======================================================================= ______ _ __ _ __ / ____/___ ___________(_)___ ____ _/ /_(_)___ ____ / / / /_ / __ `/ ___/ ___/ / __ \/ __ `/ __/ / __ \/ __ \/ / / __/ / /_/ (__ ) /__ / / / / /_/ / /_/ / /_/ / / / /_/ /_/ \__,_/____/\___/_/_/ /_/\__,_/\__/_/\____/_/ /_(_) 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 ------------------------------------------------------------ E X P A N D E D I S S U E ------------------------------------------------------------ ======================================================================= VOLUME 9, NUMBER 3 JUNE 2009 ISSUE #65e ======================================================================= Bonjour et bienvenue! Greetings and welcome to another addition of Fascination!, the Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter. Pardon the dust as we gear ourselves back into a monthly publication and make our newsletter more user friendly and more Cirque-centric. To that end we've made yet a couple more changes since last issue. The first - we tweaked the ITINÉRAIRE section again, reorganizing the entires back into three, but slightly different, categories: Touring shows (productions under the big top), Resident shows (those performed en Le Théâtre) and Venue shows (Arena & Seasonal Productions. With limited productions in each seperate category it only made sense to combine them (and Cirque categories their shows in this way as well). Secondly - we've brought back the PARTING QUOTE, something we've not had in our pages since August 2005, so we hope you enjoy that as well. Inside this issue we have a wonderful review of AQUA, the exhibit at the Montreal Science Center sponsored by the ONE DROP Foundation, by Gena Colton. You might recognize her name from the many badges she's worn with us at CirqueCon. Gena had a chance to experience the new exhbit while also attending the first few shows of OVO on the Quays of old Montreal. She loved it! Keith Johnson shares with us some thoughts on the newly released ZAIA CD album; next issue, Paul Roberts, our previous contributor on all things musical, will weigh in on the album too. And I had a unique experience with Saltimbanco in Lakeland back in early May that I wish to share - the folks from La Nouba showed up! Besides our features this month, there's a plethora of news bits that surfaced throughout the month and many exciting new entries through- out all of Cirque du Soleil's social widgets. We've got all that here within. So, think we've got a pretty exciting issue in store for you, so please enjoy it! Oh, and last but certainly not least, don't forget to celebrate Cirque du Soleil's 25th birthday on June 16th! That about wraps up this intro. Now, onto the issue! Join us on the web at: < www.cirquefascination.com > Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only): < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 > - Ricky "Richasi" Russo =========== CONTENTS =========== o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings o) Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information * Touring Shows -- Productions under the Big Top * Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre * Venue Shows -- Arena & Seasonal Productions o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets * Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub * Networking -- Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & MySpace * Telemajik -- Cirque on YouTube & Television * Gatherings -- CirqueCon, Celebri & More! o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain * Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque * Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History o) Fascination! Features *) "Kumbalawé-mana, Urulimé! - Saltimbanco in Lakeland" By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA) {Issue Exclusive} *) "ONE DROP Starts Ripple Effect - an AQUA Review" By: Gena Colton - Perrysburg, Ohio (USA) {Issue Exclusive} *) "The Spirit of Space: a ZAIA Album Review" By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA) {Issue Exclusive} o) Parting Quote o) Subscription Information o) Copyright & Disclaimer ======================================================================= CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS ======================================================================= Cirque Unveils OVO [EXPANDED] {Apr.08.2009} ----------------------------------------------- Ovo may just be a three-letter word in Portuguese for egg. But as a logo for the new, biodiversity-themed Cirque du Soleil teeming with acrobats in dazzling insect costumes, it has the added advantage of a middle letter that can easily sprout antennae and two “o”s that can become eyes. After several months of selling (tens of thousands) tickets for the upcoming run of its new touring show, the Cirque du Soleil has finally named its latest offspring. OVO, the Cirque’s 25th baby, has arrived, coincidentally, during the company’s 25th anniversary year. In its early years, the Cirque only launched a show every second year. But after it began installing permanent shows around the globe, the show count accelerated. Once OVO is under way, there will be 18 shows running consecutively, and by the end of the year there will be 20. Yesterday, Montreal media were invited into the Big Top for a glimpse of OVO and a chance to meet its creators, including its first-ever female director, Deborah Colker, from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Among her many achievements, the 48-year-old Colker became the first Brazilian to win the British Laurence Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance in 2001, for her show MIX. Yesterday, Cirque artistic guide Gilles Ste-Croix shared the stage with Colker, creation director Chantal Tremblay and production director Benoît Mathieu. After brief speeches, a portion of OVO took over the stage, offering a startling vision of an insectarium gone wild to a South American beat. Ste-Croix said Colker had been allowed to bring along her own Brazilian composer, Berna Ceppas, and set designer Gringo Cardia – an unusual step for the Cirque, which has traditionally worked with Quebec composers and set designers. Costume designer Liz Vandal, however, is a Montrealer. She’s new to the Cirque, but has designed shows for top dance companies like La La Human Steps. Lighting designer Eric Champoux is making his Cirque debut, too, although he’s well known in local theatre circles. Makeup designer Julie Bégin was born here, but has been based for the last 10 years in New York City, where he has worked with top fashion designers and celebrities. Although it wasn’t evident in the OVO excerpt, there’s a love story at the heart of the show between a gawky new insect in town and a luscious Lady Bug, played by New Yorker Michelle Matlock. A giant egg will be a prominent prop. “OVO represents a cycle of nature and the enigma of nature,” Colker explained. Colker, who runs her own dance company and school in Brazil, hired an international cast of 53, all acrobats rather than dancers, then proceeded to teach them how to dance and act: “Now all these acrobats can talk through their bodies,” she said. She said it was a big change for her to work for the Cirque. “Of course, it’s still my signature, but it’s inside Cirque’s.” Cirque CEO Daniel Lamarre said he expects ticket sales to hit 60 per cent of capacity (230,000 for the Montreal run) by opening night, with most performances becoming completely sold out before the end of the run. After Montreal, OVO will move on to Quebec City and Toronto before beginning its U.S. tour. { SOURCE: Montreal Gazette } Laliberté Invests in Le Massif Ski Resort [EXPANDED] {May.04.2009} ---------------------------------------------------- Guy Laliberté, founder of Quebec’s Cirque de Soleil, is pumping $10 million into the Le Massif de Charlevoix skiing and leisure centre near Baie St.Paul, on the North Shore east of Quebec City. It is a private investment for which Laliberté gets a 10 per cent stake in the future all-season tourist centre. "It's an excellent business deal and I can contribute to what will become an international venue," he said. "Le Massif is a gem that we must continue to polish." For Daniel Gauthier, former partner of Laliberté in building the Cirque du Soleil into an international entertainment marvel, the investment marks a milestone. He has been trying to finance Le Massif's development for six years. "When I left the Cirque in 2001, I was certain our paths would cross again," said Gauthier. "Now that's a reality." {SOURCE: The Montreal Gazette} Cirque in the Klondike? {May.05.2009} ----------------------------------------------- Cirque du soleil, the internationally acclaimed circus troupe, has shown some early interest in coming north to Dawson City, Yukon, according to the territory’s tourism association. The idea of bringing Cirque du soleil to Dawson came up this past weekend at the Tourism Industry Association of the Yukon’s spring conference in the Klondike town, known for its rich gold- panning history. TIA board chairman Rod Taylor said preliminary calls to Cirque du soleil indicated some interest in the idea. Perhaps coming soon to the Yukon: Cirque du Soleil. Stay tuned! {SOURCE: CBC.ca} Champion Pole Dancer Spices Up Zumanity [EXPANDED] {May.05.2009} -------------------------------------------------- Felix Cane has the almond eyes and feline physique of a cheetah, and she’s probably the only woman alive who got into pole dancing because of her mother. While visiting her daughter in Australia, Cane’s mother decided, out of boredom, to take a free trial pole dancing lesson. She came back raving about how much fun she had. So, Cane signed up for a class, too. Over the next three years, Cane, who was a studying biochemistry and mathematics at a local “uni,” accrued an impressive collection of awards for her pole dancing prowess, including two Miss Pole Dance Australias and Miss Pole Dance World 2009/2010. When not on the competition circuit, Cane taught pole dancing lessons and worked in Australian strip clubs. Lucky for Las Vegans, Cirque de Soleil snatched her up in January of this year to join the cast of Zumanity at New York- New York, where she performs a high-octane gravity-defying routine as the character Flash five nights a week. “I really like my character, she’s quite spicy,” says Cane in a British accent (she was born in London). “She’s a bit of a rock chick; she’s in plaid and leather.” Executing inverted splits in a thong and six-inch heels is pretty much the antithesis of Cane’s original dance of choice – ballet. Cane, who spent years practicing her jetés and pliés, decided to quit ballet at age 17, because it was “restrictive” and “depressing.” “There is a lot of pressure to look a certain way. It’s very hard to make it in ballet if you’re not stick skinny.” But she highly recommends pole dancing. “Just do it! It’s so much fun and you gain so much confidence in yourself. You feel good; you look good. It’s easy to get into shape, because it’s so much fun. I haven’t met anyone who didn’t enjoy it.” Cane, who never took her clothes off while dancing in strip clubs, also dispels the commonly held opinion that pole dancing is slutty. “People automatically assume that they know what pole dancing is before they have experienced and watched it,” says Cane. “Pole dancing originated in strip clubs, and it’s a sort of sensual dance, but I don’t think that’s a bad thing. There are many types of dance that are very sensual – tango, rumba, salsa – and they are very sexy and they don’t try to be anything else. So, I don’t pretend that pole dancing is not sexy and sensual, but it doesn’t have to be vulgar.” Now that the best pole dancer in the world is a member of an internationally celebrated acrobatic circus troupe, Cane is having a blast as the sexy, flexible Flash and a newly initiated Vegas denizen. Her mother, we assume, is very proud. { SOURCE: Las Vegas Weekly } Wyndham Hotels Announces Cirque Offer {May.06.2009} ----------------------------------------------- Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, an official sponsor of Cirque du Soleil touring shows, is celebrating the return of Cirque du Soleil to New York by combining an exclusive offer for the troupe’s KOOZA performances and a special 15 percent discount on stays at its participating New York City hotels. Customers can access the exclusive KOOZA offer online by clicking on a link provided with the Wyndham hotel Web reservation confirmation and may choose to receive tickets either electronically or by mail. Accommodations are available at the newly constructed Wyndham Garden Hotel-Manhattan Chelsea West at 37 W. 24th St. and at the Wyndham Garden Hotel-Midtown Convention Center at 341 W. 36th St. Reservations may be made online at www.wyndham.com or toll- free at (877) 999-3223. From outside the United States, call (506) 638-4899. Both the Manhattan Chelsea West and the Midtown Convention Center hotels are smoke-free and offer Herman Miller Aeron ergonomic desk chairs; Wyndham Be Well bedding; complimentary wired and wireless high-speed Internet access; 32- inch, high-definition, flat-screen televisions with pay-per-view movies; alarm clock radios with mp3-iPod adapters; and Bath & Body Works True Blue Spa bath care amenities. The Wyndham Garden Hotel-Midtown Convention Center offers Wyndham ClearAir allergy-friendly guest rooms by PURE Solutions NA, designed to remove up to 98 percent of allergens. KOOZA is playing Tuesdays through Sundays at various times under Cirque du Soleil’s trademark blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau - or big top - at Randall’s Island Park for a limited engagement. The show revisits the origins of Cirque du Soleil by combining two circus traditions: acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. A full schedule and details are available at www.cirquedusoleil.com. Wyndham hotel guests must show proof of their KOOZA ticket purchase at time of check-in. Rooms at the discounted rate are subject to availability and blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. Taxes and gratuity are not included. