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Fascination Issue 130
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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 11 November 2014 ISSUE #130
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Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque
du Soleil Newsletter.
Well, it's certainly been an interesting month for announcements,
hasn't it? There's "Allavita!" by the Cirque du Soleil Group, Events
and Special Projects team, which was tasked to create an engaging
and unique show concept to be presented during the Universal Expo in
Milan, Italy from May 1st to October 31st 2015. Saban Brands and Cirque
du Soleil finally unveiled their first collaborative effort since
joining forces last year - a TV co-production called "Luna Petunia",
a pre-school series inspired by the Cirque. And last, but not least,
is "Creactive", a partnership with Club Med to dream up the ultimate
circus-inspired playground in Punta Cana, featuring unique activities
inspired by the wondrous and unexpected world of Cirque du Soleil.
It's no wonder there won't be a Cirque Week in Las Vegas this year!
(There's various details about these projects in our news section
this month should you be interested in learning more about these
new projects...)
Speaking of Las Vegas... guess who turns 10 this month? KÀ! Though
it would go on to hold a star-studded gala premiere on February 3,
2005, the spectacle began preview performances at the MGM Grand on
November 26, 2004. So... happy birthday KÀ!
At the time of its creation, KÀ was Cirque du Soleil's biggest and
most ambitious project to date, in terms of physical size and budget.
Directed by Canadian theater and film vanguard Robert Lepage, and
ringing in with a purported price tag of $220 million USD, an
alleged weekly running cost of $1 million USD, a cast of 75+ artists,
and a crew of 158 stage technicians, KÀ aimed to reinvent and
revolutionize the world of live theater, and in many ways the Cirque
du Soleil itself. KÀ, of course, deals with the theme of duality and
is the epic story of a set of twins, separated at childhood, who must
voyage through a series of adventures, while relentlessly pursued by
enemies, in order to fulfill their destinies in a classic battle
between good and evil. The characters of KÀ inhabit a world of many
tribes and factions. These tribes are largely segregated from each
other and some tribes are in conflict with others. The story of KÀ
brings together the different peoples of this world to meet their
collective destiny.
To celebrate KÀ's momentous achievement, we've dug into our vast
archives for something unique to share at this occasion, finding:
"The KÀ Creators' Notebook". This journal, compiled and shared
internally, features some very interesting behing-the-scenes notes
regarding the creation of the MGM Grand show. Picking up just
following the official press conference on September 15, 2004, we hear
from Anh-Dao Bui (the Assistant to the Production Manager), Céciles
Vignes (Internal Communications Advisor), and Stéphane Mongeau
(Production Manager), as milestones in the shows creation are reached
including living through a Lions Den performance!
Any performance in front of hardcore fans is a "Lion's Den" one in
my opinion. There's hardly anyone more critical than a hardcore fan,
is there? Early last month I joined a band of Cirquesters here in
Atlanta to take in Cirque du Soleil's Amaluna, which I've not seen
(except on DVD) since it premiered in Montréal in April 2012. What
did I think? Although I can't say I am happy about the cuts (I really
do miss the unicycle girls and the tightwire team), nor was our
performance a perfect one (the storm duo were out of commission that
night and hoops manipulation - the replacement - failed to ignite our
passions), it was good to see the show again. Especially considering
Lara Jacobs Rigolo, the original Balance Goddess was performing! (Alas,
I also miss Marie-Michelle Faber as the Moon Goddess, and Pepa Plana
as "Deeda", but I digress...).
That being said, the teeterboard boys rocked it (even with one or two
short), it was great to see Julie McInnes as Prospera too before she
leaves, and, of course, the Amazons didn't disappoint. Lindsey Bruck-
Ayotte is a gymnast and artist from Syracuse, New York who is currently
touring with Cirque du Soleils Amaluna as one of the Amazon characters
and captain of the Uneven Bars team. Lindsey granted The Chapiteau an
interview (which they've graciously allowed us to share with you) in
which she talked about how she started her career in gymnastics, how
she ended up in Amaluna, information on the creation process and much
more!
And speaking of The Chapiteau...
Fascination! The Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter has provided
news, features and updates to Cirque fans of all ages for more than 13
years. And in that time weve contemplated taking our humble text-
based publication into new mediums: as a blog, a digest, and even a
graphical magazine. Well, now weve done it. In cooperation and in
partnership with The Chapiteau, we proudly present The Chapiteau-
Fascination Magazine, a graphical fanzine for hardcore Cirque fans to
keep up with the latest and greatest from the Cirque du Soleil fandom!
For long-time readers of Fascination! dont worry; well continue to
publish our monthly text-based newsletter as weve always done. And
The Chapiteau isnt going anywhere either. Rather, were embarking on
a fantastic and much more colorful way to archive the news,
updates and features both Fascination! and The Chapiteau bring you on
a daily and monthly basis instead, together! So download it today and
tell us what you think! And best of all? Were bi-lingual!
English: < http://goo.gl/q6Ctku >
Spanish: < http://goo.gl/pptVO0 >
As always we've got the latest news items posted to Fascination! Web,
the posts made to CirqueClub's pages and Cirque's Facebook links,
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
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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 & Casting
* Networking -- Posts on Facebook, G+, & YouTube
o) Fascination! Features
* "KÀ at 10: The Original Creator's Notebook"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
* INTERVIEW /// "Lindsey Bruck-Ayotte - Uneven Bars"
By: The Chapiteau, a Cirque du Soleil Fan Club
o) Subscription Information
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
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CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
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Cirque to Present "Allavita!" at Expo Milano 2015
{Oct.01.2014}
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Expo 2015 has selected the Cirque du Soleil Group, Events and
Special Projects, to create an engaging and unique show concept
to be presented during the Universal Expo taking place in Milan,
Italy from May 1 to October 31, 2015.
The colourful artistic circus will employ their graceful,
acrobatic dancers to delve into the deep and complex ties
between food and human existence at Expo's request. The theme of
the Universal Exposition that runs from May to October next year
is "Feeding the Planet. Energy for Life," exploring nutrition,
food security, sustainable practices and celebrating global
cuisines.
More than 50 Italian and international artists will perform in
the Allavita! (To life!) in the Open Air Theatre, which goes on
stage from May 6 to August 23, 2015.
The 2015 Exhibition theme Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life
embraces culture, tradition, technology, innovation and their
relationship with food. The Cirque du Soleil event production
will celebrate these elements through the creation of a
fascinating tale, interwoven with music and dance with the main
inspiration stemming from the deep union between Food and Life.
Allavita! is the evocative title of this new exclusive
production that will be presented during the Expo and will
include the participation of over 50 Italian and international
artists. This performance for the Universal Exposition of Milan
2015 will be set in a spectacular open air theatre from May 6 to
August 23, 2015.
The title Allavita! refers to the awareness of the winds that
nourish us and the roots that bring our international family
together. It is a call to feed our lives with pleasure, spice
and passion.
We are proud of our choice of Cirque du Soleil to represent the
universality of the public that will attend Expo Milano 2015. As
one of the most renowned international companies of artistic
performance, Cirque du Soleil constantly wishes to evoke the
unreal, to invoke the senses and provoke the emotions in people
from all over the world, using universal languages enjoyed by
all, said Giuseppe Sala, Commissioner of the Government of
Italy for Expo Milano 2015 and CEO of Expo 2015 Company.
We are extremely excited to bring Cirque du Soleils creativity
to this significant event for Italy and the world, said Yasmine
Khalil, President, Events and Special Projects for The Cirque du
Soleil Group. Allavita! will be a never-before-seen production
that will reflect the Expo Milano 2015 theme in an innovative,
entertaining and thought-provoking style.
Cirque du Soleil will collaborate with experts in Italy to
create Allavita!, which will include Italian performers who will
attend invited audition sessions in Milan. Specialty technical
and logistical experts from Italy will be a crucial part of the
shows production team and local providers and suppliers will
also assist in diverse areas. The high-quality expertise
available in Italy will be a great benefit to the Cirque du
Soleil team, added Khalil.
Allavita! will allow audiences to "discover the winds that
sustain us, and the roots that unite our international family.
An invitation to nourish our lives with pleasure, enthusiasm and
passion," said Yasmine Khalil, event and special projects
president for Cirque du Soleil.
"Allavita! will be a never before seen production that will re-
propose the Milan Expo 2015 theme in an innovative, entertaining
and stimulating way". Art and food will also co-mingle for Expo
in Milano al Bacio (Milan at the kiss), announced this week - a
series of initiatives surrounding the celebrated Italian
romantic painting, and symbol of the 19th century risorgimento
movement that led to national unity, The Kiss, by Francesco
Hayez.
The painting represents a dashing young couple from the middle
ages in the act of a passionate kiss, using colours and a
presentation that made the painting a symbolic, political
celebration of the alliance between the Italian patriotic
movement and France.
Pastry lessons, but also the creation of 20 different versions
of the famous painting by as many art students at the Milanese
art school Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera - home to the
celebrated masterpiece - will be part of the initiative as will
a photographs of people posing like the protagonists of The
Kiss.
The students' paintings will be exhibited during the month of
October and then, at the end of Expo, auctioned off to benefit
Father Virginio Colmegna's Charity House Foundation, which
supports troubled people in their effort to acquire autonomy.
Milano al Bacio is curated by Flavio Maestrini, a journalist at
the Rima publishing house and Pietro Pedroni of the advertising
agency Temantica.
* * *
Expo Milano 2015 introduces a new model for Universal
Expositions in the 21st century through an innovative thematic
approach that pervades every aspect of Expo and proposes to
tackle the problem of nutrition for humankind, respecting the
earth on which we live and from which we draw its exhaustible
vital resources. The success of Expo 2015 will depend on the
committed engagement of all the participants and their
willingness to share their contributions to the theme across a
platform that gives a voice to all the players involved. Six
months of work, meetings and seminars will help bring out all
the know-how needed to optimize the food chain with new
perspectives on waste reduction, food security and a greater
recovery of the nutritional value of the food.
The Cirque du Soleil Events and Special Projects team is
dedicated to designing and producing unique and exquisite
experiences that remain etched in the minds of the audience.
They have presented exclusive creative content for prestigious
international events such as The Super Bowl, FIFA & FiBA,
Academy Awards, Eurovision, as well as unforgettable corporate
and private celebrations and high-end brand launches.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
Saban & Cirque Unveil TV Show Luna Petunia
{Oct.11.2014}
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Saban Brands and Cirque du Soleil unveiled their first TV co-
production, Luna Petunia, a pre-school series inspired by the
Quebec-based circus troupe.
Veteran kids TV writer Bradley Zweig (Sid the Science Kid,
Krypto) will serve as showrunner for the cross-platform project
about a little girl who plays in a dreamland where she learns
how to make the impossible possible. The TV series, showcased at
MIP Jr. during a networking lunch, will be accompanied by a
consumer products line and interactive and digital content.
Saban Brands, an affiliate of Saban Capital Group, in February
2014 pacted with Cirque du Soleil Media to co-produce kids TV
series with online content and merchandising spinoffs. Saban
Brands, best known for its Power Rangers and Ninja Turtles: The
Next Mutation titles, was launched in 2010 to acquire and
develop kids properties with consumer brand potential.
We are enjoying this fantastic journey with Cirque du Soleil
Media as we collaborate on our upcoming series, Luna Petunia,
said Saban Brands president Elie Dekel on Saturday during the
annual kids TV buying and selling bazaar in Cannes. Along with
our showrunner Bradley Zweig, Cirque and Sabans creative vision
is becoming a reality as we bring to life a groundbreaking,
immersive new preschool series.
Jacques Méthé, president of Cirque du Soleil Media, added: We
are committed to delivering refreshing, beautifully artistic
entertainment and we are confident that Luna Petunia will do
just that.
Rights holder Saban Brands is partnering with another Canadian-
based media group, Lionsgate, to do a movie reboot of its iconic
Power Rangers TV property.
Cirque du Soleil Media is a joint venture between Cirque du
Soleil and Canadian media giant Bell Media, and is charged with
creating film, TV, digital and gaming content for worldwide
distribution.
{ SOURCE: Hollywood Reporter | http://goo.gl/U8jgw1 }
Pre-Order KURIOS CD on Amazon Today!
{Oct.14.2014}
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The release isnt until December 9, 2014, but be one of the
first few to get it in your hands when it does by pre-ordering
KURIOS CD on Amazon.com today!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/RRtlSb >
Cost: $14.98 USD
{ SOURCE: Amazon.com }
ONE NIGHT for ONE DROP 3: Through the Eyes of
One, We Explore the Lives Of Many
{Oct.16.2014}
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One Drop celebrated the third-annual Walk for Water last
weekend at Springs Preserve presented by UFC with a 2.7-mile
walk kicked off at Symphony Park by the Smith Center for the
Performing Arts and ended with a celebration at Springs
Preserve. The event paid tribute to the 780 million people who
lack access to water and are forced to walk miles every day to
retrieve it. Keynote speeches about our growing lack of water
and need for conservation were made by Mayor Carolyn Goodman,
Congresswoman Dina Titus, One Drop CEO Catherine B. Bachand, UFC
Hall of Famer and former light-heavyweight champion Forrest
Griffin and other concerned residents. Robin Leach spoke at
length with Catherine Bachand about the work of ONE DROP and
what we can expect at Cirques next benefit performance, on
March 20, 2015 at The Beatles LOVE Thaeter at the Mirage.
