be as if the
audience is riding inside and on top of the Wheel of Death. The
blue sand lady will wear the glasses so audiences can see how
she creates her amazing designs.
British twin aerialists Andrew and Kevin Atherton, who perform
incredible, heart-stopping acrobatic feats, will wear Google
glasses so that audiences can experience even more just how
amazing their daredevil feats are in the spectacular.
# # #
If the Google test at Zarkana meets with positive audience
reaction it will be rolled out where applicable at other Cirque
shows around the world, Leach said.
{ SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun | http://goo.gl/dEq8HH }
Video /// JOYÀ by Cirque du Soleil Teaser Trailer
{May.20.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
We're excited to share a first look at JOYÀ, a deliciously
creative experience, coming soon to Riviera Maya!
See the video here!
LINK /// < http://youtu.be/GtECdtsI_9c >
{ SOURCE: YouTube }
Video /// Cirque HQ Behind the Scenes
{May.23.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Take a virtual tour of Cirque du Soleil Montreal headquarters
for an exclusive look at our day to day. Ready?
See the video here:
LINK /// < http://youtu.be/4d_o_irP7Dw >
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
The Telegraph: A Day with Dralion
{May.28.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Some people dream of running away with the circus. The allure of
the big top; of daredevil acrobats and clowns with painted
faces; of fire-eaters and unicyclists and trapeze artists
soaring hundreds of feet into the air for some, its the stuff
of fantasy. I am not one of those people.
For a start, Im scared of heights. I cant look down from a
first-floor balcony without feeling weak at the knees. Im too
inflexible even to touch my toes, and I havent ridden a bicycle
forget a unicycle since I was 10 years old, when I tumbled
over the handlebars and broke both my arms.
I am about as likely to run away with the circus as I am to
cross the road blindfolded. But when the opportunity came up to
join its stars for a day, I found, to my surprise, that I
couldnt resist.
This was, however, no ordinary circus. Cirque du Soleil is an
international extravaganza of a performing troupe, famous for
its astounding stunts, surreal costumes and gravity-defying,
logic-defying, death-defying acrobats.
Founded by two street performers in Canada in 1984, the avant-
garde company has grown into one of the worlds best-known and
most lucrative entertainment acts, seen by 150 million
spectators in over 300 cities, and worth an estimated $2 billion
(£1.2 billion).
This year, as it celebrates its 30th anniversary, Cirque is
bringing Dralion, one of its oldest shows, to the UK and Ive
been invited backstage to learn some of its tricks.
Theyre mid-rehearsal as I enter Birminghams LG Arena, and on
stage two pint-sized performers are teetering on top of a giant
multi-coloured ball. We have to keep it fresh, explains Julie
Desmarais, Dralions publicist. Theyre performing every night
well do our 1,000th show in a few weeks so during the day
they learn new skills.
You could see this show a dozen times and each time its
different. We like to keep you on your toes.
Which, it turns out, is exactly what they intend to do to me:
Ill spend most of the next five hours either in the air or
tangled in a heap on the floor. A gruelling schedule awaits, and
all that stands between me and big top fame is a terrifying
waiver, which I must sign before I begin.
I am aware that my participation in this activity involves
risks of injury, including but not limited to: serious head or
neck injury, muscle tears, broken bones, concussion, permanent
disability and even death, it reads. I laugh, somewhat
hysterically, and hope they dont see my hand shaking as I write
my name.
Backstage at Cirque du Soleil is just as bizarre and magical as
youd imagine. There are stacks of dragon heads in one corner
(Dralion is an amalgam of dragon and lion); sequinned
leotards hanging in another.
Most of the floor is taken up by blue mats, on which acrobats
are stretching, leaping and back-flipping, and a bank of TV
screens, playing a tape of the previous nights show, so
performers can make improvements.
From the ceiling hangs a strip of silk, to which a doll-like
girl has locked her legs and is spinning gracefully around the
room.
This, it turns out, is aerial silk a breathtaking mid-air
ballet. Julia Makarova, 21, from Russia, and Tarek Rammo, 25,
from the Netherlands, are the acts stars, and theyve got the
dubious honour of teaching me the ropes.
Im fourth-generation circus, explains Julia, politely
ignoring my undignified efforts to heave myself up the silk. My
parents did a handstand balancing act; my grandparents did
contortion and my great-grandparents did a pyramid act. They
stretched me from when I was little and when I was 12 I joined
my grandparents circus school in Ukraine.
She loves what she does, she says, because she feels special
on stage, with all eyes on her. I cant say I get it: having
managed to hoist myself a metre off the ground, Im flailing
wildly, my legs trussed up like a turkeys, as my teachers shout
encouragement.
You see, flying is fun! grins Tarek, not helping matters by
whipping off his top to reveal the most muscly torso I have ever
seen. I was a gymnast for 10 years before this. It is the best
job so many talented artists, unique facilities and amazing
equipment.
I wobble, awkwardly wind my way down and recover my dignity from
the floor. Dont worry, he smiles. Its not for everyone.
I may not be a natural, but Tarek and Julia have passed rigorous
auditions to get to this stage. Each performer sends in a demo
tape, via Cirque du Soleils website; from this a database is
compiled, and when a vacancy arises, the chosen few are sent to
the Montreal HQ for intensive training.
Though the troupe is known for pushing the boundaries of
traditional techniques, it requires its members to know the
basics: contortion, balancing and gymnastics.
Of its 19 shows currently being performed around the globe, many
still take place in big tops, and lots of its stars hail from
circus stock.
Theres a real sense of camaraderie backstage from the shared
dressing rooms and canteen to the makeshift internet café, where
the stars, from 19 different nationalities, keep in touch with
friends thousands of miles away. Its like a big family,
Desmarais explains.
One of the acrobats teaches guitar to some of the others; one
of the singers holds English classes. We move to a new city
sometimes a new country every week, so we spend a lot of time
together.
For some, the circus is even more than a home from home.
Vladimir Pestov, 19, from Russia, grew up in Cirque: his parents
have performed as part of it for 15 years, and he is a world-
class juggler. The circus was always where I was, so I thought,
Why not try it? he explains. I taught myself to juggle.
Everyone used to laugh when I said its what I wanted to do. And
now here I am.
His hands are a blur as he throws eight balls above our heads
and catches them with barely a flinch: some in his hands, others
on his feet and one on the back of his neck.
By contrast, I couldnt be less coordinated, failing to catch a
single one of the three I attempt to juggle.
My ineptitude clear, I move on to a percussion lesson with
Marcus Perozzi, a 29-year-old Australian whose role involves
wearing a fabulous feathered costume and banging a huge drum
called a taiko. The soundtrack is live each night, and its no
easy feat keeping time with every leap, bound and handstand
but Im definitely better at this than acrobatics.
Next up is the costume department, a wonderland of glitter,
sequins and feathers, where the 54 performers outfits are kept.
Each artist changes around five times in the show, so there are
3,000 pieces to keep track of, explains Melody Wood, head of
wardrobe.
When they join us, they are measured so that their costume,
right down to wigs and shoes, is fitted perfectly to their
body. Make-up is another painstaking process: each performer
applies their own, and can take up to two hours to apply
coloured creams and powders.
My final lesson of the day is with Hiroi Tokuma, a former
Japanese trampolining champion, who joined the circus five years
ago. You have to be mentally strong, as well as physically
fit, she explains, as I fling myself up and down on the
trampoline in response to her instructions. You need to know
the performers youre working with a lot of it is trust.
Her act involves five artists, springing dizzyingly high and
perilously close to one another over two trampolines.
Does she ever get frightened? Actually Im scared of heights,
she laughs. When you think about it, it is scary, but if you
just do it, its not. I try not to analyse what would happen if
I fell off or hurt myself.
Later that night, watching Hiroi and the others on stage, I try
to do the same.
Dralion is mind-blowing: a feast of noise, colour and amazing
human spectacle, but simply watching it brings me out in a cold
sweat. Im definitely not cut out to take part.
Next time the circus comes to town, youll find me sitting in
the audience, feet very firmly on the ground.
{ SOURCE: The Telegraph | http://goo.gl/MkerP1 }
Video /// How Cirque Artists Stay in Shape (CNN)
{May.29.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
A great look at how our athletes and artists stay in shape!
Check it out:
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/1wu3U4s >
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil, CNN }
AVATAR by Cirque du Soleil?
{May.29.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil and
Academy Award-winning filmmaker James Cameron announced a new
partnership to develop an arena-touring show inspired by the
world of Camerons history-making motion picture, AVATAR. This
live experience is expected to debut late 2015 for what will
become a global touring schedule.
The announcement was made in Montreal during the international
business C2MTL Commerce + Creativity Conference.
The live production will feature the creative signature drive of
Cirque du Soleil in association with Camerons and Jon Landaus
Lightstorm Entertainment. The show is expected to debut before
the first of three upcoming AVATAR sequels, for which Cameron is
currently in pre-production. Twentieth Century Fox, which
financed and distributed AVATAR, will bring the new films to
theaters around the world and is also a partner on the live
show.
Our relationship with Jim Cameron began with my visit at his
Avatar cutting room, explained Daniel Lamarre. I am thrilled
that almost 5 years later, Cirque du Soleil will be able to
explore the very inspirational AVATAR realm for the live stage.
This will mark our second creative project with Jim and I
believe it will be as stimulating for both our creative forces.
Over the years, I have discovered the extraordinary talents and
imaginations of both the artists and the creative forces behind
Cirque du Soleil, said James Cameron. I know we share the
common goal of bringing audiences to another level of
entertainment experiences. I look forward to doing just that on
this project.