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to arrival date are subject to fees. {SOURCE: Wyndham Resorts} Sean Lomax: Where is he now? [EXPANDED] {May.07.2009} ----------------------------------------------- Fans of Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo will recognize Sean Lomax’s name as the original "Whistler" from the show. He’s been off our radar since his departure from Cirque du Soleil, but he’s still out there delighting audiences. Where is he now? If you’re in the Pittsburgh area you have a chance to catch up with him - Mr. Lomax will be performing this Saturday (May 9th) at a concert of the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra. * * * At a concert of the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra on Saturday night, Sean Lomax will demonstrate the musical talent for which he has twice been named an international grand champion. Mr. Lomax, 49, of Braddock isn't a singer and won't be playing an instrument. Instead, he will perform three classical numbers using a skill he describes as "a lost art" -- whistling. The concert -- "Around the World in 80 Minutes" -- will begin at 7:30 at Woodland Hills Junior High School, Swissvale. Some who are unfamiliar with the musical pedigree of whistling are skeptical at first, Mr. Lomax said. "But they change their tune when they hear what I can do." Mr. Lomax commands a three-octave range and has toured with Cirque du Soleil's "Corteo" show. He also has made numerous appearances around the world. Whistling achieved its greatest popularity in America during the Big Band era of the 1930s and '40s. Mr. Lomax noted it was normal for bands of that time to keep a paid whistler on call. He said it was especially gratifying for him to perform for older music fans who remember songs such as bandleader Ted Weems' "Heartaches," in which a whistling solo figured prominently. While growing up in Braddock, Mr. Lomax said he was known -- and sometimes teased -- as "that guy who's always whistling." When he left the Pittsburgh area at 18 to join the U.S. Navy and serve on a submarine, he said he met many people who suggested he compete at the annual International Whistlers Convention. "But no one ever knew where it was held," he said. When he did make his first appearance at the competition, in 1985, he was unfamiliar with the rules and was disqualified for going over the time allotted. But he received a standing ovation. "I chose to whistle Beethoven's Fifth Symphony and Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue,'?" he said. "Everyone else was doing stuff like 'Chattanooga Choo Choo,' so I caused quite a scandal." He won the title of International Whistling Grand Champion in 1988 and 1992, and 2009 Entertainer of the Year. Touring with Cirque du Soleil has been the high point of his whistling career, Mr. Lomax said. In 2004, after seeing him in several television appearances, Cirque du Soleil's management asked him to audition in Las Vegas. He premiered in "Corteo," in which he had a leading role, in April 2005. "After that, there was no going back," said Mr. Lomax, who quit his job as a network control technician in 2005 to focus on whistling full time. In addition to TV and public appearances, Mr. Lomax performs at private parties and frequently tours with Carnival Cruise Line, performing and teaching whistling techniques. Those not familiar with whistling may be surprised by what he goes through to prepare for a major performance, Mr. Lomax said. "First, I have to learn to breathe the piece," he said. To keep the melody unbroken, he must whistle while breathing out as well as in, without running out of air at mid-tune. "To keep in shape, every few days I will whistle something challenging, like all four movements of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony or Hummel's Trumpet Concerto." Mr. Lomax said that in contrast to many popular whistlers -- who use a fast, staccato style -- he has a melodic style, using his sound "more as a voice than as an instrument." The three pieces he will perform with the Edgewood Symphony include two usually performed by singers and one by trumpet: "O Sole Mio," "Return to Sorrento" and Leroy Anderson's "A Trumpeter's Lullaby." Mr. Lomax said that in the music world, nothing is ever sure, so he can't be definite about some exciting upcoming performances. "But let's just say I might be appearing on a nationally syndicated talent show," he said. "And I might be giving a concert in Chicago in June." Mr. Lomax said that while being a professional whistler can be unpredictable, he enjoys traveling, meeting new people and using the unusual gift he's developed. "It's not your usual career," he said. "But I really love bringing whistling back to the people who remember it, and to people who are hearing it for the first time." * * * Visit him at his website: < http://www.whistleon.com/ > {SOURCE: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette} Cirque with a Dancer’s Rouch? [EXPANDED] {May.07.2009} ----------------------------------------------- You have to love Cirque du Soleil. With the mega-successful Canadian organization getting ready to celebrate its 25th anniversary on June 16, they might be forgiven for wanting to rest on their considerable laurels just a little bit. But no, judging by their latest show, Ovo, which opened in Montreal last night, they're always ready for a new challenge. Cirque's detractors have always been eager to say that "all their shows look the same," and although that's not strictly true, there is a certain wistful, pastel-coloured, sad-clown melancholy that one could find in most of them. They break away from that mode in their permanent shows like Ka, Love and Zumanity, but the touring vehicles, which is all we usually see in Toronto, do have a certain faded commedia dell'arte grandeur which can grow repetitious. That's why Ovo is such a refreshing change. Anyone who thinks that Cirque du Soleil can't still surprise them had better think again. There's been a lot of buzz in advance that this show was going to be different because it marked the first time that a woman – Deborah Colker – had been the director. Yes, the show is different and Colker is the reason, but to attribute it to her gender is backward thinking. The difference is that Colker is primarily a choreographer and Ovo moves, looks and feels like a piece of modern dance. Its firm placement in the insect world makes for a consistency that is a welcome change from the loosey-goosey format of previous shows. Except for one stretch in the second act, the tedious old Cirque comedy is gone. There are also no solo gymnastic acts shoehorned in like they would have been on an old episode of The Ed Sullivan Show. In Colker's world, everything moves smoothly, sleekly and to a purpose. The costumes of Liz Vandal and the lighting of Eric Champoux use colours unseen in Cirque before now. Bold magentas and vivid golds claim a stage which has been held hostage for too many years by pastels. The music of Berna Ceppas also gets away from the "new age" prison that Cirque has been trapped in, substituting Latin American rhythms that invigorate the action. In fact, the whole event is quite smashingly entertaining, but if one wanted to be picky, one could notice that there isn't as much "Cirque" as before. By that, I mean not only just the number of acrobatic acts which have been replaced by dance movement sequences, but to the fact that the overall feeling is a lot slicker and less of a feeling of "street entertainer" than other Cirque shows have managed to maintain. Yes, there are overproduced moments, like a finale involving green-garbed men, trampolines and a rock-climbing wall that – while impressive – still feels like something Bob Fosse might have phoned in from hell for the Power Ranger. But all in all, one leaves with a feeling of exhilaration, and the sense that the powers that be at Cirque du Soleil are looking for new solutions to their second quarter century. Let the games continue. { SOURCE: The Star } Disney Passholders Save at La Nouba {May.07.2009} ----------------------------------------------- If you live in the Central Florida area and also a Disney Annual Passholder, you can save at Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba with 30 percent off the regular price of a Category 2 ticket for you and three guests for select shows now through June 27th! If you’re not a Disney Annual Passholder, but are a Florida Resident, you can still save on Category 2 seats from now until June 27th too! Category 2 seats on sale for Florida residents at $64 plus tax adults, $52 plus tax age 3-9. Regular admission with a Category 2 ticket is $83.00 for adults and $67.00 for children (3-9). Category 2 seats include lower sections 101 & 105 (all seats), and upper sections 203, 204 & 205 seats EE-LL, and sections 202 & 206, seats AA-HH). Go see La Nouba and save today! Cirque Vaudeville Presale {May.08.2009} ----------------------------------------------- Cirque du Soleil is putting a contemporary twist on Vaudeville by infusing this classic form of theatre with a modern flair. This brand new type of Cirque du Soleil production will feature comedy, dance and song. Get ready for an exciting fusion of genres, directed by David Shiner - accomplished comedic actor, Broadway creator and director of KOOZA from Cirque du Soleil. Tickets for Cirque’s "new twist on Vaudeville", which will have its preview performances at the Chicago Theater in Chicago, IL beginning Thursday, November 19, 2009, is in presale for CirqueClub members. (NOTE: A Password will be required to complete the purchase. You will find this password in the CirqueClub Exclusive Offers section: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/ clubcirque/exclusive/exclusive.htm > Presale ends Sunday, August 30th at 11:59pm Central Daylight Time! Find the SCHEDULE, PERFORMANCE TIMES and TICKET PRICE information under the VENUES heading in our ITINERARY section! {SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil} OVO/One Drop Benefit Gala {May.08.2009} ----------------------------------------------- THE FIRST BENEFIT GALA IN SUPPORT OF THE ONE DROP(TM) FOUNDATION MONTREAL, May 8 /CNW Telbec/ - Cirque du Soleil is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and to kick off the celebrations, a 25th anniversary gala evening to benefit the ONE DROP Foundation will be held tonight at the official opening of OVO in Montreal. Several Montreal celebrities have contributed to this benefit party, including Garou, Luc Plamondon, Guy A. Lepage, Michel Côté, Fabienne Larouche, Mitsou, Stéphane Quintal, Vincent Damphousse, Marie St-Pierre, Gilbert Rozon, Alain Simard and many others. For the very first time, Cirque du Soleil is breaking with tradition and holding a benefit gala in support of the ONE DROP Foundation at the official opening of one of its shows. Galas will be held in Montreal, Quebec City and Toronto. Cirque du Soleil will, of course, continue to pursue its dream by creating new shows, but Guy Laliberté also wants ONE DROP to continue to forge ahead in the future. With a number of activities slated for the coming year-and the support of Cirque du Soleil-2009 promises to be a turning point for the Foundation. Gala evening in Montreal - A generous success The Montreal performance of OVO will welcome more than 1,700 guests who have agreed to make a donation to the ONE DROP Foundation through the purchase of their ticket. The net income from ticket sales for this event is $1,404,000. The show will be followed by a colourful celebration of the company’s 25th anniversary. Gala evening in Quebec City on August 23 The 25th-anniversary gala evening in Quebec City will be held on August 23, following the final performance of OVO in the city. For more information on the ONE DROP Foundation, visit their website: < http://www.onedrop.org > For further information on the Gala, contact: Chantal Côté, Cirque du Soleil, (514) 723-7646 ext. 7326, chantal.cote@cirquedusoleil.com {SOURCE: CNW Telbec} Church of Love: A Blessed Beatles Event [EXPANDED] {May.12.2009} -------------------------------------------------- Check out this groovy post on LOVE, featuring interviews with LOVE Artistic Director Kati Renaud, Technical Director Paul "Chumley" Reams, and Sugar Plum Fairy Michael Moloi. * * * Against the Beatle naysayers of the world, there is a well- documented list of ‘firsts’ that can be used to win the argument on technical points—first live, international satellite broadcast (“All You Need Is Love”, 1967), first use of feedback in a studio recording (John Lennon’s vibrating A string tacked onto the intro of “I Feel Fine”, 1964), first rock band to employ stadiums for live shows (started at Shea Stadium, 1965, ended at Candlestick Park, 