======================================================================= ______ _ __ _ __ / ____/___ ___________(_)___ ____ _/ /_(_)___ ____ / / / /_ / __ `/ ___/ ___/ / __ \/ __ `/ __/ / __ \/ __ \/ / / __/ / /_/ (__ ) /__ / / / / /_/ / /_/ / /_/ / / / /_/ /_/ \__,_/____/\___/_/_/ /_/\__,_/\__/_/\____/_/ /_(_) 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 11, NUMBER 12 December 2011 ISSUE #95 ======================================================================= Welcome to the latest edition of Fascination, the Unofficial Cirque du Soleil Newsletter, and greetings from the conclusion of Cirque Week in Las Vegas. I'm certain some of you might wonder what's wrong with me, if I'm in Las Vegas attending Cirque Week and still have time to release an issue of Fascination - I assure you I'm sane. No, I really am! The reason I can do so is because I'm no longer in Las Vegas, sadly, but I did attend a couple of great sessions whilst at Cirque Week this year! With so much going on in the Cirque universe these past couple of weeks there's lots to talk about, so I'll stop talking and get to it. In September, Cirque du Soleil dropped a bomb-shell on us with the announcement of ZED's closing, Cirque du Soleil's resident show in Tokyo, Japan. In late November, they rocked our world again with an announcement that VIVA ELVIS, resident show staged in ARIA at MGM CityCenter in Las Vegas would close by the end of 2012. Although I did not have a chance to see VIVA ELVIS here at Cirque Week (my thoughts on the show were made clear the last time I saw it, about a year ago), for those who do enjoy this mash-up of Cirque's acrobatics with Elvis' music might want to book a trip to Las Vegas soon - you've got 12 months before Elvis leaves the building! And for those who do, you'll be treated to a new act - Banquine - which will be integrated from ZED once the show closes in Japan at the end of December. We've got more about that in our NEWS section this month - including the text from a Cirque du Soleil internal memo announcing the closure. And as a late-breaking confirmation, Cirque du Soleil announced during CirqueWeek that Mystère would receive a make-over (as previously rumored) by accepting not only the Flying Trapeze (to replace High Bar) from ZED, but also the Silk act (to be integrated without replacing a current act in the show) - so very exciting news indeed! Although we were in Las Vegas for Cirque Week, we did miss some of the special activities within. Why? We were also at CirqueCon 2011 in Hollywood, California attending a performance of IRIS! We also had the opportunity to see Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour right here in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay resort complex - but our thoughts about those shows will have to wait for next issue. As always we've got the latest news items posted to Fascination! Web and, of course, updates to Cirque's tour schedule within. 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 * "Cirque Media Stocking Stuffers!" By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA) * "Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation" Part 4 of 4 - "Images: My Thoughts" By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA) o) Subscription Information o) Copyright & Disclaimer ======================================================================= CIRQUE BUZZ -- NEWS, RUMOURS & SIGHTINGS ======================================================================= Cirque: Imagining a Dream {Nov.08.2011} --------------------------------------------------------- Cirque du Soleil has had the privilege of dreaming since 1984. Since our beginnings, we have acquired the means to make these dreams a reality that it has spread a little all over the world. The company and its employees have chosen to join with communities and a growing number of individuals to work together to build a better world. Every year since 1989, we have dedicated the equivalent to 1% of the company's gross revenue into our social and cultural action programs as well as into ONE DROP, a non-governmental organization. Today, we are reaching out to you to take part in 7 days for a better world from March 19-25, 2012 and contribute in raising awareness for World Water Day on March 22. If you purchase tickets for our show performances scheduled during that week, $5 will be donated to ONE DROP, a foundation that aims at fighting poverty by giving access to clean water through innovative programs. You are imagining the dream of a better world. Merci! CONSULT THE TOUR PLAN! < http://mail.cirquedusoleil .com/servlet/cc6? JpjzbmLQTAYYQSVjpJoHkpxKjpnhgQJhuVaVTV31G0b9V JIBJKHUYqJMRLqSSKYqDMIUqRRRSRURJHLWJVXLX > {SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil} Marlon, Jackie and Tito Jackson to Appear at MJ Fan Fest! {Nov.09.2011} --------------------------------------------------------- The first ever Estate-authorized Michael Jackson Fan Fest(tm) will now offer visitors a more in-depth look into Michael Jackson's life, featuring an opportunity to meet three of