====================================================================== ______ _ __ _ __ / ____/___ ___________(_)___ ____ _/ /_(_)___ ____ / / / /_ / __ `/ ___/ ___/ / __ \/ __ `/ __/ / __ \/ __ \/ / / __/ / /_/ (__ ) /__ / / / / /_/ / /_/ / /_/ / / / /_/ /_/ \__,_/____/\___/_/_/ /_/\__,_/\__/_/\____/_/ /_(_) 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 ------------------------------------------------------------ http://www.CirqueFascination.com ------------------------------------------------------------ ======================================================================= VOLUME 10, NUMBER 6 June 2010 ISSUE #77 ======================================================================= Bonjour et bienvenue! Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter. Inside this issue we're very pleased to present to you an exclusive interview with Daniel Lamarre, President and Chief Operating Officer of Cirque du Soleil! We had a chance to sit down with him while we were in Montreal attending TOTEM - you'll definitely want to hear what he has to say! As always be sure to check out the Itinerary section for any last-minute changes and extensions to tour stops (Quidam and Totem come to mind!); however, these dates are subject to change. And also in our OUTREACH section, we have a number of goodies to explore as a clip of interesting and intriguing articles, pictures and videos were shared with the fanbase through Cirque du Soleil's various social widgets. In turn we have collected those to share with you! So, let's get started! Join us on the web at: < www.cirquefascination.com > Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only): < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 > - Ricky "Richasi" Russo =========== CONTENTS =========== o) Cirque Buzz -- News, Rumours & Sightings o) Itinéraire -- Tour/Show Information * Arena Shows -- In Stadium-like venues * BigTop Shows -- Under the Grand Chapiteau * Resident Shows -- Performed en Le Théâtre * Venue Shows -- Venue & Seasonal Productions o) Outreach -- Updates from Cirque's Social Widgets * Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub * Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Flickr o) Compartments -- A Peek Behind the Curtain * Didyaknow? -- Facts About Cirque * Historia -- Cirque du Soleil's History o) Fascination! Features *) INTERVIEW /// "Daniel Lamarre: Joining the Circus" By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA) *) "Some Thoughts on the Evolution of Cirque" By: Ricky Russo - Orlando, Florida (USA) o) Subscription Information o) Copyright & Disclaimer ======================================================================= CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS ======================================================================= OYEZ! OYEZ! - Cirque du Soleil Goes Tech: Global iPhone Application Launched June 2nd! {Jun.02.2010} ----------------------------------------------- iPhone users now have Cirque du Soleil right at their fingertips with the launch of its new iPhone application on June 2, 2010. The new Cirque du Soleil application can be found in the iPhone App store under "CirqueSoleil." Cirque du Soleil will join the forefront of entertainment theatre applications as its APP allows users to have a functional, useful resource to book tickets, find shows and have fun with the global mobile world of Cirque du Soleil. Special features include: o) SHOWS -- Delve into the unique world of each of the 21 productions with show information, videos, locations and ticket buying information. The NEAR ME tab in SHOWS uses GPS technology to allows users see the Cirque du Soleil production closest to them. o) PROMOTIONS -- Be the first to see special offers on show tickets and merchandise for your favorite Cirque du Soleil show. o) ABOUT -- Learn more about the history and direction of Cirque du Soleil. o) TRACKER -- Track and earn badges for the shows you have seen and post it on to Facebook to share with your friends. o) CIRQUE CLUB -- Sign up to become a Cirque Club member and receive priority ticket access, special offers, exclusive content and more. o) GAME -- Display your acrobatic ability while playing the interactive game inspired by Cirque du Soleil performances. The Cirque du Soleil APP is available as a free download from Apple’s App Store on iPhone, iPad and iTouch or at www.itunes.com/appstore. The Presse on TOTEM {May.04.2010} ----------------------------------------------- The Canadian Press has seen TOTEM and now they speak! I apologize for the delay in posting but I was up enjoying the show myself! Here’s what a few of the most known press outlets in Canada have said about Totem: o) Dramatic difference in Lepage’s Totem {Toronto Star} < http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/theatre/article/ 802761--dramatic-difference-in-lepage-s-totem > o) Robert Lepage + Cirque du Soleil = totally awesome {The Globe and Mail} < http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/robert- lepage-cirque-du-soleil-totally-awesome/article1551178/ > o) From conception to evolution, Totem is a hit. {The Montreal Gazette} < http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/From+conception +evolution+Totem/2963626/story.html#ixzz0mxmmG7Wp > o) Totem combines magic of Lepage and Cirque {Vancouver Sun} < http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/Totem+combines+ magic+Lepage+Cirque/2917816/story.html > BANANA SHPEEL opens May 19th! {May.06.2010} ----------------------------------------------- As reported in Broadway World today, it has been announced that the official opening of BANANA SHPEEL will be held Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 7:00pm at the Beacon Theatre! Previews began on April 29 and performances are scheduled until August 29. Check out what BANANA SHPEEL is all about via their webpage: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/banana- shpeel/default.aspx/ > {SOURCE: Broadway World} Go Behind-the-Scenes with Alegría {May.06.2010} ----------------------------------------------- Channel 5, KSDK out of St. Louis, MO, goes behind-the-scenes of Alegría’s Arena Tour, which pulled into town on Wednesday. Although the article discusses the Power Track almost exclusively, the report does go on to mention Alegría will continue to tour North America next year before jumping over to Europe where the show will come to an end in 2012. See it while you can! Read original article here: < http://www.ksdk.com/news/watercooler/story.aspx? storyid=201474&catid=71 > {SOURCE: KSDK.com} Deans Nominated for Drama Desk Award {May.06.2010} ----------------------------------------------- From Live Design: Broadway Sound Master Classes speaker Jonathan Deans has been nominated in sound design categories for a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award for La Cage Aux Folles. Deans has done astounding work for Cirque du Soleil since the 1990s, including the current tour of OVO and the latest resident show in Las Vegas, Viva Elvis! His Broadway credits include the upcoming Spider-Man, as well as Young Frankenstein, The Pirate Queen, Lestat, Brooklyn, Taboo, and Follies, to name a few. Read the original release here: < http://livedesignonline.com/theatre/0506-bsmc- deans-nominated/ > {SOURCE: Live Design.com} CKX, Inc. Reports First Quarter 2010 Results {May.11.2010} ----------------------------------------------- Yesterday afternoon a press release was released by CKX, Inc to report their earning results for First Quarter 2010. CKX, Inc. is engaged in the ownership, development and commercial utilization of globally recognized entertainment content. The Company’s current properties include the rights to the name, image and likeness of Elvis Presley, which is licensed for Cirque du Soleil’s VIVA ELVIS production at the City Center. Some interesting tidbits about this announcement concern Cirque du Soleil VIVA ELVIS, and they are: 1. Revenue at 19 Entertainment declined $7.9 million due to $12.1 million in revenue from a one-time limited run television program in 2009, offset by a $4.4 million increase in American Idol revenue. Excluding the prior year terminated license agreement, revenue at the Presley Business increased $2.7 million due to higher licensing revenue and royalty revenue from the Viva ELVIS Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas, which opened in February. 2. The Company reported a loss on its profit participation in the Viva ELVIS Cirque du Soleil show of $0.5 million in 2010 due to certain one-time costs associated with the opening of the show in February, a limited number of performances in the quarter and initial weaker than expected ticket sales in large part due to low occupancy rates at the hotels within CityCenter where the theater is located. This loss is reflected in equity in earnings (losses) of affiliates in the Company’s statement of operations. Read the original press release here: < http://www.marketwatch.com/story/ckx-inc-reports-first- quarter-2010-results-2010-05-10?reflink=MW_news_stmp > {SOURCE: MarketWatch, BusinessWire, Comtex, CKX, Inc.