Q. What did you set out to achieve with this Walk for Water?
What did you raise, and what did you feel it accomplished?
How does all that marry into what youre doing with One Drop
in Las Vegas?
It was an amazing, beautiful day where 600 participants and
students joined us. The idea is to really have a community-based
event thats not so much focused on raising funds but on
generating awareness and mobilizing the community around the
issue of water. Its also the opportunity that we have to launch
our efforts to promote One Night for One Drop 2015. So in that
sense, it was a great success, and the difference also this year
was the route that took us from the Smith Center to Springs
Preserve, where we have a partnership to build a huge education
program.
Q. Catherine, if its too far afield, then we wont explore it,
but is the knowledge of good, clean water worldwide one of
the things that is going to come to the forefront now because
of the Ebola crisis?
I think certainly its an interesting thing because thats part
of what we do, using the arts and entertainment to educate
people. I know theyre having some challenges convincing
populations and reaching populations to educate them about the
danger of Ebola and how its being transmitted. Which also is
what we do about cholera and all water-related disease. What we
do in our platforms and our way of doing business is very
effective in cases just like that. When we had our project in
Haiti and we saw a rise in Cholera levels, we inserted a portion
dedicated to that specifically in the plan that we delivered in
the communities where we worked. It provoked a dramatic shift in
lowering the numbers. So we know that through theater and art,
youre able to communicate and educate.
Q. Other than the fact that Cirque is so dominant as an
entertainment conglomerate in Las Vegas, whats the
importance for Las Vegas to One Drop?
Youre right, our first connection is definitely our presence
with Cirque du Soleil, our largest and most important partner,
but it goes beyond that. Your mayor and the community have
embraced One Drop like probably no other community in the world.
The fact that we are telling a very powerful message about
water, water stewardship and conservation right in the middle of
the desert, that is in itself a very powerful message. The city
of Las Vegas also has a very unique and powerful story to tell
the world. Its the city that grew by 400,000 people and yet
your water consumption levels have gone down by about 30
percent. I think the rest of the world should know this, and I
think Las Vegas can definitely lead the way.
Q. So that naturally leads to the biggest effort in fundraising
and awareness with the annual One Drop show. It started off
being a one-time special, and now in March it will go into
its third year.
The show thats now presented every year is a unique show; its
a brand new show around the theme of water. Every year, theres
a different, or at least a new creative concept behind it
tackling or approaching a different subject relating to water
and water-related subjects. Each single One Night for One Drop
is performed only once ever. So its a whole new show built from
the ground up: New music, new costumes, new location, new acts.
This is not a collage of other Cirque du Soleil shows. This is a
completely unique, one-night, one-time-only Cirque du Soleil
performance.
Q. So the first year we were in the O theater at Bellagio, and
we saw performers in the water and actually using water. Last
March, we switched to Mandalay Bay for more of a
desertification production. So this year, can you give me a
little sneak peek as to how you keep the same but different
message going?
We used projections a lot more last year with the
desertification the increasing desertification of the world
that we live in. Were almost ready to unveil the creative
genius of Mukhtar as he is the best at taking people on a very
unique journey. Robin, you have the scoop in that the subtitle
for this one, because its always One Night for One Drop, will
be Through the Eyes of One, We Explore the Lives Of Many.
Mukhtar is going to take us on a journey through the eye of one
telling the story of many. One thing that really struck me when
I saw the presentation is that the first year, there was this
beautiful performance choreography. Then last year, he took that
a little farther and he used the same performers and had those
ladies also play a role in the show. My understanding is that
this year, hes going to actually get even closer and really
follow the lives of these six women the journey that they have
had and the different elements that are important in their
lives.
{ SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun | http://goo.gl/yOQfIW }
PennLive Chats With Emilie Schram,
Varekai Slippery Surface Performer
{Oct.20.2014}
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Sean Adams, writer for the Patriot Times in Central
Pennsylvania, had a moment to speak with Emilie Schram, one of
Varekais Slippery Surface performers, which is scheduled to
play in the city of Hershey soon.
# # #
Q. Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us, Emilie.
What is your role in Varekai?
Im a female dancer and singer. Im doing break-dancing stuff,
like head spinning and jumping on my hands, stuff like that.
Q. How did you first become interested in breakdancing?
So I was very young and still doing gymnastics, and I saw on TV
some breakdancing. When I saw that, I was so inspired. Many
years after I began to go outside on the street and practice
with people out on the street in my hometown of Nice, in the
southeast of France. I was 17, so that was in 2003.
Q. I think a lot of Americans tend to think of break-dancing and
hip-hop dance as a very American thing. What is that culture
like in Europe?
We got inspired by Americans, and so now the hip hop dance is
very huge. We have many events everywhere, mostly Paris. Its
very huge, many young people begin to train. In France we have a
very huge level. We dont only have break-dance, we have many
types of hip-hop dance. Popping and locking, house dance, new
style, experimental.
Q. When did you start performing with Cirque du Soleil? Did you
run away and join the circus, as they say?
I began last May, 2014. Im replacing another girl who got
hurt, so I sent a video one year ago and they found me. I came
first in April. I was in Montreal for two weeks to learn her
character. There are many other moments in the show where I
dance, but its mostly the Slippery Surface act.
Q. Can you explain the Slippery Surface act?
Slippery Surface is part of the show where we are aquatic,
[moving as if we are] underwater. We are seaweed and other
creatures, and there are acrobatic gymnastics. There are also
contortionists. Very light; very colorful. The music is very
joyful. Its very beautiful and impressive, all of the talents
in this scene, for maybe five minutes. I love this act. Its a
light in the show.
Q. What is an average day of rehearsal like?
Usually I come very early, because I also like to sing and I
come in early to train in singing. After I go and eat and
stretch thats maybe two hours, because I like to take my
time. I go do my makeup. After we have pilates with my coach,
about one hour before the show and after the show.
Every day is different. Sometimes you stretch, sometimes you
work out. Sometimes you just dance to make yourself feel good.
Q. What does an average workout routine look like for a Cirque
performer? How do you stay in shape?
Its a lot of, how you say, core work, yeah? To have strength
in the legs, arms, we work on every part, every muscle. We do a
lot of Pilates. Im used to being my own coach, so I take
exercises from many people that I met. But since I met this
coach, he made me love Pilates, and he made me love to work out.
I started very slow, a lot of breathing and we take our time. A
lot of exercise is about doing things fast, push-ups, as fast as
you can. We work our muscles so much more when we take our time.
For me, its mostly Pilates.
Q. How do you rest and recover from a show?
Every morning Im trying to breathe and doing breathing
exercises. We are always traveling. We are kind of out of our
bodies sometimes. Im always trying to be grounded. At night, I
make sure to sleep well. Im the kind of person who loves to
sleep, so I will go to sleep around maximum 11 [p.m.], and to
sleep around 9 [a.m.].
Its good to find peace and peace of mind, and eat well! Im
careful of what I eat. Not a lot of bread or heavy stuff. I can
feel the difference between when I eat heavy and when I eat
healthy. A lot of vegetables and fruit, not a lot of meat. After
a show, something very light.
Q. Whats something unusual about being a Cirque performer that
audience members might not know about?
What comes to me right now is being an artist, at Cirque du
Soleil or not, all the time Im here to give, you know. I have a
huge chance to be on stage and with Cirque du Soleil. I always
dreamed to be in this family, and its good to travel and be
with people all the time. But its very challenging to learn a
lot how to live with each other and accept each other. Its like
a school of life, a fast school of life. Trying to be stable.
People come and see us perform and get inspired, and thats how
I get inspired to be an artist.
{ SOURCE: PennLive | http://goo.gl/qCcsxg }
Cirque Performers Wear Hexoskin to Record Biometrics
{Oct.21.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Hexoskin announced that 10 Cirque du Soleil performers are
wearing its smart shirts to record their biometrics during the
live Beatles Love show.
Though Cirque du Soleil performers around the world normally
wear Hexoskin smart shirts during training routines, this marks
the first time that they will be wearing the smart shirts for
the Beatles live show.
Hexoskin said it will continue this trial for the next six weeks
to analyze the artists performances and identify new ways on
how these can be optimized.
The wearable tech solution connects an intelligent sports
garment with integrated sensors that capture body metrics,
including heart rate, breathing rate, power, and acceleration.
Hexoskin is designed for trainers and coaches of amateur and
professional athletes and sports teams who are looking to
evaluate and monitor performance results.
The Hexoskin intelligent garment provides trainers with an easy
and natural way of regularly capturing precise data, recording
more than 35,000 data points per minute to provide accurate body
metrics.
Trainers can monitor and compare their athletes detailed body
metrics either remotely or onsite using an iPhone or iPad or via
a Web portal.
Learn more about Hexoskin here:
LINK /// < http://www.hexoskin.com/ >
{ SOURCE: Biometric Update | http://goo.gl/06HWrX }
Glade Triggers First-Ever Cirque du Soleil
Scent-Inspired Performance
{Oct.22.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
Glade and Cirque du Soleil announced a partnership to prove
there is more to scent than meets the nose. As expressed through
the artistry of Cirque du Soleil, the year-long partnership will
demonstrate how any of the 37 Glade fragrances can incite
emotion, spark the imagination and arouse the senses.
Beginning with an immersive, multi-sensory experience on
Wednesday, October 22, Cirque du Soleil will transform Madison
Square Park in New York City into a dreamland. Animators and
acrobats will alter the park landscape as various scents fill
the air. Inspired by Glade fragrances Pumpkin Pie Diner, Apple
Cinnamon, Red Honeysuckle Nectar, Cashmere Woods and Clean
Linen, the visual animation will shift as each scent elicits a
different emotion and artistic expression.
Cirque du Soleil is one of the most innovative brands in the
world they are a great partner to bring-to-life the power of
Glade scent as a driver to emotion and creative expression,
says Kelly M. Semrau, Senior Vice President of Global Corporate
Affairs, Communication and Sustainability, for SC Johnson. We
look forward to the year ahead and Glade playing the part of
catalyst to Cirque du Soleils special performance.
Cirque du Soleil is known for producing high quality productions
telling each shows story through captivating theatrical
performances, stunning acrobatics, dramatic music and lighting.
As part of the year-long partnership, Cirque du Soleil and Glade
will bring people across the country scent-inspired surprise
special performances, testimonials from Cirque du Soleil
experts, and more.
What weve developed for Glade is unlike anything weve ever
done before, says Cirque du Soleils Corporate Alliances Senior
Director Louis Malafarina. Fragrance has the power to elicit a
specific feeling or emotion, or in our case, inspire us to
imagine a new one.
As the worldwide leader in home fragrance, Glade can help unlock
a variety of positive emotions through scent. Glade has been a
fragrance leader for more than 50 years, growing from two
products to 37 fragrances in an ever-evolving range of product
forms.
To learn more about the partnership or Glade fragrances and
products visit: www.Glade.com, www.Facebook.com/Glade or follow
us at Twitter.com/Glade and Instagram.com/Glade using
#FEELGLADE.
{ SOURCE: PR Newswire | http://goo.gl/cq7ID0 }
KURIOS Shares Some Last Minute Halloween Costume Tips
{Oct.23.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
With Halloween just days away, KURIOS by Cirque du Soleil is
sharing some last-minute tips and tricks to create your own
innovative Kurios-inspired costume!
Check out the images here:
LINK /// < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?p=5129 >
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
Air Canada Vacations Partners with
Cirque and MGM Resorts
{Oct.24.2014}
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What happens in Vegas now starts right here in Canada as
travellers will have the ability to book best-priced tickets for
all eight spectacular Cirque du Soleil shows either when they
book their Air Canada Vacations packages or, for more
spontaneous travellers, directly from their seats aboard Air
Canada rouge flights to Las Vegas. The in-flight booking program
for Cirque du Soleil tickets, the first of its kind in Canada,
will start January 1, 2015 from Montreal, with a view to
expanding across Canada in the future. This new service is a
result of a partnership between Cirque du Soleil, MGM Resorts
International and Air Canada Vacations that was launched last
night at a glittering event held at Cirque du Soleil
headquarters.
According to Michael Friisdahl, President and Chief Executive
Officer of Air Canada Leisure Group, this partnership is great
news for consumers. Air Canada rouge has 38 direct flights a
week from Canadian cities to Las Vegas, making it one of our
most popular destinations. We know that our passengers want
access to the best Cirque du Soleil shows at the best prices,
and we are delighted to add this new program to the list of
servicesthings like airport transfers and great car rental
packagesthat we already provide our Vegas clients. We are proud
to launch the program in Montreal where Cirque du Soleil began,
and look forward to expanding the program to other cities soon.
