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Fascination Issue 210
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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 21, NUMBER 7 Oct/Nov 2021 ISSUE #210
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Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial
Cirque du Soleil Newsletter.
It's almost a bit cliché to say at this point, but the sun continues
to rise at Cirque du Soleil - a sentiment the company proclaims with
it's "Intermission is Over!" movement. And since April we've seen the
relaunch of Mystère at Treasure Island (on June 28th), "O" at Bellagio
on July 1st), Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay (on August 19th) and
LOVE at The Mirage (on August 26th). Soon we'll see the premiere of
DRAWN TO LIFE at Walt Disney World (November 18th), KA at MGM Grand
(on November 24th), TWAS THE NIGHT (on November 26th) in Chicago,
and FIERI, a "Special Event" in Malta (beginning November 25th).
But intermission is over for Cirque du Soleil's touring shows too!
ALEGRIA begins its newest tour in Houston (November 13th), LUZIA sets
sail in London (on January 12, 2022), and there's been buzz about that
OVO, MESSI10, and others will be back soon as well. But perhaps the
most exciting - and surprising - deals with critically acclaimed
touring spectacle KURIOS Cabinet of Curiosities, which returns to
performances on April 14, 2022 for - are you sitting down for this? -
a limited showcase in Toronto!
Daniel Lamarre, president and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment
Group, called Toronto a "special place for us." And that "[m]ore than
ever, we need the shared connection that live entertainment brings,"
he said. Quite exciting! Cirque du Soleil also returns to Montreal
with KOOZA in April 2022, and Trois-Rivieres with VIVE NOS DIVAS (the
delayed series of shows that pay tribute to Quebec artists) in July.
Exciting times indeed!
Oh! Getting back to DRAWN TO LIFE-- ahead of its November 18th debut
at Disney Springs, Cirque du Soleil and Disney revealed the synopsis
and list of acts/scenes for the upcoming "Drawn to Life" show, a
love letter to animation. We've compiled what we've found in our
Features section this month, but be warned: SPOILERS ABOUND! (And
if you're really interested in spoilers... Cirque du Soleil has
been releasing "making of" videos for the production, links to which
you can find in our OUTREACH section.)
Okay, so, let me stop talking so we can get into it.
Enjoy!
/----------------------------------------------------\
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| Join us on the web at: |
| < www.cirquefascination.com > |
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| Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only): |
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- Ricky "Richasi" Russo
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CONTENTS
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o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings
* La Presse -- General News & Highlights
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
* Webseries -- Official Online Featurettes
* Videos -- Official Peeks & Noted Fan Finds
o) Fascination! Features
* "Synopsis, Acts & Scenes, and Characters for DRAWN TO LIFE"
Texts from Cirque du Soleil & Walt Disney World
o) Copyright & Disclaimer
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CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS
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***************************************************************
LA PRESSE -- General News & Highlights
***************************************************************
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KÀ Returns November 24th!
{Sep.15.2021}
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Following 20 months away from the stage, KÀ will be welcomed backed to
its colossal theater at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on Nov. 24, 2021.
Hailed as one of the most epic productions on the Las Vegas Strip, the
fearless journey will resume enthralling fans with gravity-defying
battle scenes and combat acrobatics punctuated by immersive
technology. KÀ will perform Saturday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. and
9:30 p.m. Tickets starting at $69 are now on sale and can be purchased
here.
KÀ redefines storytelling with its heroic journey of love and conflict
set within a dynamic theater that transforms the stage into an entire
empire. The biggest theatrical production by the global entertainment
juggernaut features invigorating special effects complete with 119
pyrotechnic devices, 13,000 gallons of liquid nitrogen and
approximately 120 fireballs discharged in every show. The action-
packed experience is the final Cirque du Soleil Las Vegas resident
show to reopen.
MGM Resorts' comprehensive "Seven-Point Safety Plan" is a multi-
layered set of protocols and procedures designed in conjunction with
medical and scientific experts to mitigate the spread of the virus,
protect customers and employees and rapidly respond to potential new
cases. The full plan can be reviewed at mgmresorts.com. The Company
continues to evaluate and evolve its safety protocols.
Following CDC guidance and requirements set forth by the State of
Nevada, masks are required for all guests and employees in all inside
public spaces, regardless of vaccination status. For more details
about Cirque du Soleil's COVID-19 protocols, please visit
cirquedusoleil.com/reopening.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
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"It's Like Coming Home!"
{Sep.16.2021}
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There's always a sense of excitement and anticipation when you walk
into a theater, but even seasoned Cirque du Soleil artists were
surprised by the overwhelming emotion they felt stepping back inside
the iconic white tent at Disney Springs.
"Seeing everyone again, it's like coming home. It's like being with
family. I really can't wait to put this show together for everyone to
see," said David Rimmer, who is one of the high-flying teeterboard
artists in the show.
Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil & Disney is scheduled to
open Nov. 18. A new collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt
Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering, this family-
friendly show will be an exciting new addition to the entertainment
lineup at Disney Springs and another incredible way to celebrate the
Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary.
VIDEO: https://youtu.be/icqZaD1MfqI
For now, costumes and makeup are put away as artists focus on
regaining skills and working together as a team.
The story of Drawn to Life brings timeless Disney Animation classics
and characters to life in an unforgettable way through the use of
innovative design, acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography,
original music, brand-new animation lovingly created by Disney
Animation artists, and some extra touches of Disney magic.
For more information, visit DisneySprings.com/Cirque. Keep an eye out
for more behind-the-scenes stories leading up to the show's grand
opening!