Audiences around the globe have embraced AVATAR and we believe
they will want to experience this amazing world in an entirely
new way, commented Kathy Franklin, President of Franchise
Development at Lightstorm Entertainment.
Avatar remains a phenomenon that continues to inspire people
around the globe, and combining it with the live event ingenuity
of Cirque du Soleil is a perfect synthesis of imagination and
talent, said Jim Gianopulos, Chairman and CEO, 20th Century
Fox. As Jim Cameron prepares to take us to even greater heights
with three new AVATAR films, were thrilled with the innovative
experience hes developing in this groundbreaking agreement with
Cirque de Soleil.
Creative forces from Cirque du Soleil and Lightstorm
Entertainment will meet and put in place a dedicated creative
team, which will be announced at a later date.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil, Variety | http://goo.gl/83g6Vh }
Photo // JOYÀ Theater Coming Along!
{May.30.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Im not sure when the shot was taken, but heres Cirques newest
theater, in Mexico!
Check it out here:
LINK /// < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?p=4826 >
{ SOURCE: Grupo Vidanta }
Video /// Meet Cirques World-Class Athletes
{May.30.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
If youve ever been to a Cirque du Soleil show you are getting a
close-up look at some of the best athletes in the world. Jay
Durant introduces Global News viewers to a few of them.
Check it out here:
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/LYt69v >
{ SOURCE: Global News }
Michael Jackson ONE to Offer Sunday Matinees
{May.33.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Las Vegas visitors will soon have the option of squeezing in a
Cirque du Soleil show before grabbing dinner and checking out a
nightclub.
Officials have announced Sunday matinee performances of Michael
Jackson ONE starting June 29. Tickets for those performances are
on sale now.
The Michael Jackson show at Mandalay Bay currently runs five
evenings a week and has a 7 p.m. show on Sunday.
Show representatives say adding a matinee option may be more
convenient for audiences of the family-friendly show, which
allows children 5 and up to attend.
Michael Jackson ONE will be the only Cirque show in Las Vegas
with an afternoon performance.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
{Amaluna, Corteo, Koozå, OVO, Totem & Kurios}
o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues
{Quidam, Dralion, MJ Immortal & Varekai}
o) RESIDENT - Performed en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, "O", La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE,
Believe, Zarkana, MJ ONE & JOYÀ}
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:
Boston, MA -- May 29, 2014 to Jul 6, 2014
Washington, DC -- Jul 31, 2014 to Sep 21, 2014
Atlanta, GA -- Oct 3, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014
Corteo:
Buenos Aires, BR - Jun 6, 2014 to Aug 3, 2014
Santiago, CL -- Aug 19, 2014 to Oct 5, 2014
Koozå:
Vienna, AT -- May 9, 2014 to Jun 15, 2014
Port Aventura, ES -- Jul 11, 2014 to Aug 30, 2014
Warsaw, PL -- Sep 17, 2014 to Oct 19, 2014
Düsseldorf, DE -- Nov 6, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014
Kurios:
Montreal, QC -- Apr 24, 2014 to Jul 13, 2014
Quebec City, QC -- Jul 24, 2014 to Aug 17, 2014
Toronto, ON -- Aug 28, 2014 to Oct 19, 2014
San Francisco, CA -- Nov 14, 2014 to Jan 18, 2015
Seattle, WA -- Jan 29, 2015 to Mar 22, 2015
Ovo:
Tokyo, JP -- Feb 12, 2014 to Jun 29, 2014
Osaka, JP -- Jul 17, 2014 to Nov 2, 2014
Nagoya, JP -- Nov 20, 2014 to Feb 1, 2015
Fukuoka, JP -- Feb 20, 2015 to Apr 5, 2015
Sendai, JP -- Apr 23, 2015 to Jun 7, 2015
Totem:
Vancouver, BC -- May 15, 2014 to Jul 6, 2014
Auckland, NZ -- Aug 22, 2014 to Sep 28, 2014
Syndey, AU -- Oct 28, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014
Melbourne, AU -- Jan 21, 2015 to Feb 15, 2015
Brisbane, AU -- Apr 10, 2015 to Apr 26, 2015
Adelaide, AU -- Jun 11, 2015 to Jul 5, 2015
Perth, AU -- Jul 31, 2015 to Aug 16, 2015
------------------------------------
ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues
------------------------------------
Quidam:
Bremen, DE -- May 29, 2014 to Jun 1, 2014
Hamburg, DE -- Jun 4, 2014 to Jun 8, 2014
Luxembourg, LU -- Jun 11, 2014 to Jun 15, 2014
Tel Aviv, IL -- Aug 7, 2014 to Aug 16, 2014
Athens, GR -- Sep 20, 2014 to Sep 28, 2014
Thessaloniki, GR -- Sep 30, 2014 to Oct 5, 2014
Zurich, CH -- Oct 16, 2014 to Oct 19, 2014
Rome, IT -- Oct 22, 2014 to Oct 26, 2014
Bologna, IT -- Oct 29, 2014 to Nov 2, 2014
Florence, IT -- Nov 5, 2014 to Nov 9, 2014
Pesaro, IT -- Nov 12, 2014 to Nov 16, 2014
Milan, IT -- Nov 19, 2014 to Nov 23, 2014
Turin, IT -- Nov 26, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014
Paris, FR -- Dec 2, 2014 to Dec 7, 2014
Lille, FR -- Dec 10, 2014 to Dec 14, 2014
Lisbon, PT -- Dec 18, 2014 to Dec 28, 2014
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, ES -- Jan 3, 2015 to Jan 11, 2015
Dralion:
Dublin, IE -- May 28, 2014 to Jun 1, 2014
London, UK -- Jun 4, 2014 to Jun 8, 2014
Manchester, UK -- Jun 11, 2014 to Jun 15, 2014
San Sebastian, ES -- Jul 3, 2014 to Jul 6, 2014
Santiago de Compostela, ES -- Jul 10, 2014 to Jul 20, 2014
Granada, ES -- Jul 23, 2014 to Jul 27, 2014
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, ES -- Aug 2, 2014 to Aug 10, 2014
Bilbao, ES -- Aug 17, 2014 to Aug 24, 2014
Palma de Mallorca, ES -- Aug 28, 2014 to Sep 6, 2014
Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour:
Lincoln, NE -- Jun 24, 2014 to Jun 25, 2014
Hoffman Estates, IL -- Jun 27, 2014 to Jun 28, 2014
Oklahoma City, OK -- Jul 22, 2014 to Jul 23, 2014
Dallas, TX -- Jul 25, 2014 to Jul 26, 2014
Lafayette, LA -- Jul 29, 2014 to Jul 30, 2014
Laredo, TX -- Aug 1, 2014 to Aug 2, 2014
Cedar Park, TX -- Aug 5, 2014 to Aug 6, 2014
Houston, TX -- Aug 8, 2014 to Aug 9, 2014
Mexico City, MX -- Aug 20, 2014 to Aug 24, 2014
Varekai:
Lonson, ON -- May 28, 2014 to Jun 1, 2014
Bridgeport, CT -- Jun 4, 2014 to Jun 8, 2014
Hartford, CT -- Jun 11, 2014 to Jun 15, 2014
Bangor, ME -- Jun 18, 2014 to Jun 22, 2014
Manchester, NH -- Jun 25, 2014 to Jun 29, 2014
Providence, RI -- Jul 1, 2014 to Jul 6, 2014
Indianapolis, IN -- Jul 24, 2014 to Jul 27, 2014
Brooklyn, NY -- Jul 30, 2014 to Aug 4, 2014
Cleveland, OH -- Aug 6, 2014 to Aug 10, 2014
Erie, PA -- Aug 13, 2014 to Aug 17, 2014
Atlantic City, NJ - Aug 20, 2014 to Aug 24, 2014
Newark, NJ -- Aug 27, 2014 to Aug 31, 2014
Portland, ME -- Sep 3, 2014 to Sep 7, 2014
Philadelphia, PA -- Sep 10, 2014 to Sep 14, 2014
Orlando, FL -- Sep 17, 2014 to Sep 21, 2014
Estero, FL -- Sep 24, 2014 to Sep 28, 2014
Highland Estates, KY -- Oct 16, 2014 to Oct 19, 2014
Roanoke, VA -- Oct 22, 2014 to Oct 26, 2014
Hershey, PA -- Oct 29, 2014 to Nov 3, 2014
Columbia, SC -- Nov 5, 2014 to Nov 9, 2014
Hampton, VA -- Nov 12, 2014 to Nov 16, 2014
Baton Rouge, LA -- Nov 19, 2014 to Nov 23, 2014,
---------------------------------
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
2014 Dark Dates:
o July 9 - 11
o September 4 - 12
o November 5 - 7
Added performances in 2014:
o December 26
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday
Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2014 Dark Dates:
o June 8
o August 4 - 12
o October 5
o December 1 - 16
Added performances in 2014:
o June 3
o December 29
La Nouba:
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
2014 Dark Dates:
o July 20 - 22
o September 14 - 22
o November 2 - 5
o December 7 - 9
Zumanity:
Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm
2014 Dark Dates:
o August 20-September 4
o October 21
o December 10-18
KÀ:
Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2014 Dark Dates:
o July 19
o September 21-29
o December 2
Added performances in 2014:
o August 31
o December 28
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2014 Dark Dates:
o June 5
o July 29 - August 6
o October 2
o December 2 - 17
Added performances in 2014:
o August 12
o December 31
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.