To celebrate the launch of this program, every passenger who
books a package to Las Vegas with Air Canada Vacations from now
until November 15, 2014, will receive a complimentary ticket to
one of three Cirque du Soleil shows: KÁ at MGM Grand Hotel &
Casino, Zarkana at ARIA Resort & Casino, or Zumanity, The
Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil at New York-New York Hotel &
Casino. We are excited about this partnership and this is our
way of kicking it off in typical Vegas fashion added Friisdahl.
No matter where in Canada you book from, no matter what hotel
you stay in, as long as you book your trip to Las Vegas with Air
Canada Vacations by November 15, 2014 you will be seeing a
spectacular show as our treat.
Jerry Nadal, Senior Vice President of the Resident Shows
Division of Cirque du Soleil was in Montreal to launch the
partnership. As the worlds leading live entertainment company
we are proud to be here in Montreal where our international
success story began. Cirque du Soleil shows are a must-see
experience for all Canadian guests visiting Las Vegas. We look
forward to working closely with Air Canada Vacations and our
Canadian travel partners in further promoting live entertainment
and Cirque du Soleil.
Cirque du Soleils Vegas show venues are located at resorts
including Bellagio, ARIA, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and The
Mirage, all part of MGM Resorts International, a significant
hotel partner for Air Canada Vacations. According to Jeff
Eisenhart, MGM Resorts Vice President of Leisure Sales and
Marketing, there is something for all types of visitors in the
portfolio. MGM Resorts properties provide a wide array of
outstanding guest experiences for travellers to Las Vegas. By
offering the citys premier entertainment as well as dining and
nightlife options, we hope to inspire many more Canadians to
choose Las Vegas for their next vacation, and we are proud to be
working closely with Air Canada Vacations as we work towards our
goal.
Las Vegas is renowned as a veritable playground for Canadian
travellers. Brand USAthe public-private partnership responsible
for promoting the United Statesreports that at 1.8 million
annual visitors, Canadians represent 36 per cent of the total
international visitor market to the city. Canada is the largest
international market for the destination.
Brand USA is the destination marketing organization for the USA
its only logical that we partner with Air Canada Vacations to
offer the best in comprehensive travel services for Canadians
travelling to Las Vegas, and one of the most recognizable
entertainment brands in the world, Cirque du Soleil, said Chris
Thompson, President and CEO for Brand USA. We believe world
class theatrical productions, concerts, music festivals and
professional sports to be some of the unique experiences that
distinguish the USA and Las Vegas as a world class travel
destination.
Daily non-stop flights to Las Vegas aboard Air Canada rouge
operate from Montreal, Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil | http://goo.gl/uXiaoL }
Club Med and Cirque Announce New Partnership
with Unique Experimental Activities for Guests
{Oct.24.2014}
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Club Med, the brand that pioneered the all-inclusive concept
over 60 years ago, and Cirque du Soleil, which reinvented circus
arts and reshaped it into a groundbreaking entertainment
company, have partnered to launch a completely new and unique
concept in experiential travel with Club Med CREACTIVE by Cirque
du Soleil. The CREACTIVE concept will debut at Club Med Punta
Cana in the Dominican Republic in June 2015, where guests will
be able to learn many of the exciting acrobatic disciplines
showcased in famed Cirque du Soleil productions. These two
iconic global brands were created by visionaries who sought to
create moments of happiness, and both continue to do so through
innovative experiences that tap into the desire for adventure
and surprise.
The original CREACTIVE experience will invite vacationers to
participate in a variety of recreational circus acrobatic and
artistic activities ranging from high bungee, flying trapeze,
aerial silk, tightrope and trampoline to juggling, percussion
and dance or mask painting, amongst many others. Guests will be
fully immersed in a fantastically colorful and imaginative
environment that is custom designed to encourage both adults and
children alike to learn new skills, play and have fun under the
supervision of Cirque du Soleil trained staff, which will help
them progress and discover unexpected new abilities.
Cirque du Soleil President and CEO, Daniel Lamarre stated This
partnership is a natural progression, stemming from the success
and uniqueness of Club Med having provided circus instruction
for over 25 years, and now with Cirque du Soleils 30 years of
experience and know-how, this activity will have a new color.
Club Meds Chairman and CEO, Henri Giscard dEstaing also added,
This new concept will leverage, for the benefit of Club Med
guests, the expertise and knowledge of Cirque du Soleil, who are
unrivalled innovators in the realm of circus artistry. It will
also capitalize on the heritage and talent of Club Med in
creating extraordinary memories in beautiful vacation
destinations.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil | http://goo.gl/5hzzHJ }
Introducing: Club Med Creactive by Cirque du Soleil
{Oct.24.2014}
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Escape to a world of creative exploration. Club Med and Cirque
du Soleil have joined forces to dream up the ultimate circus-
inspired playground.
Adults and children alike are invited to live a one-of-a-kind
immersive experience in Punta Cana, featuring unique activities
inspired by the wondrous and unexpected world of Cirque du
Soleil. From artistic to acrobatic activities, vacationers will
have fun, learn new skills and achieve things they would never
have expected / discover capabilities they would never have
imagined.
With CLUB MED CREACTIVE by CIRQUE DU SOLEIL, well elevate your
vacation fun to a whole new level
VIDEO /// < http://youtu.be/VfiPDM67mHM >
CREACTIVE PLAYGROUND:
o) Recreational acrobatic activities: high bungee, double
flying trapeze, aerial silk, tightrope and trampoline
o) Artistic activities: mask painting, juggling,
percussion and dance
o) Over 25 activities for both adults and children
o) Expert staff supervision from our Gentils Circassiens
trained by Cirque du Soleil and Club Med
Check out a few images here:
LINK /// < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?p=5138 >
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil, ClubMed | http://cirk.me/1shjfiU }
Alevtyna Titarenko (Rings/TOTEM)
Afraid of Heights?
{Oct.25.2014}
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Cirque du Soleil star Alevtyna Titarenko and her talented
castmates are set to thrill Sydney when their show Totem opens
on Tuesday.
Titarenko is the extraordinarily athletic acrobat who performs
the female role in Totems Rings Trio act, in which she soars
over the heads of the crowd up to 12 metres in the air.
Watching her, youd never guess shes afraid of heights, and
that she prefers not to know her exact distance from the ground
when shes working aloft.
Speaking to S during rehearsals for Totem, Ukrainian-born
Titarenko revealed her latest height-related anxiety: watching
her 10-year-old daughter, Alisa, perform aerial acts.
She came on tour with the show last year and took circus
lessons, says Titarenko. And she excels at aerial. She likes
it best, which is unfortunate for me! I am terrified to watch
her up there. Im saying: hold on! Dont let go! Its very
different when its your child doing the things that you do.
Alisa, says Titarenko, does not share the fear that causes her
mother to avoid roller coasters and bungee jumps and even,
sometimes, to close her eyes during her spectacular Totem
performances. She thinks its embarrassing, says the 34-year-
old veteran of four Cirque shows.
Titarenkos mother wanted to be a trapeze artist, but became a
fashion designer instead. She was able to realise her acrobatic
dreams through me, says the performer, who is also an
international bodybuilding champion. Now the next generation
looks set to take the high road, too. I will support her of
course, all the way, says Titarenko. Although my heart will be
pounding and I will be praying!
{ SOURCE: Sydney Morning Herald | http://goo.gl/wmyNEQ }
Here Comes the Sun Life is Beautiful
{Oct.26.2014}
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As he finished conducting the Las Vegas Philharmonic in an
exquisitely performed medley of music by The Beatles, maestro
Richard Oberacker turned toward the thousands of people crowding
the Life Is Beautiful Downtown Stage.
Clad in a stately black suit in the face of a sunny Las Vegas
afternoon, Oberacker gestured with a sweep of his arm to that
army of talented musicians.
He then stopped to notice a prop at his feet.
Beach ball.
The maestro grinned, scooped up the plaything and tossed it to
the crowd. Then he flashed the peace sign.
It was a beautiful moment in one of the most eagerly anticipated
performances of the festival. The Las Vegas Philharmonic,
teaming with artists from the Cirque show The Beatles Love at
the Mirage, all happily converging on LIBs main stage.
Never had these artistic institutions collaborated in such a
way. The idea bloomed over time, with L.V. Phil CEO Jeri
Crawford approaching Life Is Beautiful founder Rehan Choudhry
and asking about, maybe, setting up a rave with the Phil. The
concept was further enlivened when LIB music guru Craig Nyman
suggested incorporating Cirques Love cast into a performance
of The Beatles classics.
It all came off beautifully. The Phil opened with a series of
those readily recognizable songs, played purely as the crowd
swayed and even sang along to Across the Universe, Eleanor
Rigby, Michelle, Here, There and Everywhere, Yellow
Submarine, among other songs.
The Cirque artists bounded to the scene, as is their wont, as
the tea-toting character from Love took center stage. The
recording of The Beatles playing Get Back blanketed the crowd.
Footage of the rooftop concert was buoyed by the symphonys live
playing, and the Love cast took to the air on a line of four
long bungee chords.
Eleanor Rigby was played a second time, powerfully delivered
as the Love cast member portraying that character shuffled
across the stage. Here Comes the Sun was warmly received by
the sun-drenched crowd, cheering George Harrisons vocals,
followed by Yesterday.
At the end, it was a full-voiced All You Need Is Love, with
the crowd roaring at the images of John Lennon and Paul
McCartney singing together during footage of the live Our
World global telecast from 1967. All together now! McCartney
shouts in that clip, throughout history and over the masses in
downtown Las Vegas. Everybody!
All you need is love, love, love is all you need! the crowd
sang, obeying gleefully. The song played out, with the musicians
and Cirque artists amassing in the middle to acknowledge all
that love.
Afterward, Oberacker, the music director of Ka and co-creator
of a new musical called Bandstand, said it was a career
highlight. The perfect fusion of the elements of his career is
how he termed it.
It also was the perfect fusion of music spanning generations and
a pair of this citys great cultural institutions. It was a
moment when life really was beautiful.
{SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun | http://goo.gl/4BmYT5 }
Cirque du Soleil looks to the cloud to transform HR
{Oct.27.2014}
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Global dance company Cirque du Soleil has implemented cloud-
based HR service SuccessFactors to help manage its staff as they
travel around the world.
Cirque du Soleil tours in more than 100 cities on a yearly basis
with the direct support of an employee group made up of
artists, operations and management professionals from 50
different countries.
The organisation said it was looking for a platform that offered
both remote access and could handle the extremely complex
realities of a global workforce, always on the move.
After an evaluation process, it opted to use SuccessFactors
because it is cloud-based and integrates a multitude of
workforce-related functionalities that are both mobile and
international, according to Bernard Hébert, vice president of
Information and Business Systems at Cirque du Soleil. He added
that it simply aligns very well with our needs.
He said that in using the cloud, the organisations HR team is
able to deliver all of the key services expected of a world-
class HR department, anywhere, anytime.
It provides the transactional flexibility that is required in
order to carry out the HR functions within a company that is
complex and in movement, he added.
The SuccessFactors Employee Central Function provides us with
all the required information to set up any future requirements
in terms of master data management.
Hébert also said it is important, in the future, that employees
and direct managers have the option to use self-service
functions that the cloud software offers to carry out HR-related
activities by themselves.
The initial investment the group had to make to get up and
running was limited to the software component and requires no
infrastructure spending, resulting in savings from the
beginning, according to Hébert, which made the cloud option much
more attractive than staying on-premise.
Furthermore, the core application/platform is maintained and
constantly optimised by SAP thus minimising future investment
requirements.
The vast majority of the costs of operational rather than
capital investments making each cloud-based project much less
demanding of the enterprises financial resources, said Hébert.
Lastly, Hébert said that the service can scale up and down as
and when the needs of the group change over time.
{ SOURCE: Cloud Pro | http://goo.gl/NrVj44 }
Robin Leach Talks to Mukhtar About ONOD 3
{Oct.27.2014}
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Cirque du Soleils ambitious voluntary cast effort for the
annual, one-night-only One Night for Drop benefit performance
is underway for the third consecutive year.
At the helm again for the second time is The Beatles Love
performer Mukhtar O.S. Mukhtar, and he promises in our exclusive
interview that his vision for the new production will ensure
that we wont even recognize the Love theater in the Mirage
where it will be staged next March.
You are definitely not going to feel like you are in the Love
show, he said.
One Night for One Drop is the large annual fundraiser for the
clean water for the world charity. Our interview with One Drop
Foundation President Catherine Bachand was posted last week.
Nicknamed The Mind of Mukhtar, here is a YouTube video of his
preparation for last years show at Mandalay Bay.
Returning from a conference about the One Drop shows in
Switzerland and juggling a trip for a Cirque show expansion in
Dubai, Mukhtar talked with me about the March 20 show subtitled:
Through the Eyes of One, We Follow the Lives of Many.