{ SOURCE: Disney Parks Blog }
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Cirque to Make Its Long-Awaited Return in Houston
{Sep.20.2021}
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The familiar blue-and-yellow big tops are coming back to Sam Houston
Race Park in November, bringing the return of Cirque du Soleil's
whimsically reimagined show called Alegría: In a New Light. This
signature Cirque show was cut short in March 2020 due to the pandemic
and now Paper City has an exclusive first look as these aerial artists
return to performing for the first time. In Houston.
CHECK OUT THIS EXCLUSIVE BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIDEO:
https://youtu.be/DsrQp5722D0
Houston has always been an anchor city for Cirque du Soleil
productions, and since it was the last to host the show, Francis
Jalbert, senior tour publicist Alegria, Cirque du Soleil, argues
that's exactly where the high-flying show deserves to get off the
ground again.
"We are excited to be opening back in Houston where it all stopped for
us on Alegría in March 2020," Jalbert says. "To be able to bring the
artists back on stage in Houston and give the opportunity to our local
fans to see the show as they were meant to prior to the global
pandemic sends a beautiful message of hope and resilience.
"Which are two central themes of Alegría."
The reimagined Alegría: In a New Light features a cast of 53 acrobats,
clowns, musicians and singers telling the story of a once-glorious
kingdom that has long lost its king, and the power struggle at play
between the old order and a new movement seeking change in hopes of a
brighter tomorrow.
Cirque celebrated the 25th anniversary of Alegría in 2019, but rather
than doing a "copy and paste of the original 1994 production," Jalbert
notes every component was reexamined to speak to new generations while
maintaining the soul and emotions of the original show. Jalbert
promises plenty of surprises, regardless if audience goers have seen
the original show, or are Cirque newcomers.
The pandemic downtime provided an opportunity for Cirque creators to
redesign parts of the show, pushing the already jaw-dropping acrobatic
elements, which are hallmarks of every performance, to new levels.
"We decided to take advantage of the show's hiatus to rethink some of
the acrobatic elements featured in Alegría for it to come back even
stronger than when it paused in 2020," Jalbert says. "Most notably, a
new dynamic Flying Trapeze act will now be closing the show with
daredevil aerial stunts never-before-seen under a Cirque du Soleil Big
Top."
Even though Cirque artists had no idea when they would be called back
to the big top, these aerial athletes stayed in shape at home until
they were called back to the International Headquarters in Montreal.
The Alegría cast has been rehearsing since late August in anticipation
of returning to Houston and will continue rehearsing locally
throughout October and November before the show opens November 13.
"The cast energy is amazing. They are pumped to be back in action, to
be reunited as a touring family and to be going back on stage
shortly," Jalbert says. "We are looking forward to the first
performances, to hear audiences cheer again and to hopefully bring
them joy and escapism."
Alegría: In a New Light will run from November 13 through December 12
at Sam Houston Race Park.
{ SOURCE: Paper City }
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FORBES: Inside The Cirque Du Soleil Marketing Strategy
{Oct.04.2021}
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Few marketers find themselves digging out of a Covid hole as deep as
the one which engulfed Cirque du Soleil.
The firm filed for bankruptcy protection in June 2020, laid off 3,500
employees, then emerged from bankruptcy with a sale to new ownership
five months later.
As productions now resume, Cirque du Soleil chief brand officer Keyvan
Paymani looks to steer the organization forward. Paul Talbot,
contributor at Forbes, recently asked him what's involved.
Q. What are the key elements in the Cirque Du Soleil marketing
strategy?
It all starts and ends with our fans. We have a deeply engaged and
supportive community of hundreds of millions of fans who have seen our
shows around the world over the past four decades. Keeping fans at the
center of how we market, develop products and build commercial growth
of our business, and treating marketing as a service to them, is core
to what our team aims for with each campaign. What that means in
concrete terms is that when we create a new campaign or new strategy
for creating commercial intent, the first question we answer is how
this benefits our fans. Without that clear perspective, we cannot
launch a new initiative that will ultimately be both commercially
successful and also build a deeper relationship. We aim to create a
class of content that not only entertains our fans, but also offers
them a way to actually participate at home, from tutorials to behind-
the-scenes tours and AMAs to sneak peaks of our upcoming shows. This
content promises our fans more ways to be part of our story and to
make memories that last a lifetime with those they love.
Q. How, if at all, does your current marketing strategy differ from
what was in place pre-pandemic?
As with most companies in our space, we have looked to how digital
experiences augment our connection with our fans. During the height of
the pandemic, we launched a new digital platform, Cirque Connect, that
allowed us to share our shows with tens of millions of fans all around
the world. Since then, we have expanded our strategy to embrace an
artist-centric content model that allows our fans to get closer to the
performers they love. By focusing on this connection, we have tripled
our audience reach in just the last three months as more fans see more
of the performers that amaze them. We have created and launched two
new digital platforms to offer more experiences for our fans, from
additional ways to learn about the inspirations and methods behind our
shows, to services that are designed to remove the friction in
accessing and participating and to new ways to interact.
Q. What do you want your brand to represent?
We have a unique brand that has been built through nearly four decades
of jaw dropping moments and exhibitions of the pinnacle of human
performance. We are in the business of wonder and amazement and every
experience we create, from our big tops to our residencies and every
other venue in between, has at its core something to inspire and amaze
audiences of all ages, everywhere. We aim to foster a spark of
imagination, a twist of wonderful weirdness, and that intangible
element of surprise to create something truly remarkable. This is the
core of our brand and the core of what our fans expect us to deliver.
Q. What sort of marketing research do you conduct and what are you
hoping to learn?
We test and iterate everything we do and seek out information that
helps us to craft better campaigns, improve our fans' experiences,
streamline our commercial offerings and pathways and ultimately create
long-lasting relationships with our fans. We treat primary research
and real-time feedback as one of our most important connections with
our fans and conduct studies on post-performance sentiment, online
behavior, attendance and audience engagement around the world.