1966), first rock musicians to mix amphetamines and strippers (the influence of amped, bored, Reeperbahn strippers on the Fab Four is often overlooked). That’s just a partial list, mind you, but it nicely illustrates the significance of the band to anyone who needs a reminder. However, everyone I know that loves the Beatles does so not for their technical or cultural milestones. They love them for their music, which naturally includes their spirit, which naturally comes from their story. Loss and tragedy followed by success so huge it becomes a sort of tragic burden in itself—that is the band’s story. Pain, triumph, defeat, and victory for everyone who followed—in some ways, it is the archetypical martyred king legend. Much time and music has since passed, yet still the Beatles' victory survives as a memory, and thrives as an influence, which takes us back to a winnable argument against those who feel the Beatles were pop stars and nothing more—a sentiment that reminds me of the Python quote: “What have the Romans ever done for us?” A collective love for the Beatles' music, spirit, and story (these words can be used interchangeably) is the lynchpin for the huge success of Cirque du Soleil’s Beatles Love show, playing for infinity (I hope) at the Mirage in Las Vegas. For Beatles fans, the show is a deeply spiritual experience. For fans of rock music, it is merely arresting. It is a very heady thing, and the music is the star (thank god) beneath which Cirque’s brilliant and colorful performers interpret the Beatles' history and the evolution and demise of ’60s cultural movements. Put another way, Love is a live, Technicolor, surround-sound, historical documentary that swings. Because of this, much of the show’s visual symbolisms mean one thing to fans who know well the Beatles’ history and the ’60s, and mean something else only slightly less poignant to those who only know the band by their infinite loop of hits. And if you’re anticipating four guys who can sing who happen to kinda-sorta look like the Fab Four, you will be either relieved or disappointed, depending on whether you approve of such pastiche. In Cirque’s temple of Love, such a thing would be considered sacrilege. George Harrison and Cirque founder Guy Laliberté had begun collaborating on this show before George passed. His wife Olivia, with the help of son Dhani, kept the flame lit, Paul and Ringo blessed the event, as did Yoko Ono, though perhaps not unconditionally. This was not to be one of those county fair shows where four guys take the stage in moptop wigs and end the night in fake hippie beards. This is a show where the real Paul McCartney doubles the verse on “Come Together” from right over your shoulder. So clear, so intimate, yet perfectly mixed with the music literally filling the space around you that you can’t help but turn and survey the source of Paul’s vocal. The show opens with a superb remix and remaster of the Beatles’ impeccable a cappella harmony piece “Because” while a chimneypot skyline—part Liverpool, part Saville Row rooftop concert—rises at the audience’s feet. The stunning sound quality of the vocals renders the audience pliable for transformation. This is followed by a mash-up of several key Beatles song moments, as if their life in music was rushing by. The mash-up parks on the groovy “Get Back”, mixed with bits from other songs, while the cast fills the stage with beautifully choreographed pandemonium. The music morphs into “Glass Onion”, at which point the cast of Love tears the skyline down. It seems to be pure Summer of Love mayhem with a cast of characters I sort of recognize—Father Mackenzie, Eleanor Rigby, the Nowhere Man, flower children, and blossoming youths, including John Lennon as a child. As the skyline is being destroyed, I realize that the mayhem is maybe not so innocent and carefree. The song ends, the lights change, and I quickly realize that the stoic, working-class England represented in that chimneypot landscape has been reduced to post-WWII London Blitz rubble. We are all back in the ashes that delivered us this band. And that’s just the first few minutes. It is at this point that I realize many tears will fall on this night. Not just from being moved by the art of Love in sight and sound, and not just from the melancholia of post-WWII Britain. Tears will fall because I know how this story ends. Cirque seems to be aware of the fire they are playing with, and therefore carefully balance tragedy with triumph, similar to how the Beatles' music inherently balanced Paul’s sweetness with John’s rebellion. As artistic director Kati Renaud states, “When one performs at Love, there is a strong feeling that they are not performing at ‘just another Cirque show.’ There is a part of you that is involved in the wonderful world of the Beatles, not just Cirque.” The embodiment of Paul’s sweetness comes when the Sugar Plum Fairy meets a very ripe Lady Madonna during her namesake song. The Sugar Plum Fairy is played by South African street performer Michael Moloi, who has a smile that can cure clinical depression. Michael never heard the Beatles before he auditioned for Love. Asked about this, he says, “I never listened to their music before in my life, but the more I listen to it every day during the show, I feel moved by the lyrics, the beats, and the style. The more I listen to it, I hear new things!” Thank George Martin for that, and perhaps his son Giles, who won Grammys for their graceful remixing and mash-ups of Love’s music. { SOURCE: Crawdaddy, the Magazine of Rock } Saltimbanco Arena in Europe {May.14.2009} ----------------------------------------------- Four cities have officially been added to the Saltimbanco Arena Tour... and they’re in Europe. Tickets are on-sale now through CirqueClub! o) Helsinki, Finland -- Sep 17 to Sep 20 o) Turku, Finland -- Sep 30 to Oct 4 o) Oslo, Norway -- Oct 8 to Oct 11 o) Gothenburg, Sweden -- Nov 4 to Nov 8 Cirque to open Eurovision Song Contest Finale {May.15.2009} ----------------------------------------------- Montreal circus troupe Cirque du Soleil will open the finale of the Eurovision Song Contest, organizers announced Friday. The internationally famous circus troupe, featuring spectacular production and acrobatics, is promising to take Eurovision viewers to a fantasy land in its opening number. The finale, to be held Saturday, is watched by about 100 million TV viewers. {SOURCE: CBC.ca} Cirque Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary {May.19.2009} ---------------------------------------------- LAS VEGAS, May 19 /PRNewswire/ - Cirque du Soleil is offering specially priced tickets throughout the summer to celebrate its milestone 25th anniversary. Guests can also enter the summer sweepstakes for a chance to visit Las Vegas and see all of the Cirque du Soleil shows like a celebrity VIP. Cirque du Soleil is commemorating its 25th anniversary in 2009 with the theme "the dream continues." Since June 16, 1984, this young Quebec company has never stopped dreaming. For Cirque, 2009 marks 25 years of dreaming, daring, and pushing the limits. There has never been a better time to dream than this summer! From May 11 through October 31 a limited number of specially priced tickets will be available for select Cirque du Soleil performances. Guests who purchase one ticket can bring a friend for $25. One lucky Cirque du Soleil fan will be randomly selected to receive the Grand Prize package including: o) Airfare for two to Las Vegas o) Celebrity treatment at all seven Cirque du Soleil shows - Mystere(TM) at Treasure Island, "O(TM)" at Bellagio, Zumanity(TM) The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil(TM) at New York-New York Hotel & Casino(TM), KA(TM) at MGM Grand, The Beatles(TM) LOVE(TM) at The Mirage, CRISS ANGEL(R) Believe(TM) at Luxor and the newest production paying tribute to the music and life of Elvis which will open in late 2009 at ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter. o) VIP treatment includes limousine transportation to the shows, VIP tickets, VIP escort into the theatre, photo with the cast, souvenir gift bag and signed cast poster. o) Four night stay at MGM Grand and four night stay at Bellagio (eight days total) o) Three dinners for two o) Spa treatment The specially priced tickets can be purchased by calling 1-866- 998-4830 and mentioning code "SUMMER". For sweepstakes information, text SUMMER to 25025 or visit cirquedusoleil.com/lasvegas for details or to enter. {SOURCE: PRNewswire, Cirque du Soleil} Cirque Connection: "Illusia" in Tel Aviv {May.19.2009} ---------------------------------------------- If you’ve wondered what Andrew Watson has been up to lately, look no further than "Illusia": "Illusia" blends together Cirque du Soleil style acrobatics with orchestral music played by the Raanana symphony. The show will be playing from June 25th-June 27th at the Israeli Opera house in Tel Aviv. Tickets can be purchased at the Opera box office or online at the Opera’s website. The combination of gravity defying acrobatics and music makes "Illusia" an exciting show for all ages. Famed director Christian Kolonko brings an acrobatic, musical, sensory experience, to the Israeli Opera house with "Illusia". The show combines award winning artists and classical music to transport the audience into an imagination dream world. Music will be performed by the renowned Raanana Orchestra and conducted by Omer Wellber. "Illusia" will feature an unbelievable array of sets and costumes that takes the audience on a visual journey. The show is artistically advised by Andrew Watson, the creation director for such Cirque Du Soleil productions as "Zumanity" and "Varekai". "Illusia" will be a blend of classical music and aerial dance with elaborate sets and fantastic costumes. The show is choreographed and co-directed by Cynthia Akanga, who has worked as an assistant choreographer for Cirque du Soleil as well. {SOURCE: YNetNews.com} Criss Angel in Wax {May.21.2009} ---------------------------------------------- Las Vegas’ Fox 5 is reports that Las Vegas illusionist Criss Angel will be the latest local celebrity to have his likeness unveiled in wax. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas will display Angel’s new statue Thursday afternoon. Angel himself will be on hand with a group of children from the Make-A-Wish foundation. {SOURCE: FOX 5 Vegas} Yellow Submarine Surfaces in... Las Vegas? {May.21.2009} ---------------------------------------------- Sing it with me: "we all live in a yellow submarine, yellow submarine, yellow submarine." No? Okay, but will you come watch it? From CineVegas: CineVegas will present a rare screening of the animation classic YELLOW SUBMARINE at Mandalay Bay Beach as part of the 2009 Festival. Sponsored by The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil, the "dive-in" outdoor screening will be held on Saturday, June 13 at 9:30pm, with doors opening at 8:30pm. "Mandalay Bay Beach is an ideal venue to add yet another unique screening experience to CineVegas, as guests can float, swim and even sing, all while watching the fate of the musical city under the sea," said CineVegas Artistic Director Trevor Groth. YELLOW SUBMARINE is a glorious visual and musical adventure that has gained notoriety for its representation of the 60s psychedelic era. Appropriately bizarre, the somewhat quizzical story tells of the music-hating Blue Meanies that turn the good people of Pepperland into statues. Naturally, it’s up to John, Paul, George and Ringo to save the day, all while traveling in a yellow submarine and getting into all types of far out fun. Tickets priced at $10, not including applicable service charges, will go on sale on May 20 and are available at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations! {SOURCE: CineVegas.com} Chatting with Boris Verkhovsky [EXPANDED] {May.27.2009} ---------------------------------------------- Halifax’s "The Coast" took a moment to chat with Boris Verkhovsky, a Cirque du Soleil acrobatics director who is in town with Alegría’s Arena tour: When racing greyhounds retire, they have to be retrained for life off the track. When athletes - gymnasts, tumblers, divers, synchronized swimmers - leave competition for a life in the circus, they also have to be reprogrammed. And that, in part, is Boris Verkhovsky’s job. As Cirque du Soleil’s acrobatic performance and coaching director, he’s responsible for 700 to 800 acrobats, out of 1,200 artists working for the circus worldwide. A grad of the Institute of Physical and Sports Culture in Minsk, Belarus, and a coach for the national acrobatics team in the former Soviet Union, Verkhovsky was initially hired in 1993 as a consultant. Up until this year, he took care of all the acrobats, but with 17 shows on five continents, the challenge became physically impossible for one person. Now, he says his role is narrowed to developing performances for new shows. Verkhovsky is in town for Cirque’s Alegría (Spanish for jubilation), on now at the Metro Centre. While six of the nine Cirque shows happening in the world are under travelling tents (“our little city,” as Verkhovsky refers to them), the auditorium shows still sparkle with Soleil signature charm: elaborate sets, grand musical compositions, exquisite bodies dressed in exquisite costumes and daring acrobatics that will have you praying for solid ground. Almost 80 percent of the acrobats, says Verkhovsky, arrive through amateur sport. Others come from the stage or circus schools. General