2014 Dark Dates:
o June 15 - 30
o September 1 - 8
o November 9 - 17
ZARKANA:
Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
2014 Dark Dates:
o July 15
o September 3 - 11
o November 4
Added performances in 2014:
o June 26
o August 7
MICHAEL JACKSON ONE:
Location: Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday
Two Shows Nightly: 7:00pm and 10:00pm
2014 Dark Dates:
o July 24 - 31
o September 24 - 26
o November 13 - 28
Added performances in 2014:
o August 29
o December 26
JOYÀ:
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
One/Two Shows Nightly:
9:00pm (Weekdays)
7:00pm & 10:15pm (Fri, Sat & Holidays)
Premiere will be held on Saturday, November 8th at 9:00pm
Prices:
o) VIP Show Dinner & Champagne [RED] $MXN 2,970.00
o) Show Dinner and Champagne [BLUE] $MXN 2,178.00
o) Show and Champagne [GREEN] $MXN 1,452.00
o) Show Only [ORANGE] $MXN $1,056
o) High Stools (Show Only) [PURPLE] $MXN 858.000
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE's SOCIAL WIDGETS
=======================================================================
o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub
o) Didyaknow? - Facts About Cirque
o) Networking -- Posts on Facebook, G+, & YouTube
---------------------------------------
CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub
---------------------------------------
Casting Newsletter | May 2014
-----------------------------------
ITS TRAINING TIME
In this video series Eric Saintonge a Cirque du Soleil artist and
personal trainerprovides training tips to improve your workout
session. He shows us squats, abs, stretching and push-up routines. The
content of this video has been created by Eric Saintonge and Jean-
Philippe Viens, kinesiologist and performer on Quidam. Caution: Before
starting a work-out program that includes any of these exercises,
please consult your doctor or personal trainer.
View Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WE5EihHD4PM
DISCOVER A SINGERS SPECIFIC TRAINING
Meet artist Josua Anuar as he trains to become singer in the Dralion
touring show. In this episode, Josua is learning the basics of a new
character. In order to successfully prepare future artists on our
shows, a specific training is held at Cirque du Soleil International
Headquarters in Montreal, Canada. It is conducted by a team of
interdisciplinary specialists, such as health professionals,
performance experts, nutritionists and interpreters. This training
focuses on acrobatic and artistic elements so that artists can master
each performance aspect prior to joining the show.
View Video:
http://youtu.be/lX8UPZqr4Z0
FROM OLYMPIANS TO ARTISTS
Former Olympic athletes now performing on the Cirque du Soleil show
OVO tell us their stories and professional journey. Did you know that
Cirque du Soleil is a fantastic springboard for athletes from around
the globe? Once they have completed a full career, the company offers
athletes a unique opportunity to embark on a new adventure and start a
professional career in a dynamic environment with good working
conditions.
View Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdwIK72fWBM
NICE VISITS AT CIRQUE INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
Over the last few months, we have had the pleasure to welcome to
Montreal the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) Trampoline
and Tumbling Technical Committee and Chris Korotky, President of
Inside Publications (Inside Gymnastics, Inside Dance, Inside
Cheerleading, etc.).
UPCOMING SCOUTING EVENTS
Come meet our Talent Scouts at these various upcoming festivals,
events and competitions being held around the world. You will learn
more about on-stage job opportunities available to artists, acrobats
and athletes.
{June 2014}
o) Athletes
*) GymConUSA 2014, Las Vegas, United States
Talent Scout: Stacy Clark
Acrobatic Head Coach: Dan Niehaus
o) Circus Performers
*) Centre national des arts du cirque show, Châlons-en-
Champagne, France Talent Scout: Philippe Agogué
*) Soirée des éclats du Lido, Toulouse, France
Talent Scout: Philippe Agogué
*) Académie Fratellini Graduating students show, Paris,
France Talent Scout: Philippe Agogué
*) Ecole Supérieure des Arts du Cirque Graduating students
show, Brussels, Belgium Talent Scout: Philippe Agogué
o) Dancers
*) 2014 DansEncore, Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada
Talent Scout: Amy Brogan
o) Physical Actors
*) Sibiu International Theatre Festival, Sibiu, Romania
Talent Scout: Marc-André Roy
{July 2014}
o) Circus Performers
*) European Juggling Convention 2014, Cork, Ireland
Talent Scout: Stacy Clark
o) Dancers
*) Dance World Cup finals, Niagara, Ontario, Canada
Talent Scout: Amy Brogan
o) Physical Actors
*) MIMOS International Mime Festival, Périgueux, France
Talent Scout: Marc-André Roy
o) Singers
*) New York Musical Theatre Festival (NYMF), New York, NY
Talent Scout: Séverine Parent
{August 2014}
o) Athletes
*) USA Gymnastics National Championships, Pittsburgh, PA
Talent Scout: Stacy Clark
o) Clowns
*) Edinburgh International Festival (Edinburgh, Scotland)
Talent Scout: Yves Sheriff
{September 2014}
o) Clowns
*) The New York Clown Theater Festival 2014
Talent Scout: Yves Sheriff
---------------------------------------
DIDYAKNOW?: Facts About Cirque
---------------------------------------
o) Didyaknow that 2,000 pounds of pumice hand cleaner is used to
remove the Chinese Poles glue from our hands at Mystère? Thats
what we call a sticky situation.
o) Didyaknow Mystère's odaiko drum is the largest of all our drums?
It had to be placed in the theatre prior to it being built and
remains there today. (Can we get a drum roll, please?)
o) Didyaknow that an estimated 1,300 hours went into making one KÀ
crab puppet? (We bet the creators were in such a crabby mood
during the process.)
o) Didyaknow that the KÀ Theatre has over 3,300 lighting fixtures?
o) Didyaknow that every seat in the KÀ Theatre has two speakers built
into its headrest? It allows sound effects to be targeted,
manipulated and customized to any of the 16 seating zones.
o) Didyaknow Zumanity use 1200 yards of silk to make 9 silk capes?
You can definitely say we are well and cape-able of keeping the
show running!
o) Didyaknow costume pieces for CRISS ANGEL Believe are treated with
a flame resistant product to protect the costume and artists from
any stray pyrotechnic sparks?
o) Didyaknow Dralion celebrated a milestone in Dublin on May 29th?
It performed its 1,000th arena show.
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
{Compiled by Keith Johnson}
---[ AMALUNA ]---
{May.15}
Teaching Natalie the Teeterboard...
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/XK20Yz >
{May.15}
Great job, boys! If you missed is this morning in Rockefeller
Plaza, you can watch here:
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/9ohWV3 >
{May.24}
The locals here in Boston put on a parade to welcome us...
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/8F4V3D >
{May.28}
Any idea what goes into a national TV show appearance? Check
out this amazing video made by Amaluna s own Teeterboard
artist, Joe McAdam, and see for yourself!
LINK /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyndqgUoCgM >
{May.29}
It's the BOSTON Premiere tonight! Thank you for having us,
Boston, it's a pleasure to perform for you! Check out some
of our beautiful artists featured in the current issue of
Improper Bostonian Magazine.
LINK /// < http://www.improper.com/features/moonstruck/ >
---[ CORTEO ]---
{May.01}
Terminaron los entrenamientos de hoy! Estamos listos para
el ensayo general!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/79kCvz >
{May.02}
Avant premier en Córdoba está por comenzar muy pronto!!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/utMmVw >
{May.02}
Tuvimos una gran avant premiere en La Docta! Muchisimas
gracias por tanta energía!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/C5MPJq >
{May.06}
Gran comentario sobre Corteo! "Un recorrido vertiginoso
con lugar para la risa y la sorpresa."
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/CCFU42 >
{May.07}
Detrás del espectáculo, hay otro gran espectáculo.
Esta es nuestra automatización!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/kRNaeL >
{May.09}
Entrenamiento de Foot Juggling, adivina cuántos
aros puede lanzar??
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/EEvvt3 >
{May.10}
Puedo con 8 aros a la vez, 4 a las manos y 4 a los pies!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/4U4vE9 >
{May.13}
Que lindo día en Córdoba para entrenar afuera!
Vamos a empezar con 80 kg...
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/wjEBuj >
{May.15}
Estamos en la búsqueda de nuevos artistas, y creemos que
una buena opción sería incorporar un hermano mellizo
para Victorino.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/t8m49l >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Wwh1PV >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/xF7XnE >
{May.17}
Más de 60 mil personas ya han disfrutado de la magia de
Corteo en Córdoba! Aún nos queda una semana en la ciudad,
es la última chance de ver nuestro show en vivo!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/1gxWGx >
{May.18}
Aqui podemos ver un Adelanto del acto del Diabolo llevado
a cabo por Sasha y Marcelo. Vení mañana a ver el acto
completo al Polo Circo!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/gMXjeH >
{May.19}
¡¡Qué experiencia fantástica participar en la Gala del
Festival Circo Polo!! Ha sido un placer compartir esta
experiencia con artistas y equipo tan internacional!
Buenos Aires, volvemos pronto!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/uHwvXC >
{May.21}
Un día en la oficina. Un chiste privado entre Roger,
un técnico en Corteo, y el director general, Patrick!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/IzJQQa >
{May.22}
Hello lovers of Corteo!! Congratulations, we have reached
50,000 Likes on our Facebook page!! Help us out, invite your
friends to Like our page. All new likes between now and June 2
will go into a draw, to win an amazing, unique gift - Gino,
one of Corteo's famous Chickens! He has been used in the show
through most of Brazil and Cordoba, and will come to the
winner signed by the cast!! Give your friends the best
gift - the gift of a Corteo Chicken!!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/0DTmmU >
{May.25}
Gracias por su hermosa energía, sonrisas y mensajes!
Disfrutamos mucho actuar en Córdoba con ustedes!
Mucho amor para todos!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Btg31T >
{May.27}
Miren! Esta es la presentación de Diabolo en La Gala
del Festival Circo Polo!!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/1oFphLy >
{May.31}
Ya habias visto este video increible de Stephan y David
ensayando Más de 2 millones de personas ya lo vieron en Y
outube. Si te gusto este, seguinos porque vamos a subir
videos como estos todo el tiempo!