} LOVE: No Signs of Aging {May.12.2010} ----------------------------------------------- Broadway World in Las Vegas took a moment to look back upon The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil today. Here’s what they had to say! # # # While there is a loose storyline - recognizable characters from Beatles lore like Mr. Kite and Lucy in the Sky make appearances - the show dissolves into a brilliant visual soup of otherworldly delights, and plot becomes superfluous. Cirque du Soleil’s Love launched in Las Vegas in 2006 and features music from the Beatles that dates back almost a half-century. However, this tour de force shows no signs of aging; it’s a gorgeous multi-media masterpiece, a Vegas gamble on which you can’t lose! # # # Read the full article here: < http://lasvegas.broadwayworld.com/article/Las_Vegas_Review_ Ciruq_du_Soleils_LOVE_20010101 > {SOURCE: Broadway World} Cirque Opens Props Workshop in HK, SAR {May.12.2010} ----------------------------------------------- Hong Kong (HKSAR) - Cirque du Soleil, a Canadian organisation providing artistic entertainment and producing its own costumes and props, today (May 12) announced the opening of its first production workshop in Hong Kong. From a group of 20 street performers in 1984, Cirque du Soleil has grown to employ 5,000 staff, including more than 1,200 artists, from about 50 countries. The company produces costumes and props for its multiple shows staged around the world. Cirque du Soleil Director of Props and Costumes for Asia, Ms Gaebriella Wilkins, said, "The Hong Kong office is a regional office, where we will produce costumes, accessories and hats for different shows around the world. Read more of the original article here: < http://7thspace.com/headlines/344163/cirque_du_soleil_seeks_ to_inspire_local_innovation_and_creativity.html > {SOURCE: 7thSpace.com / HK Government} A Few Words with Mr. Schmelkey {May.12.2010} ----------------------------------------------- John Soltes, Editor in Chief of independent newspaper "The Leader" had a recent chat with Wood-Ridge native Danny Rutigliano who currently plays Schmelkey in Cirque du Soleil’s BANANA SHPEEL, a twist on Vaudeville. # # # After performing for 13 years as Timon in "The Lion King" - both on Broadway and in Los Angeles - Rutigliano has now made the jump to a world of acrobats, clowns and vaudeville. "This is such a great situation and a great role and it’s a fun role, too," Rutigliano said recently during a phone interview. "The show has such a vaudeville sensibility, which is something I love to do." "You’re coming to see my show," Rutilgliano said of his character. "It’s kind of like a show within a show. I’m always speaking to the audience and welcoming them and introducing the next big entertainment act. It’s a variety show, a Broadway show, a Cirque show. It’s very different from anything I’ve been involved in." # # # Read the full article here: < http://leadernewspapers.net/modules.php? name=News&file=article&sid=12736&new_topic=18 > Wintuk 2010... Final Season? {May.13.2010} ----------------------------------------------- Madison Square Garden has announced the dates for Wintuk’s 2010 season, which it is billing as the show’s fourth and final in New York City. Wintuk From Cirque du Soleil November 17, 2010 - January 02, 2011 at The Theater at MSG Performances are held November 17, 2010 through January 2, 2011 from Wednesdays through Sundays. Please refer to the performance schedule for details. There are no performances on Monday and Tuesday (with the exception of December 21, 27 and 28, 2010). Wintuk returns to New York for its final season! THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC WITH YOUR FAMILY! Wintuk is an exciting winter adventure for the whole family about a boy’s quest for snow. The show weaves thrilling acrobatics, breathtaking theatrical effects and memorable songs into an extraordinary journey to an imaginary land called Wintuk. The boy and his companions deliver endless excitement, exhilaration and intrigue. Wintuk is playful, musical, and bursts with the energy of the city and the magic of a wonderland. This seasonal story, featuring an international cast of 50 performers from Cirque du Soleil, will return in November for its final season in the heart of the city, to the delight of the whole family. {SOURCE: Madison Square Garden} Banana Shpeel... Pudding? {May.14.2010} ----------------------------------------------- According to Broadway World, Banana Shpeel gets its own... pudding! # # # To celebrate New York’s Upper West Side newest theatrical production, Banana Shpeel from Cirque du Soleil, famed Magnolia Bakery has renamed its beloved banana pudding to ‘Banana Shpeel Pudding!’ throughout the run of the show. Producer, Marty Schmelky (Danny Rutigliano), and his longtime wacky assistant Margaret (Shereen Hickman), officially unveiled Magnolia’s brand new ‘Banana Shpeel pudding’ with New York’s Upper West Side friends and customers yesterday, May 12. # # # Read the full article here: < http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Photo_Flash_ BANANA_SHPEEL_Unveils_Banana_Shpeel_Pudding_ at_Magnolia_20100513 > Visit Magnolia Bakery here: < http://www.magnoliabakery.com/ > {SOURCE: Broadway World} Cirque Helps Promote "Project Natal" {May.14.2010} ----------------------------------------------- NEW YORK, May 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - MTV Networks, a division of Viacom (VIA, VIA.B), today announced a broad- ranging, first-of-its-kind programming partnership with Microsoft Corp. for Electronic Entertainment Expo 2010 (E3 Expo 2010), the video game industry’s leading trade show. For the first time, only MTV Networks will take viewers inside the spectacular controller-free games and entertainment with "The World Premiere of ‘Project Natal’ for Xbox 360? experience, a spectacular live performance imagined by Cirque du Soleil, and live to the Xbox 360 Media Briefing for game announcements, world premieres and breaking news on the future of the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. "We look forward to making entertainment history again at E3 Expo 2010 and can’t think of a better partner than MTV Networks to exclusively share our news, experiences and Cirque du Soleil’s amazing creativity with an entirely new audience," said Don Mattrick, senior vice president, Interactive Entertainment Business, Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft. Read the full press release here: < http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mtv-networks- announces-groundbreaking-programming-partnership-with- microsoft-for-e3-expo-2010-93692729.html > {SOURCE: PRNewsWire} Banana Shpeel - The Reviews are In! {May.21.2010} ----------------------------------------------- BANANA SHPEEL opened to the public on Wednesday, May19th - the reviews are rolling in! Some of them good, some not, but all agree the show is much better than when it premiered in Chicago. See what they have to say... o) "Cirque salvages Banana Shpeel" {Toronto Star} < http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/article/ 811923--cirque-salvages-banana-shpeel > o) Cirque’s clown show works but never wows {The Globe and Mail} < http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/cirques- clown-show-works-but-never-wows/article1576197/ > o) Cirque pours on plenty of old-fashioned razzle-dazzle < http://www.theatermania.com/new-york/reviews/05- 2010/banana-shpeel_27466.html > {SOURCE: Theater Mania} Cirque du Soleil + Cirque Éloize = a Strategic Partnership {May.25.2010} ----------------------------------------------------------- Montreal, May 25, 2010 - Cirque Éloize is pleased to announce the signing of a strategic partnership with Cirque du Soleil. This partnership will promote the implementation of Cirque Éloize’s development strategy, enabling it to enhance its visibility on the international market. "The partnership with Cirque du Soleil bodes very well for the future of Cirque Éloize, which is arriving at a crossroad in its history. It will enable us to solidify our role as a leader in the creation and marketing of contemporary theatre-based circus performances that combine theatricality and the circus acts. We are proud to have Cirque du Soleil as one of our partners," stated Jeannot Painchaud, President and General Director of Cirque Éloize. Read more about the strategic partnership here: < http://www.cirque-eloize.com/data/Nouvelles/Fichiers/EN/84_CE- CDS-partnership-%20PR-english.pdf > {SOURCE: Cirque Éloize} For the most current, latest headlines about Cirque du Soleil, please visit our website: < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >. ======================================================================= ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION ======================================================================= o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau {Corteo, Koozå, OVO, Quidam, Totem & Varekai} o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues {Saltimbanco, Alegría, Quidam & Dralion} o) RESIDENT - Performed en Le Théâtre {Mystère, "O", La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE, ZAIA, ZED, Believe & VIVA Elvis} o) VENUE - Venue & Seasonal productions {Wintuk & Banana Shpeel} NOTE: .) While we make every effort to provide complete and accurate touring dates and locations available, the information in this section is subject to change without notice. As such, the Fascination! Newsletter does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of these listings. .) 