auditions happen around the world each year, run by a casting department of 60 people. Verkhovsky says that many candidates arrive through a virtual scouting process through their website. But just because you’re a top tumbler, doesn’t mean you’re Cirque material. “When you look at people coming from sports, they are individual sports, like gymnastics. Being a trampolinist, you’re used to performing by yourself. The notion of being a team is quite abstract. When you come to Cirque du Soleil, you have to learn how to be part of a team, to work with a partner,” he says. Verkhovsky gives the example of a gymnast on a balance beam. “You have a piece of equipment that’s always the same and you do what’s necessary for the balancing. In Alegría, there is an act we call Russian Bar, where two porters will be carrying basically a pole vault, which you could think of as a balance beam that a performer would stand on, but then they flex it and put the flyer up in the air. The flyer performs complicated routines and lands back on it. If I was to apply the same logic, if I was to apply a gymnastics attitude—-it doesn’t work because I have two porters that are responsible for the balance. To surrender to them, psychologically, is very difficult. But if you don’t surrender to them, it’s like a car with two steering wheels and two drivers trying to drive. It becomes a nightmare.” Also tough is going from performing a handful of times a year in competition to eight to 10 times a week. “They have to learn to pace themselves, set performance targets that are reasonable and yet exciting to the public.” And, of course, there’s the artistic side: athletes can’t go into the “zone,” they must be present and ready to interact with audiences. Statistically, a Cirque acrobatics career can last anywhere from 12 to 15 years. The cast of Alegría is fairly young, but Verkhovsky mentions that one of the show’s characters is a former acrobat who was doing high-calibre acrobatics into his mid-40s. “I think what impacts it is a decision,” says Verkhovsky. “Some people will perform one, two, three terms of the contract and then move on to other things. But some people will make a decision that this is their profession. Not what they do, a profession. It’s their lifestyle. Running away with the circus? It’s very true. A lot of people don’t know what they’re getting in to, but they fall in love with it.” {SOURCE: The Coast.ca} Get a Behind-the-Scenes Peek at KÀ! {May.27.2009} ---------------------------------------------- Pssssst, have you heard? Cirque du Soleil is inviting the general public to peek behind-the-scenes at KÀ Revealed. Come to the KÀ Theater at MGM Grand on Thursday, May 28th. The first 100 guests are admitted free! Doors open at 4:20pm for this event. Anyone going in the Las Vegas area? Let us know how it went! {SOURCE: KÀ on Facebook} Cirque 25: Stilt-Walking Event! {May.29.2009} ---------------------------------------------- Cirque du Soleil is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with myriad events. One of them is a global stilt-walking event and we’re invited to join in the fun! On June 16th 2009, a Global stilt-walking event will take place celebrating 25 years of Cirque du Soleil. You’re invited to join the Cirque du Soleil troupe visiting your city, or organize your own stilters’ parade in your neighborhood! o) MONTREAL, Quebec | Cirque du Soleil HQ o) LAS VEGAS, Nevada | With our 6 Shows teams o) ORLANDO, Florida | With the La Nouba team o) NEW YORK CITY, New York | With the KOOZA team o) MOSCOU, Russia | At the Red Square o) LISBOA, Portugal | With the Varekai team o) MACAU, China | With the ZAIA team o) TOKYO, Japan | With the ZED team o) NAGOYA, Japan | With the Corteo team o) FORTALEZA, Brazil | With the Quidam team Times for the event will be available soon! {SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil} Edie, the "Mistress of Sensuality" [EXPANDED] {May.29.2009} ---------------------------------------------- Christopher Kenney’s job description is "Mistress of Sensuality" in Cirque du Soleil’s "Zumanity" at New York-New York. The description really belongs to his drag creation and other self, Edie, an impossibly tall, black-haired throwback to 1960s chanteuses with long, slender (and large-kneed) legs. Kenney developed those legs as a professional ballet dancer in Oregon, before creating Edie in 2000 in New York City. Kenney - and Edie - joined "Zumanity" as its hostess in January 2008. Q. “Zumanity” is more pan-sexual than the usual Vegas topless revue or male strip show. How do you make the audience comfortable? Edie adds a finesse to it. She makes it accessible, so it’s not scary. I’m kind of scooping everybody up and taking them with me, so everyone is “us” — not “us” and “them.” Q. Does being in drag make that easier? Drag is a wonderful way to give you courage. If I walked into a room like, ‘Hi, everybody, I’m fabulous!’ you would think I was a freak. But if I put on a wig, it’s fun. For me, it’s a character, not a lifestyle. Q. How did you change your act for “Zumanity”? Edie’s my ’60s go-go fun girl, but this is sexier. We tweaked. I’m wearing a corset for the first time, which changes everything, like nerve feeling. Q. The Vegas audience is more middle America than New York City or San Francisco — does the audience get drag? They’re probably less exposed to it, on average. So during the show, Edie acts as sexy and soft as possible and we try to keep that suspense through to the conclusion, when I put my finger to my lip and go, ‘Shhh ...’ It’s a fun little game to play. Q. If you could change one thing about Las Vegas, what would it be? I would love for the gay community to be more of a community like it is everywhere else, even in small cities. Where are the gay coffee shops? Even the gay nightclubs are owned by straights. It’s all about money. Q. How has Las Vegas surprised you? I thought I would only tolerate Las Vegas. No. The sunshine is addictive and I love the grocery stores — all of these aisles of food! And now I live in a big house instead of a 350-square-foot apartment in New York City. {SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun} ======================================================================= ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION ======================================================================= o) TOURING - Under the Big Top {Corteo, Dralion, Koozå, OVO, Quidam & Varekai} o) RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre {Mystère, «O», La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE, ZAIA, ZED & Believe} o) VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions {Saltimbanco, Alegría | Wintuk, Vaudeville2009} 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. As such, the Fascination! Newsletter does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of these listings. NOTE (*): Dates so marked are not official until released by Cirque du Soleil. For current, up-to-the-moment information on Cirque's whereabouts, please visit our website < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >. --------------------------------- TOURING - Under the Big Top --------------------------------- Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=39 > Corteo: Tokyo, Japan -- Feb 4, 2009 to May 5, 2009 Nagoya, Japan -- May 21, 2009 to Jul 12, 2009 Osaka, Japan -- Jul 29, 2009 to Oct 18, 2009 Tokyo, Japan -- Nov 4, 2009 to Dec 20, 2009 Fukuoka, Japan -- Feb 11, 2010 to Apr 4, 2010 (*) Sendai, Japan -- Apr 21, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 (*) Dralion: Melbourne, Australia -- Apr 10, 2009 to Jun 14, 2009 Auckland, New Zealand -- Jul 10, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009 Monterrey, Mexico -- Sep 17, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009 (*) Guadalajara, Mexico -- Oct 22, 2009 to Nov 15, 2009 (*) Mexico City, Mexico -- Nov 26, 2009 to Dec 31, 2009 (*) Koozå: Baltimore, Maryland -- Mar 12, 2009 to Apr 5, 2009 New York, New York -- Apr 16, 2009 to Jun 21, 2009 Minneapolis/St-Paul, Minnesota -- Jul 3, 2009 to Aug 2, 2009 Denver, Colorado -- Aug 20, 2009 to Sep 6, 2009 Santa Monica, California -- Oct 16, 2009 to Dec 20, 2009 (*) Irvine, California -- Jan 8, 2010 to Jan 31, 2010 OVO: Montreal, QC -- Apr 23, 2009 to Jul 19, 2009 Quebec, QC -- Jul 30, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009 Toronto, ON -- Sep 3, 2009 to Oct 18, 2009 Quidam: Fortaleza, Brazil -- Jun 11 to Jun 28, 2009 Recife, Brazil -- Jul 09, 2009 to Aug 02, 2009 (*) Salvador, Brazil -- Aug 13, 2009 to Sep 6, 2009 (*) Brasília, Brazil -- Sep 18, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009 Belo Horizonte, Brazil -- Oct 23, 2009 to Nov 22, 2009 (*) Curitiba, Brazil -- Dec 4, 2009 to Dec 27, 2009 (*) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil -- Jan 8, 2010 to Feb 7, 2010 (*) Sao Paulo, Brazil -- Feb 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010 (*) Porto Alegre, Brazil -- May 10, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010 (*) Buenos Aires, Argentina -- Jul 23, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010 (*) Santiago, Chile -- Sep 11, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010 (*) Varekai: Bilbao, Spain -- Mar 26, 2009 to May 3, 2009 Lisbon, Portugal -- May 15, 2009 to Jun 28, 2009 Gijon, Spain -- Jul 9, 2009 to Aug 16, 2009 (*) Hamburg, Germany -- Aug 28, 2009 to Oct 4, 2009 Moscow, Russia -- Oct 23, 2009 to Dec 13, 2009 London, UK -- TBA --------------------------------- RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre --------------------------------- NOTE: (*) Prices are in United States Dollars (USD) unless otherwise noted. (*) Price reflected in brackets [] is inclusive of 10% Las Vegas Entertainment Tax where applicable, but does not include Sales Tax. Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=40 > Mystère: Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday Two shows Nightly - o Saturday: 7:00pm & 9:30pm o Sunday: 4:30pm & 7:00pm o Monday - Wednesday: 7:00pm & 9:30pm 2009 Ticket Prices: o Category 1: $109.00 o Category 2: $99.00 o Category 3: $95.00 o Category 4: $79.00 o Category 6: $69.00 o Category 7: $60.00 (Limited View) 2009 Dark Dates: o May 1 - 8 o July 8 o September 3 - 11 o November 4 "O": Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm 2009 Ticket Prices: o Orchestra: $150.00 [$165.00] o Loggia: $125.00 [$137.50] o Balcony: $99.00 [$108.90] o Limited View: $93.50 [102.85] 2009 Dark Dates: o June 7 o August 3-11 o October 4 o December 7-22 La Nouba: Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA) Performs: Tue through Sat, Dark: Sun/Mon Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm 2009 Ticket Prices (adults) / (child 3-9): o Category 0: $117.00 / $94.00 (+Tax) o Category 1: $102.00 / $82.00 (+Tax) o Category 2: $83.00 / $67.00 (+Tax) o Category 3: $67.00 / $54.00 (+Tax) o Category 4: $53.00 / $43.00 (+Tax) 2009 Dark Dates: o May 17 - Jun 1 o July 28 o September 20 - 28 o November 17 Zumanity: Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm 2009 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!): o Category 1: $135.00 o Category 2: $99.00 o Category 3: $79.00 o Category 4: $69.00 o Category 5: $69.00 (Obstructed View) 2009 Dark Dates: o May 25 - 27 o June 15 - 17 o July 13 - 15 o August 3 - 10 o September 7 - 9 o October 19 - 21 o December 1 - 14 KÀ: Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Fri through Tue, Dark Wed/Thu Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm 2009 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12): o Category 1: $150.00 [$165.00] / $75.00 [$82.50] o Category 2: $125.00 [$137.50] / $62.50 [$68.75] o Category 3: $99.00 [$108.90] / $49.50 [$54.45] o Category 4: $69.00 [$75.90] / $34.50 [$37.95] 2009 Dark Dates o May 10 - 18 o July 12 - 15 o September 6 - 12 o November 10 LOVE: Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm 2009 Ticket Prices: o Lower Orchestra: $150.00 [$165.00] o Upper Orchestra: $125.00 [137.50] o Lower Balcony: $99.00 [$108.80] o Middle Balcony: $93.50 [$102.85] o Upper Balcony: $69.00 [$75.90] 2009 Dark Dates: o June 11 o August 3 - 12 o October 8 o December 1 - 16 ZAIA: Location: Venetian, Macao (China) Performs: Tuesday through Sunday, Dark Monday One to Two Shows Daily - Tuesday: 8:00pm Wednesday: 8:00pm Thursday - Saturday: 7:00pm & 10:00pm Sunday: 4:00pm & 7:00pm 2008 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 0-12): o Category 1: MOP$ 1288 / No Child o Category 2: MOP$ 788 / MOP$ 688 o Category 3: MOP$ 588 / MOP$ 488 o Category 4: MOP$ 388 / MOP$ 288 2009 Dark Dates: o Not Available ZED: Location: Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo (Japan) Performs: Varies One to Two Shows Daily - Showtimes vary 2009 Ticket Prices (all): o Category 1 ("Premium"): ¥18,000 o Category 2 ("Front"): ¥15,000 o Category 3 ("Regular"): ¥9,800 o Category 4 ("Overview"): ¥7,800 2009 Dark Dates: o Not Available 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. 