Michael Jackson's brothers, Marlon, Jackie and Tito Jackson, for one day only. The three brothers will be at Fan Fest on Sunday, December 4, beginning at noon for an exclusive Q & A session for fans at the exhibition. Scheduled for December 3-14 at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Michael Jackson Fan Fest is designed to transport guests through the life of the mega-star, showcasing never before seen personal items and career memorabilia. The exhibition coincides with the kick off of the extended Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour(tm) stop in Las Vegas during December. Michael Jackson Fan Fest will only be in Las Vegas and will not travel to any other tour stop. The intimate experience at Fan Fest extends even further beyond the memorabilia and will also feature an enlightening Q & A with Joseph Vogel, author of Man in the Music: The Creative Work and Life of Michael Jackson, on December 9 and 10. The newly released book takes readers inside the impressive music catalog of Michael Jackson. Vogel is also the author of two other books and writes about popular music and culture for The Huffington Post and Pop Matters. To prepare for the launch of this once-in-a-lifetime look at Michael Jackson's belongings, Access Hollywood will air a two- night sneak preview of Fan Fest on November 9 and 10. Miko Brando, Michael's lifelong friend, will give a behind the scenes tour of items from Michael's videos, tours and the interior of Neverland during a visit to the warehouse, where Fan Fest items are currently being stored. In addition, Miko Brando and Jackie Jackson will be in-studio at Access Hollywood Live the morning of November 10 where they will showcase additional Fan Fest items and share some personal stories they have of the King of Pop. A wide variety of items will be on display at Fan Fest from both Michael Jackson's career and Neverland Ranch. Featured memorabilia will include costumes, the Fantasy glove collection from the 1980s, award statues, tickets, the famed rocket plane from the "Leave Me Alone" video, a castle displayed in the living room of Neverland and others. For a photo gallery of featured items please click here: < http://www.michaeljacksonfanfest.com/ > Each session of Michael Jackson Fan Fest will last for four hours in Mandalay Bay's Bayside Exhibit Hall, allowing visitors time to enjoy the display without overlapping any performance of THE IMMORTAL World Tour. Fan Fest will be open from 12-4 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. on December 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and from 2-6pm on December 6, 7, 13, and 14. Tickets for Fan Fest can be purchased in conjunction with Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour or individually. Fan Fest ticket prices start at $35 plus applicable fees for general admission; $75 for VIP tickets. VIP tickets include priority entrance into the event and all activities within the event, a commemorative lanyard and access to the VIP-only lounge. For more information or to purchase tickets, guests can visit: www.michaeljacksonfanfest.com or www.cirquedusoleil.com/lasvegas. {SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil} Cirque at Pixar? {Nov.10.2011} ------------------------------------------------------ If there are any Pixar Animation Studios fans out there, you might like this little sneak peek behind the curtain. Today, Lee Unkrich (Director of Toy Story 3) posted a picture on his twitter with the caption: # # # "We once joked that Pixar's atrium would be perfect for a Cirque du Soleil show. Today it happened." # # # It appears that he is right; it would be a perfect location: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/wp- content/uploads/2011/11/cds-at-pixar.jpg > Lee has been tweeting a picture a day since he began his newest Pixar project some months ago. Could Cirque Du Soleil be a part of a new Pixar film (this would literally be a dream of mine come true)? Not sure, it could just be a random visit from the company (Totem is playing in San Fran, Ca right now) to help inspire and entertain the creative studios employees. He also previously tweeted: # # # "Working at Pixar is like working in a circus. I'm serious. No, really, there's a trapeze in the atrium today. #cirquedusoleil" # # # Only time will tell, but I do know one thing - it would be amazing to see two of the most creative and innovative companies in the world collaborate on a project together. {SOURCE: Lee's Twitter feed} Meet Adrienn Banhegy, Quidam Skipper {Nov.15.2011} ------------------------------------------------------ From Glittarazzi.com: # # # Meet Adrienn Banhegyi. She's not your average performer. This Hungarian-born jump-roper has skipped rope for almost half her life. She first got into the sport through her father - who always strengthened the importance of physical fitness. She's won three world championships and five European championships during her time with the National Skipping Team. After seeing Cirque Du Soleil on TV, Adrienn knew right away that was meant