LINK /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdCBqI3Jn3Y >
---[ DRALION ]---
{May.07}
Hello Glasgow! We had fun taking pictures in front of the
SSE Hydro yesterday!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/IvSvk1 >
{May.12}
Hello Sheffield! Follow one of our artists as he tells you
what it is like to perform as Clown Alberti.
LINK/// < http://goo.gl/L0Sv9l >
{May.15}
It's back to work for the cast of Dralion. Here's a short
video of the Crossed wheel training that occurred earlier
today.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/FEMbgc >
{May.28}
Only one week to go until Dralion returns to London. Follow
Sarah Rainey from the Telegraph learning some circus skills
with our perfomers.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Mmn18h >
{May.28}
Opening day at the O2 Arena
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/3qnwTM >
---[ KURIOS ]---
{May.01}
Today we're celebrating KURIOSl World Premiere in Montreal!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/1TB3Pr >
{May.02}
Thank you Montreal! Our wold premiere of KURIOS was a
real success!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/fSznXT >
{May.07}
The KURIOS team wishes you a great day! Go out and enjoy
the sun like this KURIOS Plunger character!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/VFIpYh >
{May.13}
Ce matin, l'équipe de Breakfast Television Montreal est au
chapiteau du Cirque du Soleil pour rencontrer Michel Laprise
et voir des artistes en répétition!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/V9hONg >
{May.22}
Montreal, keep an eye out for The KURIOS street team!
They're currently in town with great surprises for passersby.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/jESZmZ >
{May.23}
Salut Bonjour morning show was behind the scenes at Kurios!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/9VTRQb >
{May.30}
KURIOS brought Montreal walls to life! Were you part of
the spectators?
LINK /// < http://vimeo.com/93438410 >
---[ MJ IMMORTAL ]---
{May.14}
We're excited to celebrate the release of XSCAPE with this
original music video for Blue Gangsta. Dont miss your
chance to see these incredible artists and more perform
LIVE at an arena near you!
LINK /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Te9h2vdpZ7M >
{May.19}
Caught backstage - multi-talented Pole Dancer, Anna
Melnikova, showing off some of her hand balancing skills!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/fEMVV3 >
---[ MJ ONE ]---
{May.16}
One of our dancers, Charles Lil Buck Riley, was featured
on a segment in CBS This Morning.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/t7veQ0 >
{May.23}
Heres an inside interview with Ngame, the moon goddess,
and OK! TV. Find out what she thinks about the release of
the new Xscape album!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/37uPP6 >
{May.26}
Heres a radio interview with two of our artists. Hear
about the thrilling experience of performing for you twice
a day, five days a week!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/pgaNrG >
---[ OVO ]---
{May.04}
Japanese fans are amazing. They have been giving us flowers,
cards and gifts at every show. The cast and crew of OVO would
like to thank the Gillie Club for the beautiful cake they
sent on Sunday. You guys are welcome anytime.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/GgsGn1 >
{May.06}
One of our scarabs found a new way to relax before the show.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/ZHhpPD >
{May.08}
HAPPY 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OVO!!!! On May 8th 2009, the
mysterious egg appeared for the first time in Montreals Old
Port. The OVO was revealed to the world and brought a unique
world where insects would work, eat, crawl, flutter, play,
fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and
movement. 3 million spectators and 1665 shows later, the 25th
Cirque du Soleil production, created by Deborah Colker, has
never been better. The cast and crew of OVO would like to thank
each and every one of you who came to see the show in the last
5 years and we hope to see you all again soon.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/zX3ArB >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/WrWi7t >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/IOBfUo >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/RmFtiS >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/CkE8rZ >
{May.11}
OVO would like to congratulate its 300 000 spectator in
Tokyo. OVO also set a new Cirque du Soleil record by hitting
the 300 000 mark after only 12 weeks of shows.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/rVERhA >
{May.11}
Hello Tokyo, Last Thursday, the Tokyo Yakult Swallows invited
the Foreigner to throw the ceremonial first pitch against the
Hiroshima Toyo Carp. He was joined by 2 Crickets and the
Firefly who did a short Diabolo performance. It was a fun
event! Go Go Swallows!!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/L4xb48 >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/D7MM7F >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/72r4iA >
{May.12}
OVO is very sad today. Our Assistant Artistic Director is
leaving. Thank you Jen for all the joy you brought to this
tour. We will miss you.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/cvbBbp >
{May.16}
Our Japanese fans are really amazing. Today, we received a
needlepoint cushion with the OVO logo. This is so creative
and original. Thank you so much!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/CgdpyS >
{May.18}
Dear OVO fans, it's been 5 years already! We can't believe
it. It went so fast. Here's a picture of the entire cast &
crew of OVO (Tokyo 2014 Edition) who were part of the 5th
anniversary celebration!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/ZnNSXb >
{May.24}
MEET THE ANTS - The hardest working insects in the community
are the bright red Ants. As soon as theyre awake they spend
their day gathering food: On the menu today, kiwis and corn.
But its not all work. They play with their food too, with
their feet, in an astonishing display of precision juggling
that climaxes with ants juggling ants.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/G96tiR >
{May.31}
Great performance of the White Spider and the Black Spider
on Thursday to announce the upcoming engagement in Osaka.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/MWWdCx >
---[ QUIDAM ]---
{May.11}
A moment ago on stage, Quidam received its official O2
World Arena Berlin Bear. We're pumped for our final
performance in Berlin, Tschüss!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/CEY6bD >
{May.14}
Acrobats, props, costumes, band... everyything backstage is
ready for our opening night at Nuremberg Arena tonight
Toi toi toi!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/jSk0Qx >
{May.16}
Earlier this week the Quidam Spokesperson, Artistic Director
and Hand to Hand act were at Technopolis~Gazi to announce
the show coming to Greece. Efharisto for the warm, sunny
welcome!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/TYJBjw >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/ndrNJF >
{May.18}
Cardio, stretching, pilates
its all part of our Backstage
training! Whats your favourite form of exercise? with
Jonny Stranks and Norihisa Taguchi at Nuremberg Arena.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/NkJivl >
{May.21}
Soundcheck Backstage Cirque - sure sounds like Quidam is
ready to open in Hannover at TUI Arena.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/w3HnwZ >
---[ TOTEM ]---
{May.04}
Because all good things come to an end, we are performing
our two last shows in United States today in Portland! Since
February 2011, we have performed in 17 US cities. It is now
time to gear up for our next adventures: Vancouver, BC and
Auckland, NZ!! Thank you American audiences; you have been
simply amazing!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/rad5nm >
{May.05}
Look how happy they are at the end of their tear-down! Our
Front of House supervisors loaded the containers last night
for the last time in the US! Vancouver, we are on our way!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/vyc2ng >
{May.14}
Meet TOTEM Green Frog Riki Fujimaki as the cast rehearse
for tomorrow's Vancouver Opening Night!
LINK /// < http://instagram.com/p/n_mH7kxI7H/?igref=ogexp# >
{May.17}
Hola amigos!!! Grab the latest edition of People en Español
to see the results of the photoshoot we did back in February
with actress Genesis Rodriguez in the Big Top!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/XXw501 >
{May.18}
Last-minute touch-ups! Our wardrobe team never has a break!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/j59VUo >
{May.21}
The Province followed a few TOTEM performers in their make-up
process before the show!
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/totemmakeup >
---[ VAREKAI ]---
{May.11}
A special thank you to the very talented Heather Sherman
from Art2Eat Cakes for the beautiful (and very yummy) cake
for our cast and crew! Your talent is grand and we wish you
the best of luck with your business!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/DKsnbz >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/3AjLwv >
{May.13}
Hey Kansas City! Our NA'a have been spotted at the KC Live
studios! They're taking over the set.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/hec5tg >
{May.16}
Curious as to what our artists eat to stay fit? Read this
great article from the The Kansas City Star and see what
Emily, Raphael and Liz have to say about food!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/jvjhuc >
{May.30}
Want to learn more about Varekai and what happens behind
the scenes? Check out this cool video by Rogers TV, London
on daytime London
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/TDYl6e >
---[ ZARKANA ]---
{May.12}
We hosted a fun Yelp event at Zarkana on Saturday. Are you
curious to know what they thought about our show? You can
read their reviews below!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/r1cX25 >
---[ ZUMANITY ]---
{May.06}
Stay tuned for a look at our new Zumanity photoshoot with Nene
Leakes. In the meantime, heres a look behind the scenes!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Or7zUq >
{May.07}
A few artists from Zumanity visited the MGM Resorts Call
Center yesterday. By the looks of it, it was a pleasure
meeting the artists!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/xtsyDq >
{May.13}
Watch behind-the-scenes footage of our photo shoot with
NENE LEAKES, and find out what she thinks about being the
Mistress of Sensuality!
LINK /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QaB24X3plBg >
{May.14}
NENE LEAKES tells Us Weekly how excited she is to play the
role of Mistress of Sensuality for her 10 show engagement
with Zumanity! Read the full article below.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/xJlTGd >
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
----------------------------------------------------------
"A Baroque Odyssey: Cirque's Amazing Journey"
A Historia, celebrating Cirque's 30th Anniversary
Edited by: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
"Those who are able to walk on stilts can roam the earth
unstopped by mountains or rivers. They are able to imagine
flying and therefore to reach the Isles of the Immortals."
P'ao-Pou Tseu
The Cirque du Soleil story is about a group of young people who wanted
nothing more than the freedom to dream a dream. Beginning with a
street kid from Montreal called Guy Laliberté, it's the tale of
individuals who have come forward at special moments in time to move
that dream forward, and share it with the world.