Q. Is it more difficult the second time to be original when
youve done such a great job the first time out?
I dont think its more difficult because the amazing thing is I
can do something completely different. Thats my aim because
people are going to expect to see the same type of field, but I
want to really flip the script and do the opposite.
Q. So how will this be different? Year one was the search for
water, year two, which was your first year last year, was
desertification. If you had to use one word or a couple of
words to describe year three, how would you describe what you
envision?
I would say exploring. Exploring the lives of these women who
are on this journey for water.
Q. Last year we began with the ladies who were looking for water
in the desert?
It actually goes back to the first year. The first year we saw a
whole act dedicated to these women who were looking for water.
Then last year, I just thought I would continue their journey
because I found them really interesting, so I thought Ill
continue their journey and respect their fellowship and that
would link the two shows.
As I was thinking more about it, these six women really
interested me and I wanted to know who they were individually
and what theyve experienced in life or experienced on their
journey to this water. So this is the show where I really want
to show that to the audience because we have a similar type of
audience each year who come, so they can really relate.
Q. As you increase the depth of the storytelling of the
characters, do we get more emotional over the lack of the
worlds water?
I think definitely emotion is one of the feelings that well
see, but its not only emotion. Im also looking for hope. Even
though theyre looking for water, I dont want the whole show
about just that. I feel like the past few years have been about
that feeling. So what I want to do is even though these women
are walking for water, were going into their individual
stories; these stories are going to be completely different.
For example, if all six women are Indian or from a Third World
country, some of the things they experience might not only be
related to women from that area. It might be related to
something you and I could relate to. So I dont want to make the
show depressing because of everyday life thats happening.
For example, one of the women is going to focus on this 9-to-5
system that a lot of people are stuck with. Its like a robotic
type of thing. So that has nothing to do with a Third World
country, but its something you and I can relate to. Its
something that the woman has experienced, and at the end of the
show theres going to be a moment where all these stories are
going to be connected.
Thats why I want to make these six stories different and make
these women different. Ive already developed six stories. Im
in the process right now of picking the right creative team
whos going to push this concept forward.
Q. In the first year, you had a larger cast with guest stars,
last year less guest stars and a smaller number of people
onstage. Where do you stand this year?
I like working with not such a large cast because of the time
that we have, and I also learned a lot from the first year, as
well, because of what were working with and the restrictions.
To get more benefit and results, maybe having 200-plus people
might not be the answer for that for me personally. I think this
year because we have a bigger theater, I might be able to push
the cast number up a little from last year.
Q. Theres a lot of moving, computer-driven parts to that Love
theater. Are you going to be able to take advantage of it in
what you are going to stage?
For sure. Im actually going one step ahead of that. Im trying
to figure out a way to transform the whole stage by looking at
the technology that the stage provides because the stage does
things that Love doesnt even use because they dont need to,
so Im trying to figure out what things people havent seen that
the stage does.
Q. So it will be a completely different look and feel this time
around?
Well youre going to get, of course, the 360-degree stage, but
youre definitely not going to feel like youre in The Beatles
Love. I can assure you that.
Q. So definitely not a Beatles touch to it, but youve got
projection screens to work with, youve got stages breaking
into four quarters to work with. Youve got the up-and-down
lifts.
Yes, exactly, weve got all of that to work with. I think the
best thing about this stage is Ive got a lot more technical
advances around; I have a lot more aerial equipment that we
didnt have at the Michael Jackson Mandalay Bay Theater. We did
a great job in masking that when we did the performance, but
this year Love is unlimited in terms of winches, in terms of
things that can possibly happen through the air, so were really
going to take advantage of that.
Q. The first two years, we had The Canadian Tenors, Jackie
Evancho and the incredible poet. Are those artists returning,
or do you have new artists?
I wont give anything away too much right now, but I want to
create a new show, so you can take what you want from that.
Q. What kind of music are you going to be using?
Were going to be using contemporary music as well as bringing
in musicians who will create live music.
Q. Where are you in the timeline of production? Have you started
sketching costumes and makeup appearances for the look of the
show?
Right now, were in the stage where most of the creative team is
onboard, were at the point where were going to go to all the
show casts and present the show to them so that we can engage
them in what were doing. Then we start picking the cast.
Q. Do you audition them for this like any other show?
I dont really use the word audition because everyone is
volunteering their time. What we do is we give them the
presentation, they see what were doing, and then they volunteer
for what they think they can do in the show.
If they arent ready for our show, then we see where else we can
use them. Some of these artists, even though they do what they
do in their shows, theyre extremely skillful in other
disciplines, too, so I want to bring out those skills that no
one has seen before.
Q. The first year, which was at Bellagio, physical water was
obviously very prevalent because thats what O is all
about. Last year, being in the desert was the complete
contradiction of that. I know you dont want to give anything
away, but in the Love theater, do you have any access to
water?
I can get access to water, yes; the question is do I want water
in this show. These women are searching for water; the question
is do they get there? Do they find it? And if they do find it,
do we actually see the water, or do we see the water in a
different metaphor? Thats the question. The more and more Im
getting involved with this, the more and more Im thinking to
myself that maybe I dont want to use water onstage.
Q. How has this whole thing affected you in terms of you are
African bringing to the Western world the message of water
shortages and the lack of good, clean water? How has it
affected you emotionally from doing it the first time to
where youre redoing it now a second time? What has it made
you realize?
It has definitely made me realize that there are people out
there who are trying to help solve the problem, which is
incredible, especially in the One Drop Foundation. Its pulled
me harder than ever to come and help.
Putting on a show like this is a lot of work, and for me to come
back again and say, Yes, Ill do it, must show that theres a
big cause there that Im doing this for. Its because everybody
is coming from a great place and everybody really wants to do
this because theyre trying to help.
Q. And you are juggling your regular work while tackling this
show?
Yes, exactly. Well, three. Right now Im juggling this with a
project Im doing in Dubai with Cirque du Soleil, and Ive also
got 5-month-old twin girls this time. Thats a lot of work in
and of itself.
Q. So youre sort of working 24 hours a day at the moment?
Yes, definitely. Ive already got the wholeconcept for the
Dubai project, and were just waiting right now on them. So all
my attention can now go to One Drop.
Q. Do you find the process exhilarating or is it daunting in
terms of the challenge?
I find it extremely exhilarating. This is the only way you can
get challenged creatively. You have a time limit, and you have
to find solutions creatively; theres no other way that you can
go forward unless you use your brain to find a creative way to
find solutions. It really excites me because I learn so much
from the process, as well. This really trains me.
Q. Is it sad that its only for one night, or does that make it
extra special?
Its both. Its sad for me and the players that its only one
night because of all the work that goes into it. They really
want to perform it again for different people, and it creates
such a huge buzz, but looking at it from the other side, the
format gives it an incredibly unique feel.
I gave a conference last week in Switzerland, and I had a lot of
people come up to me asking why isnt it more than one night?
They saw it on the Internet, and it created a huge buzz all the
way on the other side of the world. That uniqueness of it is
what makes people really want to watch it.
Q. What at this moment is the biggest challenge you face with
this particular production?
The biggest challenge I face is first of all the time frame. I
think the time frame is a challenge for anyone who comes into a
production like this because the show has to be on the same
field as the other Cirque shows that are all closing on the same
day for ours and all the people come to donate their money and
time.
You have to respect that by giving them a really high-end show.
I think the biggest challenge is under the timeframe creating
the best show you can possibly create.
* * *
Mukhtars production in March will be the largest of the three
to date, as the Love theater has 2,000 seats. Robin Leach will
continue to report its progress in the months to come!
{ SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun, Luxe Life | http://goo.gl/wORYo8 }
Chime buys SJX Partners, a Cirque du Soleil marketer
{Oct.28.2014}
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The communications group Chime has continued its overseas
expansion with the acquisition of SJX Partners, a US marketing
firm that promotes Cirque du Soleil, for as much as £12.1m.
Chime is paying £5.3m up front, with the rest dependent on the
performance of SJX until 2020. It is paying for the takeover
with 70pc cash and the rest in shares.
As well as Cirque du Soleil, the Las Vegas show, SJX represent
the US Tennis Association and Little League Baseball. It will
form part of Chimes focus on sports marketing, which has
increased since it bought Lord Coes consultancy business two
years ago.
Alongside the acquisition, Chime said it had extended and
increased its £95m credit facility, which had been due for
repayment in September 2016. A new deal will allow it to borrow
£130m until 2019.
The acquisition of SJX is the latest in a series of sports
acquisitions by Chime. Last month it bought BC Sports
Management, which manages rugby players.
Chimes biggest sports deal, the £71m acquisition of the Formula
1 specialist JMI last year, prompted disquiet from major
shareholder WPP. Sir Martin Sorrells group said it would look
to sell its stake in Chime as a result but it remains invested.
{ SOURCE: The Telegraph | http://goo.gl/ZEa1aJ }
VIDEO /// Feel Inspired: Glade & Cirque du Soleil
{Oct.28.2014}
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Couldnt be with us and Cirque du Soleil in NYC? Live
vicariously.
LINK /// < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?p=5160 >
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil, Glade }
Rock in Rio USA: 100 acts, 300,000 fans,
and 37-acre City of Rock
{Oct.29.2014}
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For two weekends next May, more than 100 acts representing the
music of America, Britain and Brazil will entertain 300,000
expected fans at the debut Rock in Rio USA festival at its very
own 37-acre City of Rock on the Las Vegas Strip.
Bruno Mars, Joss Stone and Ed Sheeran were announced Monday as
the newest performers to join already-set Taylor Swift,
Metallica, Linkin Park, John Legend and The Deftones. More
concert artists will be revealed in December and January.
Organizers said Monday as they unveiled an on-site miniaturized
model that they have booked more than 50 percent of the 100-plus
stars expected.
The first-time Las Vegas event, on MGM Resorts land from Circus
Circus to the edge of Sahara Avenue opposite SLS Las Vegas,
celebrates the 30th anniversary of the legendary Rock in Rio
celebrations in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and Lisbon, Portugal.
Although the venue will have six stages for entertainment, its
more about the gathering for people to enjoy music, culture
and food. In addition to a Ferris wheel, there will be a 64-
foot-high and 600-foot-long zip line that stretches in front of
the Main Stage. As many as 85,000 people can attend daily from 4
p.m. until 2 a.m. The air-conditioned VIP area alone can
accommodate as many as 4,000 people with a unique view of the
City of Rock.
Organizers provided a sneak preview Monday of the three thematic
streets inside the City of Rock. Dozens of musicians, performers
and street artists tantalized with the experience that audiences
will enjoy. Rock in Rio chief Roberto Medina conceived the U.S.
festival and its City of Rock four years ago.
Now his vision will come to life in partnership with MGM
Resorts, Cirque du Soleil and billionaire Ron Burkle his
Yucaipa equity investment takeover company owns Fresh & Easy
among his numerous supermarket holdings.
Unlike other music festivals, Roberto wanted Rock Streets where
audience and artists could interact over each 500-foot area
featuring 20 homes filled with shops, restaurants and a stage.
Performers will transform the street into stage areas to connect
with audiences.
Rock Street USA will use the imagery of New Orleans, its culture
and music as its backdrop with a diner, parked Cadillac, street-
side cafes, jam sessions, the blues and dozens of street-dance
styles with an official crew. Artistic directors Bruno Bastos,
Miguel Colker and Shaun Evaristo will choreograph 15 dancers
performing routines from artists including Beyonce, Usher,
Justin Timberlake and Michael Jackson as diverse as hip-hop,
popping and locking, voguing, waackin, dancehall, house,
breaking and krumping. Guest crews from L.A. and Las Vegas will
take part alongside the street-dance battles of the official
crew.
Rock Street U.K. will feature the heritage of music from Great
Britain and Ireland on a street created to resemble Londons
Camden Town and Irelands Grafton Street with houses inspired by
traditional Irish and English pubs and shops. On the streets,
audiences will meet magicians, bagpipers, a Victorian-inspired
photographer, jugglers, caricaturists and even a Buckingham
Palace guard.
Onstage, there will be Celtic-inspired music by Terra Celta, and
to honor the influences of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones,
the band Stone the Beetles will perform every night. Hula-hoop
performer Lisa Lottie will present her Bend It Like Barbie
contortionism circus art that has taken her to more than 100
cities in 29 countries. More than 1.5 million views of her have
been accumulated on YouTube.
Rock Street Brazil will capture the warm and colorful culture of
Brazil featuring some of the most charismatic figures of the
typical Bahiana woman resembling the character that inspired
Carmen Miranda and carrying the famous fruit basket on her head;
the Malandro da Lapa from the bohemian neighborhoods in Rio
played by ballroom-dancing legend Carlinhos de Jesus; Bumba Meu
Boi, a folkloric bull figure typical from the northeast of
Brazil; and capoeira group Batuque that will dance and battle on
the street.