Q. Any other insights on your Cirque Du Soleil marketing strategy or
any other strategy you'd like to share?
It is not enough to say you have an audience or have reach if that
does not translate into tangible ways to build and grow the business.
Our approach to fan-centric, service-oriented commercialization is
built on this premise that brand management, marketing, market
development, fan engagement and commercialization are all intertwined
together.
{ SOURCE: Forbes }
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Daniel Lamare's Got a New Book: "Balancing Acts"
{Oct.04.2021}
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Cirque du Soleil CEO and President Daniel Lamarre shares what it takes
for anyone, regardless of position or industry, to embrace the value
of creative leadership in his upcoming book, "Balancing Acts:
Unleashing the Power of Creativity in Your Life and Work." The new
title is set to release on Jan. 18, 2022 via HarperCollins Leadership.
As the executive who makes Cirque du Soleil's lavish, multimillion-
dollar productions come to life, Lamarre has mastered the ability to
bring business and creativity together across multiple languages and
cultures in a way that has never been done before. Now, he shares
those secrets in "Balancing Acts" to help shatter the perceived
limitations standing in the way of our ability to think creatively and
act with boldness and imagination.
Guided by a tremendous faith that creative thinking can lead any
organization to new heights, Lamarre provides key principles he has
learned throughout his own professional journey that can strengthen
and accelerate any business in any industry, in any country on the
planet.
In "Balancing Acts," Lamarre shares revealing stories about the
invaluable lessons he's learned along the way through personal
triumphs and trials, showing how the reader can achieve new levels of
success, including:
o) How to shatter the roadblocks standing in the way of your ability
to think creatively and act innovatively.
o) When to step up and when to step back so that your team can create
masterpieces that don't break the bank.
o) How, in using the methods Lamarre has uncovered, modern companies
with entrenched bureaucracies can bring creativity and business
together to foster greater innovation and boost profits.
In addition to providing successful business and leadership
strategies, "Balancing Acts" chronicles the devastating impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic on the entertainment industry and how, under
Lamarre's leadership, Cirque du Soleil managed to not only survive
(after plummeting to zero revenue), but bounce back stronger than
ever. With nearly five thousand employees and forty-four shows playing
across five continents at its peak, the company today is well on its
way to returning to pre-COVID sales of $1 billion annually, profit
margins of twenty percent, and fifteen million tickets sold around the
world each year, more than all Broadway shows combined.
"I want to be an advocate for creativity in business, encouraging
companies to throw off the old rules and restrictions of conventional
thinking and unleash the creative spirit of their people," says
Lamarre.
He adds, "Whether you are an entrepreneur, an executive, or a
professional, if you are not prioritizing creativity (making or
bringing into existence something new), you are wasting your time. No
company deserves to exist unless it is constantly discovering new ways
to make its customers' lives better. In short, without creativity,
there is no business."
A French version of "Balancing Acts" will also be available via
Éditions Michel Lafon. For more information, please visit
www.balancingactsbook.com
About Daniel Lamarre
Daniel Lamarre is a French Canadian and citizen of the world whose
talent for leading creative companies became evident during his nearly
two decades at Cirque du Soleil, during which he instigated and guided
the astounding growth of one of the most inspiring firms on the
planet. When he joined Cirque du Soleil in 2001 as president of new
ventures, the organization had two thousand employees and seven shows
in performance. Five years later, Daniel became chief executive and,
today, the organization is well on its way to returning to its pre-
pandemic peak of nearly five thousand employees and forty-four shows
playing across five continents. Hometown: Montreal, Canada.
About HarperCollins Leadership
HarperCollins Leadership feeds your inner drive to grow as a leader.
With integrated, values- based development experiences, including
books, video courses and business tools, HarperCollins Leadership
guides individuals to activate the leadership potential that's already
in them.
{ SOURCE: HarperCollins }
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KÀ Welcomes Back Audiences Beginning Next Month
{Oct.14.2021}
----------------------------------------------------------
KÀ makes its highly anticipated return to the colossal KÀ Theater
inside MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on Wednesday, November 24. Since its
debut in 2005, KÀ has captivated audiences with its innovative blend
of acrobatic feats, Capoeira, puppetry, projections and martial arts.
Tickets starting at $69 are on sale now and can be purchased at
cirquedusoleil.com/ka.
On Monday, October 11, the KÀ cast and crew members celebrated their
return to the stage for rehearsals since closing its doors more than a
year ago. The cinematic production is the final Cirque du Soleil Las
Vegas resident show to reopen this year.
KÀ tells the story of a heroic journey of love and conflict within an
ever-changing theatrical landscape, set on a gravity-defying, 360-
degree, rotating stage. KÀ will perform Saturday through Wednesday at
7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
Following CDC guidance and requirements set forth by the State of
Nevada, masks are required for all guests and employees in all inside
public spaces, regardless of vaccination status. For more details
about Cirque du Soleil's COVID-19 protocols, please visit
cirquedusoleil.com/reopening.
{ SOURCE: Broadway World }
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'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE
to Return to the Chicago Theatre
{Oct.15.2021}
----------------------------------------------------------
Madison Square Garden and Cirque du Soleil have announced that the
acclaimed family holiday theatrical "'Twas the Night Before
" by
Cirque du Soleil is returning to The Chicago Theatre (175 N. State
Street) for 17 performances only from November 26 through December 5,
2021, prior to opening in New York at the Hulu Theater at Madison
Square Garden December 9.