/// 1979-1980: THE INSPIRATION
In the late 1970s, Guy Laliberté attends a concert by Zachary Richard,
a musician from New Orleans. The show inspires him to organize a
school trip to the city, which proves to be a big success. It's the
first time he experiences bringing a group of people together for
travel and entertainment, and it sets the teenager on his life path.
Chance encounters occur that will galvanize the still unformulated
dreams of the people who are to found Cirque du Soleil. It is a time
of creative ferment and great energy in Quebec that is gathering
momentum.
/// 1980-1981: ARTISTS GATHER IN BAIE-SAINT-PAUL
Guy Laliberté, barely 20, burns with a desire to entertain and travel.
He leaves Montreal for the artist colony of Baie Saint-Paul where he
comes together with a group of young street performers who have pooled
their talent and dreams and founded Les Échassiers de Baie-Saint-
Paul (the Baie-Saint-Paul Stiltwalkers). The stiltwalkers group also
features fire-eaters, jugglers and other buskers. The group includes
Gilles Ste-Croix, who will later become Artistic Director of Cirque.
Riding the crest of the Quebec street entertainer movementon a roll
since the mid-70sa group of young stilt-walkers, fire-eaters and
assorted mountebanks is born. They are loud, eccentric, brash,
impossible to avoid.
/// 1981-1982: AN IDEA TAKES FORM
In 1982, Guy Laliberté and Gilles Ste-Croix create another association
to support their work with the Échassiers de Baie-Saint-Paul: Le Club
des Talons Hauts, or the High-Heels Club. Through the Club, they
decide to organize a street performer's festival, La Fête Foraine de
Baie-Saint-Paul. Keeping a neglected tradition alive, they walk on
stilts, juggle, and breathe fire to the crowd's obvious delight. This
talented group of young Quebec street entertainers has come together
under a lucky star. Although a full two years pass before Cirque du
Soleil as we know it today is created, its founders say that it was at
that mystic moment in Baie Saint-Paul in 1982 that Cirque du Soleil
was conceived. The aurora borealis hits Baie Saint-Paul on the first
day of La Fête Foraine. The sun has set but the sky is streaked with
waves of otherworldly light. Green and silver refractions chase each
other across the dome of the sky throughout the performance.
/// 1983-1984: LE CIRQUE DU SOLEIL IS BORN
In 1984, with the financial assistance of the Quebec government,
Cirque du Soleil is officially formed by Guy Laliberté as part of the
celebrations surrounding the 450th anniversary of Jacques Cartier's
arrival in Canada. Guy is inspired to choose the name by the sun
itself, a symbol of youth, energy, power and light. His goal to bring
together creative talent to delight new audiences in new locations
takes a bold step forward.
For the festivities, the newly-formed Cirque presents a totally new
concept: a striking, dramatic mix of the circus arts and street
entertainment, featuring wild, outrageous costumes, staged under
magical lighting and set to original music. With not a single animal
in the ring, Cirque's difference is clear from the very start. The
show debuts in a little 800 seat blue-and-yellow big top in the small
Quebec town of Gaspé, the very same place Mr. Cartier's voyage took
him so long ago, as he desperately tried to find a land route through
to the Orient. The show was a smashing success and the artists,
invigorated by its reception, took their creation on the road
performing in 10 other cities throughout the province delighting
30,000 spectators.
Cirque becomes a multicultural gathering point, with performers from
Quebec, Belgium, Switzerland and Argentina. The crazy dreams of a two
friends begin to take wing. And maybe those dreams aren't so crazy
after all. Maybe this idea about a different kind of circus is
something that audiences will respond to. Maybe it will flourish.
Sometimes you just have to trust to fate and follow where your dreams
lead you... Youth, boldness, instinct, vision and a certain zany
talent are their stock in trade. And Cirque du Soleil hasnt stopped
since!
/// 19851986: COMMEDIA DELLARTE COMES TO THE CIRCUS
After performing in Montreal, Sherbrook and Quebec City, Cirque du
Soleil leaves its home province for the first time to take its show to
neighboring Ontario. It performs in Ottawa, Toronto and Niagara Falls
to over 137,000 spectators. The Cirque is made for travelling and the
blue and yellow tent quickly becomes a symbol of Quebec youth and
artistic energy.
Cirque begins to experience a burning desire to return to the circus
tradition the esteem and quality it knew at the beginning of the
century; therefore, Cirque welcomes Guy Caron as Artistic Director.
Guy Caron brings in Franco Dragone to teach Cirque artists commedia
dell'arte. Inspired by the best of what is happening internationally,
Cirque creates a new theatricality and adopts a vision whereby rules
exist only to be broken. The mandate is clear: to produce a European-
style professional show anchored in acrobatics, with original music
and without animals. From the Chinese they learn about perfecting the
blend of presentation, music and choreography, about grace and beauty,
gestures and smiles. Cirque draws upon an Impressionistic sensibility,
takes everything that had existed in the past, and pulls it into
today.
In response to all that it has learned, Cirque du Soleil stages La
Magie Continue in eight cities across Canada, including Vancouver,
where it puts on several performances at the Children's Festival and
universal exposition (Expo 86). Cirque du Soleil makes its name on the
international stage too, as acts are awarded top honors at
competitions and festivals around the world. As interest in Cirque du
Soleil grows, so does the big top, which now has room for 1,500
spectators.
/// 1987: MAKE OR BREAK IN LOS ANGELES
By the end of Le Magie Continues tour, over 250,000 spectators have
seen the show; however, Cirque finds itself on hard financial times
the Niagara Falls stop is an attendance disaster and losses mount.
Undeterred, Cirque du Soleil mounts a new tour - Le Cirque Réinventé
(or We Reinvent the Circus, in English) - and visits its American
neighbors for the first time. Cirque takes the biggest risk in its
history by agreeing to perform at the Los Angeles Festival, without
the funds necessary for a return trip home. After years of honing its
craft across Québec and in cities throughout Canada, its future
depends entirely on being successful in the U.S. market. The gamble
pays off. Exhilarated by the Californian public's response, Cirque du
Soleil becomes an overnight success. The show is performed in Los
Angeles, San Diego and Santa Monica to rave reviews. Cirque du Soleil
even appears twice on Johnny Carson's "Tonight Show" program!
/// 1988-1989: SUCCESS, WE ARE OFF AND RUNNING!
Cirque du Soleil returns to Santa Monica in February, travels to San
Francisco in April and expands its U.S. appearances thereafter. The
company now comprises 150 people! With the success of Le Cirque
Réinventé on the West Coast of the United States, Cirque boldly
launches a Midwest and eastern itinerary. After a brief appearance at
the Calgary Winter Olympics, the blue and yellow big top pops up in
the shadows of the World Trade Center in New York City, spends several
weeks dazzling Toronto, then Washington D.C., Chicago and Phoenix.
Wherever it goes the result is the same: the performances sell out and
the critics rave.
By the end of 1988, 796,937 people have now seen Le Cirque Réinventé,
including patrons in Cirque's home town. Despite the cold Canadian
winter, the company ends its 1988 tour at home in Montreal. There, as
well as all over the continent, Cirque du Soleil wins many awards for
its entrepreneurship and its innovative and creative spirit: including
Emmy, Drama Desk, Bambi and Ace awards, Gémeaux and Félix trophies,
and a Rose d'Or de Montreux. Cirque du Soleil's performers have taken
part in and won several awards at various festivals throughout the
world, including the Festival international du cirque de Monte-Carlo,
the Festival mondial du cirque de demain (France), the Festival
international de cirque de Vérone (Italy), the Festival international
de cirque de Gênes (Italy), and the Wuhan International Acrobatic Art
Festival (China).
In 1989, Miami, Chicago and Phoenix are added to the tour and another
405,950 spectators revel in the performance. The Cirque is featured
in Vanity Fair, Time, Life, People, Newsweek, and Maclean's and in
newspapers such as the New York Times, the San Francisco Chronicle,
the Washington Post and USA Today. Even the major television networks
are on the beat. And Cirque du Soleil keeps on rolling! The year marks
the end of Cirque du Soleil's original "five-year plan". "What will
the next five years bring?", Cirque du Soleil asks. And would these
years eclipse those that came before it?
/// 1990: A NEW LEVEL OF THEATRICALITY
Buoyed by its growing success, Cirque du Soleil begins attracting
artists from around the world, particularly Russians whose proud
circus and acrobatic tradition makes a valuable contribution. Montreal
is the setting for the world premiere of Cirque's most successful show
yet, Nouvelle Expérience, in a new, 2,500-seat big top. With this new
production, Cirque du Soleil shatters all previous records for ticket
sales, and it decides to make its first foray into Europe, staging "We
Reinvent the Circus" in London and Paris. Although not runaway
successes (approximately 161,102 spectators see the show in both
cities), the overseas excursions have just begun.
Franco Dragoné becomes Director, pushing Cirque's theatricality to new
limits. His impact is enormous: Franco's theatrical vision will inform
Cirque's approach for many years to come. Key to Franco's indelible
stamp will be his successful creative association with set designer
Michel Crête and, later, costume designer Dominique Lemieux. They will
work together on every show until "O," after which new creators will
take up the challenge.
Suddenly it begins to happen. The show, like a reluctant spirit
hounded by a posse of mediums, slowly reveals itself. An organic
resonance emerges: each act finds its place, a succession of moments
as fleeting as they are eternal. Long before the house lights go down
and the excitement begins to build under the Grand Chapiteau,
designers and craftspeople have put in months of work behind the
scenes to create the perfect costumes and makeup to bring life to a
cast of characters.