2009 Ticket Prices (all): o Category 1: $160.00 +Tax o Category 2: $125.00 +Tax o Category 3: $99.00 +Tax o Category 4: $79.00 +Tax o Category 5: $59.00 +Tax 2009 Dark Dates: o May 3 - 11 o July 5 - 19 o August 11 o September 9 - 17 o November 10 o December 8 -------------------------------------- VENUE - Arena & Seasonal Productions -------------------------------------- Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=251 > Saltimbanco: North American Tour ------------------- Lakeland, FL -- Apr 29, 2009 to May 3, 2009 Gainesville, FL -- May 7, 2009 to May 10, 2009 Tallahassee, FL -- May 13, 2009 to May 17, 2009 Jacksonville, FL -- May 20, 2009 to May 24, 2009 Sunrise, FL -- May 27, 2009 to Jun 7, 2009 Tampa, FL -- Jun 25, 2009 to Jul 5, 2009 Estero, FL -- Jul 8, 2009 to Jul 12, 2009 Cypress, TX -- Jul 15, 2009 to Jul 19, 2009 Houston, TX -- Jul 22, 2009 to Jul 26, 2009 Phoenix, AZ -- Jul 29, 2009 to Aug 2, 2009 Salt Lake City, UT -- Aug 5, 2009 to Aug 9, 2009 Columbus, OH -- Aug 12, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009 Europe Tour ----------- Stockholm, SE -- Sep 17, 2009 to Sep 20, 2009 Helsinki, FI -- Sep 23, 2009 to Sep 26, 2009 Turku, FI -- Sep 30, 2009 to Oct 4, 2009 Oslo, NO -- Oct 8, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009 Gothenburg, SE -- Nov 4, 2009 to Nov 8, 2009 Mannheim, DE -- TBA Aarhus, DN -- TBA Nice, FR -- TBA Alegría: Halifax, NS -- May 27, 2009 to Jun 7, 2009 St. John, NB -- Jun 10, 2009 to Jun 14, 2009 St. John's, NF -- Jun 19, 2009 to Jun 28, 2009 Providence, RI -- Jul 2, 2009 to Jul 5, 2009 Manchester, NH -- Jul 8, 2009 to Jul 12, 2009 Newark, NJ -- Jul 15, 2009 to Jul 19, 2009 Wilkes-Barre, PA -- Jul 22, 2009 to Jul 26, 2009 Hamilton, ON -- Jul 29, 2009 to Aug 2, 2009 Bridgeport, CT -- Aug 20, 2009 to Aug 23, 2009 Boston, MA -- Aug 26, 2009 to Aug 30, 2009 Amherst, MA -- Sep 2, 2009 to Sep 6, 2009 Syracuse, NY -- Sep 9, 2009 to Sep 13, 2009 Albany, NY -- Sep 16, 2009 to Sep 20, 2009 Rochester, NY -- Sep 23, 2009 to Sep 27, 2009 State College, PA -- Sep 30, 2009 to Oct 4, 2009 Pittsburgh, PA -- Oct 7, 2009 to Oct 11, 2009 Hershey, PA -- Oct 14, 2009 to Oct 18, 2009 Reading, PA -- Oct 21, 2009 to Oct 25, 2009 London, ON -- Nov 12, 2009 to Nov 15, 2009 Greenville, SC -- Nov 18, 2009 to Nov 22, 2009 Duluth, GA -- Nov 26, 2009 to Nov 29, 2009 Hampton, VA -- Dec 2, 2009 to Dec 6, 2009 Worcester, MA -- Dec 9, 2009 to Dec 13, 2009 Wintuk: Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City (USA) Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark Monday/Tuesday Multiple Shows Daily - Information regarding the 2009 season is not yet available. Vaudeville2009: Location: Chicago Theater, Chicago (USA) Schedule: There are currently 59 scheduled performances between Thursday, November 19, 2009 and Sunday, January 3, 2010, on the following days: o) Mon [02] - 12/28 (2) o) Tue [05] - 12/22 (3), 12/20 (2) o) Wed [11] - 11/25, 12/2, 12/9 (2), 12/16 (2), 12/23 (3), 12/30 (2) o) Thu [03] - 11/19, 12/10, 12/17 o) Fri [05] - 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18 o) Sat [19] - 11/21 (2), 11/28 (2), 12/5 (3), 12/12 (3), 12/19 (3), 12/26 (3), 1/2 (3) o) Sun [14] - 11/22 (2), 11/29 (2), 12/6 (2), 12/13 (2), 12/20 (2), 12/27 (2), 1/3 (2) PERFORMANCE TIMES o) Wednesday: 2:00pm, 8:00pm (12pm, 4pm, 8pm on 12/23) o) Thursday: 8:00pm o) Friday: 8:00pm o) Saturday: (12:00pm), 4:00pm, 8:00pm o) Sunday: 1:00pm, 5:00pm TICKET PRICES o) Adults (1-8 tickets): PEAK / WEEKEND: Regular: $48.00, $65.00, $85.00, $98.00 Premium: $150.00 Tapis Rouge: $300.00 NON-PEAK / WEEKEDAY: Regular: $35.00, $45.00, $65.00, $82.00 Premium: $115.00 Tapis Rouge: $275.00 PRE-THANKSGIVING: Regular: $23.00, $30.00, $50.00, $75.00 Premium: None Tapis Rouge: None o) Students & Seniors: PEAK / WEEKEND: Students and Seniors receive a 10% discount on regular priced seats (premium and Tapis Rouge seats not included) on Pre-Thanksgiving and Non-Peak/Weekday tickets only. NON-PEAK / WEEKDAY: Regular: $31.50, $40.50, $58.50, $73.80 Premium: Not Available Tapis Rouge: Not Available PRE-THANKSGIVING: Regular: $20.70, $27.00, $45.00, $67.50 Premium: None Tapis Rouge: None o) Group - Adult (9+ tickets): PEAK / WEEKEND: Regular: $48.00, $65.00, $85.00, $98.00 Premium: $150.00 Tapis Rouge: $300.00 NON-PEAK / WEEKDAY: Regular: $28.75, $36.75, $59.00, $74.40 Premuim: $115.00 Tapis Rouge: $275.00 PRE-THANKSGIVING: Regular: $17.00, $22.00, $40.75, $60.75 Premium: None Tapis Rouge: None o) Group - Student/Senior (9+ tickets): PEAK / WEEKEND: Regular: $43.50, $59.00, $77.00, $88.50 Premium: Not Available Tapis Rouge: Not Available NON-PEAK / WEEKDAY: Regular: $26.25, $33.50, $53.50, $67.25 Premuim: Not Available Tapis Rouge: Not Available PRE-THANKSGIVING: Regular: $15.75, $20.25, $37.00, $55.00 Premium: None Tapis Rouge: None ======================================================================= OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE'S SOCIAL WIDGETS ======================================================================= o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub o) Networking -- Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & MySpace o) Telemajik -- Cirque du Soleil on YouTube & Flickr o) Gatherings -- CirqueCon, Celebri & More! --------------------------------------- CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub --------------------------------------- Saltimbanco - Life in Arenas [EXPANDED] {May.01.2009} What do artists need to perform? A stage. And who builds that stage? The technical crew, or as it is called in arena tours, the Production Team. As a first installment to "Life in Arenas," here are a few major differences between big top shows and arena shows as far as the technical side is concerned. First of all, there's the head honcho's title. Since our show tours arenas, much like any other rock 'n' roll show does, we've had to "transform" our Technical Operations Director into a Production Manager so that people in the venues we visit know who we are talking about. "Technical Operations" doesn't exist in rock 'n' roll lingo. One of the things that makes an arena tour interesting is that each venue is different. Each venue has its own scoreboard (how big it is, how low it hangs), ceiling height, bleachers, different team room sizes, etc. During preproduction, you get a drawing of what the arena looks like, but it's only once you are there, that you actually know what is in store for you. As an example; which of 4 ways will we use to anchor the acrobatic grid? Remember we don't have tent masts and tent spikes to anchor to! How cold will it be in the backstage area since we're on ice? Will the female artists have enough space in the one small locker room we have for them? Each venue needs to be adapted to, and it needs to be done well since our goal is to recreate the feel of a unique Cirque du Soleil show in over 40 different arenas per year. We want our audiences to forget they're in a hockey arena and succumb to the magic that is taking place before their eyes. On a big top tour, as part of the Technical Operations Department, the Site Operations Team is a major player on a big top show. These are the guys who put the site together, making sure the tent is climate controlled, the fences are up, our patrons have toilets, etc. On an arena show, all of the "logistics" are taken care of by venue personnel. We rely on them for heat/air conditioning, garbage removal, black outs in the bowl (the part of the venue where the show actually happens is in the shape of a bowl), etc. It's a big portion of the Cirque "experience" to hand over control of, but with the many meetings and briefings that are given to the venue staff, we end up with a nice product for our guests. On an arena tour, the next city is only a week away, so we're always in the thick of it. A Saltimbanco arena load out is under 3 hours and load in is 8 to 10 hours. But that is something that anyone on an area tour likes: the "go, go, go" feel of it. It's definitely more invigorating for the Production crew since we're loading in and out every week. And if we stay somewhere for more than a week, people get antsy, just like on a 10-week city in a big top. You get used to the lifestyle, and you want to keep moving. For Alain Gauthier, our new Production Manager, one of the great things about arena touring is that you're always learning something. You take with you the knowledge of a certain type of venue, and you apply it to the next one you perform in. The first time our Production team had to load in without a loading dock, you could see the quizzical look on their faces, and hear some very colorful language. But now that they've done it once, it's a piece of cake to do it again. And at the end of load in on Tuesday, they can't wait until Sunday night's load out! Marie-Hélène Lowe Special Correspondent La Nouba - Portrait of Victoria Vazquez [EXPANDED] {May.01.2009} A few years ago, Victoria Vazquez was working for LOVE by Cirque du Soleil as a costume attendant. Since April 2008, she is now working at La Nouba as a trapeze artist. What happened? Some miracle? A whole lot of training? Sheer Luck? The answer is: None of the above. As far training goes, some was required for the seasoned trapezist to get back in top shape. How can you be seasoned at 24 years old, you ask? It really helps if you did start dabbling with trapeze at the early age of 4, if you are the daughter of Juan and Patricia Vazquez and the niece of Miguel Vazquez. Yes, THE Miguel Vazquez, the world's first trapeze artist to complete a quadruple somersault to the hands of the catcher. The first one to "Catch the Quad" in trapeze terms. And, of course, the catcher was Juan, Victoria's father. The Guinness Book of World Records even listed Miguel's quad, full- twisting triple, and triple layout as being the world's first. Born in Sarasota, Florida in 1984, Victoria and her twin sister Veronica began performing professionally as trapeze artists at the early age of 11. They traveled with their family across the globe while performing in numerous circus shows. In the mean time, they were being home-schooled by their mom, who was performing in the trapeze act and also designing costumes for the Flying Vazquez. When the Vazquez family decided to stop performing a few years ago, Victoria started working as a production assistant on shows such as We Will Rock You, The Jersey Boys and Bette Midler. It was also during this period that she worked for LOVE as a costume attendant. "After all those years performing as a trapeze artist, I really liked working backstage as a production assistant, it was a completely different challenge", explained Victoria when we met for the interview. "Working in stage management and as a production assistant is something I would like to do again when I retire from performing" she added. Back to trapeze: In spring 2008, Victoria came down to Orlando for an audition. She was selected and she accepted the job. That meant leaving her family (and friends) for the first time to go and live on her own. Rapidly, Victoria began performing in the trapeze act. Being a solid team player, she is much appreciated by her colleagues and coaches. Robert Dawson, the trapeze coach, said: "Victoria is a quick learner, she's well respected by all the trapeze artists and she looks great out there". When asked to describe who she really is, Victoria paused for a brief moment and replied "I'm a shy person at first, but when I know and trust people, I'm then very sociable." Perfectly fluent in both English and Spanish, Victoria started to learn French last fall, finishing her first college French course with an A. Not too bad of a start, n'est-ce pas? The soft-spoken 24 year old is almost always listening to her iPod; she is very passionate about music and she enjoys singing quite a bit. According to Sisaundra Lewis-Reid, one of La Nouba's singers, Victoria has a really good musical ear and a very pretty voice. Maybe someday we will be able to hear Victoria sing for us…in the next Cabaret maybe? Eric Bergeron Special Correspondant 25 Years of Stories! - My touring experience [EXPANDED] {May.01.2009} UGO BERGERON - Box-Office Coordinator /// October 2004 was a major first in my Cirquester career. I was going on tour, the point being to give me a feel for life on the road after being cooped up working only in Montreal. That's how I ended up on the doorstep of Varekai, in the capital of the U.S. After a stint in the box office (my particular area of expertise), I was directed to shadow the head usher right in the big top. I was therefore tailing my head usher one day, when she left me alone with a Cirquador for a few minutes. It was during the intermission. Near the door, I noticed an open gate leading backstage, but there was a one-metre drop. Out of concern for spectator safety, I decided to close it. Of course, the second act starts off in total darkness. There were a few artists parading through the audience holding sticks with fireflies dangling from them. After a few twinkling pirouettes, the artists were called upon to rush backstage for a quick costume change. You guessed it! The gate was closed, of course, and they all banged into it. In the half-light I could distinguish bodies piling up atop one another amid a chorus of swear words in lots of foreign languages. I chose that moment to sidle out and suddenly decided it was time for my lunch break! 