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/ >. ------------------------------------ BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau ------------------------------------ Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=39 > Corteo: Sendai, Japan -- Apr 21, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 St. Petersburg, Russia -- Jun 26, 2010 to Aug 8, 2010 Kazan, Russia -- Aug 21, 2010 to Sep 26, 2010 Moscow, Russia -- Oct 9, 2010 to Dec 12, 2010 Koozå: Portland, OR -- Apr 9, 2010 to May 23, 2010 Seattle, WA -- Jun 3, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010 Vancouver, BC -- Jul 22, 2010 to Sep 5, 2010 Calgary, AB -- Sep 16, 2010 to Oct 24, 2010 Miami, FL -- Nov 18, 2010 to Dec 5, 2010 (*) Tokyo, JPN -- TBA (*) Ovo: New York, NY -- Apr 9, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 Hartford, CT -- Jun 17, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010 Boston, MA -- Jul 22, 2010 to Aug 15, 2010 Washington, DC -- Sep 9, 2010 to Oct 24, 2010 (*) Atlanta, GA -- Nov 4, 2010 to Dec 31, 2010 (*) Quidam: Buenos Aiers, AR -- May 28, 2010 to Jun 27, 2010 Santiago, CL -- Jul 21, 2010 to Aug 15, 2010 Lime, PE -- Sep 3, 2010 to Sep 26, 2010 Bogota, CO -- Oct 9, 2010 to Nov 21, 2010 NOTE: Begins Arena Tour after Bogota! Totem: Montréal, QC -- Apr 22, 2010 to Jul 11, 2010 Québec City, QC -- Jul 22, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010 Amsterdam, NL -- Oct 7, 2010 to Dec 18, 2010 (*) London, UK -- Jan 5, 2011 to Feb 13, 2011 (*) Charlotte, NC -- TBA Pittsburg, PA -- TBA Baltimore, MD -- TBA Montreal, QC -- TBA Toronto, ON -- TBA San Francisco, CA -- TBA Varekai: Cologne, DE -- May 13, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 Frankfurt, DE -- Jun 17, 2010 to Jul 18, 2010 Oostende, BE -- Jul 29, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010 Zurich, CH -- Sep 16, 2010 to Oct 10, 2010 Barcelona, ES -- TBA ------------------------------------ ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues ------------------------------------ Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=1831 > Saltimbanco: Glasgow, UK -- Jun 2, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 Manchester, UK -- Jun 9, 2010 to Jun 13, 2010 Birmingham, UK -- Jun 17, 2010 to Jun 27, 2010 Newcastle, UK -- Jun 30, 2010 to Jul 4, 2010 Dublin, IE -- Jul 7, 2010 to Jul 18, 2010 Nottingham, UK -- Jul 21, 2010 to Jul 25, 2010 London, UK -- Jul 28, 2010 to Aug 1, 2010 Hamburg, DE -- Aug 19, 2010 to Aug 22, 2010 Dortmund, DE -- Aug 25, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010 Berlin, DE -- Sep 1, 2010 to Sep 4, 2010 Munich, DE -- Sep 8, 2010 to Sep 12, 2010 Milan, IT -- Sep 15, 2010 to Sep 18, 2010 Zaragoza, ES -- Sep 22, 2010 to Sep 26, 2010 Granada, ES -- Sep 29, 2010 to Oct 3, 2010 Madrid, ES -- Oct 6, 2010 to Oct 10, 2010 Lisbon, PT -- Oct 13, 2010 to Oct 24, 2010 Prague, CZ -- Nov 12, 2010 to Nov 14, 2010 Alegría: Sacramento, CA -- Jun 2, 2010 to Jun 6, 2010 Rio Rancho, NM -- Jun 9, 2010 to Jun 13, 2010 Cypress, TX -- Jun 16, 2010 to Jun 20, 2010 Minneapolis, MN -- Jun 23, 2010 to Jun 27, 2010 Toronto, ON -- Jun 30, 2010 to Jul 4, 2010 Winnipeg, MB -- Jul 22, 2010 to Jul 25, 2010 Regina, SK -- Jul 27, 2010 to Aug 1, 2010 Saskatoon, SK -- Aug 4, 2010 to Aug 8, 2010 Edmonton, AB -- Aug 11, 2010 to Aug 22, 2010 Kelowna, BC -- Aug 25, 2010 to Aug 29, 2010 Kamloops, BC -- Sep 1, 2010 to Sep 5, 2010 Victoria, BC -- Sep 8, 2010 to Sep 12, 2010 Tacoma, WA -- Sep 15, 2010 to Sep 19, 2010 Spokane, WA -- Sep 22, 2010 to Sep 26, 2010 Honolulu, HI -- Oct 15, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010 Boise, ID -- Nov 4, 2010 to Nov 7, 2010 Houston, TX -- Nov 10, 2010 to Nov 14, 2010 Phoenix, AZ -- Nov 17, 2010 to Nov 21, 2010 Tucson, AZ -- Nov 24, 2010 to Nov 28, 2010 El Paso, TX -- Dec 1, 2010 to Dec 5, 2010 Oklahoma City, OK -- Dec 23, 2010 to Dec 26, 2010 Quidam: Kingson, ON -- Dec 11, 2010 to Dec 14, 2010 (*) Dralion: Trenton, NJ -- Oct 20, 2010 to Oct 24, 2010 Buffalo, NY -- Oct 27, 2010 to Oct 31, 2010 Reading, PA -- Nov 2, 2010 to Nov 7, 2010 Youngstown, OH -- Nov 10, 2010 to Nov 14, 2010 Windsow, ON -- Nov 17, 2010 to NOv 21, 2010 Oshawa, ON -- Nov 24, 2010 to Nov 28, 2010 Worcester, MA -- Dec 16, 2010 to Dec 19, 2010 Philadelphia, PA -- Dec 21, 2010 to Jan 2, 2011 --------------------------------- RESIDENT - en Le Théâtre --------------------------------- NOTE: (*) Prices are in United States Dollars (USD) unless otherwise noted. (*) Ticket prices exclude the 10% Live Entertainment Tax, the $7.50 per-ticket processing fee, and sales tax where applicable. 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 - 7:00pm & 9:30pm 2010 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12): o Category 1: $109.00 / $54.50 o Category 2: $99.00 / $49.50 o Category 3: $79.00 / $39.50 o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50 o Category 5: $60.00 / $30.00 (Limited View) 2010 Dark Dates: o July 7 o September 4 - 8 o November 3 "O": Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm 2010 Ticket Prices: o Orchestra: $150.00 o Loggia: $130.00 o Balcony: $99.00 o Limited View: $93.50 2010 Dark Dates: o June 13 o July 4 o August 11 - 15 o October 10 o December 8 - 21 La Nouba: Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA) Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm 2010 Ticket Prices (adults) / (child 3-9): o Category 0: $120.00 / $97.00 o Category 1: $105.00 / $85.00 o Category 2: $85.00 / $69.00 o Category 3: $69.00 / $56.00 o Category 4: $55.00 / $45.00 2010 Dark Dates: o June 1 - 4 o July 27 o September 21 - 24 o November 16 Zumanity: Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday through Sunday Dark: Monday & Thursday Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:30pm 2010 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!): o Duo Sofas: $135.00 o Orchestra Seats: $99.00 o Upper Orchestra Seats: $79.00 o Balcony Seats: $69.00 o Cabaret Stools: $69.00 2010 Dark Dates: o June 15 - 16 o July 13 - 14 o August 3 - 8 o September 14 o October 12 - 13 o November 30 o December 1 - 14 2010 Added Performances: o July 15th o September 16th o October 14th o November 29th o December 30th KÀ: Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm 2010 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12): o Category 1: $150.00 / $75.00 o Category 2: $125.00 / $62.50 o Category 3: $99.00 / $49.50 o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50 2010 Dark Dates o June 1 - 8 o September 7 - 11 o November 16 - 17 LOVE: Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm 2010 Ticket Prices: o Lower Orchestra: $150.00 o Upper Orchestra: $130.00 o Lower Balcony: $99.00 o Middle Balcony: $93.50 2010 Dark Dates: o June 10 o August 5 - 9 o October 7 o December 3 - 13 ZAIA: Location: Venetian, Macao (China) Performs: Every Day, Dark: Wednesday One to Two Shows Daily - Times Vary 2010 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 2-11): o VIP Seating: MOP$ 1288 / MOP$ 1288 o Reserve A: MOP$ 788 / MOP$ 394 o Reserve B: MOP$ 588 / MOP$ 294 o Reserve C: MOP$ 388 / MOP$ 194 ZED: Location: Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo (Japan) Performs: Varies One to Two Shows Daily - Showtimes vary 2010 Ticket Prices (Non-Peek / Peek Time): o Category 1 ("Premium"): ¥15,000 / ¥16,000 o Category 2 ("Stage-Side"): ¥12,500 / ¥13,500 o Category 2 ("Center"): ¥12,500 / ¥13,500 o Category 3 ("Wide View"): ¥9,500 / ¥10,500 o Category 4 ("Value"): ¥7,500 / ¥7,800 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. 