"'Twas the Night Before
," Cirque du Soleil's exhilarating spin on the
beloved Christmas tale, is about the wonders of sharing and
friendship. The production marks Cirque du Soleil's first-ever
Christmas show and is a flurry of Christmas cheer rip-roaring fun
with hugely lovable characters that will introduce audiences to the
magic of Cirque du Soleil and help families create new holiday
traditions.
The international cast features Roberto Alvarez Serrano (Spain), Lucas
Gabriel Morales Bravo (Argentina), Sekou Camara (Guinea), Jean-Marc
Giese (France), Quentin Greco (France) and Evan Tomlinson Weintraub
(United States) performing Hoop Diving and Acrobatic Table; Alicia
Beaudoin (Canada) performing Acrobatic Bicycle and as Isabella; Danila
Bim (Brazil) performing Hair Suspension; Suren Bozyan (Russia) &
Karyna Konchakivska (Ukraine) in Duo Straps; Ming-En Chen, Shuo-En
Liao, Tsung-ying Lin, Hao Yu (Taiwan) performing Diabolo; Holler
Zavatta & Kimberly Zavatta (Italy) performing Roller Skating; Miguel
Gigosos Ronda (Spain) performing as Jolly Santa and clown; Masha
Terentieva (Canada/Russia) performing Hotel Cart; Alexis Vigneault
(Canada) as Father and performing Acrobatic Lamp; and Jenna Beltran,
Carlo Darang, Shannon Kelly, Samuel Moore and Bianca Vallar (United
States) along with Kalila Hermant (Belgium), as ensemble dancers.
The creative team consists of Manuel Bissonnette as Creative Director,
James Hadley as Writer and Stage Director, Genevieve Lizotte as Set
Designer and Artistic Director, Edesia Moreno Barata as Acrobatic
Choreographer & Performance Designer, Vinh Nguyen/Kinjaz as
Choreographer, Jean-Phi Goncalves as Musical Composer, James Lavoie as
Costume Designer, Maryse Gosselin as Make-Up Designer, Nicolas Brion
as Light Designer, and Paul Bisson as Sound Designer. The show is
produced by Cirque du Soleil Executive Producer and Head of Creation
Marie-Josee Adam and Chief Creative Officer Diane Quinn.
The critically acclaimed production of "'Twas the Night Before
,"
returns to The Chicago Theatre and Hulu Theater at Madison Square
Garden after debuting at both venues in 2019. The Chicago run sold
more than 50,000 tickets, completely selling out its 17-show
engagement, while the New York run sold out a whopping 25
performances.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets for "'Twas the Night Before
" at The Chicago Theatre start at
$30 and can be purchased online at www.chicagotheatre.com/cirque or at
the Ticketmaster Box Office at The Chicago Theatre. Box office hours
are Monday-Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Service charges apply to
internet orders. For group sales, please call 212-465-6080. Accessible
and companion seats are available via the Disabled Services Department
at 888-609-7599.
The Chicago Theatre continues to operate in accordance with all
government mandates, and current City of Chicago and State of Illinois
guidelines require that all guests age 2 and older, regardless of
vaccination status, wear masks in The Chicago Theatre, except while
actively eating or drinking. Government mandates, venue protocols and
event requirements are subject to change, so be sure to continue to
check www.chicagotheatre.com/cirque for the latest information.
{ SOURCE: Broadway World }
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"Fieri" to be Presented in Valletta!
{Oct.16.2021}
----------------------------------------------------------
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group ("Cirque du Soleil"), the world's
leading producer of high-quality live entertainment, and Visit Malta
are pleased to announce the opening of a brand-new production created
exclusively for Malta. FIERI will be presented in the historic city of
Valletta starting November 25.
"We are delighted to return to Malta, a country steeped in history, to
pay tribute to this resilient nation and its people" said Diane Quinn,
COO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. "Now more than ever in
our absurd world, Cirque du Soleil's power to bring joy and hope to
our audiences is not only welcome but necessary. So, I welcome you to
this show and to the magic that descends as the artists take the
stage."
"FIERI by Cirque Du Soleil will be another opportunity to showcase
Malta's credentials in the cultural and entertainment sector. Having a
month full of uplifting shows inspired by the cultural roots of Malta
is a stamp in quality for our country's hospitality industry. Events
of such calibre fall under our ultimate goal that of making Malta a
home of tourism excellence for the years to come," remarked Minister
for Tourism and Consumer Protection Clayton Bartolo.
"The last time that the majestic auditorium of the Mediterranean
Conference Centre welcomed audiences for a musical production was
March 8, 2020. Countless sacrifices were made since then. We had to
tap into our resilience, and all felt a sense of pride as, together,
we joined forces to fight the pandemic.
It is this same sense of national pride that will be transmitted to
locals and tourists alike, who will be watching "FIERI by Cirque du
Soleil" in November and December. As the Malta Tourism Authority, we
always seek to promote Malta's rich cultural heritage and history in
any way possible, and this unique experience by Cirque du Soleil is a
prime example," Johann Buttigieg, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority
stated.
INTERMISSION IS OVER
Following a nearly 17-month intermission after curtains closed around
the world, Cirque du Soleil rises up to continue its mission to
cultivate creativity and share the hope and joy that live
entertainment brings to audiences. Today, Cirque du Soleil is thrilled
to announce that Maltaa destination of choice in Europewill be the
first European country to host a new Cirque du Soleil event post
lockdown.
Back for a second year after its inaugural production in 2019, the
Company is thrilled to present a new creation to local fans and
guests. The event, which will feature the same signature style
acrobatics and visual artistry that fans worldwide have come to expect
and appreciate, will be tailored for Malta, celebrating the country's
singular cultural diversity and history.