25 Years of Stories! - Wrestling Match [EXPANDED] {May.25.2009} JACQUES MARCOTTE - Artistic Coordinator /// It was the spring of 1994. My son, aged nine at the time, was on crutches as he had been in a very bad sledding accident. The ushers kindly offered us the very first row of the big top bleachers and we were ready to experience Cirque du Soleil latest creation, Alegría. This was our second Cirque experience, the first one being Saltimbanco. At the time, I was already involved in theatre as I was working as a freelance stage director and production manager. I was attracted to some extent by Cirque du Soleil as everyone was, but it seemed out of reach and, in any case, I wasn’t lacking work. The show started and, from the first minute, we were transported by the magic and beauty of Alegría. Then came the strongman act. He was a hulking man who twisted bars of metal and played around with dumbbells. At one point, the ringmaster (Fleur) asked me to come on stage to challenge the strongman (I am 6 feet tall and weigh 150 pounds—not quite the physique required for the task!). Sportingly, I agreed and went on stage. The strongman then asked me to rip up a telephone book and twist a bar of metal; I failed miserably. The ringmaster then showed me the way out and, as I was about to leave the stage, I suddenly had an idea. Before returning to my seat, I turned to the strongman and removed my shirt, revealing my scrawny body. I challenged him to a wrestling match, and the crowd of 2,500 began to applaud, stomp their feet and yell. Naturally, I hit the mat in no time at all; I put my shirt back on and returned to my seat under the warm applause of the entire audience. I was moved and my son couldn’t believe his eyes. I told my son that one day I would work for Cirque du Soleil. Two years later I did, and that was 14 years ago. I am still motivated and ready to meet any challenge... unless it involves wrestling! Saltimbanco - Life in Arenas [EXPANDED] {May.25.2009} As a second chapter to "Life in Arenas," let's have a look at the Kitchen, or what we "arenites" call Catering. On a big top tour, the kitchen is where you go to get some grub, take a break and use the artist computers. On a rainy day, visits to the kitchen can be scarce since you want to avoid walking outside. On a sunny day, you get your food quickly and run out to get a tan. But on an arena show, catering is where you are whenever you're not at your desk or in your dressing room. You can always grab a snack, read or sometimes even sit and watch TV. Some of the catering rooms we've had have been unbelievable. The one in Kansas City, Missouri, for instance, had a "game room" that offered a two-seater video racing game and a ping pong table! Other catering areas have been in the weirdest of places, like a hallway, but we work with what we've got and everything seems to work out. Because the big top kitchen trailer doesn't change, the layout is always the same. You always know where to find the bread, the milk, the salad bar, etc. With arena shows, we change venues practically every week and our catering area is rarely ever the same shape or size. Finding "the essentials" can therefore be tricky at times. Our catering company has to deal with different kinds of spaces all the time. Sometimes, it's a square room, while other times, it's a round one, and it can even be outside, like it was in Hawaii. The items offered don't change, but where you find them does. One week, you'll pick up your utensils first, then your hot meal, then stop by the salad bar and finally get a drink. But in the following week, you may have to be careful or you could do what I've done more than once already, which is set my plate down, take a seat and realize I don't have a knife or fork (insert expletive of your choice). Even though there are some differences, one thing that never changes is how popular the tour "eatery" is. Whether you are under a "Grand Chapiteau" or in the arena where the Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, or even the Edmonton Oilers play, you know there will always be a place to gather, talk, laugh, catch your breath and have a bite to eat. Marie-Hélène Lowe Special Correspondent --------------------------------------------------- NETWORKING: Cirque on Twitter, Facebook & Myspace --------------------------------------------------- {May.01.2009 | «O»} John Maxson, 36, has performed in Cirque du Soleil's "O" for 11 years. Getting older has made it more difficult to stay in shape, and he has had to adjust his workout to prevent injuries. Learn how he is staying in Cirque shape! < http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/videos/2009/may/01/498/ > {May.01.2009 | La Nouba} A Portrait of Justin Osbourne | Every three weeks, during Tapis Rouge at La Nouba, our colleague Justin announces the visit of a very special guest. Just a few weeks ago, Justin’s "special friend for the day" was Emily DeAngelo, a 9 year-old girl with Down syndrome. As always, Justin asked us to go and meet his guests (in this case, it was Emily and her mother) in the green room after Tapis Rouge. After the meeting, Justin proceeds to the green room to put on his makeup so the invitee can witness the transformation without being scared. As Justin said during the interview, "They need to see the transition." All of this happens very naturally, without any discomfort. It’s fascinating to see how the two new friends are quite at ease. Read More: < http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=76791534445&ref=mf > {May.02.2009 | KÀ} Noriko is this week's featured "calendar girl" in the Las Vegas Weekly! She's gorgeous After & Before! < http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2009/apr/30/ noriko-takahashi/ > {May.06.2009 | LOVE} College correspondent Josh Wucher did a fabulously fun feature on LOVE with the last-minute help of LOVE cast: dancer Gillian, acrobat Rob, skater Rafael, Kid of Liverpool Noah, head-spinner Yousseff and "Walrus" Hassan! Check it out here (there is a short commercial at the beginning)! < http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=7472496 > {May.08.2009 | KÀ} KÀ by Cirque du Soleil is THE No. 1 MUST see show according to Las Vegas Weekly! We couldn't agree more! No. 1: Kà (MGM Grand). Yes, this is my only Cirque du Soleil entry. Mystère is great but nowadays not that different than what Cirque’s touring shows offer. I’ve always felt O was—gasp! —boring. Zumanity or Criss Angel Believe? Whatever. And as tough as it is to leave Love out, Kà is the best only-possible -in-Vegas Cirque experience. The tale of imperial twins separated and beset by danger-filled encounters makes brilliant use of its $100 million showroom and a stage that, in its twirls and swoops, redefines the very concept of a stage. Kà is simply something that does not exist anywhere else in live theater, and yet its triumph is also that technology enhances rather than overshadows the human performances and the emotion of the storytelling. {May.14.2009 | Koozå} Check out the pictures of our Press Conference on the Santa Monica Pier previously this week! < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid= 94268&id=34324811338&ref=mf > {May.15.2009 | Koozå} What does happen when KOOZA hits the street? Watch our artists cruising around in a double-decker bus in NYC! [ ] < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XB-0wb_yeS0 > {May.22.2009 | Saltimbanco} Tanya Jacobs, head of wardrobe for Cirque Du Soleil's Saltimbanco takes us behind-the-scenes into the wardrobe department of the show: < http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1329229943? bclid=1308023108&bctid=23862247001 > {May.22.2009 | Saltimbanco} Saltimbanco by Cirque du Soleil premiered in Jacksonville, FL this week! Check out the pictures taken at the Veterans Memorial Arena on May 21. Cirque du Soleil amazed the fans who braved the weather Wednesday night. The acts included juggling, trapeze, dance, music, bicycle stunts, and acrobatics. The show will run at the Veterans Memorial Arena through May 24. < http://photos.jacksonville.com/mycapture/category.asp? eventID=758566&CategoryID=10519 > {May.24.2009 | ZED} Read our report on our two days special event "Thanks Mother's Week-end" and view pictures! < http://www.zed.co.jp/latest_news/detail_15_en.php > {May.24.2009 | Corteo} A day in the life of Corteo artists [9:09] < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIYhSIbkG24 > {May.25.2009 | Dralion} Watch Today Tonight's story on Dralion in Melbourne! [4:12] < http://video.yahoo.com/watch/4918545/13100952 > {May.25.2009 | Dralion} Go behind the scenes of Dralion, as filmed by Channel 10's program 9am with David & Kim: < http://9am.ten.com.au/video.htm?vxSiteId=4a40990c-a06c- 401b-8663-6f890bb8f3dc&vxChannel=9am+Theatre&vxClipId=1427 _9am_309lg2_170507_iv&vxBitrate=300&CMP=LEC-DANCEget VideoLink > {May.29.2009 | LOVE} Check out what the new Stage Manager intern at LOVE, Travis Brendle is up to! So, this was my first official day at Cirque, but I was welcomed into the family as soon as I arrived in Las Vegas. I’ve been in town since Monday and was able to meet the sm team (who are fierce!), take a quick tour of the backstage (or the horseshoe) and watch the show from a special VIP seat (a rolling chair). I even got invited to a special party called “hello/goodbye”. I got here at a really exciting time. Some of the artists are leaving the show, while new artists are learning the tracks and getting ready to make their premiere in LOVE. The Cirque folks wanted to throw a party for whole company, old and new, so they could unwind, relax and really get to know their fellow artists and technicians. Let me just say, what a show. So back to today. One of the perks about working for Cirque du Soleil are the hours. I am not at all a morning person and my 3p call time was very nice. I also wanted to make a good impression on the team so I brought with me the best hello present, cupcakes. After meeting the team, again, I went on an extensive hour and a half tour of the LOVE Theater with Jenn Marshall, the General (Lead) Stage Manager. I tried my best to keep up as she showed me all of the intricacies of the theater from the six Runways (one of the three ways the artists get onto the stage) to the “basement” where all of the mechanics of the lifts and traps live, as well as artist entrances. After our tour, I was given a big book called the SM Bible (the first of two books). The book has all of the information necessary to run the show. It has examples of all artists tracks, paperwork and really anything anyone could ever want. After getting halfway through the book, in an hour and a half, it was time for what’s called Tapis Rouge, or Red Carpet in French. This is a weekly meeting with all of the staff and artists to check in and let everyone know of any events of the week and all the amazing things the artists and staff of Cirque are doing while not in the building. This was also the meeting where I got to say a group hello to everyone at LOVE. I have to say, the folks here have been incredibly nice and friendly today. Such an amazing group of people. After Tapis Rouge and a little more time soaking up all the information in the SM Bible it was time for my first show of the evening. The really exciting thing about this show is that it is in the round, where the audience is seated around the stage, three hundred and sixty degrees. During the 7p performance, I was seated really close to the stage; in reality there is really no seat that far from the action (the furthest is only 98 feet from the center of the stage, the closest is 2 foot 9 inches from the stage edge). I got to know two ushers, Kate and Laura, and we chatted before the show about Cirque and how much they enjoy working at the Mirage and seeing the show every night (well 5 nights a week). The show just keeps getting better every time that I get to see it. The second show, 9:30p I was able to sit up in the balcony and see the show from a completely different prospective. After the show, the sm’s wrapped up their work, turned off the computers and we all went home. The day was such a world-wind that I had to immediately throw down all the events of the day on paper, well the computer screen. I am so happy to be here and excited to be learning from such amazing artists at Cirque du Soleil. {May.29.2009 | Saltimbanco} The Marlins Cheerleaders (Mermaids) tried the Chinese Poles with Saltimbanco at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise yesterday morning! Check this out! < http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=114667&id= 41245692958&ref=mf > {May.29.2009 | Believe} Party like a true celebrity - Every Wednesday night at the Luxor Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas! Every Wednesday, CRISS ANGEL Believe from Cirque du Soleil will roll out the red carpet for service industry professionals: A special 2-4-1 offer on all tickets to this mystical, magical, and mysterious production. Coinciding with the LAX industry night, you can keep the magic going and attend the hot LAX Nightclub after the show. Don’t miss our big kick off party on June 3rd, with special guest appearances by the cast of CRISS ANGEL Believe! Please visit the CRISS ANGEL Believe box office or call 800-557-7428 to book your tickets now! {May.31.2009 | Dralion} For a behind the scenes look at Cirque du Soleil, currently celebrating its 25th year. Reporter Jamie Durie takes a special peek inside Cirque du Soleil’s headquarters in Montreal and tries his luck on stage in Las Vegas: < http://au.tv.yahoo.com/sunday-night/video/-/watch/13743373/ > ------------------------------------------- TELEMAJIK: Cirque on YouTube & Flickr ------------------------------------------- [FLICKR] Website: < http://www.flickr.com/photos/cirquedusoleildotcom/ > Nothing new on Flickr this month. We'll keep our eyes open! [YOUTUBE] Website: < http://www.youtube.com/cirquedusoleil > Website: < http://youtube.com/CirqueLasvegas > o) Cirque du Soleil - Stilts-walking world