2010 Ticket Prices (all): o Category 1: $160.00 o Category 2: $125.00 o Category 3: $99.00 o Category 4: $79.00 o Category 5: $59.00 2010 Dark Dates: o June 1 o July 6 - 10, 13 - 17 o October 12 - 16 VIVA ELVIS: Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Friday through Tuesday, Dark: Wednesday/Thursday Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm Preview Performances: December 18th to January 28th 2010 Ticket Prices (Previews / Regular) o Category 1: $149.38 / $175.00 o Category 2: $128.75 / $150.00 o Category 3: $108.13 / $125.00 o Category 4: $86.68 / $99.00 2010 Dark Dates: o July 14 - 29 o September 14 - 16 o November 17 - 25 -------------------------------------- VENUE - Venue & Seasonal Productions -------------------------------------- Online at: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?page_id=251 > Wintuk: Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City (USA) Wintuk's 2009 Season has drawn to a close. See you next winter! Banana Shpeel: Location: Beacon Theater, New York City (USA) Schedule: Performances from April 29th through August 29; Days of the week and times vary. 2010 Ticket Prices: o Premium: $199.00 single / $199 group o P1: $110.00 single / $75.00 group o P2: $85.00 single / $60.00 group o P3: $65.00 single / $45.00 group o P4: $45.00 single / $39.00 group Performance Schedule: o Wednesday at 2pm & 8pm o Thursday & Friday at 8pm o Saturday at 2pm and 8pm o Sunday at 2pm & 6pm ======================================================================= OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE'S SOCIAL WIDGETS ======================================================================= o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub o) Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, Youtube & Flickr --------------------------------------- CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub --------------------------------------- Recently CirqueClub went through a dramatic transformation - refocusing and rebranding their efforts through their web page. Currently a "Beta Version" of the website is up to experience for a short while, but upgrades and new features will be rolling out soon! Stay tuned for new and exciting features! --------------------------------------------------- NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Flickr --------------------------------------------------- --- [ ALEGRIA ] --- {May.13} A little behind-the-scene footage and find out what goes into a Cirque du Soleil show! Alegria - Cirque Du Soleil opens May 12, 2010 at The Sprint Center and runs through the 16th. We got a peek at Wednesday afternoon's practice session and an interview with the show's senior artistic director. (Video by Todd Feeback - May 12, 2010) LINK /// < http://videos.kansascity.com/vmix_hosted_apps/ p/media?id=13821936 > {May.06} Did you know that it takes approximately 200 hours to make 1 Old Bird Costume? They are full of intricate embellishments, textured materials and baroque-style gems. --- [ BANANA SHPEEL ] --- {May.27} The Huffington Post says Banana Shpeel by Cirque du Soleil packs "a lot of fun into a couple hours." LINK /// < http://www.huffingtonpost.com/chris-kompanek/on-the- culture-front-bill_b_585205.html > {May.27} Here's a nice look at the show from Broadway Magazine! LINK /// < http://www.broadway.tv/blog/broadway-magazine/brecht- banana-shpeel-and-samuel-beckett/ > {May.21} Banana Shpeel Premiere Yellow Carpet FOTO [16] < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=216525&id=153330866799&ref=mf > {May.21} Fans react to the Banana Shpeel premiere: VIDEO [0:30] /// < http://www.youtube.com/schmelkyproductions#p/ c/CC4534A2B166B709/0/lQalym5mfAU > {May.21} The Hand to Hand Duo from Banana Shpeel takes it to the top...of the Empire State Building in New York to celebrate the show's opening. FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=5513207&id=153330866799 > {May.20} Variety review: David Shiner turns this fruit salad into a veritable banana split of a show. LINK /// < http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117942827.html? categoryid=33&cs=1 > {May.20} "Ultimately, it’s a fun night, filled with more interpersonal activity than one usually sees at Cirque..." - The Toronto Star LINK /// < http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/article/811923-- cirque-salvages-banana-shpeel > {May.20} Cirque salvages Banana Shpeel - thestar.com LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=5513207&id=153330866799 > {May.19} Banana Shpeel incorporates tap, hip-hop, eccentric dance, and more into its production! Click here for an inside look from the Banana Shpeel choreographer himself, Jared Grimes: LINK /// < http://video.msg.com/Home/Banana-Shpeel-Meet-the- Choreographer > {May.19} Tonight is Banana Shpeel Premiere at The Beacon Theatre! Watch Schmelky put the final touches to the show! Schmelk-isode Two: The Slap VIDEO [0:57] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maN1i6cWnSo > {May.19} Go behind the scenes with producer Marty Schmelky and the gang from Banana Shpeel by Cirque du Soleil! VIDEO [1:00] /// < http://video.msg.com/Home/Banana-Shpeel- Behind-the-Scenes-2 > {May.19} Tonight is opening night for Banana Shpeel by Cirque du Soleil! Check out this exclusive sneak peek video of the show! VIDEO [0:55] /// < http://video.msg.com/Home/ Sneak-Peek-Banana-Shpeel > {May.19} Watch Schmelky put the finishing touches on his shpeel before the big premiere tomorrow at The Beacon Theatre! Schmelk-isode One: The Jar VIDEO [0:57] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhHM6o0V6n4 > {May.12} Marty Schmelky Margaret and I were on a photo shoot to capture promotional material for Banana Shpeel all over Columbus Circle, Central Park and the upper West Side. Check out our “On-The- Scene” photo shoot LINK /// < http://schmelky.wordpress.com/2010/05/12/on-the- scene%E2%80%9D-photo-shoot/ > {May.07} Marty Schmelky My assistant Margaret is an important, if not annoying, part of my entertainment empire. She loves Banana Shpeel and only has great things to say about her boss. LINK /// < http://schmelky.wordpress.com/2010/05/07/margaret/ > --- [ BELIEVE ] --- {May.27} Believe is the proud recipient of one of Las Vegas Weekly's "2010 Vegas' Best" for Best Supporting Cast for the fabulous dancers of our show! LINK /// < http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2010/may/27/best- supporting-cast-believe-dancers/ > {May.22} On May 19, Criss Angel was awarded Magical Wish Maker of the Year Award from the Make-A-Wish Foundation for being the most supportive celebrity with the organization’s dying children! LINK /// < http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/may/22/ exclusive-criss-angel-says-make--wish-award-beats-/ > {May.19} This past weekend, Criss Angel was honored to be the recipient of Innovention's Innovator of the Decade Award! Innovention founder Paul Stone said ...while making the presentation: "The award is given to Criss Angel for advancing the art of magic to new heights with his continual innovation and performance excellence." {May.12} Lighten up the mid-week blues by mixing up one of our signature CRISS ANGEL Believe cocktails, the White Rabbit. LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=4121098&id=18869703598 > {May.06} "Criss Angel to attempt death-defying stunt mastered by Houdini" LINK /// < http://www.vegasdeluxe.com/blogs/luxe- life/2010/may/06/criss-angel-attempt-death-defying- houdini-stunt/ > --- [ KÀ ] --- {May.28} I know our U.S. friends are getting ready for a long, holiday weekend, and we're a few days away from a vacation of our own, but if you're in Vegas tonight, tomorrow or Sunday, come hang out with us! Also, please enjoy Part Deux of KÀ melting the mind of blogger JimOnLight! LINK /// < http://ht.ly/1Pbrj > {May.26} Today's featured blog is JimonLight.com, and here is a link to the first part of a two-part write-up of Jim's visit to KÀ a few weeks ago. Thanks again to Jim for taking the time to visit us, we enjoyed having you and are glad you enjoyed it as well! LINK /// < http://ht.ly/1P2oO > {May.25} We have an extra day of shows this week, so if you're in Vegas for the Memorial Day weekend and looking for something to do on Sunday, call us! Just to give you a few good reasons to come see us again, or for the first time, please enjoy this review from VegasLifeofLuxury.com! LINK /// {May.22} Fun fact: the hydraulic fluid used to move the enormous Sand Cliff Deck is a vegetable-based oil, and when we replace it the used oil gets sent to a bio-diesel refinery. Go green! {May.20} The fun-ness never stops at KÀ! Our extremely talented Props department created a "Speardog" for a fundraiser for a local animal shelter. I don't mean to brag, but it's pretty awesome, and so are they! Don't forget to tune in to National Geographic Channel tonight at 9pm for our "World's Toughest Fixes" episode! FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=5495291&id=31527171928 > {May.19} Sometimes our characters can't be held by the walls of the theatre, so last night a chase ensued that went all the way to the poolside club at MGM Grand, Wet Republic. Coincidentally there was a Concierge Industry event going on so that worked out well for everyone. Sending great vibes and banana kisses to our friends at "Banana Shpeel" in New York for their premiere