The stage will spotlight three acts that represent the variety
of Brazilian music culture. Spok Frevo Orquestra, the Pernambuco
big band composed of 17 musicians, and Latin Grammy nominee Cris
Delanno and her Bossa Cuca Nova band with traditional bossa nova
sounds and percussion.
Since Rock in Rio USA was announced this year, advance tickets
have been purchased from 32 countries six months in advance of
the Las Vegas invasion. News has generated $25 million in
coverage worldwide and is expected to be worth $150 million in
Las Vegas exposure by May.
A Cirque executive told me that acts from the companys eight
Strip shows will be featured at the festival in collaborations
similar to Sundays Life Is Beautiful concert The Beatles Love
cast performed with the Las Vegas Philharmonic.
The lineup announcements to date include:
o) May 8:
- Main Stage: No Doubt
o) May 9:
- Main Stage: Metallica; Linkin Park
- Sunset Stage: The Deftones
o) May 15:
- Main Stage: Taylor Swift; Ed Sheeran
o) May 16:
- Main Stage: Bruno Mars
- Sunset Stage: John Legend; Joss Stone
Our thanks to Steve Marcus of the Las Vegas Sun, contributing
photographer Tom Donoghue and videographers Richard Corey and
Chris Rauschnot for their coverage. As the Las Vegas debut gets
underway, Rock in Rio celebrates its own 30th anniversary and
during its 14 festivals has attracted more than 7.4 million
fans.
Organizers say the Las Vegas venue will be a premium world-class
facility. Its a monumental task, but this will be no ordinary
festival, said Roberto proudly. Its a permanent installation,
so we have a permanent city within a city complete with grassed
gardens and even real toilets.
In my book, that sure makes a difference!
{ SOURCE: Robin Leach via The Las Vegas Sun | http://goo.gl/tT261M }
BWW Interviews: Ella Louise Allaire and Martin
Lord Ferguson Talk N THE QUEEN OF PARIS
{Oct.29.2014}
-----------------------------------------------------
With its World Premiere about a year away, tickets are already
on sale for the Broadway bound musical N THE QUEEN OF PARIS. And
2015 is shaping up to be the year of Émile Zola, with Keira
Knightley set to make her Broadway debut in the stage adaption
of his novel Therese Raquin and N THE QUEEN OF PARIS bringing
his novel Nana to the stage. Recently, David Clarke of Broadway
World sat down with Ella Louise Allaire and Martin Lord
Ferguson, the co-creators of N THE QUEEN OF PARIS, and Pascal
Nadon to discuss the upcoming musical. Fans of Cirque du Soleil
will recognize the pair as the producers of the ZED album (and
more); Mr. Clarkes interview touched on their time with Cirque
briefly
# # #
I also read that you both have experience writing for Cirque du
Soleil and that your choreographer, Jean-Jacques Pillet, also
has experience working with Cirque du Soleil. Can audiences
expect a Cirque du Soleil tonality or their type of imagery in N
THE QUEEN OF PARIS?
Ella Louise Allaire: Absolutely not. [She and Martin Lord
Ferguson Laugh] Youre right. We did do a lot of Cirque du
Soleil, starting in 2004 in Las Vegas with KÀ. Our contribution
to Cirque du Soleil was the large score. We were always pushing
for 60 pieces and musicians
Martin Lord Ferguson: Choirs.
Ella Louise Allaire: Yes. Choir as well. This is what we did for
KÀ and also for ZED, which was in Tokyo Disney. We went to
record a 60-piece string orchestra as well as a large ensemble
choir.
Martin Lord Ferguson: Its a valuable question because Cirque
[du Soleil] is an icon where we come from-Quebec. It employs a
lot of people and creative minds for that reason. Sometimes you
end up at that company by accident. Its not necessarily because
you had the love of circus arts when you were growing up.
Being in the music business and being in the theatre business,
at a certain point we got approached by Cirque to do shows.
Through them we also met great creators, like our choreographer.
Hes actually from the classical side of choreography. He was a
French choreographer who was doing modern choreographies for
ballet in Paris, and he got approached for the same reason. He
was pushing the boundaries further than others, so he got
noticed by Cirque. They said, Hey, Id kind of like to take
what youre doing for modern ballet and dance and put it into a
circus atmosphere.
This is a bit like what we were doing. We were doing large
scores, like Ella was saying. We were writing trailer music for
Hollywood and these other large, large scores, and we ended up
at Cirque for KÀ for that particular reason. We were writing in
that big, epic style of music, and they were like, Oh, lets
take this and bring it to the Cirque environment.
# # #
Read the rest of the interview here:
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/59Bsq7 >
{ SOURCE: Broadway World }
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
{Amaluna, Corteo, Koozå, OVO, Totem & Kurios}
o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues
{Quidam, Dralion & 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:
Atlanta, GA -- Oct 3, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014
Miami, FL -- Dec 11, 2014 to Jan 25, 2015
Houston, TX -- Feb 12, 2015 to Mar 22, 2015
Madrid, ES -- May 6, 2015 to Jun 21, 2015
Corteo:
Lima, PE -- Oct 25, 2014 to Nov 9, 2014
San Jose, CR -- Jan 22, 2015 to Feb 15, 2015
Bogota, CO -- Mar 19, 2015 to Apr 12, 2015
Koozå:
Düsseldorf, DE -- Nov 6, 2014 to Dec 14, 2014
London, UK -- Jan 7, 2015 to Feb 8, 2015
Bern, CH -- Mar 1, 2015 to Mar 15, 2015
Kurios:
San Francisco, CA -- Nov 14, 2014 to Jan 18, 2015
Seattle, WA -- Jan 29, 2015 to Feb 22, 2015
Denver, CO -- Apr 10, 2015 to May 3, 2015
Calgary, AB -- Jun 10, 2015 to Jul 5, 2015
Chicago, IL -- Aug 6, 2015 to Sep 20, 2015
Ovo:
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:
Syndey, AU -- Oct 28, 2014 to Jan 4, 2015
Melbourne, AU -- Jan 21, 2015 to Mar 15, 2015
Brisbane, AU -- Apr 10, 2015 to May 17, 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:
Bologna, IT -- Oct 29, 2014 to Nov 2, 2014
Florence, IT -- Nov 5, 2014 to Nov 9, 2014
Pesaro, IT -- Nov 14, 2014 to Nov 16, 2014
Milan, IT -- Nov 19, 2014 to Nov 23, 2014
Turin, IT -- Nov 27, 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
Bucharest, RO -- Jan 29, 2015 to Feb 1, 2015
Bratislava, SK -- Feb 5, 2015 to Feb 8, 2015
Budapest, HU -- Feb 13, 2015 to Feb 15, 2015
Copenhagen, DK -- Feb 18, 2015 to Feb 22, 2015
Oslo, NO -- Mar 5, 2015 to Mar 7, 2015
Helsinki, FI -- Mar 11, 2015 to Mar 15, 2015
Vilnius, LT -- Mar 19, 2015 to Mar 21, 2015
Minsk, BY -- Mar 26, 2015 to Mar 29, 2015
Tel Aviv, IL -- Jul 2, 2015 to Jul 16, 2015
Dralion:
Sault Ste. Marie, ON -- Oct 29, 2014 to Nov 2, 2014
Fort Wayne, IN -- Nov 5, 2014 to Nov 9, 2014
Bloomington, IL -- Nov 13, 2014 to Nov 16, 2014
Cedar Rapids, IA -- Nov 19, 2014 to Nov 23, 2014
Duluth, MN -- Nov 26, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014
Kearney, NE -- Dec 3, 2014 to Dec 7, 2014
Regina, SK -- Dec 10, 2014 to Dec 14, 2014
Lethbridge, AB -- Dec 17, 2014 to Dec 21, 2014
Kamloops, BC -- Dec 24, 2014 to Dec 28, 2014
Prince George, BC -- Dec 31, 2014 to Jan 4, 2015
Fairbanks, AK -- Jan 8, 2015 to Jan 11, 2015
Anchorage, AK -- Jan 14, 2015 to Jan 18, 2015
** Closing, Anchorage, AK - Jan 18, 2015 **
Varekai:
Hershey, PA -- Oct 29, 2014 to Nov 2, 2014
Columbia, SC -- Nov 5, 2014 to Nov 9, 2014
Hampton, VA -- Nov 12, 2014 to Nov 16, 2014
New Orleans, LA -- Nov 19, 2014 to Nov 23, 2014
Sioux Falls, SD -- Dec 11, 2014 to Dec 14, 2014
Milwaukee, WI -- Dec 18, 2014 to Dec 21, 2014
Minneapolis, MN -- Dec 25, 2014 to Dec 28, 2014
Colorado Springs, CO -- Dec 31, 2014 to Jan 4, 2015
St. Louis, MO -- Jan 7, 2015 to Jan 11, 2015
Wichita, KS -- Jan 14, 2015 to Jan 18, 2015
Tulsa, OK -- Jan 21, 2015 to Jan 25, 2015
Oklahoma City, OK -- Jan 28, 2015 to Feb 1, 2015
San Antonio, TX -- Feb 4, 2015 to Feb 8, 2015
Phoenix, AZ -- Feb 18, 2015 to Feb 22, 2015
San Diego, CA -- Feb 25, 2015 to Mar 1, 2015
El Paso, TX -- Mar 18, 2015 to Mar 22, 2015
Bakersfiled, CA -- Apr 1, 2015 to Apr 5, 2015
Sacramento, CA -- Apr 8, 2015 to Apr 12, 2015
Stockton, CA -- May 6, 2015 to May 10, 2015
---------------------------------
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 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 December 1 - 16
Added performances in 2014:
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 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 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 December 2
Added performances in 2014:
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 December 2 - 17
Added performances in 2014:
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 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 November 4
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 November 13 - 28
Added performances in 2014:
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 & Casting
o) Networking -- Posts on Facebook, G+, & YouTube
---------------------------------------------------
CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub & Casting
---------------------------------------------------
/// CASTING NEWSLETTER - October 2014
o) Welcome to our Instagram account!
A few weeks ago we launched our Instagram page. Subscribe
today to keep abreast of our talent scouts' activities
through the beautiful world of images. These audition and
scouting event images captured on the spot is our way of
bringing you with us so feel the moment as if you were
part of the action
or the next best thing.
LINK /// < http://instagram.com/cirquedusoleilcasting >
o) Canadian gymnasts win gold
Congratulations to Maria Kitkarska and her Canadian teammates
for finishing first in the rhythmic gymnastics team all-around
event at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. We are proud to
have been able to support Maria over the past five years,
through the Cirque du Soleil bursary program, which has
provided young athletes with financial assistance over the
past decade.
o) Interview with acrobatic gymnasts
Our talent scout Dmitry Belyaykov interviewed two acrobatic
gymnastics duos who have recently joined Cirque du Soleil.
Watch these world champions discuss their career transition.
VIDEO /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=327OOD9dsbY >
o) Artists and coaches: A relationship based on teamwork
Even though we may master certain skills, we all need a
little guidance from time to time. This is why every Cirque
du Soleil artist works with highly qualified coaches every
day. Go behind the scenes of a training session to see how
this teamwork helps artists truly excel.
VIDEO /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPRQNqTpF5M >
o) Recreating a Cirque du Soleil character makeup
Isabelle Fink, who supervises the makeup team at Cirque du
Soleil, presents a few techniques you can use to stand out
at Halloween or any other opportunity to dress up. Brushes
at the ready!
VIDEO /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNofom0X2RI >
o) Upcoming Auditions:
.) January 2015 - Paris, France
- Circus Performers
.) February 2015 - Mexico City, Mexico
- Instrumentalists
- Singers
.) March 2015 - Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Clowns
- Dancers
For details on our auditions, check our calendars, which
are updated regularly: < http://goo.gl/w6Ol0z >
---------------------------------------------------
NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter
---------------------------------------------------
{Compiled by Keith Johnson}
---[ AMALUNA ]---
{Oct.13}
With Halloween just around the corner, do you know what YOU
are going to dress up as this year?!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/5IG4qj >
{Oct.25}
Halloween Party this weekend?! Check out this make-up
application from our very own Cali...
LINK /// < http://youtu.be/ooVHsn-IZyc >
{Oct.29}
ATL! If you are in the Lenox Square Mall come check out
our Amaluna costume display in Bloomingdales!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/HHictn >
{Oct.31}
HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Our Amazons had SO much fun trick-or-
treating with the local kids at Atlantic Station this
evening. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/al85qt >
---[ CORTEO ]---
{Oct.05}
Hoy es nuestro último dia en Santiago! Muchas gracias
por su calidez!! Disfruten de este plano aéreo del site
tomado por uno de nuestros técnicos... Listos para volar
a Lima!!!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/gs4ouq >
{Oct.23}
Ya estamos en Lima!!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/oF9zXV >
{Oct.24}
Mañana es nuestra premiere en Lima!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/d8HFwI >
{Oct.29}
Victorino, el payaso gigante de Corteo, en breve en una
divertida entrevista junto a Monica Delta.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/WFMw3m >
{Oct.30}
Los artistas de Corteo sorpendieron al público del Jockey
Plaza con un increíble flash Mobe. La exhibición de su
fabuloso vestuario continuará hasta el 09 de noviembre
en el CC Jockey Plaza.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/TegAMk >
{Oct.31}
Hoy, Mauro y el payaso blanco en una divertida entrevista
con Milagros Leiva en "No culpes a la noche".