/// 1991-1992: THE MAGIC CONTINUES
In 1991, Nouvelle Expérience continues on its travels across North
America, opening up new cities - like Atlanta for Cirque du Soleil.
By the end of an extensive 19-month tour of Canada and the United
States, 1.3 million (1,212,926) spectators have cheered the show.
Long before the house lights go down and the excitement begins to
build under the Grand Chapiteau, designers and craftspeople have put
in months of work behind the scenes to create the perfect costumes and
makeup to bring life to a cast of characters. Their work is about to
pay off in ways they cannot yet imagine.
Cirque du Soleil crosses the Pacific and makes a name for itself in
the Land of the Rising Sun with Fascination, a collage of the best
acts from Le Cirque Réinventé and Nouvelle Expérience. The show opens
in Tokyo and then moves on to seven other cities, for a total of 118
performances in four months. Over 560,000 (569,883) people see the
show. Meanwhile, in Europe, Cirque du Soleil joins forces with
Switzerland's Circus Knie and stages a version of Le Cirque Réinventé
(modified to include animals) in over 60 towns throughout the country.
In North America, 1992 sees Cirque du Soleil make its Las Vegas debut
when Nouvelle Expérience kicks off a year-long engagement under a big
top at the Mirage Hotel. Already juggling several productions, Cirque
du Soleil adds a monument to its repertoire of shows: Saltimbanco.
Premiering in Montreal, this latest production is a celebration of
life. Designed as an antidote to the violence and despair of the 20th
century, this phantasmagoric show offers an alternative view of the
urban environment brimming with optimism and joy.
/// 1993: CIRQUE PLANTS A FLOWER IN THE DESERT
In 1992, Nouvelle Expérience kicks off a year-long engagement under a
big top at the Mirage Hotel. Having seen Cirque du Soleil in action,
and following Nouvelle Expérience's successful run at the Mirage, the
president of Mirage Resorts in Las Vegas (Steve Wynn) makes an offer:
why not bring Cirque du Soleil to a permanent installation in Las
Vegas? Cirque responds to the challenge of staging a show outside the
traditional big top and resolves, in its own words, to "plant a flower
in the desert."
On Christmas Day 1993, Mystère premieres at the Treasure Island hotel
in Las Vegas, setting a new standard and changing the way live
entertainment is presented in Las Vegas. Mystère's message is
universal because movement, music and humor are universal. Mystère is
so richly diverse that it can be experienced over and over again,
every performance revealing something new and extraordinary. Be
obnoxious. Be stupid. Be sweet. Be nasty. Be masculine, feminine, and
androgynous. Be amazing. By year's end Saltimbanco completes its 19-
month North American Tour of a dozen cities and receives resounding
ovations from 1.4 million (1,416,359) spectators.
/// 1994-1995: A BAROQUE ODYSSEY (10 Years)
Cirque du Soleil celebrates its 10th anniversary by staging Alegría in
1994. True to tradition, the two-year North American tour is launched
in Montreal. Meanwhile, Mystère continues to create a sensation in Las
Vegas (683,294 people see the show) and Saltimbanco embarks on a six-
month run in Tokyo that attracts a great deal of attention (and
spectators; 557,851 see Saltimbanco in Tokyo). While Alegría pursues
its triumphant North American tour, Cirque du Soleil responds to a
request from the Canadian government to create a show for the heads of
state gathered at the G7 Summit in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Also in 1995,
Saltimbanco sets out to conquer Europe. Cirque's spectacular white big
top with seating for 2,500 spectators makes its first stop in
Amsterdam, followed by Munich, Berlin, Düsseldorf, and Vienna.
Amsterdam becomes the site of Cirque du Soleil's European
Headquarters.
/// 1996-1997: A NEW HOME
Cirque du Soleil now has three concurrent shows running: Saltimbanco,
Mystère and Alegría. By April, Cirque launches its fourth - Quidam
in Montreal. After finishing its hometown run, Quidam heads off on a
three-year North American tour. Meanwhile, Saltimbanco continues its
European tour, with stops in London, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Antwerp,
Zurich and Frankfurt, while Alegría sets out to tour Asia. Audiences
flock to the Grand Chapiteaus in ever-greater numbers.
As its repertoire grows, Cirque du Soleil decides that its artists
must have a single home in which to gather, create, rehearse, and
dream; therefore, "The Studio", Cirque's new International
Headquarters in Montreal, is born. The move, carried out over three
weekends, goes very smoothly, and all 500+ employees are now ensconced
in the new Studio. After a few last-minute adjustments, everyone is
able to get down to work. All of the shows will be created and
produced in the new facility. Construction of the Headquarters
represented an investment of approximately 40 million dollars.
Quidam continues to capture the hearts of North American spectators,
adding two new cities, Denver and Houston, to the tour. On the other
side of the Atlantic: After five years of touring, the curtain falls
on Saltimbanco at London's Royal Albert Hall, marking the end of a
two-year European tour (February 1, 1997). Fresh from its Asian tour,
Alegría takes on Europe. And Cirque du Soleil joins forces with Pomp
Duck and Circumstance, an original dinner-theatre show. Due to
expansion Cirque opens up four regional headquarters: the Americas,
Asia-Pacific, Europe (Amsterdam), and Las Vegas. Cirque sets new
benchmarks with the birth of a multimedia division - Cirque du Soleil
Images (replacing Télémajik) - and the announcement of two monumental
projects: a feature-length film (Alegría) and a large-format (IMAX)
film, which will feature performances by various Cirque du Soleil
artists in natural and historic sites around the world.
/// 1998-1999: NEW BENCHMARKS (15 Years)
While Alegría pursues its journey across Europe, Quidam finishes up
its North American tour, which includes a stopover in Dallas, a first
for Cirque du Soleil. During its three-year tour, almost 1,000
performances have been held under the blue-and-yellow big top. All in
all, over 2,500,000 North American spectators have applauded Quidam.
And unable to quash its celebration of life, Cirque du Soleil restages
Saltimbanco in Ottawa for a few weeks before sending it off on an
Asia-Pacific tour scheduled to last three years. In response,
Singapore becomes the site of Cirque du Soleil's Asia-Pacific
headquarters.
Inspired by the success of Mystère, Steve Wynn, the president of
Mirage Resorts, invites Cirque to Las Vegas to mount "O", Cirque's
first aquatic show, in a specially constructed theatre at the Bellagio
Resort. Opening in October 1998, "O" sets a new benchmark for
excellence in theatrical entertainment everywhere. And after almost
10 years of discussion, Cirque du Soleil finally teams with Disney to
present La Nouba in Orlando. The agreement occurs after direct
intervention from Michael Eisner, chairman and CEO of Disney, who
concedes to Cirque's long-maintained insistence that it retain
creative control. Moreover, a custom-made theatre is built for
Cirques unique requirements. The show opens in December to rave
reviews.
While artists get used to their new home in Orlando, Saltimbanco sets
up shop in Asia and the Pacific, beginning a three-year tour of the
region in Sydney, Australia. In March, Quidam embarks on a four-year
European tour in Amsterdam. By April, a brand new production is
created in Montreal announcing the start of the next North American
tour: Dralion. Dralion is an unprecedented fusion of ancient Chinese
acrobatic traditions and the avant-garde approach of Cirque du Soleil,
paying homage to the four elements - earth, air, fire and water
which take on human form and rule worlds defined by their individual
vivid colors. The show's creation marks the return of Guy Caron to
Cirque du Soleil's shores. And in May, Alegría, which has already
dazzled audiences on three continents, finds a permanent home at Beau
Rivage, a new Mirage resort in Biloxi, Mississippi. Cirques plans
become even more ambitious with the release of its first feature film:
Alegria. In the film, the magical spellbinding universe of Cirque du
Soleil becomes the backdrop for a tender love story between a street
performer (Frac) and the lead singer of a travelling circus
(Giulietta). Franco Dragone directs. Its dynamic team also produces
"Cirque du Soleil Presents Quidam", a spectacular television version
of the show to be aired around the globe.
/// 2000: CELEBRATING THE MILLENNIUM
Audiences on three continents continue to marvel at Cirque du Soleil's
four resident shows (La Nouba, Mystère, "O" and Alegría) and three
touring productions (Saltimbanco, Quidam and Dralion); in the year
alone, close to 6 million spectators will attend Cirque du Soleil
shows worldwide. By October, Alegría leaves its home at the Beau
Rivage and prepares to embark on an Asia/Pacific tour beginning in
Australia. Dralion continues to make its way across North America and
provides yet another backdrop for a special TV Production, which earns
Cirque du Soleil three Primetime Emmy Awards the following year.
Cirques performances continue to be a unique balance of physical
strength, art and beauty, deeply ingrained with audacity. With Gilles'
historic stilt walkathon from Baie-Saint-Paul to Quebec City, Guy
Caron's artistic instincts, and Guy Laliberté's go-for-broke gambling
spirit, it's been there from the beginning. It's stitched into the
very fabric of the Grand Chapiteau.
But Cirque also begins looking beyond live entertainment for new means
to share their which wonder, joy and creativity. After a grand
premiere in Berlin in January, the Cirque launches its first-ever
large-format IMAX production in North America by May: Cirque du Soleil
- Journey of Man ("Passages" in French). Distributed by Sony Pictures
Classics, after a grand premiere in the film will opens in Montreal,
New York and Los Angeles before moving on to other markets.
Since 1984, more than 23 million people from around the world have
seen one of Cirque du Soleil's productions. On a typical weekend in
2000, some 50,000 people will see one of Cirque's several shows being
staged simultaneously around the world. Cirque employed more than
2,100 people, including 500 performers, from several countries. The
average age of Cirque du Soleil employees is 32.