ABOUT THE SHOW
FIERI by Cirque du Soleil is an uplifting journey inspired by the
cultural roots of Malta. A unifying tale of resilience from the heart
of the Mediterranean, the show is a modern take on the unifying spirit
of the Maltese archipelago and weaves a shining, contemporary mosaic
inspired by the jewel of the sea.
TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets for the 75-minute performances of FIERI by Cirque du Soleil,
presented in the historic city of Valletta from November 25 to
December 19, 2021, are available online.
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
----------------------------------------------------------
Messi10 Returns to the Stage
{Oct.27.2021}
----------------------------------------------------------
After an unintended pause, and in light of the latest public health
measures put in place by the government to respond to COVID-19,
Messi10 by Cirque du Soleil announces the resumption of its tour plan
and responsible return to the stage, with the goal of opening in
Buenos Aires on March 9, 2023.
"After two years that seemed like an eternity, we are thrilled to
announce the reopening of our tribute to Leo. The emotion caused by
the international impact is immense, but undoubtedly being able to
confirm the date for our opening in Buenos Aires is one of the most
important events for the show", said Matías Loizaga, PopArt Partner
and show Executive Producer.
The show tour, which began in Barcelona, was scheduled to visit
Argentina in June 2020, but the global pandemic altered its course.
With a clearer outlook, and following the easing of certain
restrictions in Buenos Aires, the show is now able to reschedule its
visit to the country and will be opening its doors at Costanera Sur.
« Messi10 by Cirque du Soleil uncovers the athleticism, devotion and
brilliance that bridges the world of football and circus by
celebrating the magic behind one of the greatest footballers of all
time », explains Diane Quinn, Chief Creation Officer at Cirque du
Soleil Entertainment Group. « Intermission is over, and we are
thrilled to announce the return of Messi10. Now more than ever, Cirque
du Soleil's power to bring joy and hope to our audiences is not only
welcome but necessary. »
Cirque du Soleil has paid tribute to many iconic artists over the
years, but this is the first occasion in which it pays tribute to one
of the most talented athletes of all time to create an unprecedented
show which bridges soccer and circus arts.
Tickets are on sale now at AreaTicket. Ticket holders are asked to
keep hold of their tickets as they remain valid. For any other
questions on options offered, please visit messicirque.com.
With the health and safety of the audiences and staff as a priority,
the show production team is currently working on the tour plan for
2022. Messi10 will be presented in Saudi Arabia at the end of 2021,
where the measures in place allow for a production such as that of
Messi10 to take place safely. New cities in the Middle East will soon
be confirmed, prior to the arrival of the tour in Argentina in 2023.
Cirque du Soleil's priority has always been, and remains, the health
and safety of its artists, partners, employees and audiences. The
Company will continue to actively monitor and assess the situation.
Messi10 by Cirque du Soleil's return to the stage will follow strict
health protocols adapted to the regulations and recommendations of the
World Health Organization ("WHO") and each of the territories it will
visit.
More information on additional cities and tour dates will be revealed
at a later time. To learn more, please visit: www.messicirque.com
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
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Cirque Taps RISE with SAP to Drive Enterprise Strategy
{Nov.02.2021}
----------------------------------------------------------
SAP announced that Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group has expanded
its relationship with SAP by investing in SAP's business-
transformation-as-a-service offering, RISE with SAP, to further the
entertainment company's intelligent enterprise journey.
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group will upgrade its existing SAP ECC
6.0 environment to SAP S/4HANA Cloud and integrate other modular cloud
solutions including SAP Ariba, SAP SuccessFactors and SAP Concur
software. Where highly unique processes are required, SAP Business
Technology Platform will be used to innovate.
"Embracing an intelligent enterprise strategy will simplify our
business and support the organization's global growth strategy," said
Philippe Lalumière, vice president, Information Technology, Cirque du
Soleil Entertainment Group. "Having the ability to quickly pivot,
scale and create new, engaging fan experiences has never been more
important given the impact the global pandemic has had on the
entertainment industry. RISE with SAP and SAP S/4HANA will help power
our ability to deliver on these goals."
"People around the world love Cirque du Soleil for the performers'
incredible agility, flexibility, coordination and talent," said SAP
North America President DJ Paoni. "This partnership is all about
helping Cirque du Soleil embrace and incorporate these same values in
its day-to-day operations as a company."
This project is the latest step in SAP and Cirque du Soleil
Entertainment Group's ongoing, innovation-driven partnership aimed at
delivering new and exciting experiences to audiences around the world
using the power of technology. Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group
became an SAP customer in 2001 to help transform its business to be
the leading entertainment company in the world a two-decade
milestone both organizations are excited to celebrate in the months to
come.
{ SOURCE: Webwire }
=======================================================================
ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION
=======================================================================
o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
{Alegria INAL, Koozå, Kurios, Luzia}
o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues
{Crystal, Corteo}
o) RESIDENT - Performed en Le Théâtre
{Mystère, "O", LOVE, MJ ONE, JOYA, X: The Land of Fantasy}
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/ >,
or for a more comprehensive tour listing, visit our Itinéraire
section online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=6898 >.