¡No se lo pierdan!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/EeUIzp >
---[ CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ]---
{Oct.28}
Halloween Make-Up Tips from Cirque du Soleil:
1) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2nn5c7MFaU
2) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCSQZQ0A1qA
3) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Vbek_VhEyA
4) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0T5ZZpA6DE
{Oct.30}
Are you planning on a Cirque du Soleil inspired halloween
costume this year? Check out the video as we go behind
the scenes at the final costume and make up fitting for
"Scottish Fantasy!"
LINK /// < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKo-lTo2S-Y >
{Oct.31}
Cirque shares its "Best Of's..."
o) Best Icarian Games from Varekai:
< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr5oPaJccas >
o) Best of High Wire from KOOZA:
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_iOWRsw-jA >
o) Best of Teeterboard from Amaluna:
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGymEF65UBA >
o) Best of Tournik from Corteo:
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71hb0r2WAW0 >
o) Best of Aerial Hoops from Quidam:
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNTT7ijDsLw >
o) Best of High Bars from Alegria:
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElUqBGGCZYM >
---[ CRISS ANGEL BELIEVE ]---
{Oct.07}
Congratulations to Criss Angel and the entire BeLIEve team
as they celebrate their 2,400th show tonight!
---[ DRALION ]---
{Oct.01}
Tune in WNYT-NBC Channel 13 in Albany for a preview of
Dralion followed by a juggling demonstration.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/dtGcDw >
{Oct.03}
If you posed with one of our artists last night, tag
yourself and share your picture with your friends!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/2fAmMC >
{Oct.06}
Dumbbell push press, squats, abs, lunges, bench press...
Our performers are getting stronger.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Bov0pF >
{Oct.07}
Hello Penn State,This is what we do on our day off!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/aXKN34 >
{Oct.08}
Have you met our Dralions or King Bamboo? You might
have seen them walking around the Bryce Jordan Arena.
If so, tag yourself in one of these pictures and share
it with your friends!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/5c4th9 >
{Oct.10}
Happy Stage Manager day!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/65czMz >
{Oct.12}
Happy Canadian Thanksgiving from Dralion!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/22ROjd >
{Oct.15}
Our cast had lots of fun with Ryan Leckey from
WNEP-TV. Missed it? Check out our cool segment at
noon on Channel 16.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Tkr8gS >
{Oct.16}
Our Hoop Diving performers just before their live
appearance at Dancing With the Stars in Greece!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Z3m6Qe >
{Oct.20}
Congratulation Kala! 10 years of hard work and
fun performing!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/gq7Wyl >
{Oct.21}
Good day Cedar Rapids! Stay tuned for a sneak peak
of Dralion on Fox28 later today.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/PznYui >
{Oct.25}
Oh!! How was the show tonight?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/sb5X4x >
{Oct.29}
Hey Dralion fans! Have you ever wondered what's
happening backstage? Take a look!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/gKldz9 >
{Oct.30}
The First Halloween celebration on Dralion took place
n Buffalo in 2010. For more than half of our cast this
was the first Halloween they ever celebrated! This year,
we're in Sault Ste Marie, Will you be joining us?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/gv5YsX >
{Oct.31}
Dralion in Sault Ste Marie is prepping the pre-show
parade. Show us your best scary face tonight!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/FejY7Z >
{Oct.31}
We have seen some very cool little monsters tonight in
Sault Ste Marie. Was your photo taken with our cast? If
so, tag yourself and share the pictures with your friends.
We had a lot of fun!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/7x5JZz >
---[ JOYÀ ]---
{Oct.02}
Our artists made it to Riviera Maya and cant wait to take
the stage! We got an exclusive sneak peek at the venue for
you. Ready?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/FsMhJg >
{Oct.21}
Riviera Maya suits us well, dont you think?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Yfn9hc >
---[ KÀ ]---
{Oct.09}
Cosplay? KÀ-splay. New York Comic Con starts in two hours,
will we see you there? (Booth 1336!)
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/gj8Vh2 >
{Oct.09}
Are you at New York Comic Con? Look for KÀ at booth 1336
and keep an eye out for the bad guys!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/9NluNY >
{Oct.09}
Thanks for a great first day, New York Comic Con! KÀ &
booth 1336 are here all con, plus a main stage performance
on Saturday!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/5Dr532 >
{Oct.10}
New York Comic Con day 2! If you haven't visited KÀ & booth
1336 yet, don't miss a chance to get your hands in the
wash-up scene!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/S3CrUl >
{Oct.10}
New York Comic Con day 2 is a wrap! KÀ will be back in
booth 1336 tomorrow, and performing tomorrow night at
7:30 on the main stage!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/XPBZ2F >
{Oct.11}
New York Comic Con day 3! We're back in booth 1336, plus
a special performance on the main stage tonight at 7:30!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/xXDH6M >
{Oct.11}
KÀ performs live from New York Comic Con at 7:30 p.m. ET,
and you can tune in here: http://cirk.me/kastream
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/l1HxbK >
{Oct.11}
KA on (and briefly off!) the NYCC main stage!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/vxdvAo >
{Oct.12}
Tune in to the Today Show this morning to catch a
performance from KÀ on the Plaza!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/h8s4gB >
{Oct.12}
KA performing on the TODAY Show Plaza!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/5I4DRL >
{Oct.12}
Last day of New York Comic Con! KÀ is back at booth
1336 with issue 3 of our Marvel custom comic book!
---[ KOOZA ]---
{Oct.03}
Did you catch the cast of Cirque du Soleil's KOOZA on
the streets of Warsaw this week?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/9tDWEG >
{Oct.27}
KOOZA shadows on the Big Top! Can you guess which act
is creating these awesome shadows?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/KlLjMF >
---[ KURIOS ]---
{Oct.01)
On this International MusicD ay, we're very excited to
invite you to our KURIOS Album Launch that will be held
on December 10th in San Francisco! Make sure to be part
of the celebration if you'll be around! Meanwhile, we just
released our single 'Clouds'! Have a listen here on the
event page:
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/1vpH1ij >
{Oct.01)
Get ready, San Francisco! KURIOS is coming this November!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/SU9KaY >
{Oct.15)
Early morning fun at KURIOS with Theweathernetwork.com to
celebrate our 200 shows!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/kEqbpc >
{Oct.21)
Some members of the cast and crew of KURIOS participated
in the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon last weekend!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Cnpvsp >
{Oct.29)
Thank you to the 180k+ of you who have helped us break
our audience record in Toronto!
LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sxneg23AlSI >
---[ MYSTERE ]---
{Oct.02}
"Kunya Sobe" (Official Music Video) - Immerse yourself in
this high-energy music video featuring "Kunya Sobe," a music
score played live for Mystère.
LINK /// < http://cirk.me/1pJ5rNi >
---[ OVO ]---
{Oct.01}
A souvenir from our first Bug Dance in San Francisco.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/SCvQqe >
{Oct.09}
Here's a short timelapse to show you how the OVO
Crickets train when they are in Montreal.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/ia4nmY >
{Oct.20}
Our sound technicians have definitely the best
seat to watch OVO.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/hrYWgm >
{Oct.21}
Today OVO is saying goodbye to one of its original
crickets who will be joining our newest production
KURIOS. Good luck Gary, we will miss you!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/pQp2Qr >
{Oct.28}
A very special Halloween day for the OVO children who
visited the different departments to receive candy. The
kitchen also prepared a very tasty menu for this
special occasion. How will you celebrate Halloween
this year?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/Zb2oli >
{Oct.31}
OVO is saying another goodbye this week. Our cricket Michel
is leaving us for a new adventure on Mystère! Thank you
Michel and we wish you all the best!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/MhpEmy >
---[ QUIDAM ]---
{Oct.05}
Did you know we could see the Quidam Hand to Hand banner
from the planes landing at the nearby Thessaloniki airport?
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/mN3QZl >
{Oct.29}
Always amazing to see our team working hard on improving
our iconic acts!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/kFtE4A >
---[ TOTEM ]---
{Oct.09}
In a week from now, our Big Top will be up in Sydney! In
the meantime, Richard Wilkins from 9 News takes you behind
-the-scenes of TOTEM to meet cast and crew members who make
the magic happen every night! Enjoy this preview of the
show with amazing footage shot in Auckland last month!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/D9n48G >
{Oct.18}
The set is being put together inside the Big Top at The
Entertainment Quarter in Sydney, Australia!! Only 9 days
to go until our Opening Night on Tuesday, October 28!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/kB6xqc >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/12lCA5 >
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/8EGdzC >
{Oct.20}
The artists are back to work! Only one week of rehearsals
left before our Sydney Opening Night at The Entertainment
Quarter!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/fIcZMB >
{Oct.22}
We are about to go live on ABC Radio across Australia with
Artistic Director Neelanthi Vadivel and Rings artist Olli
Torkkel!! 5 days to go until Opening Night in Sydney!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/cgnTLb >
{Oct.23}}
Another day of rehearsal is starting at TOTEM! Only 4 days
to go until our Sydney Opening Night!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/dCIukF >
{Oct.25}
We are putting the final touches prior to our Sydney Dress
Rehearsal tonight! Only 2 days left until our official
Grand Australian Premiere!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/NTdibd >
{Oct.26}
Have you seen artists Umihiko Miya and Mikalai Liubezny on
the cover of Mx Sydney today? Only a little over 24 hours
before our Sydney Premiere!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/g2rWaQ >
{Oct.29}
Beautiful day in Sydney, we took our Rings Trio performers
out to Centennial Park for a special photoshoot!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/aVI1xc >
---[ VAREKAI ]---
{Oct.02}
Dedicated to Mark Halasi who for 8 years has performed his
beautiful Net act and has enchanted millions of people all
around the world with his version of Icarus!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/xlhlr3 >
{Oct.07}
Hey fans! Check out this really cool behind-the-scenes
video that was shot while we were in Fort Myers, FL.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/2g49qE >
{Oct.11}
Captured backstage!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/2I1f8q >
{Oct.22}
Roanoke! Have you seen these? Follow Icarus' feathers into
the Berglund Center and get your tickets to see Varekai.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/X6Gb0y >
{Oct.22}
Artists getting ready for opening night in Roanoke!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/NQ5eKF >
{Oct.25}
Check out some of our photos that were shot in Cincinnati.
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/nrSZrc >
---[ ZARKANA ]---
{Oct.13}
Timelapse Recreation of the High Wire - On display at
The Shops at Crystals is an amazing recreation of the
high wire act. Heres a look at the construction process.
Be sure to stop by 10/18 from 4:30pm - 5:50pm for an
exclusive meet & greet with the high wire artists!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/63TT6b >
{Oct.27}
Last week we unveiled our re-creation of the high wire
act! Be sure to stop by The Shops at Crystals, and have
a look!
LINK /// < http://goo.gl/pTHPRR >
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
o) "KÀ at 10: The Original Creator's Notebook"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
o) INTERVIEW /// "Lindsey Bruck-Ayotte - Uneven Bars"
By: The Chapiteau, a Cirque du Soleil Fan Club
----------------------------------------------------------
"KÀ at 10: The Original Creator's Notebook"
By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA)
----------------------------------------------------------
The following entries are excerpts given to us by an anonymous
Cirquester from the KÀ Creators Notebook, and they feature some very
interesting behind-the-scenes notes regarding the creation of the MGM
Grand show. Picking up just following the official press conference on
September 15, 2004, we hear from Anh-Dao Bui (the Assistant to the
Production Manager), Céciles Vignes (Internal Communications Advisor),
and Stéphane Mongeau (Production Manager) as milestones in the shows
creation are reached including living through a Lions Den
performance!
# # #
October 3, 2004:
Robert Lepage is in Las Vegas and we're concentrating our team efforts
on the staging by providing him with as many of the show conditions as
much as possible (sound, EFX, lighting, video, costumes, etc). We also
showed him the work that's been done during the last two weeks to get
his artistic input. Robert's goal for this week is to prepare this
Sunday's run-through, at which Guy Laliberté and Lyn Heward will be
present. He also wants to work on the show content. One of our biggest
challenges is telling this epic tale to the audience without words. In
order to achieve this, we must focus on the artists' acting skills
(body language, gesture, posture, facial expression) and on the
interaction between all the characters during the show. The acrobatic
performances ("Wheel of Death," "Wushu," etc.) are in good shape. In
terms of acting and linking everything to support the storyline, we
still have some work to do.