tonight! FOTO [5] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=215636&id=31527171928&ref=mf > {May.12} Ever wondered how you can bring a little bit of KÀ to your next BBQ or get-together? Here's a sweet summer drink you can make to add some Cirque to your next cocktail party! This is an adults- only beverage, please enjoy responsibly. LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=5426902&id=31527171928 > {May.08} A member of our sound crew, let's call him "Za-Za" (actually, that's what we call him), put together an elaborate scheme to surprise his girlfriend with a proposal involving props, costumes, artists, and an audience of 90 1st graders. He must really be in love! All together now... AWWWWWWWWWWW!!! FOTO [8] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=212650&id=31527171928&ref=mf> {May.06} On behalf of the cast and crew, and especially our resident daredevils, Francisco & Sabu Alegria, happy belated Cinco de Mayo! As a Cinco+1 de Mayo treat, here's a short look at the May 20th episode of "World's Toughest Fixes" on the National Geographic Channel (9pm Eastern/Pacific, check local listings.) VIDEO [4:00] /// < http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/ worlds-toughest-fixes/4939/Videos/ 08101_00#tab-Videos/08101_00 > --- [ KOOZA ] --- {May.28} If you pass by Seattle don't miss the KOOZA window display at the 2nd level of Pacific Place Mall - it's your chance to see the costumes and a few accessories closer than ever! FOTO [1] < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=4642766&id=34324811338 > {May.13} THANK YOU Portland! Don't miss your chance to see KOOZA at SW Moody Avenue in Portland - Performing until May 23. Next Stop Seattle at King County's Marymoor Park - opening on June 3! Photo credit: Owen Carey Photography FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=4532831&id=34324811338 > {May.03} Get an inside look at KOOZA! LINK /// < http://kezi.com/news/local/169369 > --- [ LA NOUBA ] --- {May.25} While the artists are taking a two week break, the crew is hard at work. In addition to stage maintenance, the boutique is being reconstructed, a conference room redesigned, the lobby is getting updated and the theater is getting a shine. We'll be ready for the public on June 8! FOTO [48] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=170906&id=16315569901&ref=mf > {May.18} We had a blast with Ali Wentworth when she recently spent a day with Cirque du Soleil - clowning around at La Nouba. Check out this spread in the June 2010 issue of O Magazine! FOTO [4] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=169360&id=16315569901&ref=mf > --- [ MYSTERE ] --- {May.28} Here's a look at Paul Bowler, our aerial cube artist, in action. Head over to Twitter and our @cirque account at 1 p.m. (in just a few minutes!) to ask Paul questions live! FOTO [8] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=213198&id=18155469918&ref=mf > {May.26} Mystère was honored to have been asked to participate in a fundraiser for a Las Vegas animal shelter last weekend. In order to raise money the shelter auctioned off 'show dogs,' and our Props and Wardrobe teams did a phenomenal job on our Red Bird- dog, congrats everyone! FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=5439607&id=18155469918 > {May.22} Everyone please join me in wishing a very 'Happy Birthday' to our own Brian Dewhurst! May life bring you as much joy as you bring to everyone around you! {May.15} I should have mentioned that yesterday's photos were taken mid- way through the painting process. Not to fear, the stage is back to blue and all is right with the world! (The photo below was snapped not 5 min. ago.) A huge thanks to Janet Ford! She should have her own TV ...show - "A Woman, a Paint Roller, and a Dream." FOTO [1] /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=5328610&id=18155469918 > {May.14} Life at Mystère never really takes a break, and here's a little peek at all of the hard work our technical team has been doing all week. HGTV ain't got nothin' on our extremely talented stage painter, Janet Ford! Extreme Stage Makeover: Mystère Edition FOTO [9] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=209631&id=18155469918&ref=mf > {May.12} Ever wondered how you can bring a little Mystère magic to your next BBQ or get-together? Here's a tasty summer drink which, like Mystère, can be enjoyed by the entire family! LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=5307632&id=18155469918 > {May.08} After a valiant effort to upload some video, which I'm hoping will magically appear someday, I thought you might also like to see some photos of what happens when you mix fine food and fancy people with a bunch of Mystère characters. (Hint-You get lots of funny looks and laughs!) And yes, that is Johnny Weir amongst the Spermatos! FOTO [16] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=208261&id=18155469918&ref=mf > --- [ O ] --- {May.07} While sitting out by the pool this weekend, try a cocktail inspired by OUR pool! The Blueberry Splash! LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=3817818&id=26000574416 > {May.07} Our poor little Zebra was confused when she saw the Zebra masks hanging in the gift shop! Can you think of a good caption for this picture?? LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=3817695&id=26000574416 > {May.06} We had a great time meeting "O" fans, taking pictures and signing autographs! LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=3812839&id=26000574416 > --- [ OVO ] --- {May.19} BOSTON - Press Conference FOTO [8] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=172255&id=62744104613&ref=mf > {May.05} Live with Regis and Kelly - The Live Stage VIDEO [3:49] /// < http://bventertainment.go.com/tv/buenavista/ regisandkelly/special/livestage/index.html? bcpid=78294617001&bclid=60437168001 &bctid=82880483001 > --- [ SALTIMBANCO ] --- {May.29} Review: Cirque Du Soleil bring sunshine to Liverpool Echo Arena! LINK /// < http://www.clickliverpool.com/culture/reviews/129263- review-cirque-du-soleil-bring-sunshine-to-liverpool- echo-arena.html > {May.18} Cirque stars get in swing for Glasgow - Evening Times LINK /// < http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/features/cirque-stars- get-in-swing-for-glasgow-1.1025946 > --- [ THE BEATLES LOVE ] --- {May.13} Vegas SEVEN magazine calls LOVE "the most beautiful show on The Strip"...check out the other 49 most beautiful things about Las Vegas! LINK /// < http://weeklyseven.com/ae/2010/may/13/50-beautiful- things-about-las-vegas > {May.12} Check out this review from Broadwayworld.com! LINK /// < http://lasvegas.broadwayworld.com/article/ Las_Vegas_Review_Ciruq_du_Soleils_LOVE_20010101 > {May.11} We made a fun little video about our trip to Wrigley Field to throw the 1st pitch...enjoy! VIDEO [3:01] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php? v=429296000434&ref=mf > {May.10} Watch LOVE performer Robin Peters transform into the "Walrus!" VIDEO [1:14] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php? v=10100101471816549&ref=mf > {May.07} It's 5 o'clock somewhere! Make yourself a "Lovely Rita" in celebration of the weekend ahead! LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=4126335&id=14653468665 > --- [ TOTEM ] --- {May.03} Meet Kym Barrett, Costume designer for TOTEM VIDEO [1:42] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIm-DlLQmCc > {May.03} Meet Marina & Svetlana, artists from the Foot juggling act. VIDEO [1:42] /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyO1pJv3SHs > --- [ VAREKAI ] --- {May.27} Check out these pictures of the Varekai cast performance on ZDF TV - Fernsehgarten FOTO [5] /// < http://www.facebook.com/album.php? aid=183348&id=30414380348&ref=mf > {May.27} Varekai cast was on ZDF TV - Fernsehgarten last Monday! VIDEO [4:20] /// < http://www.zdf.de/ZDFmediathek/beitrag/video/ 1051816/Auftritt-von-Cirque-Du-Soleil#/beitrag /video/1051816/Auftritt-von-Cirque-Du-Soleil > {May.08} Varekai big top raising on KSTA WEB TV LINK /// < http://www.ksta.de/portal/videos/index.php? bcpid=14306381001&bclid=3633840001&bctid=83702373001 > --- [ VIVA ELVIS ] --- {May.24} Check out the video below for a special message from Priscilla Presley to all our Viva ELVIS Facebook fans! VIDEO [0:24] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php? v=10100112096679239&ref=mf > {May.24} In honor of Priscilla's birthday today, we thought we'd post a couple of her responses to your questions! Here's one and we'll have the other up soon! VIDEO [0:38] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php? v=10100112214677769&ref=mf > {May.24} And here's the other one! We had a great time talking with Priscilla! Thanks for the questions, everyone! VIDEO [1:18] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php? v=10100112227492089&ref=mf > {May.23} Aaron Felske, Viva ELVIS dancer and filmmaker, created