record In 2004, employees at Cirque du Soleil International Headquarters in Montreal set the first Guinness world record for the most stilt-walkers together in one place at the same time. The Japanese beat this record in 2006! The 25th anniversary is the perfect opportunity to set a new record. This time, claiming back the title from Cirque du Soleil will be a major challenge. [7:03] /// EN - < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGUA4uuMz7c > [6:38] /// FR - < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tA4D61dYXKw > o) Dance Auditions in Las Vegas, March 2009 [3:00] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYaY2AzsRqU > o) KOOZA in New York City - Cirque du Soleil [2:26] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XB-0wb_yeS0 > o) p"O"rtrait of "O" [7:36] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Onafv5rdfWE > o) LOVE Parade in The Mirage Performers in LOVE took the Sgt Pepper parade outside of the theater for an afternoon. The parade went throughout The Mirage hotel and pool area. Some guests even decided to join in on the fun! [3:03] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVNQ2ixtmIA > ---------------------------------------- GATHERINGS: CirqueCon, Celebri & More! ---------------------------------------- [CirqueCon] Saturday, May 22, 2004, 30-plus fans of Cirque du Soleil from across North and Central America came together in Vancouver to celebrate the return of Quidam, which had just delighted audiences in Japan. From that moment CirqueCon was officially born. The story of its genesis is somewhat more complicated, suffice it to say two individual groups decided to combine and make the trip together. Add in a little folly from Cirque du Soleil and viola! CirqueCon came to be through the efforts of Jeff Tolotti, Keith Johnson and Ricky Russo ("Richasi"). Today, CirqueCon is brought to you by: Keith Johnson, LouAnna Valentine, Ricky Russo ("Richasi"), and Rich Alford. In years past we've been to Vancouver (2004), for Quidam; Montréal (2005), for Corteo; Las Vegas (2006), for LOVE and the other Vegas resident shows; Orlando (2007), to experience La Nouba, and Tokyo (2008), for ZED. Join us for the next two adventures: Monterrey, Mexico (2009) to experience Dralion; and Hollywood (2010), for the new Kodak 2010 show! We'll announce or weekend date for 2009's trip in the coming weeks, so please stay tuned! In the mean time, learn all about our 2009 trip here: o) Memberships: < http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/member.htm > o) Show Tickets: < http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/tickets.htm > o) Hotel: < http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/hotel.htm > o) Itinerary: < http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/itinerary.htm > o) Social Activities: < http://www.cirquecon.com/2009/social.htm > Visit the CirqueCon website for further details on past, present and future endeavors: < http://www.CirqueCon.com/ > [Celebri!] From the Italian "to celebrate," Celebri! is a coming together of friends to celebrate Cirque du Soleil in various geographical settings. By supporting a small reunion multiple times a year, Celebri! desires to ensnare the jubilant, ecstatic, and euphoric feelings that well up inside each avid Cirque du Soleil fan and nurture that festivity into a joyous and wonderful occasion with friends and fellow fans alike! So join us for Celebri! in a region near you - we announce the city and our timetable and all you have to do is set your itinerary and join us! Celebri! Is a partnership between Ricky "Richasi" Russo and Rich Alford. Over the past year, Rich and Ricky have visited a number of cities in search of Cirque du Soleil and had some amazing adventures. Where've we been? NeW York City (Nov 2007), for Wintuk; San Francisco (Dec 2007), for Koozå; Seattle (May 2008), for Corteo; Las Vegas (Sep 2008), for Believe; and Seoul (Nov 2008), for Alegría! As of this writing, we've just finished our exciting trip to New York City / Montréal for Cirque du Soleil's Koozå and the premiere of OVO! We've got many more exciting adventures coming up! Stay tuned for more! Interested in joining us? Visit the Celebri website for further details on past, present and future endeavors: < http://www.celebri.org/ > ======================================================================= COMPARTMENTS -- INFORMATION BEHIND THE CURTAIN ======================================================================= o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts about Cirque o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History --------------------------------- DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque --------------------------------- o) Didyaknow the "Large Archer" in KÀ has the most complex make-up design? His requires 43 different stages and 22 brushes to apply. All KÀ artists apply their own make-up, and it takes from 45 minutes to two hours to complete. Three make-up technicians airbrush the faces of artists for each performance and many glue Austrian crystals to their faces! o) Didyaknow that on Thursday, May 7th, "Rokardy" - La Nouba's infamous chair balancer - added a ladder to his balancing act, making the total height of the stack of chairs (and other odds and ends) 37 feet from the stage? o) Didyaknow that on Wednesday, May 20th, the cast and crew of Cirque du Soleil's «O» welcomed a new synchronized swimmer? She's the first Korean performer in Cirque du Soleil history! o) Didyaknow that BELIEVE performed its 300th show on the evening of Tuesday, May 26th? o) Didyaknow that Saltimbanco’s Baroque characters were created as a reaction to the conservatism of the Ronald Regan era? In an interview given by Giles Ste-Croix in 1993 he said "Just as the Baroque period was a reaction to the formal era that went before, our Baroque characters are a reaction to the conservatism of the Reagan era. Today, we have a new Baroque era where anything goes and all lifestyles are seen and acceptable, forms of dress, food and music." o) Didyaknow that the 25-foot diameter sphere in ZAIA moves on three axes? It consists of an exoskeleton and weighs 4,000 pounds. Its six projectors beam integrated images in a full 360-degree radius. The "Star Drop" on the back of the stage measures 12,221 square-feet, or 121’ x 101’! o) Didyaknow that the flaming pendulum of ZED swings above the 7.75-metre-high tightwire? ------------------------------------ HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History ------------------------------------ * Jun.02.2006 -- LOVE Premiered at Mirage (Previews Begin) * Jun.02.2007 -- Ernst & Young named Cirque du Soleil CEO Guy Laliberté "World Entrepreneur of 2007." * Jun.03.2004 -- Varekai opened Denver * Jun.03.2004 -- Dralion opened Vienna * Jun.03.2005 -- Dralion opened Rotterdam * Jun.03.2008 -- Name of of "Cirque Tokyo 2008" Announced - "ZED" * Jun.04.2003 -- Alegría opened Calgary * Jun.04.2008 -- Cirque Partners with YuuZoo, Online Video Website * Jun.05.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Cologne * Jun.05.2008 -- Quidam opened Màlaga, Spain * Jun.05.2008 -- Varekai opened Berlin, Germany * Jun.06.2000 -- Dralion opened Denver, Colorado * Jun.06.2002 -- Region 02 DVD release: Dralion * Jun.06.2006 -- Cirque Las Vegas named 6th most popular attraction in US by TripAdvisor * Jun.07.1985 -- 1985 Tour opened in Sher-Brooke [Plateau Parc] * Jun.07.1992 -- Fascination opened Nagoya * Jun.09.1994 -- Alegría opened Ste-Foy * Jun.10.2002 -- Official Title of 13-episode TV series announced - "Fire Within", previously titled "A Fly on the Wall" * Jun.10.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened St. John, NB * Jun.11.2002 -- Alegría Extended CD Released (BMG/CDS Musique) * Jun.11.2009 -- Quidam opened Fortaleza, Brazil * Jun.12.2002 -- Alegría opened Denver * Jun.12.2002 -- Dralion opened Portland * Jun.12.2007 -- La Nouba celebrated 4000th performance [Tues, 6:00pm] * Jun.12.2008 -- Corteo opened Vancouver, BC, Canada * Jun.13.1992 -- Saltimbanco opened Ste-Foy * Jun.13.2002 -- Announcement of NY-NY and MGM-Grand Shows * Jun.14.2003 -- Varekai premiered on BRAVO at 8:00pm EST * Jun.14.2005 -- Quidam CD Released (CDS Musique) * Jun.16.1984 -- Official Birth date of Cirque du Soleil * Jun.16.1984 -- 1984 Tour opened Gaspé * Jun.16.1995 -- Alegría opened Toronto * Jun.16.2002 -- Dralion burglarized in Portland; stealing $11,000 * Jun.16.2003 -- Mystère celebrated 4500th performance [Monday, 7:30pm] * Jun.16.2004 -- MGM-Mirage and Mandalay Resort Group merged * Jun.18.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Toronto * Jun.19.2008 -- La Nouba celebrated 4500th performance [Thrs, 6:00pm] * Jun.19.2009 -- Alegría Arena opened St. John’s, Newfoundland * Jun.20.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Ste-Foy * Jun.20.2002 -- Quidam opened Detroit, Michigan * Jun.20.2008 -- Alegría opened Buenos Aires, Argentina * Jun.21.1985 -- 1985 Tour opened in Ottawa [Plaines Le Breton] * Jun.21.2001 -- Saltimbanco 2000 opened Osaka, Japan * Jun.22.1999 -- La Nouba CD Released in Canada (RCA/Victor) * Jun.22.2001 -- Dralion opened Chicago * Jun.22.2005 -- Entertainment Complexes in Montréal announced * Jun.22.2006 -- Dralion opened Malaga * Jun.22.2006 -- Varekai opened Vancouver * Jun.22.2007 -- Corteo opened Denver * Jun.23.1984 -- 1984 Tour opened Bai-Comeau * Jun.24.1999 -- Dralion opened Quebec * Jun.24.2004 -- Quidam opened Calgary * Jun.24.2008 -- Koozå CD Released US/Canada * Jun.25.1992 -- Fascination opened Hiroshima * Jun.25.2004 -- Saltimbanco opened Gijon * Jun.25.2009 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Tampa, FL * Jun.26.2005 -- Alegría opened Osaka * Jun.26.2008 -- Koozå opened Chicago, IL * Jun.27.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Ste-Foy * Jun.27.2002 -- Vaerkai opened Quebec City * Jun.27.2004 -- Mystère celebrated 5000th performance [Sunday, 7:30pm] * Jun.28.1984 -- 1984 Tour opened Jonquière * Jun.28.2007 -- Quidam opened Shanghai, China (First time in China!) * Jun.29.1999 -- La Nouba CD Released in US (RCA/Victor) * Jun.29.1999 -- Dralion opened in Toronto * Jun.30.2005 -- Corteo opened Quebec City * Jun.30.2005 -- Quidam opened Perth * Jun.30.2005 -- Varekai opened East Rutherford * Jun.30.2006 -- LOVE Gala Premiere (Previews End) * Jun.30.2008 -- BELIEVE officially delayed (#1) ======================================================================= FASCINATION! FEATURES ======================================================================= Within... o) "Kumbalawé-mana, Urulimé! - Saltimbanco in Lakeland" By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA) o) "ONE DROP Starts Ripple Effect - an AQUA Review" By: Gena Colton - Perrysburg, Ohio (USA) {Issue Exclusive} o) "The Spirit of Space: a ZAIA Album Review" By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA) {Issue Exclusive} ------------------------------------------------------- "Kumbalawé-mana, Urulimé! - Saltimbanco in Lakeland" By: Ricky Russo - Celebration, Florida (USA) {Issue Exclusive} ------------------------------------------------------- If you ever need re-affirmation that Cirque du Soleil still has some magic left within, I invite you to experience Saltimbanco on its arena tour. Despite the lack of intimacy one finds inside the Grand Chapiteau, Saltimbanco is still as fresh, as fun, and as colorful as it was on the day it premiered. Those infamous Baroques are every bit the worthy ambassadors Cirque has set them up to be (having used Saltimbanco to open up new markets for the past few years), and I cannot imagine the day when the Cavaliers' light is extinguished over them forever. When that day finally comes it will be a sad one indeed because we will be without one of the best and shining examples of classic Cirque du Soleil spectacles that still remains relevant years after its first tour began. I may weep... Saltimbanco is a phantasmagorical exploration into metropolis life in all its myriad forms, and everything that shapes it: the people, their idiosyncrasies and the roles they play. With the majority of Earth’s population destined to live in large, sprawling cities, Saltimbanco was created as an antidote to the violence and despair typically found within, and proposes a new vision of urbanity, overflowing with optimism and happiness; a kaleidoscopic adventure in which anything can happen in an imaginary city where diversity is a cause for hope. The framework of Saltimbanco - the characters - like all human beings, are born with nothing. These are the Worms, at the very base of society. All similar in appearance yet different one from the other, they must with time adapt themselves to their environment. Thus, throughout the fable, they embody various types of social characters, hoping to one day accede to the rank of Baroque, a cast of visionaries. The Baroques constitute the most important family in the world of Saltimbanco. Armed with a deeply perceptive vision of the world, the Baroques reveal the countless contradictions of our civilization and show us that imagination is our power. Tonight I spent the evening at Saltimbanco in Lakeland. I told myself there was only a slim possibility - a 1% chance at best - that I would see the show in Lakeland tonight (I do have plans to see Saltimbanco in Tampa Bay), but when I awoke this morning and shook off the sleep inertia, I quickly fell uninterested in the item I was working on, so I began to think and made a decision. It turned