We're also trying out new EFX and props objects (retractable spears,
body arrows, flash devices, etc), and integrating them into the
staging. The devices were tested during their manufacturing, but we
are now testing them with the artists during rehearsal time. The
cueing work continues. We're trying more and more to respect the
transition time between the scenes. The more we practice, the more
efficient we'll become. The pre-set time will get shorter and the show
run-through will get smoother. Also, backstage and in the dressing
room at each rehearsal, we're asking the artists to act as though they
were actually performing for an audience in terms of how quickly they
change their costumes and do their make-up.
This gives us a good idea of the amount of time required for them to
go from one scene to the other. And speaking of make-up, Nathalie
Gagné (Make-up Designer) has started to teach the artists how to do
their own make-up. As she said: "Until they memorize the technique, we
might see some Picasso artwork running around! So far, though, it
hasnt been so bad: not too many Picassos have been seen backstage!
Last Monday, we also presented the flame and pyro effects to Robert
Lepage and to the Clark County Fire Department (CCFD). This process is
still in progress since the CCFD needs to make sure that all effects
are safe for the cast, crew and audience.
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant to the Production Manager
* * *
October 10, 2004:
2:28 p.m.
The entire KÀ team is on alert. Creative team, department heads, Guy
Laliberté, naturally, Robert Lepage, Guy Caron, and many, many more
are here. In just two minutes well start the very first run-through:
a start-to-finish rehearsal of the whole show. This will be the first
assessment of the transitions, including recent costume changes. That
means the artists must behave exactly as they would during a real
performance. The idea is to go as fast as possible, but safety must
not be jeopardized in any way. In Guy Carons words, the run-through
is a testing phase. No one knows yet whether there will be changes,
but with six and a half weeks until the premiere its likely, so its
important to be very receptive.
4:45 p.m.
After more than two hours of performance, were about 22 minutes into
the show, according to the script. After every scene, the whole
technical crew and the dressers go into high gear preparing for the
next step. Technology is a prime component in KÀ and a considerable
number of operations are involved in preparing for a scene. Its also
the first time these operations have been conducted in a real life
situation. This is another important objective of the run-through: to
assess the feasibility and duration of the transitions.
6:30 p.m.
Weve broken for dinner, to everyones relief. The artists have an
hour ahead of them to recharge their batteries and rest. The sofas in
the green room will serve as makeshift beds for some while others
change to go out to eat (costumes are not allowed outside the
theatre!). Meanwhile, the technical crew works on, using this break to
make some headway on a longer-than-average transition.
8:10 p.m.
The run-through continues. As the artists take their turns on stage
and the technical crews go about their business below, above, or right
in the middle of the equipment, some lucky souls get to sit in the
theatre and act like an audience. These are the KÀ team members who
arent directly involved in the performance. Everyones heavy
workloads notwithstanding, they shuttle between their offices and the
theatre, trying to take full advantage of this unique opportunity.
10:35 p.m.
The artists are standing by for a scene that comes about 12 minutes
from the end of the show. Everyone is tired, but at the same time, the
tension from earlier in the day is gone. The end is in sight, and the
jokes have begun flying thick and fast.
11:20 p.m.
Its over! The longest day is now officially a thing of the past. The
house lights have come up revealing smiles on every face. Guy Caron
announces that there will be few changes: Guy Laliberté was extremely
pleased with what he saw and the remaining work will primarily be a
matter of polishing whats already there. He thanks all the artists
for their patience and praises the quality of their performance. After
the smiles of relief this good news brings, the next announcement
prompts unanimous jubilation: theyre all invited to a very special
party in early November, organized in their honour a present from
Guy Laliberté!
Céciles Vignes
Internal Communications Advisor
* * *
October 15, 2004:
There was a first run-through on Sunday for all the designers, the
production crew, the team from the Montreal Costume Shop, Robert
Lepage, and Guy Laliberté). The run-through came six and a half weeks
before the première. It was a long day, with pitfalls galore, but we
got through it in seven hours. The reactions were very positive. For
the team, this was a perfect opportunity to get a unified view of what
everyone is doing and imagine the full effect when all this potential
is realized.
The day after the run-through, there was a production meeting with
Robert and the thirty-odd members of his team. We still have a long
road ahead of us and were in the process of combining all of the
shows ingredients so we can do a second run-through on October 24,
when Robert comes back.
In Guy Lalibertés words, The horse is still wild. Its a highly
technical show, but its also very complex in terms of the various
performance disciplines. So its really exciting to finally see the
framework of the show emerging, and above all, to see what was a
theoretical design now bearing fruit and full of potential.
This week was marred by a minor mechanical breakdown affecting our
stage machinery (gantry crane), which resulted in some schedule
changes. But every cloud has a silver lining: this breakdown gave us a
better idea of the systems limitations and prompted us to establish
stricter protocols to ensure the system is reliable in the long term.
We must remain vigilant and be ready to respond to any glitches in the
system. Whats important is that everything remains under control and
safe.
Bill Close, who designed and invented the harp in the lobby, is here
to teach the musicians how to play the instrument. The effect and the
music will be extraordinary. A lot more is happening, but thats the
basic picture for now.
Stéphane Mongeau
Production Manager KÀ
* * *
October 22, 2004:
Incredible, but true: this week in Las Vegas, the weather was grey and
depressing, and it even rained for a few days! Were almost ready to
compete with Montreal weather... Electricity is in the air, and were
preparing for the next run-through, taking place on October 24. That
date is also when Robert Lepage returns to Las Vegas. Over the last
two weeks, Nino D'Introna, Neilson Vignola and Jacques Heim have
worked night and day to create, invent and tighten things up based on
Roberts directives. The goal is to present everything to him during
the run-through.
October 24 is a crucial moment for the production, because the Clark
County fire department will by visiting us to give its final approval
for the fire and pyrotechnic effects. A team specializing in radio
frequencies will also be coming by to analyze our radio frequencies
and make sure they are not in conflict with one another. At the same
time, this is when some of our creators, including René Dupéré, Martin
Lord Ferguson, Jonathan Deans, Luc Lafortune and Holger Förterer, will
reveal a major part of their work. Five weeks before the premiere...
anxiety and stress levels are rising within the team. We need to tame
the beast!
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant to the Production Manager
* * *
October 24, 2004:
Wed been long anticipating this date, and we expected a long workday.
It began an hour late. The fire department inspectors, present at the
event, were asking us detailed questions. The radio-frequency
verifiers, also in the house, had serious looks on their faces. We
managed to do the run-through in just over three and a half hours.
Quite an improvement compared to the October 10 run-through! That one
lasted almost seven hours! Around 6:00, as a pleasant surprise, we
announced to the artists that the day was over and they had Monday and
Tuesday off. In addition, the fire department gave us the appropriate
certificates and permits for our fire and pyrotechnical effects. The
day was a productive one!
This week was also marked by the return of Robert Lepage. Michael
Curry (Puppet Designer) and Joe DePaul (comic acts) are also back in
town. This is the beginning of the final sprint! Robert and his
partners in crime (Guy Caron, Nino d'Introna, Neilson Vignola, Joe
DePaul, Jacques Heim and Yung Biau Lin) met to discuss the shows
content and to review their plan of action for the coming weeks.
Another intense week is on the horizon: the presentation of the first
Lions Den (on November 5) for an audience made up of the artists,
technicians and employees of Cirque du Soleils other Las Vegas shows.
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant to the Production Manager
* * *
November 5, 2004:
The tension is mounting, and soon itll be time to make some
decisions. The first lions den takes place today (Friday, November
5), but the premiere is still three weeks away.
The last run-through lasted three and a half hours. We hope to pull
off the lions den in a maximum of three hours. The shows
approximately 150 technicians are in the process of polishing the
technical transitions. The creators are programming the special
effects and the lighting, sound, music and video effects. Robert
Lepage and his team are concentrating on the last dramatic and
artistic adjustments. The Props and Costumes workshops are moving
heaven and earth to finish up the last details. After this first
lions den, Robert Lepage, Guy Laliberté, the creators and the
production team will take the time to reflect on the show and prepare
a plan of action for November 26 (the public premiere) and February 3
(the premiere gala).
Also taking place this week: various magazines (Time, Total Production
and others) will be interviewing show creation and production
personnel.
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant Production Manager
* * *
November 12, 2004:
Our first lions den was held on November 6. For a big part of the
day, the team was busy with last-minute preparations, and a whole
battery of tests (sound, lighting, etc.) was conducted. Just around
2:10 p.m., the theatre doors opened. Based on what little they knew of
the show, our colleagues from the other Las Vegas shows (Mystère, O
and Zumanity) and offices were more than eager to discover what KÀ had
to offer. At 2:30, the show got underway. The run-through progressed
nicely, with everything going smoothly. The crowd reacted with gasps
of admiration and warm applause. What a change it was for all of us to
have an audience in the theatre, especially after all these long
months of training and rehearsals in a nearly empty room!
At the halfway mark, everyone had to take a first break because of a
technical problem related to lighting. There were to be two other
breaks by the time the lions den ended. The audience understood: they
knew that the technological and acrobatic challenges facing KÀ were
enormous. At about 5:35, the show was over. We came close to meeting
our goal of pulling off this lions den in less than three hours. The
spectators comments after the performance were very positive. They
will be invited back on November 20 for the third lions den, giving
them a chance to see how much progress has been made over the
preceding two weeks.
Right after the performance, the entire KÀ team was brought together
in the theatre. Guy Laliberté, Guy Caron and Stéphane Mongeau wanted
to thank them all and to encourage them to continue their great work
and stay calm and collected because there is still a lot left to do
from now to November 26, the date of the premiere.
This week was another very busy week in which we had to prepare the
second lions den, scheduled for today. The countdown continues, with
only two left weeks until the premiere!
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant to the Production Manager
* * *
November 19, 2004:
Our second lions den took place on November 12. During the first one,
the show stopped three times and lasted just over three hours. But
this second lions den left us all with smiles on our faces. Just
before the audience entered the theatre, Lyn Heward found 25 cents:
Its our lucky quarter, she said.
Each cent represents a minute that were cutting off the show! And
while Im not really superstitious, wouldnt you know itthe show went
off without a hitch and with no interruptions. This was the first time
we managed to perform the whole show without stopping! And the length?
An hour and 45 minutes total! The artists, creators, production
people, operations team, technicianseveryone was overjoyed. We
applauded ourselves and shook one anothers hands. The energy was
beautiful and intense. And the public? Thrilled. Some people even
compared the first and second lions dens: During the first lions
den, from the opening scenes, we were immediately wowed by the
acrobatic and technical prowess. We didnt want it to end! But every
time the show stopped, we had to be patient and wait for it to start
again. It was totally not the same the second time around! Truly
amazing!
Now, we are now barely a week away from the premiereand were
starting to feel it. Some of the production tables that were in the
middle of the theatre have been removed and replaced by seats. Soon,
the last tables will be replaced. This week, weve been preparing for
the last lions den. Next, well prepare for the three dress
rehearsals, to which the MGM and suppliers employees will be invited.
Next, the premiere...
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant to the Production Manager
* * *
November 26, 2004:
We have been waiting for this day for such a long time. Due to the
five-month delay, the project required most of us from Montreal to
spend 9 to 12 months here in Las Vegas. Now, we are only a few hours,
only a few minutes from the premiere. For some of us, it is a time of
anxiety and last-minute preparations. For others, it is a time of
relief. No matter what each of us is feeling all our energy is focused
on our joint effort to make the premiere a success. We all hope that
this show will live up to expectations. Working in the theatre day
after day, we know the show inside-out and we become its most
demanding critics. We often lack perspective, which is immediately
obvious when we hear the reactions of members of the public and Cirque
colleagues who enter the theatre for the first time.
November 26 will be a decisive step for the production team. Thats
the day when we hand the reins over to the operation team. Our work is
not finished, however. Robert Lepage and most of the creators will
remain in Las Vegas until December 3. The opening gala (for the media)
is scheduled for February. In the meantime, theyll be working on
stabilizing the show. In short, there is a lot left to be done, but at
least the premiere will be behind us.
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant to the Production Manager
* * *
January 7, 2005:
Its already been a month and a half since the launch, and were
already at our 51st show! In the last few weeks, the operations team
has gotten the show rolling with a masterful hand, while preparing
backups for various roles in case one of the main characters is unable
to appear in a performance. This week, Robert Lepage is back in Las
Vegas, along with certain members of the creation and production team.
One of their goals is to examine our priorities and plan what we want
to accomplish by February 3, the date of the official premiere gala.
Some see this date as being all about the big party, but for us, its
mainly about stabilizing the work. We are currently in the
stabilization phase; we can always make changes to the show later, but
they will need to be minor, since the creation phase will be over.
Anh-Dao Bui
Assistant to the Production Manager
* * *
February 4, 2005:
A few days before the premiere, Charline Boulerice, Assistant to the
Costume Designer, explained to us that they were still making changes
to the Forest People costumes, with the aim of making them as visible
as possible.