a great video of our rehearsals with Napoleon & Tabitha and our trip to LA for Dancing with the Stars. VIDEO [2:36] /// < http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php? v=398624657001&ref=mf > {May.20} The contemporary Las Vegas experience in one new resort,ARIA Resort & Casino features Cirque du Soleil’s new Viva ELVIS(Part One: Viva ELVIS. Part Two coming up: ARIA Resort & Casino and Virgin America.) LINK /// < http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-30274-SF-Theater- Examiner~y2010m5d17-Cirque-du-Soleils-Viva-Elvis-at- new-Aria-Resort--Casino-in-Las-Vegas-pays-musical- tribute > --- [ ZUMANITY ] --- {May.28} A couple of fun facts about our fabulous theatre! The custom built Zumanity theater has 1,261 seats and 50 separate speakers, the strobe lights use 70,000 watts of power in just a few seconds and there are 1,269 light fixtures, which are run by only eight consoles - whew! {May.21} Another Fun Fact Friday! The water in the Water Bowl consistently stays at a temperature of 99 degrees Fahrenheit- this helps the water bowl contortionists’ muscles to remain warm and flexible during the act {May.15} Another fun fact to share with our Facebook fans! Since 2003, the sexy couple in Zumanity’s "Midnight Bath" act have bathed in more than 2,500 quarts of milk. Milk really does do a body good! {May.14} Fun fact Friday! Did you know French fashion designer Thierry Mugler designed all of the costumes for Zumanity? And speaking of costumes... the "Red dress" creation worn by Marcela, Queen of the Wind during “2Men” is a $40,000 couture creation featuring a jeweled bra encrusted with Swarovski crystal! {May.12} Wednesday is a good enough reason to mix up a sexy cocktail! Take some inspiration from our Zumanitini - recipe below :) LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php? pid=3989693&id=13931088846 > ======================================================================= COMPARTMENTS -- A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN ======================================================================= o) DIDYAKNOW - Facts at a Glance about Cirque o) HISTORIA - Cirque du Soleil History --------------------------------- DIDYAKNOW? - Facts About Cirque --------------------------------- o) Each year, the Costume Workshop uses over 20 kilometres of fabric from around the globe. o) The majority of costumes are screen-printed by hand. o) Cirque uses Santa Claus wigs to make some of the wigs for "O". o) There are approximately 1,000 costume pieces in Dralion, including headpieces, belts, shoes and so on. o) The colours of the Dralion costumes represent the four elements: blue for Air, green for Water, red for Fire, and ochre for Earth o) All costumes are custom designed for each individual performer at the Costume Workshop in Montreal. The Costume Workshop employs over 250 people. o) The Costume Workshop can turn out more than 500 models of shoes. o) In Varekai, the main set element is a forest in which life is always present; as a result, there are many aerial concepts in the show. Certain trees in the set are flexible enough to allow artists to fly between them. o) A total of 160 people travel with Varekai, of which 56 are performers. o) Over 500,000 red petals have fallen from the Varekai sky... and many more to come! o) Make-up is specially designed for each individual artist, according to their individual features. Performers are taught to apply their own make-up. o) The theatre of ZAIA has a capacity of 1852 spectators. ------------------------------------ HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History ------------------------------------ * Jun.02.2006 -- LOVE Premiered at Mirage (Previews Begin) * Jun.02.2007 -- Ernst & Young named Cirque CEO Guy Laliberté "World Entrepreneur of 2007." * Jun.02.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Glasgow, UK * Jun.02.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Sacramento, CA * Jun.02.2010 -- Cirque du Soleil releases iPhone application * 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.03.2010 -- Koozå opened Seattle, WA * Jun.04.2003 -- Alegría opened Calgary * Jun.04.2008 -- Cirque Partners with YuuZoo, Video Sharing 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.09.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Manchester, UK * Jun.09.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Rio Rancho, NM * 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 [Tuesday, 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.16.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Cypress, TX * Jun.17.2010 -- Varekai opened Frankfurt, DE * Jun.17.2010 -- OVO opened Hartford, CT * Jun.17.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Birmingham, UK * Jun.18.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Toronto * Jun.19.2008 -- La Nouba celebrated 4500th performance [Thursday, 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.23.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Minneapolis, MN * 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.26.2010 -- Corteo opened St. Petersburg, RU * 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) * Jun.30.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Newcastle, UK * Jun.30.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Toronto, ON ======================================================================= FASCINATION! FEATURES ======================================================================= Within... o) INTERVIEW /// "Daniel Lamarre: Joining the Circus" By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA) o) "Some Thoughts on the Evolution of Cirque" By: Ricky Russo - Orlando, Florida (USA) -------------------------------------------------------------- INTERVIEW /// "Daniel Lamarre: Joining the Circus" By: Keith Johnson - Seattle, Washington (USA) -------------------------------------------------------------- When it became clear we would be able to add Montreal to our CirqueCon 2010 weekend in New York, our journalistic minds went into high gear. Who in the Cirque organization, we wondered, might be interested in talking with us for Fascination? Thanks to the kindness of our friends inside Cirque IHQ, my wife and I were able to spend the afternoon talking with those we have known from afar but had yet to meet face-to-face. And we were very fortunate to arrange a short bit of time talking with the highest profile person ever to grace these pages in interview form, Mr. Daniel Lamarre (Dan- yell Luh-maarh), President and Chief Operating Officer of Cirque du Soleil. After a wonderful lunchtime spent chatting up several of our Montreal IHQ friends we were escorted to a large elevator in the middle of the building and taken to the third floor. As we ascended floors in the IHQ the atmosphere got quieter, with less of the hustle and bustle found on the ground floor. The third floor is a quiet respite. After being escorted into his office we ended up sitting comfortably around a brown conference table in his smart but modestly-appointed offices on the south side of the building. Mr. Lamarre was very gracious with us, calmly and knowledgably answering our questions in his light French-Canadian accent. We started by asking about his responsibilities and how he came to be in his current position. “[My responsibility is] the overall management of the organization. To use less corporate terms and use Cirque terminology my job is to put in place the right conditions for the creators of Cirque to be able to create the best shows there are. Therefore, I have to make sure that everything we do within this building, within this studio, supports the creative and production process. The other thing I have to do is ensure the sustainability of Cirque du Soleil. Bringing new projects, bringing new shows, and protecting all those jobs of people that are very very passionate about what they do. That’s how I see my mandate.” His first encounter with Cirque founder Guy Laliberte, though, occurred many years earlier. “It’s a funny story. I was a partner in a public relations firm (National Public Relations) in Canada, and in 1986 I was doing a mandate for Guy Laliberte but he couldn’t pay me. He came into my office and said, “Daniel, I’m sorry. We have no money, we’re brand new. I don’t know what to do with this.” And I [tore up] the invoice and said, “Forget about it, because what you’re trying to do is so amazing. I wish you the best of luck.” “Years later [Cirque] had become successful. I sold my firm because I was becoming the president of a television network (TVA, Quebec’s largest private TV broadcaster). I called Guy and said, “I would love to have the TV rights for Cirque du Soleil.” They were hugely successful by then and he said, “Daniel, it would be impossible. This international firm is looking after those rights.” And I said, “No problem. I just wanted you to know