out to be an excellent one -- Saltimbanco tonight was the most awesomeist ever! And I came away with an excitement about Cirque du Soleil that I haven't had in months. Thank you Saltimbanco. Truly, thank you. Everyone performed to perfection tonight - the entire cast was light, airy and so involved with their character; seeing such happiness and enjoyment of one's persona tickled me to no end. It's wonderful when a performer gets deeply into his or her character so much so that their personality’s merge; that's what you see here at Saltimbanco. That enjoyment trickled over to the artists performing acts on-stage; every number went on tonight - nothing was missing (except for the female Boledora, and that I can forgive as the male lived it up like nobody's business). Even duo trapeze was on, which I had heard in conversation sometimes isn't performed on the final day of performances. I even lucked out with the crowd, as those in attendance (at about 75%) were very into the show, even though not every seat was filled. But there's probably a reason for all the great reception. It appears folks from La Nouba were in the house tonight (seated to my right) and they were "living it up", as it were. Of course, the performers at Saltimbanco had nothing but warm welcomes for them, which they showcased on-stage: some dressed as La Nouba characters! The first nod to the cirqusters in the audience came in the opening dance for the shows' second half - the green bird appeared under the musician’s stand, cavorting around! Most of the audience knew nothing different, but me, and the entire section to my right, whooped, hollered and cheered! The Green Bird appeared only briefly, as compared to the other Baroque characters, but her little quick tip-toe dance she does sure brought the house down. The second nod came during a point in the Russian Swings number at a point where the Baroques have all filled the stage, dancing wildly about in their own kind of ecstasy. Normally they break off and continue jumping off the swing, but all of the sudden the music changes from the rocking tunes of "Barok" and switches immediately to "Once Upon a Time" from La Nouba. The Baroques suddenly stop, get into position and jump from side-to-side like they do at the start of La Nouba - it was fantastic! And, of course, me, and the group to my right, were eating it up. Green Bird made another appearance when Death appeared on stage, scaring the Baroques (she was one of the frightened!). And even a Les Con got his day in the Saltimbanco sun when the Ringmaster came running back on stage, screaming out of breath. The Les Con, played by the artistic bicyclist (Ivan Dô-Dùc), trotted to the center of the stage, looked out at the audience, pulled on his skirt in the same fashion as the real Les Cons do in La Nouba, then just nonchalantly walked off. While only the folks from La Nouba and those in the know (like myself) knew anything out of the ordinary had occurred, these touches were simply fantastic and totally made my night. Thank you guys! See you in Tampa Bay! ------------------------------------------------------- "ONE DROP Starts Ripple Effect - an AQUA Review" By: Gena Colton - Perrysburg, Ohio (USA) {Issue Exclusive} ------------------------------------------------------- The Montreal Science Center hosts the world premiere of AQUA now through September 7, 2009. AQUA is one method developed by the ONE DROP™ initiative founded by Guy Laliberte´, to raise awareness of the global water crisis. What I expected: A typical IMAX film about how we take for granted/waste/destroy our natural resource and a sermon about conservation and saving the planet . . . yada-yada-yada. What I experienced: A beautiful, thought-provoking, interactive demonstration of how unevenly water is distributed throughout the world and how we need to take care of what we have and decide to take action to preserve it and help those who do not have access to a sufficient quantity and quality of water. I loved that we had to stand - - not sit and be entertained. There was prerecorded narration, music, sound, light and of course, water effects. No one told us what to do, but a guide silently demonstrated what we could do - if we chose. We had to choose for ourselves to take action (interact with the screen) - or not. A small group of people (20?) are guided into a dark room. On the left is a display of blue illuminated orbs shaped like giant water drops. To the front is a big screen. To the right is a "wall" of water sheeting down. The wall of water has different pictures and shadows projected on it. Sometimes behind the water, an old well with a hand pump is revealed. As the scene progresses, the guide silently gives each person a giant blue illuminated water drop to hold. The water wall parts and we are guided through it to a big round space - 360° of floor to ceiling projection screen. We surround the hand pump in the center of the room. The lever starts pumping water. The 360° screen comes to life - - scenes of fresh water abound. The guide shows us that if we move (take action) we can make a difference (move the water by waving our arms - with our hand-held blue water drops or walking in front of the screen - - waaaay cool technology). The fresh water scenes turn to pollution in industrialized countries and unsanitary water in 3rd-world countries. At one point everyone's hand-held blue water drop extinguishes. A scene of barren land is on the 360° screen. The water pump stops pumping water, but the handle continues to squeak. Over the horizon, the shadows of 5 children appear and move closer - until the shadows are standing right in front of us. The narrator tells us that every 8 seconds a child dies of dehydration. The looming sound of a ticking clock is heard. Every 8 seconds, a child shadow disintegrates . . . 40 seconds. Silence. Our hand-held water drops start to flicker on as scenes of relief and hope appear. The well starts pumping water again. The guide leads us to place our blue-again water drops into the pool surrounding the pump as a pledge to become more aware of our use of water and how it affects others. As we leave the 360° room, there are quotes about water from children around the world. The one I remember said something like, "I hear there are places in the world where you turn a handle and water comes out." We are lead through a dark hall where there are little horizontal computer touch screens for everyone to go to - if they want. Again, cool technology. Every time the screen is touched, it sends water ripples - even when typing in your name. The AQUA experience was unexpectedly entertaining as well as educational, and inspiring. Afterward, I sat on a bench for about a half hour just to absorb what I'd experienced - seriously. My suggestion to ONE DROP: Make and sell giant blue "water drops" out of recycled glass and sell them, proceeds would go to the foundation of course. ------------------------------------------------------- "The Spirit of Space: a ZAIA Album Review" By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA) {Issue Exclusive} ------------------------------------------------------- Reviewing a soundtrack album is especially precarious if you haven’t seen the show the music was written for. Without knowing how the music sounds in the show and fits into the shows action there is no way to know if the CD is a proper representation of the new creation or another "interpretation" with lots of artistic liberties. Though I have seen the program and heard about the show from others who have seen it, let me say up front I have not traveled to Macao to see ZAIA. So take my comments with a grain of salt. But I like this CD very much. What I find most impressive here as much as the music is the way they recorded it. Unlike in recent years where Cirque CD producers have in several cases chosen to "re-interpret" a shows music or use local Montreal musicians, ZAIA composer and CD producer Violaine Corradi has chose a more "traditional" route. There is so much right about the direction and production - the process, if you will - I’m inclined to enjoy the CD just as much for the stand that’s been taken as the music contained within. Consider: * The CD is plenty long, at more than 74 minutes one of the longest in the Cirque canon. * Corradi has chosen (much to her credit IMO) to use the musicians from the show creation process, the current ZAIA band and vocalists. With additional keyboards from Corradi and the occasional string section (from Hong Kong) the sound is full. This is a point that can’t be emphasized enough; in this writer’s opinion it is the creation musicians who add much to the final sound of the music so should always be the first chosen to appear on CD. While of late Cirque has used only a show’s creation vocalists (and even then not always), this is a refreshing return to form. * The music was largely recorded inside the Venetian Hotel ZAIA Theater in Macao (with additional recording in Hong Kong). This helps insure that the music sounds on CD mostly like it does in the show itself. These reasons are in large part why this CD sounds to these ears more like a true show soundtrack than a "re-arrangement" - harkening back more to the CD’s of shows like Alegria and Dralion than Varekai and Zumanity. There is a very heavy feminine influence with both show singers being women. There is also a multi-instrumentalist woodwind player in the band which, as in Corradi’s score for Varekai, brings a variety of sounds to the party. While the first song, "Noi" with its Italian flavor made me think I had made the mistake of playing the Corteo CD by mistake, it quickly got back on more familiar ground. Much of the music is reminiscent of Dralion and Varekai (both of which were also composed by Corradi). Those songs that remind me of previous Corradi works include (note we are again back to unpronounceable words in a made-up language for song titles): * Hatahkinn and Caelestis -reminiscent of Dralion * Aquilex, Comissatio and Gaudiumni - reminiscent of Varekai Some songs stand out. "Adrideo" continuing the Italian flavor from "Noi". "Ardor Oris" with its tango feel while somewhat out of place still adds variety. "Aequor Oris" features an uplifting, triumphant chorus. "Temperatio" kicks in a dance rhythm in more of an ambient style, and wouldn’t be out of place on the "Delirium" disk. The music is generally very melodic, certainly stamped with the Violaine Corradi style. After listening to the CD, you feel you have a taste of the show and want to see it. Unlike some of Cirque’s other soundtrack productions of late, that’s a refreshing change. It makes a worthy addition to the library of Cirque du Soleil show soundtrack. One can only hope that the Rene Dupere-composed music from ZED (which I *have* seen) is treated with as much care. ======================================================================= PARTING QUOTE ======================================================================= "The Big secret of Cirque du Soleil is that we created shows like a film. We thought it should be edited and scored like a film. If you take the music out, you don't have a CDS show. Cirque is like cinema: you edit it together to create drama, and to allow people to enter completely into the experience, like you do into a film scene. You enter the experience and forget everything else." - Guy Caron. ======================================================================= SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION ======================================================================= Fascination! is a monthly newsletter, available through subscription via Yahoo! Groups or on the World Wide Web in text format at the newsletter's website: < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >. To subscribe, please send an email to: < CirqueFascination- subscribe@yahoogroups.com >. To unsubscribe, please send an email to: < CirqueFascination-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com >. To view back issues, or other online Newsletter content, please visit us at: < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >. Have a comment, question or concern? Email the Fascination! Newsletter staff at: < CirqueFasincation-owner@yahoogroups.com >. We are anxious to hear any and all comments! ======================================================================= COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER ======================================================================= Fascination! Newsletter Volume 9, Number 3 (Issue #65) - June 2009 "Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c) 2001-2008 Ricky Russo, published by Vortex/RGR Productions, a subsidiary of Communicore Enterprises. No portion of this newsletter can be reproduced, published in any form or forum, quoted or translated without the consent of the "Fascination! Newsletter." By sending us correspondence, you give us permission (unless otherwise noted) to use the submission as we see fit, without remuneration. All submissions become the property of the "Fascination! Newsletter." "Fascination! Newsletter" is not affiliated in any way with Cirque du Soleil. Cirque du Soleil and all its creations are Copyright (c) and are registered trademarks (TM) of Cirque du Soleil, Inc., and Créations Méandres, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No copyright infringement intended. { Jun.05.2009 } =======================================================================