The scenes original lighting was blue against a blue set, and the
entire costume, including the headpiece and make-up, was blue with
white highlights. Just before the show opened in November, the Costume
people decided that the headpiece and makeup would be yellow instead.
A few days before the premiere, final touch-ups were made. Amber
accents were added to the primary-color yellow to create texture and
add sophistication to the entire look. The make-up was also adjusted
as a result, with added shading inthe same colors. The costumes
paler parts are now yellow, and they fade from yellow to green to blue
with the characters movements. The shoulders are now yellow, too. So
Marie-Chantale Vaillancourt redesigned the costumes, the Textile
Design team created a new pattern and reprinted the cloth, and all the
Forest Peoples costumes were remade!
The Twins costumes were also changed. They are now wearing two very
distinct colors: red for the female twin and green for her brother.
The entire Imperial Familys costumes were changed to help the
audience better recognize them in the Epilogue scene. The twin sister
wore her new costume for the first time this week to get used to
moving around in the new garments.
It goes without saying that on the night of a premiere, the entire Las
Vegas Marketing team is mobilized! For the past eight months, all 18
members of the team have been busy putting the finishing touches to
the logistics surrounding the launch of KÀ. Premiere night is, of
course, the culmination of all their efforts. A number of other people
also lend a hand for the occasion, including not only the publicists
for La Nouba, O and Mystère, but also members of the internal Box
Office team, the Public Relations team from Montreal, Marketing
representatives from Amsterdam and Melbourne, and dozens of MGM Group
security guards, as well as a number of other resources called in for
reinforcement.
Journalists from all over the world Since the aim of the premiere is
to ensure maximum visibility for the show, everything has been
scrupulously planned to achieve this goal. The list of guests includes
journalists from all over the world, celebrities and numerous business
partners. The premiere of KÀ is, without a doubt, an excellent
opportunity for us to show off Cirque du Soleils talent to all those
with whom we do business.
To provide journalists with the best conditions possible, Cirque has
set up a special press room where they can write copy, send faxes,
connect to Internet, edit videotapes and even transmit images by
satellite. But who exactly are the chosen few who have access to these
privileges? Of course, they include journalists from the Quebec media
(La Presse, Radio-Canada, TQS, Musique Plus, etc.) and local media
(Las Vegas Sun, Las Vegas Review-Journal), but they also include
international journalists (New York Times, Time Magazine, US Weekly,
Le Point, CNN, Algemeen Dagblad, Globe and Mail, El Pais, Wall Street
Journal, Telemundo) and specialized media (Kung Fu Magazine,
Backstage.com). In all, over 200 media representatives, armed with
microphones, cameras and notebooks, accepted our invitation. In
addition to backstage access to KÀ, they also get to see O, Mystère
and Zumanity, allowing us to kill two (or three or four) birds with
one stone! Over a period of three days, everything is organized to
give them access to as much information as possible.
Of course, there will also be a number of celebrities on hand, with
all the usual red-carpet intricacies that entails, as they arrive in
their limousines accompanied by armies of bodyguards. All these
beautiful people have to be greeted, guided, escorted, photographed
and interviewed in the maze of corridors populated by hundreds of
potential fans. Several slot machines in the MGM lobby have even had
to be temporarily moved to facilitate the comings and goings of the
stars between the theatre, the hotel entrance and the site of the
party at the MGM Grand Arena, and, of course, to ensure the safety of
everyone.
# # #
The End!
----------------------------------------------------------
INTERVIEW /// "Lindsey Bruck-Ayotte - Uneven Bars"
By: The Chapiteau, a Cirque du Soleil Fan Club
----------------------------------------------------------
Getting the audience reaction every night because no matter how many
times you can do it, just to see their faces and to see the awe and to
take them to a place where they can forget about their worries and
just enjoy a show, thats the best part. We feed off the audience and
if were getting a great reaction from the audience, it gives us more
energy to give more. - Lindsey Bruck-Ayotte.
Q. You started gymnastics at the age of three. Do you come from a
background of gymnasts or is it a common age to start?
Usually young, around 3-5 is the common age. I started because I was
flipping around on the couches and my mom was really nervous I was
going to get hurt, so she decided to put me in gymnastics. I learned
how to tuck my head and roll the proper way. At the age of 5, I think
she was ready to pull me out and she saw me do a really good cartwheel
and she said, Well, maybe Ill leave her in a little longer, and it
kind of just blossomed from there.
Q. How long where you in gymnastics? After that you went over to the
University of Michigan gymnastics team?
I did club gymnastics growing up. I traveled to Texas and trained. I
ended up getting a full scholarship to the University of Michigan and
I did gymnastics. I ended up doing it for 5 years because I tore my
Achilles tendon my senior year, so I stayed a 5th year to complete my
eligibility. And then, when I graduated, I ended up coaching at the
University of New Hampshire for 2 years, thinking I was done
performing. Then 2 years of coaching and I kind of realized that I
missed performing and I could still do it and I really wanted to
continue with it. So I auditioned in Las Vegas for Cirque and ended up
making it through the audition process. I guess it was about 6-7
months after I auditioned, they called me for a workshop for the new
creation of uneven bars because Cirque had never done uneven bars
before. I did a workshop for a week with some of the other girls and
then a couple of days after the workshop I got called for the contract
to start the creation of Amaluna.
Q. How long were you an elementary PE teacher?
That was my degree and I did student teaching for it, but Ive
actually never done working as a job. Instead of going into teaching
right away, I decided to go into the college coaching. So I have my
degree in education, but I actually havent used it yet.
Q. Did you want to work with kids? Was that your intention?
Ive always loved working with kids and Ive always liked coaching. I
knew that an education degree would be a great degree because I could
use it anywhere. So that was the main reason why I got it, but then
the opportunity of coaching at the collegiate level came about and
there were opportunities and I knew I couldnt pass that up. So thats
why I went into the college coaching and I actually loved it, it was
great! You get to recruit and you get to coach, theres the business
side of it as well. So you get a bunch of different aspects of it, but
performing is what I want to do right now. Its what I love doing, so
thats where I went.
Q. You said you auditioned in 2010 in Las Vegas, were you auditioning
for a specific show or was it just a general audition?
It was a general audition just so they could see who I was and my
style and what I had to offer. Then I got put in their database. From
there, they did the matchup to see where I would fit into the company.
Q. Correct me if Im wrong, general formation is when you go to
Montreal and youre there for some time training and doing
different disciplines and then they put you in the database?
Youre already in the database. If they send you to Montreal for
general formation youre already in the database and you already have
something that they like, but they may not have a spot open for you in
one of the shows. So youll go to general formation in Montreal and
train different disciplines, theyll get to know you a little better,
get to know what youre strengths are a little bit more. A lot of
times from there, something will open in a show and you can go to the
show. I was very fortunate in the fact that they saw that I was good
enough bar worker that I could just be fit right into a show and I
never had to do general formation.
Q. I guess it would be cool to actually experience the general
formation as well, huh?
It would be and we did get a little bit of that because we did the
creation of the show. In general formation you do other disciplines,
but you also do acting classes and dance classes, make up classes.
Its not just acrobatics but the other side of it as well that you
need to have when you do a show. And so during our creation, we did
have that. We did have the dance classes and the acting classes. We
had makeup classes to learn how to do all of our makeup and we had
costume fittings and all of that stuff. So we did get a little taste
of it, but we also knew specifically what we were training for.
Q. What was the hardest part of the creation process for you?
I would say, when we first started training, we did about 5 hours of
bars a day, 5-6 days a week. That was hard just because as a gymnast
youre used to doing a max of maybe 1 1/2 hours a day, so your hands
get pretty raw but we got used to it. It was fun because we got to
play around and our structure is different because there are 4
different bars and were just used to one high-bar one low-bar. We got
to help create the act with the other girls in the act, which was
really exciting and kind of got to put our own little touch on it.
Q. How many girls are on Uneven Bars?
We have about 7 or 8 of us.
Q. And actually on stage?
7-8
Q. So you dont have a set amount?
It depends. Right now were transitioning and were getting an 8th
girl. So, its kind of nice because the more of us on bars, it looks
better and we get to bring more to the audience, which we have fun
with.
Q. What does being captain entail?
Having another set of eyes on the act itself, creating the line up,
making sure that the girls know what theyre doing in the show that
day, making sure that if there is an issue in the act that there is a
quick decision moment that we can change it on the slide, and then
also being an ear for the girls if they have any issues or any
concerns and I can bring it to the coaches or solve the problem
myself.
Q. How much freedom do you have as far as implementing new tricks or
changing something from the act?
We actually have a good amount of freedom. If you saw the act 4 months
ago to when you see it now, there are things that have changed. We
still are developing more and more, were adding more difficulty,
changing things around. So there is a lot of freedom as long as were
still safe, but if we want to keep playing and keep changing things
and add more difficulty, theyre all for it and they love it.
Q. As far as the act itself, is there something you and the rest of
the team are trying to portray?
I think were mostly trying to portray the womens strength. A lot of
times, our show is different because were 70% women and 30% men,
which is the opposite of a normal Cirque show. The one thing that we
get to show is how strong we are and how fierce we are. Thats kind of
what were trying to portray to the audience. We try to protect the
island that were on and we have the boys that are playing on our
apparatus, but its kind of our playground where we get to have fun
and we get to show off.
Q. Do you know if its difficult to find so many women artists for the
show or to have as backup? Like you said, for the most part you see
mostly men in the shows, but Amaluna calls for mostly women.
It depends on the discipline. Obviously, we do uneven bars, so there
are more and more gymnasts that have seen the act. They see a
different avenue where they can go after graduating college or theyre
finishing a gymnastics career but they want to keep performing. So
they kind of see our act as another avenue of this is kind of a
gymnastics professional life, but it is different because in
gymnastics youre the only on the bar. Now you have 7 to 8 girls you
have to watch out for, the structure is different, it moves different
than a normal set of uneven bars. So it takes training and working
with the group, but definitely possible to add more girls and to
integrate somebody else into the act, into the show.
Q. For you, whats the best part of performing in front of a live
audience?
Getting the audience reaction every night because no matter how many
times you can do it, just to see their faces and to see the awe and to
take them to a place where they can forget about their worries and
just enjoy a show, thats the best part. We feed off the audience and
if were getting a great reaction from the audience, it gives us more
energy to give more. If we have an audience thats very quiet, and
they like the show but are not giving us a lot back, it is harder for
us to give them more. So we do feed a lot off the audience and what
they give us, we end up giving a lot more back.
Q. Your daily routine on a show day
From when you wake up, what is
usually your normal routine?
It depends a little bit. If it is a one-show day, usually the first
day back after a day off, we come in, we have about an hour training
on uneven bars, well do a warm up before training, well do a cool
down after training, we may have staging or rehearsal to kind of tweak
things in the show, and then usually about 2 hours before the show
Ill have dinner. After that Ill start my makeup. It takes me about
45 minutes or so to do my makeup and then after I do that, I start
stretching for the show, then about a half hour before the show
starts, putting on my costume, headpiece, taping up for bars, putting
everything else on for showtime.
Q. What has been your favorite city so far, if you have one?
Thats a hard question. I really enjoy Quebec City and Denver. Im
from the country in upstate New York so Im used to farm life. Im not
a big fan of big cities, so Quebec City was really nice because it was
a small. We were in the old port of it. And then Denver was beautiful.
We werent right downtown so we could walk around, we could see green-
life, wildlife and all that stuff. So Id have to say those two, but
every city has their own positives of it and being able to see them
all is pretty cool.
Q. Have you ever thought about going to another show or do you love
Amaluna so much that you would rather stay there for some time?
Im pretty content staying at Amaluna. Maybe down the road I might
want to transfer to a residential show just to have a little bit more
stability later in life, but right now, traveling around and being
with Amaluna is home for me. Its what Im used to, its what Im
comfortable with, so Im quite content to stay where I am at the
moment.
Q. And the great thing, like you said, you travel with your husband
Yeah, and its great. And the girls that I work with are like sisters
to me, so its a great experience.
Q. Say in the future youre burnt out or you want a change, whats
something you would want to do besides performing or another
passion that you have?
I really am passionate about coaching, so that is something that Im
also still working toward while Im here at Cirque. I go to other
trainings and learn to coach other disciplines, so that maybe an
avenue down the road of when my body is done performing, going into
coaching.
Q. And lastly, for those who have not seen Amaluna, what can you say
about show? What can you tell them to expect?
Expect a very beautiful show showing women strength, the costumes and
the lighting
We have very different music than normal Cirque show,
its a little bit more Rock and Roll. Its a very unique show and a
very beautiful show. I definitely recommend everybody to go see it.
Read and HEAR this fantastic interview on The Chapiteau's Website:
< http://www.thechapiteau.com/interviews/lindsey-bruck/ >
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COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
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Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 14, Number 11 (Issue #130) - November 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
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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.
{ Nov.04.2014 }
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