that if ever they are available I am interested.” “The following day I received a copy of a note to the guy who was in charge of the TV rights at Cirque saying, “This guy helped me out years ago. He wants the TV rights, do what you have to do.” And I was really touched by that, first that he remembered and second that he was moving on it. So we started to see each other a little more regularly because of the TV shows that we were working on for Cirque.” “Five years later he called me out of the blue. He was in London and he said, “Daniel, I had this amazing flash last night.” And I said, “Yeah, what was it?” And he said, “You’re going to join the circus!” (Laughs) And I said, “Whoa, Guy, I have a job. I’m happy. I’m not sure about that.” And the rest is history. Three weeks later I was joining Cirque and I’ve been here for nine years, starting my tenth year. It’s been an interesting story, Guy and I, because we knew each other without really knowing each other. And now we’ve been working together more than nine years.” With the company carefully tended by Mr. Lamarre, “Guy wants to stay away from the day-to-day [operations] of the business, to make sure that his creative juices are there. So my job is to make sure that he works as little as possible, that he continues to travel the world to find new treasures for our organization. Because that’s one gift he has that very few people in the world have.” Mr. Lamarre has presided over a vast expansion of the Cirque du Soleil brand around the world in the form of not only new shows but new show models. These include re-purposing older shows so they can play in arenas (Cirque calls them “venus”) in smaller cities that Cirque hasn’t previously played. They have discovered a new style of show with the dance-centered “Love” and “Viva Elvis.” And with “Banana Shpeel” they are developing a show that will play in heritage (older) proscenium theaters (ground that competitor Cirque Productions has covered for many years). This expansion has brought with it some hard-learned lessons. “I think what we’ve learned is that people understand our brand, which is positive but which brings limits. For instance when we opened “Zumanity” people were expecting to see a “Mystere” type of show and were very disappointed. So now we have to be careful how we manage expectations, that people understand that our creators like to try something new. We have to educate people about that, and in some cases we downplay the brand or use a different brand. That is a conversation we are having internally. We have been through that with “Zumanity” and we are going through it with “Banana Shpeel” because it’s a different type of show. But, mind you, I was at the show last night (opening night in New York City) and I thought that the reaction of the public was quite encouraging.” Referring to the challenge of expanding into new parts of the world, such as with ZAIA in Macao he commented, “The toughest parts of the world for us are places like France, Italy and China where there is a huge tradition of traditional circus. When they see the name “Cirque” they think of a traditional cirque, and it takes us a while to educate people about how different we are from their circus. That’s the biggest challenge. After they have discovered that we’re not a circus but we are theatrical and we are different, I think we will be very very successful.” Moving to questions we as fans have been wondering about, we asked about changing the running time of ZED. We had been told that a 90- minute show was the original artistic vision but that Oriental Land Company (who manages the theater, concessions, and food and beverage) had requested an intermission in order to help meet their income projections. This was accommodated by Cirque, though its’ critical success in its 2-act form made fans wonder why other resident shows are based on the 90-minute model. It was even more surprising when ZED was changed to a 90-minute show. We wondered why and where the original 90-minute model came from. “At the beginning [it was] a casino issue, because after an hour and a half they wanted people to go to the gambling floor. But through ZED we have experienced that it makes a lot of sense, because we have so much technology involved and the experience is so sensorial, that having an intermission for theater shows was a bit of a downer.” “As in the casino business, where after 90 minutes people want to go back to the gaming floor, at Disney after 90 minute shows people want to go back to the theme park or to other attractions. So it made more sense in this environment to have a 90-minute show.” The change also makes it easier to sell ZED as part of travel packages offered to busy Japanese tourists, for whom the Tokyo Disney Resort is quite a jaunt out from the city and something to be carefully planned. With Cirque’s interest in expanding internationally we were keen to ask about whether fans around the world should expect the Cirque video catalog to be issued into their DVD region? “As we expand geographically, [DVD product is] also a way [we present ourselves]. We’re expanding geographically more and more now which will force us, in a positive way, to make sure that our shows are available.” The success of “La Nouba” on DVD has been, in Mr. Lamarre’s words, “Very very positive” and has improved ticket sales. With that and the filming and broadcast of “KA” on German television fans curiosity was piqued about the possibility of resident shows being issued on DVD. It was our understanding Cirque’s contract with MGM/Mirage forbids issuing videos of shows, but not according to Mr. Lamarre. “It’s not by contract, it’s more the philosophical approach of the casino. They’re afraid we will lose clientele, which as a matter of fact, is totally contrary [to what we’ve found]. Because when we put our shows on video it entices people to come to the show.” In the biggest piece of news to come out of our short time together, we were happy to learn there are plans to bring “ZAIA” and “ZED” to DVD for the American market! “Yes definitely. That’s something we’re exploring right now. ZAIA will come first, but yes.” But it doesn’t mean every Cirque production will see the light of day on video. For example, a finished video for “Delirium” was booked into cinemas as a special event. Why not put it out on DVD since it’s already done? “There’s no plan for that now. The problem is that we are creating and producing so many shows at such a rapid pace that we don’t want to have too many DVD’s in a market where DVD’s are getting tougher and tougher to sell. The DVD market is decreasing at a very rapid pace, so it’s a business decision to not bring out too many DVD’s. And if I’m bringing [out a] DVD, I want the DVD [to be] of an actual [current] show, to help promote the show. And since Delirium is no longer in presentation it isn’t a priority of ours.” (I think we can safely assume that will also apply to “Wintuk,” seeing as how it’s in its final year at Madison Square Garden.) What direction, then, will future DVD releases take? “The one thing right now that might change our lives is 3-D. You know, Cirque du Soleil has not been a great product for television. But people who have seen Avatar, for instance, are saying, “Wow! These are the textures of Cirque du Soleil characters that are in shows.” And now all of the sudden all of the major studios are talking to us, saying they want to do something with Cirque du Soleil in 3-D. So that should accelerate the number of new shows that we produce, not only on DVD, but in 3-D. That’s something we’re exploring right now.” How does Cirque measure success? Is one show more popular than another? “For touring shows it has nothing to do with the quality or the popularity of the show, it has to do with markets. And obviously when you open more and more markets the latest show is the most popular one, because our brand is at maturity and we’ll sell more tickets of any new show we produce.” “There are shows that seem to be better received in [particular] countries. For instance there were a lot of questions about Dralion when we opened in Montreal. But it broke all ticket sales records in the United States, for reasons that were unclear. It was very very popular and had a broad appeal in America.” “OVO was a great surprise to us because when we decided to do OVO we never thought that the show would be so appealing to kids. But when you think about it it makes a lot of sense, because with the insect theme of the show it has a huge appeal to kids. So in touring shows I would say that they all have been big successes for different reasons.” “For permanent shows, obviously the amazing success of “O” is alone in its league. There has never been a show that has been clearly sold out for so many years. That’s a first in the history of entertainment. But now we have “LOVE” that is at about the same level