------------------------------------
BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau
------------------------------------
Alegría-In a New Light:
Houston, TX -- Nov 13, 2021 to Dec 12, 2021 [RESTART]
Seattle, WA -- Jan 18, 2022 to Feb 13, 2022
Koozå:
Punta Cana, DR -- Jan 7, 2022 to Apr 10, 2022 [RESTART]
Montreal, QC -- Apr 28, 2022 to Jun 19, 2022
Kurios:
Toronto, ON -- Apr 14, 2022 to May 23, 2022 [RESTART]
Rome, IT -- Mar 22, 2023 to Apr 30, 2023
Milan, IT -- May 10, 2023 to June 25, 2023
Luzia:
London, UK -- Jan 12, 2022 to Feb 12, 2022 [RESTART]
Barcelona, ES -- Mar 17, 2022 to Apr 10, 2022
Alicante, ES -- Jul 14, 2022 to Aug 21, 2022
Madrid, ES -- Nov 5, 2022 to Nov 27, 2022
------------------------------------
ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues
------------------------------------
CRYSTAL - A BREAKTHROUGH ICE EXPERIENCE:
Leipzig, DE -- Oct 7, 2022 to Oct 9, 2022
Nuremberg, DE -- Oct 12, 2021 to Oct 16, 2022
Cologne, DE -- Oct 19, 2021 to Oct 23, 2022
Hanover, DE -- Oct 26, 2022 - Oct 30, 2022
Munich, DE -- Nov 3, 2022 to Nov 6, 2022
Frankfurt, DE -- Nov 9, 2022 to Nov 13, 2022
Oberhausen, DE -- Nov 16, 2020 to Nov 20, 2022
Stuttgart, DE -- Feb 22, 2023 to Feb 26, 2023
CORTEO:
Copenhagen, DE -- Jan 13, 2022 to Jan 16, 2022
Stockholm, SE -- Feb 3, 2022 to Feb 6, 2022
Vilnius, LT -- Mar 17, 2022 to Mar 20, 2022
Moscow, RU -- Apr 8, 2022 to May 16, 2022
St. Petersburg, RU -- May 20, 2022 to May 19, 2022
Antwerp, BE -- Jun 23 2022 to Jul 2, 2022
Dublin, IR -- Jul 6, 2022 to Jul 10, 2022
London, UK -- Jul 13, 2022 to Jul 17, 2022
Palma de Mallorca, ES -- Aug 5, 2022 to Aug 14, 2022
Vienna, AT -- Sep 21, 2022 to Sep 25, 2022
Leeds, UK -- Oct 27, 2022 to Oct 30, 2022
Trondheim, NO -- Nov 11, 2022 to Nov 13, 2022
Oslo, NO -- Nov 17, 2022 to Nov 20, 2022
Lille, FR -- TBA
Montpellier, FR -- TBA
Helsinki, FI -- TBA
Nice, FR -- TBA
Aix-en-Provence, FR -- TBA
TWAS THE NIGHT:
Chicago, IL -- Nov 26, 2022 to Dec 5, 2022
New York City, NY -- Dec 9, 2022 to Dec 27, 2022
MESSI10:
Buenos Aires, AR -- Mar 9, 2023 to Mar 26, 2023 [RESTART]
OVO:
Bossier City, LA -- Feb 11, 2022 to Feb 13, 2022 [RESTART]
Frisco, TX -- Feb 16, 2022 to Feb 20, 2022
Cedar Park, TX -- Feb 23, 2022 to Feb 27, 2022
Rio Rancho, NM -- Mar 3, 2022 to Mar 6, 2022
Los Angeles, CA -- Mar 17, 2022 to Apr 10, 2022
---------------------------------
RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre
---------------------------------
Mystère:
Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday
Variable Nightly - 7:00pm and/or 9:30pm
** SHOWS RETURNED JUNE 28, 2021!! **
"O":
Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Wednesday through Friday, Dark Monday/Tuesday
Varable Nightly - 7:30pm and/or 9:30pm
** SHOWS RETURNED JULY 1, 2021!! **
LOVE:
Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday to Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday (throgh 10/2)
Tuesday to Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday (from 10/5)
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
** SHOWS RETURNED AUGUST 26, 2021!! **
Additional 2021 Dark Days:
o) 11/2
o) 11/30 to 12/4
Additional 2021 Performances:
o) 12/27 at 7:00pm and 9:30pm
o) 12/31 TBD
MICHAEL JACKSON ONE:
Location: Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas (USA)
Performs: Thursday through Monday - Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday
Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm
** SHOWS RETURNED AUGUST 19, 2021!! **
JOYÀ:
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
X: THE LAND OF FANTASY
Location: Hangzhou, China
DRAWN TO LIFE
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida (USA)
Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday
Two Shows Nightly - 5:30pm and 8:30pm
8:30pm shows begin on Dec 10, 2021
8:00pm shows beginning Jan 18, 2022
** SHOWS BEGIN NOVEMBER 18, 2021! **
=======================================================================
OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE's SOCIAL WIDGETS
=======================================================================
o) ONCE UPON A TIME AT CIRQUE: THE MAKING OF DRAWN TO LIFE
- TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RoUZYPs5QLs
- EPISODE 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ur_gQVinmpk
In this first episode we introduce you to the show writer
and director Michel Laprise as we begin our journey into
the making of Cirque du Soleil and Disney's Drawn to Life!
- EPISODE 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGa7PcXN8RQ
We introduce you to some amazing Drawn to Life artists who
will embody and bring to life the Disney magic on the Cirque
du Soleil stage at Disney Springs.
- EPISODE 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YU4_LOFEUNo
Meet Julie, the heart of Drawn to Life; get to know her
along with her friend, Mr. Pencil!
- EPISODE 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pG2EeajNklc
Meet Julie's animator friends and our villain, Miss Hésitation!
- EPISODE 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtUzEy6G-zI
Fly through the air with our aerial pencil act that combines
awe-inspiring acrobatics and classic Disney Animation!
- EPISODE 6: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcy8JcqVifo
Cirque du Soleil couldn't create a show honoring Disney
Animation without a strong group of princesses! In this
episode meet the all-female group of artists from the grand
finale act, Swing to Swing!