/// 2001-2002: THE DAWN OF A NEW ERA
Cirque du Soleil keeps on growing with the inauguration of a 14,000-
square-metre addition to its International Headquarters in Montreal.
In addition, Alegría kicks off a three-year tour of the immense Asia-
Pacific region in Auckland, New Zealand. Six other shows continue to
dazzle audiences across the world: Saltimbanco in Japan, Mystère in
Las Vegas, «O» in Las Vegas, La Nouba at the Walt Disney World Resort
in Orlando, Florida, Quidam in Europe, and Dralion in the United
States.
On October 30, 2001, Cirque du Soleil released its entire show
catalogue onto DVD: La Magie Continue, Le Cirque Réinventé, Nouvelle
Expérience, and Saltimbanco as well as Journey of Man and Baroque
Odyssey (the 10th Anniversary documentary). A few days later, "Cirque
du Soleil presents: Alegría", a special 90-minute television
production of its signature show, premieres on TV. And, by years
end, 6 million people or more will have attended a Cirque show
worldwide.
Cirque du Soleil wows its largest audience ever when it presents a
one-of-a-kind performance at the 74th Annual Academy Awards held on
March 24, 2002 at Grummans Chinese Theater in Hollywood, California.
The reaction is electrifying, breaking records at Cirque du Soleil's
website.
A month later, Varekai, directed by first-time Cirque director Dominic
Champagne in collaboration with twelve other talented creators, began
its journey, joining Dralion across North America. During the creation
process, a film crew shot a reality-TV series about some of the show's
performers and their struggles during its development. The series
Fire Within - would air the following year.
In June, Alegría returned to North American soil for a two-year long
run in select cities across Canada, the United States and, for the
first time in history, in Latin America - Mexico. Alegría is later
joined by Quidam, while Saltimbanco continued playing to audiences
throughout Europe. And by year's end, an announcement of yet another
resident show for Las Vegas had many fans' appetite whet for something
a little more risqué - Zumanity, another side of Cirque du Soleil.
/// 2003: ANOTHER SIDE OF CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
After touring select cities across the United States and Canada,
Quidam once again bids adieu to North America and embarked on a year-
long tour of Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, visiting Tokyo, Osaka,
Nagoya and Fukuoka. Alegría continued its second North American Tour,
joining Varekai and Dralion.
In cooperation with Cirque du Soleil Images, the television
documentary series "Fire Within" airs in the United States; an
intimate and revealing behind-the-scenes look at the effort and
struggles during the creation of Varekai. The series wins an Emmy
award plus two Gemini awards. The show - Varekai - itself was filmed
late in its run in Toronto and released to home markets in autumn. And
while Quidam tours Japan throughout the year, by summer (July) the
adults-only show ZUMANITY premieres at the New York-New York Hotel &
Casino in Las Vegas. Created by Dominic Chapagne and René Richard Cyr,
it's the first Cirque du Soleil production for adults only. Zumanity
joines Mystère and «O» on the Las Vegas Strip.
By year's end, Cirque du Soleil films "Solstrom", a 13-part family-
oriented television variety series that merges acrobatic acts with
dramatic comedy, features over 250 artists in over 130 acts from many
of Cirque du Soleil shows and includes a number of celebrity guest
performances.
/// 2004-2005: SOLEIL DE MINUIT (20 Years)
Cirque celebrates its 20th anniversary in the streets of their
hometown through a spectacular live musical event. A recording of this
event is later broadcast under the name "Midnight Sun" (Soleil de
Minuit) and released onto DVD. During the festivities Cirque sets a
new record for the Guinness Book of World Records gathering 544
employees at Headquarters to stilt walk. In business, Cirque du Soleil
Musique is launched in September. It is a record company dedicated to
the creation, production, and marketing of the music associated with
current and future Cirque du Soleil shows, and to the career
development of emerging artists from around the world.
On tour, Dralion leaves North America bound for Europe at the
beginning of the year, where it will complete an extensive multi-year
tour. Alegría continued its North American Tour, but by year's end,
the show is bound for Tokyo and the rest of Japan. Quidam, which would
end its Japanese Tour in the early months of the year, returned to
Canada for a two-city run before embarking on a year-long tour
throughout Australia/New Zealand. And, in November, the biggest most
epic show in Cirques history is born. Directed by Robert LePage, KÀ
is launched at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The following year, Celebrity Cruises unveils a unique concept of on-
board entertainment developed by Cirque du Soleil on two of its cruise
ships. This concept, "The Bar at the Edge of the Earth", featured
unique dining fare with a Cirque du Soleil flair. Cirque also created
and performed the special "Reflections in Blue" (Réflexions de bleu),
a unique one-night water show as part of the opening ceremonies for
the XI FINA World Aquatics Championships in Montreal, Canada. And the
first touring show in three years is launched in Montreal. Directed by
Daniele Finzi Pasca, the Italian-born director takes Cirque du Soleil
through the funeral of a clown in Corteo. Cirque du Soleil Images
films Corteo during its Toronto stop-over, later premiering on
CBC/BRAVO and released onto DVD.
/// 2006: CIRQUE IN CONCERT
Taking the stage in January is DELIRIUM. Created and directed by
Michel Lemieux & Victor Pilon, this interesting concept features
remixed Cirque music and the companys signature acrobatic style
melded to create a musical experience unmatched. DELIRIUM would begin
touring arenas throughout the United States before hopping the pond to
Europe. Later in the year, LOVE, a creation celebrating the musical
legacy of The Beatles opens at The Mirage Casino-Hotel in Las Vegas.
The show becomes Cirque's fifth resident show in Las Vegas and the
first official collaboration with the BEATLES since their last public
performance on January 30, 1969. LOVE features a first for Cirque du
Soleil - no live music - using original Beatles tracks mixed and re-
arranged by Sir George Martin and his son Giles Martin.
During this time, after touring in North America, Europe, Asia and
Australia, Cirque du Soleil has set out to make a name for itself in
South America by presenting its show Saltimbanco in Chile, Argentina
and Brazil. Saltimbanco, after conquering South America, ends its
almost 15 years on tour under the grand chapiteau in Rio de Janiero.
Meanwhile, La Nouba celebrates its 5 Millionth Guest and the company
attempts to create a new version of Zumanity for Miami Beach.By years
end, Cirque du Soleil enters into an exclusive agreement with CKX Inc.
through its subsidiary Elvis Presley Enterprises for the creation,
development, production and promotion of Elvis Presley projects,
featuring touring and resident shows, as well as multimedia
interactive Elvis experiences, throughout the world. The first of
these projects is slated to debut in 2009 at the MGM City Center
complex in Las Vegas.
/// 2007 CIRQUE TAKES MANHATTAN?
DELIRIUM concludes its two-year tour in the United States and begins
wowing audiences in some never-before-visited cities across Europe.
The premiere of Koozå in April launches Cirque du Soleil's 13th
touring production (18th overall) since 1984. Directed by David
Shiner, Koozå returns Cirque du Soleil to its acrobatic roots.
Saltimbanco is re-staged in the arena format and begins touring the
United States and Canada by summer. And in November, Wintuk, Cirque du
Soleil's first "seasonal" show (as it runs for a few short weeks in
the winter) premieres at Madison Square Garden's WAMU Theater.
In media, Cirque du Soleil releases three documentary DVDs: "The
Mystery of Mystère", "FLOW: A Tribute to the Artists of «O»" and "A
Thrilling Ride through Koozå", which take us behind the scenes of
these fascinating shows. Cirque presented a Pre-Game Show at Super
Bowl XLI, the American football game to decide the National Football
League (NFL) champion for the 2006 season at Dolphin Stadium in Miami
Gardens, Florida. This performance was produced by David Saltz. And
Cirque du Soleil has also launched a fiction/non-fiction book entitled
The Spark, which invites readers to discover the power of creativity
and imagination and apply it in their own lives. Written by John Bacon
and based on an original idea by Lyn Heward, the book is distributed
in several countries.
In business, Cirque du Soleil announced that it is partnering with
Nakheel (the world's top private property developer) with a view to
creating the first resident show on The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, in
2011. The following year, Istithmar World Capital, the investment arm
of Dubai World, and Nakheel acquired a 20% stake in Cirque du Soleil.
And, on September 25th, Cirque du Soleil's contortionists, Natasha
Patterson (10), Julie Bergez (14), and Dasha Sovik (15) who perform in
Koozå, set a new Guinness World Record for the Highest Circus Act ever
performed at the top of Toronto's CN Tower, the World's Tallest
Freestanding Tower. This feat was performed in the Glass Floor
observation deck, 342 meters (1,122 feet) above the ground and as high
up on Toronto's CN Tower.
/// 2008 CIRQUE BELIEVES IN ASIA
Having conquered North America, Europe and Australia, Cirque du Soleil
looks to expand its presence throughout Asia in a huge way. First,
through the launch of two new resident shows the first shows of
their kind outside the United States of America: ZAIA, a production
for The Venetian Hotel & Casino on the Cotai Strip in Macao, China;
and ZED, a production for the Tokyo Disney Resort in Tokyo, Japan.
In order to further finance the companys goals, Cirque du Soleil
sells a 20% stake in the company to two investment groups out of
Dubai. The agreement allows Cirque to keep control of their creative
challenges and operations while accelerating their growth doing
projects all over the world. Nakheel and Istithmar are part of Dubai
World, a diversified holding company owned by the government of Dubai.
The company also unveiled long term plans to establish its brand in
Russia, through the creation of Cirque du Soleil Rus., a Russian LLC
company having the exclusive rights to the Russian territory.