of success, and “KA” and others, but “O” remains in a very specific and exclusive situation.” All too soon, our time was drawing to a close. But we wanted to make sure we asked the President of Cirque du Soleil what he thought was the best BUSINESS decision Cirque has ever made. “Definitely Vegas. People don’t realize it, but at the time there was a lot of controversy within the organization. I wasn’t here but I’ve heard so many stories. People and artists were asking Guy, “What are we going to do in Vegas? Vegas has nothing to do with the artistic values of Cirque.” And Guy had this famous answer, “I’m going to plant a flower in the desert.” And I think that sums it up, because today we have more than a flower, we have seven flowers, soon eight. So I think that was the real breakthrough of the organization.” My sincere thanks go to: Mr. Daniel Lamarre, for so graciously spending time with us, Chantal Côte, Corporate PR Manager, And my wife LouAnna for sitting in on the interview, and putting up with my sometimes obsessive hobby. -------------------------------------------------------------- "Some Thoughts on the Evolution of Cirque" By: Ricky Russo - Orlando, Florida (USA) -------------------------------------------------------------- We Cirque fans are a finicky bunch, aren’t we? We want everything just so. We follow their every move. We complain when they stray. What makes us so disgruntled? When TOTEM was announced (and then the Michael Jackson collaboration) I joined in on the discussion briefly at Cirque Tribune, posting a few comments about the two concepts and about Cirque in general. On the board, most agreed that TOTEM was a departure from Cirque du Soleil’s latest offerings and looked upon the show as a “savior” of the original avant-garde concept; however, the announcement of the Michael Jackson shows created more than a platform for further disagreements, it created a whirlwind of dissent – fans of many years were preparing to “turn their backs” on Cirque du Soleil over the announcement. Why? The answer in short: Cirque du Soleil was no longer the perceived Cirque they remembered and enjoyed. Watching the company evolve from an avant-garde circus troupe, staging esoteric shows in mysterious worlds, into a full-fledged entertainment company where avant-garde circus was but just one aspect of their business, was just too much to bear. The decisions of those brave few made me examine my own level of commitment and in doing so I learned a little bit about myself, my expectations of Cirque and their ever-evolving company. Although my thoughts on the subject are obvious, permit me to share these jumbled thoughts with you. First and foremost, what we as Cirque fans, just like fans of any property or universe (such as Star Wars, Star Trek, Harry Potter, etc.), have to understand is that things constantly evolve. And that Cirque du Soleil has always been an evolving entertainment business. Think of the many steps along the way: Nouvelle Experience, the first real transition between the ring and the theater; Saltimbanco, the change from dark to light; Mystère, the first resident show that angered many of the first few followers (how dare they discard the Grand Chapiteau?); Quidam, where Benoit Jutras took over musically; Dralion, a two-fold evolution with the departure of Dragone AND a purchase-for-play show; with Zumanity, the first "other side" of Cirque du Soleil; Delirium, the concert and arena show; LOVE, the musical; Wintuk; the seasonal; and BELIEVE, the train-wreck. Cirque has lost fans and followers at each step. As we’ve seen with Cirque recently, they’re pursuing different avenues of entertainment – from eroticism (Zumanity), to a moving motion picture (KÀ), to a musical extravaganza (LOVE, VIVA ELVIS, MJ), to Vaudeville/Variety (Solstrom, Banana Shpeel) while also attempting to keep the status quo (Koozå, ZED, ZAIA, Ovo, Totem). They’re branching out beyond what we as fans would consider their creative core. Strangely enough, though, they’ve been doing it for quite some time now. One could argue they’re not doing a good job at that. I personally don’t mind Cirque branching out into unknown territory (in fact, I welcome it). Don’t churn out a show just for the sake of it – take the time to do it right. And above all, be different! We've all often wondered where Cirque du Soleil was heading. Now we know – for better or worse, Cirque du Soleil has moved on from “the Dragone Era” into new forms of entertainment and there’s no stopping them. I am probably one of the few who love Koozå (because I understand the type of show it represents) and one of the few who feels OVO and SHPEEL have a chance if-and-only-if they can pull it together. I'll see shortly. But, yes, I too can see the difference in production value between a Quidam and an OVO, between Mystère and ZAIA, or between Saltimbanco (which still has it after all these years) and a Wintuk. And although I hold my reservations about the MJ show (I enjoy MJs music and adore LOVE so I'm curious about it and ELVIS), even I realize Cirque today is not Cirque from yesterday. Most of what sets shows during the “Dragone era” apart from those created today is the attention to detail. Most of what you see out of Saltimbanco, Mystère, Alegría, Quidam, “O” and La Nouba are tightly wrapped shows. They’ve benefitted from the same creative team. They’ve also benefitted from one person’s vision, which is then allowed to be upgraded and spilt over from one show to the next. If Saltimbanco is a “happy” show, then Alegría is “sad”. And if Alegría is “sad”, Quidam is “angry” and “scared” all at once. Furthermore, if Alegría shows us how refined Cirque became, Quidam shows an emotional de-evolution, wearing its emotions on its sleeve. What we normally see out of these shows is an all encompassing theme that has great depth, a thematical element that isn’t obvious. To me that is what Cirque is missing today. Even with shows like Varekai or Corteo, which actually do better to adhere to the “Dragone” standard (IMO, Corteo over Varekai), their themes are still more recognizable. If you’re not sure... explain what Mystère, Alegría, or Quidam are about beyond what you see on its surface... then explain what Varekai, Corteo, Koozå and OVO are about and you’ll get what I mean. Koozå is a great show. OVO is too. But they exist only within the confines of their own production. The earlier shows had a more esoteric quality to them, existing beyond the theater or the Grand Chapiteau in a way that’s hard to explain. Perhaps it’s just personal bias. I understand that every company, just like every person, must evolve, but I am allowed not to particularly like what it has evolved into. Just like many folks no longer care what Disney has evolved into, or Apple, or Google, or any company. I feel saddened by the fact that I may never again experience the Cirque of old. And for some that's too much to bear. Maybe one day Cirque du Soleil will come to the understanding that it is over-reaching and will contract. Perhaps one day they’ll say “wouldn’t it be great if one group of creators could create all our shows”, making each one (and the next) just that much better. Even if that wish should never come true, I’m still in it for the long haul. I'm not planning to "turn my back" on Cirque... not just yet. Although my feelings for Cirque du Soleil and my level of involvement in the fandom change constantly – the announcement of yet another LOVE clone doesn’t help matters – I am curious about Hollywood 2011, Radio City 2011, and VIVA ELVIS (which has premiered but I‘ve not yet seen); I wonder what’s up with Dubai, Shanghai, and the Arena shows; and whether or not another touring show is on the horizon... and see what the future holds. In the end I may find that I only like one aspect of what Cirque du Soleil has become (such as touring shows and resident shows like ZED) and perhaps that will do. For dozens of others, it's just the last straw. Can't say I blame them. But if TOTEM and BANANA SHPEEL have taught me anything, it is to expect the unexpected and to just enjoy the shows for what they are, not for what you wish they would be. ======================================================================= SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION ======================================================================= Fascination! is a monthly publication, 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 Subscribe via Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News) use the following: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 >. 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 10, Number 6 (Issue #77) - June 2010 "Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c) 2001-2010 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. { June.07.2010 } =======================================================================