- EPISODE 7: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUycgwJbMA0
Inspiration can strike in the oddest of ways! In this episode we
introduce you to the Teeterboard act, inspired by one of the
surprising ways Disney Animators would boost each others'
creativity!
o) CIRQUE DU SOLEIL TOUR STORIES
Intermission Is Over and we can tour again! In our newest series
This Starts Today: Cirque du Soleil Tour Stories, we will take
you along as our shows train in Montreal and then head off to
their first touring location! Today we look at the new beginning
of Alegria, join us for the journey!
01: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zr00yRRHIDw {Oct.29}
=======================================================================
FASCINATION! FEATURES
=======================================================================
------------------------------------------------------------
"Synopsis, Acts & Scenes, and Characters for DRAWN TO LIFE"
Texts from Cirque du Soleil & Walt Disney World
------------------------------------------------------------
Ahead of its November 18th debut at Disney Springs, Cirque du Soleil
and Disney revealed the synopsis and list of acts/scenes for the
upcoming "Drawn to Life" show, a love letter to animation. Spoilers
ahead:
SYNOPSIS
--------
Julie, a courageous and determined 12-year-old, discovers an
unexpected gift left by her late animator father: a letter urging her
to complete a drawing he left unfinished. From his cluttered desk,
Julie is suddenly whisked through a vortex into a world of wonder
where comforts of her childhood have come alive and beloved Disney
Animation characters serve as her guides. Throughout her quest to
complete the animation, Julie learns to erase any self-doubt, to
imagine new possibilities and to animate the story of her future.
ACTS & SCENES
-------------
PROLOGUE · BASEMENT · THROUGH THE TABLE
A transformative joyride where imaginary becomes reality. Julie, the
main character, was prolific at drawing. She and her father, a Disney
animator, had a shared passion for animation. The Disney characters he
drew became her siblings and cheered her up when she was down. After
her father's death, Julie rediscovers his animation desk in the
basement, cluttered with pencils, papers and other objects. Her most
important find: a page of unfinished animation her father challenged
her to complete. Suddenly, the scene illuminates as she transitions
through the table into another dimension set upon a giant animation
desk. Characters of her childhood and comforting objects stir to life.
Julie is off on an amazing journey into the whimsical world of
animation.
THE INNER WORLD OF ANIMATION
Animation meets acrobatics as the physicality of the art form is
captured dramatically by the Waku Waku. A group of rhythmic gymnasts
execute flips, jumps and bounces with extreme precision and torque to
represent movement through pages of drawings that make up mere seconds
of animation. Using a stage-consuming air mat, they propel themselves
into the air while executing energetic gymnastic and tumbling displays
in continuous sequence.
AERIAL PENCIL
Celebrating the "pencil test," the moment when life first appears upon
the animator's paper, these initial stirrings of inspiration become
the essence of the art form. An acrobat guides an aerial pole,
stylized as a giant pencil, across the stage to create their own
animation before propelling dramatically into the air. Soaring across
and above the stage while performing feats that mimic the first
strokes of inspiration for an animator, the aerialist performs
unbelievably controlled stunts, forming fluid and rigid lines as if
their body itself is a moving animation. Aerial Pencil is lifted by
the same inspiration that led Walt Disney's Nine Old Men to achieve
greatness.
FOREST AND STILTS
As Julie experiences fear and self-doubt, colossal pencils summoned by
Mr. Pencil leap from their pot to lend Julie encouragement and guide
her through a forest of familiar faces. The larger-than-life movements
of the Stilt Walkers are skillfully made via the three-meter
extensions of their body. Communicating with their partnerand at
times entirely trusting themselveseach artist demonstrates immense
strength and balance, presenting stilt walking in a captivating and
culturally inspired way.
ANIMATING A BALL
If you can animate a ball, you can animate the world. The mysterious
juggler appears wearing a cape covered in outstretched hands when
suddenly, the jacket is mystically carried skyward. Liberated, the
juggler performs tricks with unbelievable skill and ease, as if they
possess all the hands of their long-gone cape. Juggling behind their
back with increasing height, speed, objects and difficulty, the task
of animating a simple ball becomes a step in Julie's journey to
complete her father's animation. The act echoes the twelve principles
of animation outlined in the book Disney Animation: The Illusion of
Life by iconic Disney animators and Disney Legends Ollie Johnston and
Frank Thomas.
DREAM OF COLORS
Julie's dreams become a palette of colors as Mr. and Mrs. Paintbrush
are awakened by the live drawings of an artist who sits painting at
her own animation table. High above the stage, two artists silhouetted
in a suspended giant wheel execute a number based on mutual trust. The
catcher turns into a human trapeze and flings their partner into the
air to perform increasingly complex flips and somersaults. Their
bodies as paintbrushes create dramatic watercolor streaks across the
canvas 25 feet in the air. The kaleidoscope of colors pays homage to
the genius of Disney Animation artist Mary Blair. Tribute is also paid
to the Women of Ink and Paint, unsung heroes whose brushstrokes gave
life to early animation celluloids.
GARDEN OF LINES
Playing with friends stirs the inner child in an homage to cherished
tales that inspire an animator. Lines are the first penciled strokes
of the animator's craft. Awake from her dream, Julie is swept into a
wonderland of familiar shadows, shapes and outlines. Disney characters
in oblique forms surround her. Julie's whimsical mood fixates on a
mischievous marionette from a time-honored Italian fairytale. Five
playful unicyclists representing the Blue Fairy of the classic Disney
Animation film "Pinocchio" appear to effortlessly float across the
stage, performing synchronized stunts and individual tricks with
pinpoint precision.