Also launched was Criss Angel beLIEve at the Luxor Hotel & Casino
in Las Vegas, the first production to involve a celebrity and star in
his own right. DELIRIUM, which held its last concert in London on
April 19th, finds its way into movie theatres for a big-screen format
special.
Cirque du Soleil's tribute to The Beatles A Day In The Life and
Carol Woods & Timmy Mitchums (from "Across the Universe") performance
of "Let It Be" garners attention at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards in
Los Angeles, California. And Cirque also performs "Awakening of the
Serpent" for Expo 2008 in Zaragoza, Spain.
/// 2009: LE RÊVE CONTINUE (25 Years)
Alegría, which has wowed millions under the grand chapiteau across
North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Central and South America,
begins life anew in arenas this year. Like Saltimbanco before it,
Alegría embarks on a new two-year North American tour.
To celebrate Cirque du Soleil's 25th anniversary, a new touring show
featuring insects, Brazilian music and vibes premieres in Montreal.
Directed by Debra Colker, OVO is a headlong rush into a colorful
ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter,
play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and
movement. The publication of a book on Cirque costumes and the launch
of a double CD containing a music compilation, are among other
commemorative activities of this anniversary.
Guy Laliberté also becomes the first Canadian private space explorer.
Under the theme Moving Stars and Earth for Water, this Poetic Social
Mission in space aimed at touching people through an artistic
approach: a special 120-minute webcast program featuring various
artistic performances unfolding in 14 cities on five continents,
including the International Space Station is had, all to raise
awareness on water issues facing humankind on planet earth. The
mission brings about the formation of ONE DROP.
Cirque also branches out into the realm of fitness with the launch of
an innovative gym workout JUKARI Fit to Fly. JUKARI makes fitness
fun again by introducing a new way to move in a gym workout and is
accessible to all women, regardless of fitness levels. The hour-long
workout has been created on a specially-designed piece of equipment
called the FlySet. The result is a workout that gives the sensation of
flying while strengthening and lengthening the body through cardio,
strength, balance and core training.
/// 2010-2011: CIRQUE SLIPS ON ITS OWN SHPEEL
During this period, Cirque du Soleil launches six new production
(three per year): VIVA ELVIS, presented at ARIA Resort & Casino,
becomes Cirque du Soleil's seventh resident show in Las Vegas; BANANA
SHPEEL, Cirque's twist on Vaudeville, arrives at the Beacon Theatre
after a preview run at Chicago Theatre; TOTEM, a look at human
evolution by director Robert LePage, celebrates its world premiere in
Montreal; ZARKANA, written and directed by acclaimed film and theatre
director François Girard, begins its run at the legendary Radio City
Music Hall in New York City; IRIS, written and directed by director-
choreographer Philippe Decouflé, is created exclusively for the Kodak
Theatre at the Hollywood & Highland Center; and Michael Jackson THE
IMMORTAL World Tour, written and directed by Jamie King, begins
touring in arenas throughout North America. In other arenas: Cirque du
Soleils Founder - Guy Laliberté - gets a star on the Hollywood Walk
of Fame, the company holds a presence at Expo 2010 in Shanghai, helps
Microsoft launch Project Natal (Kinect), partners with Cirque
Éloize, exhibits its costumes through a special tour (Dream Weavers),
launches a highly successful party in the streets of Quebec City (Les
Chemins Invisibles), and more!
/// 2012-2013: THE CIRQUE RESTRUCTURES & MOURNS
Although Cirque du Soleil would launch Amaluna, a new touring show in
Montreal, collaborate with pop star Madonna in the scope of her
performance at the Super Bowl XLVI halftime show, and find itself on
the IMAX screen through the efforts of James Cameron (Worlds Away 3D),
the companys unprecedented run of opening new shows in an uncertain
global economy would finally catch up with the entertainment company.
Cirque announces it will slash a number of positions citing tough
economic times and out of control expenses. A problem, Cirque
spokeswoman Renée-Claude Ménard admitted, the company had avoided
facing for several years, but now had no choice. In addition to the
layoffs, Cirque said it would be closing shows to trim expenses.
o) ZAIA closes in early 2012 following the down-turn in the
global economy (and lack-luster ticket sales during its run.)
Some suggest Cirque du Soleil did not come to understand its
Asian audience, as the show was never popular.
o) VIVA ELVIS, which held a lot of promise at the time of its
2009 launch, was unable to find an audience (many reviews 3
were poor) and was closed at the end of summer 2012 at the
behest of its host hotel, Aria.
o) SALTIMBANCO, at the end of a magnificent 20-year run and
two previous rebirths is placed on hiatus (effectively
closing the show) at the end of 2012. Although Saltimbanco's
closing might be viewed as cost-saving measure (Cirque was
not profitable in 2012), the show had been rumored to close
for some time.
o) IRIS, despite phenomenal reviews and enthusiastic audience
response, demand for tickets had not met projections, thus
the show held its final performance on January 19, 2013.
o) ALEGRIA, a true victim of Cirque du Soleil's budget woes, was
closed rather unceremoniously in Spain on December 22, 2013.
The Cirque family would also face hardships outside of its financial
struggles, when a tragedy took 31-year-old artist Sarah Guyard-
Guillots life unexpectedly during a live performance of KÀ. Though
the death was ruled an accident, a faulty harness clip was determined
to be the root cause. Her death and other artist injuries around the
same time would shake Cirques confidence in its safety procedures.
KÀ would go dark for several weeks. Although Guyard-Guillots death
was the first such reported from an accident onstage in the companys
30-year history, there were a number of bright spots for Cirque to
celebrate as well.
Following in the successful footsteps of Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL
World Tour, and after much anticipation throughout the entertainment
community, the Michael Jacksons estate and Cirque unveiled Michael
Jackson ONE, directed by Jamie King, to be presented exclusively at
Mandalay Bay. Michael Jackson ONE would join a newly transplanted
ZARKANA at Aria as Cirques newest shows in Las Vegas. ONE NIGHT FOR
ONE DROP would also make its debut. For one extraordinary night, and
in an unprecedented manner, seven Cirque du Soleil Las Vegas resident
productions became one for ONE DROP, the non-profit organization
established by Guy Laliberté for the conservation of water. The
evening featured more than 230 artists (and other guest performers) in
an once-in-a-lifetime performance on World Water Day, Friday, March
22, 2013, at the "O" Theatre at Bellagio Resort & Casino.
Cirque was active outside of Las Vegas too: SCALADA, a unique and free
outdoor event, was developed by Cirque for the Principality of
Andorra; its acrobats helped introduce the Infinity Q50 in one of the
more creative car reveals during the North American International Auto
Show; and, debuts DREAMSEEKER, a visually-stunning float for the 87th
Annual Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
/// 2014 WALKING A TIGHT ROPE (30 Years)
After suffering a number of setbacks, show closings, and layoffs of
400+ of its creative staff in recent years, where does Cirque go from
here? Anywhere it pleases, it seems, and without delay. From the
launch of KURIOS: CABINET OF CURIOSITIES (the companys 35th
production) to the numerous partnership announcements its already
made, the Cirque has a number of opportunities already lined up:
First, Saban Brands and Cirque du Soleil Media enter into a pact to
develop a childrens-entertainment property based on elements from the
live-entertainment companys long-running productions. The deal
includes a new television series, web content, interactive content,
and merchandise, appropriate for children at the pre-school level or
older.
Next, Cirque announces the creation of a new division - Cirque du
Soleil Theatrical which will develop unique theatrical opportunities
for the Cirque. Based on traditional theatrical practices, these new
productions will be created using the Cirque du Soleil signature style
and aesthetic but will provide a very different experience for Cirque
du Soleil audiences. This new division will be based in New York City
and will continue to promote Cirque du Soleil's on-going strategy of
diversifying its content and live-entertainment activities worldwide.
Then, Cirque du Soleil and Grupo Vidanta (a leading developer of
world-class resorts and tourism infrastructure in Mexico) announces
plans to introduce a new brand of cultural and culinary entertainment
to Mexico and Latin America: a brand-new show. JOYÀ, the 70-minute
show will be performed eight times a week year-round in the custom-
built, 600-seat Vidanta Theater currently under construction across
the street from Grupo Vidantas complex of four resorts (Grand Luxxe,
Grand Bliss, Grand Mayan and Mayan Palace) in the Riviera Maya between
Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
And most recently, a partnership agreement with Academy Award-winning
filmmaker James Cameron to develop an arena-touring show inspired by
the world of AVATAR. This "live experience", announced during the
international business C2MTL Commerce + Creativity Conference in
Montreal, is slated to debut sometime late 2015, featuring the
creative signature drive of Cirque du Soleil in association with
Camerons and Jon Landaus Lightstorm Entertainment. Although nobody
knows what we're in store for, the show is expected to debut before
the first of three upcoming AVATAR sequels.
Where Cirque du Soleil will go next is anyones guess!
# # #
The international success story known as Cirque du Soleil is, above
all, the story of a remarkable bond between performers and spectators
the world over. For at the end of the day, it is the spectators who
spark the creative passions of Cirque du Soleil. So long as we keep
our sense of excitement at discovering new paths, well never lose our
determination to share that excitement with every audience, at every
performance.
Today, we have our place in the sun and a roof over our heads, but
once upon a time the street was our home. I would say we took a little
dusty carpet and shook it out pretty well weve shown the world that
under the dust, something exceptional is coming out of contemporary
circus. My mission has not yet been accomplished. I still have a lot
of entertaining to do.
As the future approaches, Cirque prepares to embark on new projects
and connect with new audiences everywhere. Dreams never die. Come
along as they take on new forms! (Guy Laliberte)
And the magic continues...
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 14, Number 6 (Issue #125) - June 2014
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c)
2001-2014 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.
{ Jun.06.2014 }
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