THE OLD MILL
Owls dreamed up by Julie's imagination weather a storm using teamwork
and courage to carry them through the powerful wind and rain that
threaten their windmill home. The Old Mill, recalling Walt Disney's
groundbreaking 1937 animated short of the same name, inspires this
amazing act and is seen in projections throughout. The windmill of the
film is represented in a spectacular, churning, fast-moving double
wheel structure. Gravity-defying acrobats are in constant motion with
the turning wheels, riding their rise and fallat times airbornewith
astonishing balance and agility. The act links seamlessly to the mill
and the teamwork of the owls to see the crisis through.
HAND TO HAND LOVE
Julie envisions her parents as an iconic fairytale couple, dancing
like a prince and princess across the ballroom floor. In a world-
premiere magical Hand to Hand act, two artists connect through tender
yet intense movements that defy both strength and gravity. Using magie
nouvelle, a movement that redefines magic in the same way that
contemporary circus transformed the ancient art form, the couple
inspires awe with their hand-and-body balancing act. The harmonious
physical duet showcases graceful precision and trust between the man
and woman.
SQUASH & STRETCH
Fun, explosive movements honor the playfulness of the animator who
often recalls their inner child when creating. For hard-working
animators, Friday night mischief meant getting up from their drawing
boards and launching an old-fashioned rubber band fight. Inspired by
objects that shot from stretched rubber bands, acrobats spring from a
teeterboard to dizzying heights. The gaggle of gymnasts rocket
straight up off their boards or somersault dramatically over to the
opposite end, celebrating the unbridled pleasure of animation.
SWING TO SWING
Encouraged by feminine energy and spirit, Julie finds the strength to
complete her animation before flying into the arms of her father and
saying goodbye. The celebratory finale is rightfully an all-female
Swing to Swing acta first in Cirque du Soleil's history. Russian
acrobats take flight between two arcing swings swaying, pendulum-like,
in a breathtaking show of grace and precision. In their stunning, fly-
through-the-air movements, the women celebrate beauty, strength,
grace, courage, and ultimately: female empowerment. Their motions are
supported by projections of iconic female characters of Disney
Animation. Her father's animation complete, Julie's future is
unstoppable now.
CHARACTERS
----------
JULIE & PETIT OREILLER Drawn to Life tells the story of Julie. The
courageous and determined twelve- year old shared a passion for Disney
Animation with her artist father, who has recently passed. Julie
values animated Disney characters and their life lessons as central to
her well-being and clings to them as tightly as her favorite pillow,
Petit Oreiller. Her transition into wondermentas characters and tools
of the animator's craft come to lifebecomes life-changing.
MR. PENCIL & MAINAMIE Mr. Pencil has a point: heart matters. Julie's
father entrusted her to the care of a lucky pencil that sketched great
moments in his life. Mr. Pencil comes alive, takes Julie under his
wing and becomes her trusted and fun-loving friend who guides her
through her quest. A welcoming Mainamie, the comforting white gloved
hand, further reassures Julie and gives her strength on her adventure.
MISS HÉSITATION & THE DOUBTOVSKIS A bulbous ball of crumpled paper
comprised of Julie's crinkled, rejected drawings, Miss Hésitation
feeds Julie's self-doubt, the inner voice holding her back. Her pint-
sized helpers, the Doubtovskis, skit about with waste paper baskets,
feeding off the balled-up mistakes of people and animatorsthe
crumpled, castoff objects of hesitation that can lead to fear of
failure. Miss Hésitation is not what she seems. Under her villainous
veneer is a soul of compassion, warmth - and one confession: Miss
Hésitation is only a villain in training who may not be so evil after
all.
THE ANIMATORS Four animatorsCirque du Soleil's bow to Walt Disney's
Nine Old Men, icons of Disney Animationbefriend Julie on her journey.
They guide her through the principles of animation, teaching her how
to complete her father's unfinished drawing. The sole female animator
pays tribute to Disney Legend Mary Blair who created concept art for
Disney Animation classics such as Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan and
Cinderella. Seen throughout the show, each animator brings humor and
physical comedy into Julie's world.
COMFORTING SHEETS & HORSE TABLE Five sheets of animation paper feel
compassion and empathy, knowing just what Julie needs and what
brightens her life. Together they come alive with projections of the
characters and moments from Disney Animation that she was raised with,
bringing her peace and joy and helping her dream. Iconic Disney
Animator Eric Goldberg hand-drew never-before-seen animations of
beloved Disney Animation characters to be projected upon the
Comforting Sheets. In the world of Julie's anthropomorphic dreams, an
animator's desk comes alive with the bucking energy of a horse to be
lassoed, yet it is also a best friend beckoning the animator to put
pencil to paper. The horse table perfectly exemplifies a show about
life and movement.
And there we have it!
"Drawn to Life" makes its debut on November 18th. Tickets are now on
sale at CirqueDuSoleil.com. The Cirque du Soleil Store at Disney
Springs West Side is now open!
=======================================================================
COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER
=======================================================================
Fascination! Newsletter
Volume 21, Number 7 (Issue #210) Oct/Nov 2021
"Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (C)
2001-2021 Ricky Russo, published by Vortex/RGR Productions, a
subsidiary of Communicore Enterprises. No portion of this newsletter
can be reproduced, published in any form or forum, quoted or
translated without the consent of the "Fascination! Newsletter." By
sending us correspondence, you give us permission (unless otherwise
noted) to use the submission as we see fit, without remuneration. All
submissions become the property of the "Fascination! Newsletter."
"Fascination! Newsletter" is not affiliated in any way with Cirque du
Soleil. Cirque du Soleil and all its creations are Copyright (C) and
are registered trademarks (TM) of Cirque du Soleil, Inc., All Rights
Reserved. No copyright infringement intended.
{ Nov.12.2021 }
=======================================================================