for her. So, she sent a video demo in 2005, and ended up auditioning in France. A few years later, she began training in Montreal and joined Cirque Du Soleil's Wintuk in November 2010 in New York City. Adrienn is now skipping rope in Cirque's Quidam across North America! # # # Read the full article (w/Q&A) here: < http://www.glittarazzi.com/people/111741-meet-cirque-du- soleils-quidam-adrienn-banhegyi.html > {SOURCE: Glittarazzi.com} ZAIA Continues to Run at a Loss {Nov.21.2011} ------------------------------------------------------ According to the Macau Daily Times, Sands Gaming China is willing to shoulder ZAIA's operating losses... # # # Despite higher box office sales Cirque du Soleil show 'Zaia' is still recording losses, Sands China president Edward Tracy revealed yesterday. But the executive assured that the gaming operator is willing to continue to shoulder the burden. 'Zaia' opened in 2008 and had a rough start due to low audience numbers. But "ticket sales have gone up" with the addition of new Chinese-style elements such as a lion dance performance and a flying dragon, Tracy said. Nonetheless, the Venetian Macau show remains "the only business sector that doesn't make a profit," he added. Criticism from Sands China chairman Sheldon Adelson led to rumours that the 10- year contract of 'Zaia' would be terminated earlier. But Edward Tracy rejected this possibility. "We are prepared to take a loss to provide that kind of entertainment," he stressed. The non-gaming business is thriving, the executive said, with retail sales set to exceed USD 1.3 billion (MOP 10.4 billion) this year. "Retail is immensely profitable for us as the landlord." Cotai Arena is also posting a profit thanks to a transition "from maybe too-much Western entertainment to more Asian entertainment," Tracy said. # # # Read the original article here: < http://www.macaudailytimes.com.mo/macau/31604-Sands-willing- take-Zaia-losses.html > {SOURCE: Macau Daily Times} MGM Resorts asks Cirque to replace Viva Elvis at Aria {Nov.24.2011} ------------------------------------------------------ Shocking news from the Las Vegas Sun regarding the fate of Cirque du Soleil's VIVA ELVIS production, staged at ARIA, MGM Resorts' huge CityCenter project. # # # MGM Resorts has asked Cirque du Soleil to replace its show "Viva Elvis" at the Aria by the end of 2012, citing poor ticket sales. The move is the first time that the Canadian company, which has come to dominate the big-production showrooms on the Strip, has been asked to shut a show since arriving here in 1993 with its first permanent show, "Mystere" at Treasure Island. "As attendance levels have not been meeting expectations, we have asked our partners at Cirque du Soleil to replace the show," a company statement said. "We will work closely with Cirque as we explore future entertainment options." An internal Cirque du Soleil memo was sent to the cast of "Viva Elvis" on Wednesday afternoon announcing MGM's intentions. "Viva Elvis" has played 900 performances at the Aria resort at CityCenter, to nearly 1 million people. [...] "Viva Elvis" is the newest of the seven Cirque du Soleil shows along the Strip - its 1,840-seat, acoustically refined showroom costing an estimated $100 million. The show was previously scheduled to go dark for a 90-day retooling in January and reopen in early spring. A top Cirque official told the Sun Wednesday evening: "The extended dark period for a full revamp of the show will now not take place. It will just be the regular dark period from Feb. 4-11, but we will make previously planned artistic adjustments ... We will also be integrating the Banquine act from our 'Zed' show for sure." # # # Read the full article here: < http://www.cirquefascination.com/www.lasvegassun.com/news/ 2011/nov/23/mgm-resorts-tells-cirque-shutter-viva-elvis/ > {SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun} MJ Immortal Rolling In... {Nov.28.2011} ---------------------------------------------------- From the Las Vegas Sun: # # # With preplanned military precision, a fearsome fleet of more than 45 semis, buses and vehicles for the 220-strong cast, crew, equipment, instruments, scenery and theatrical-rigging equipment of Cirque du Soleil's "Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour" spectacular will roll onto the Strip early this week. It will take some 14 hours to set up the largest-ever rock road show for Saturday's glittering gala premiere, which kicks off the near monthlong run at Mandalay Bay. More Cirque executives and show creators in the celebration convoy will arrive to join festivities for the first-ever and only Estate-authorized Michael Jackson Fan Fest, with memorabilia and authorized items from Neverland curated especially for the history-making 24-day, twice-nightly run. In all: 117 people in the production team, including 68 technicians; 90 people in the artistic team, including 65 performers; and 16 people in the touring management. An additional 75 Las Vegas workers will be hired as local crew. Ahead of the Las Vegas extravaganza, which features 32 of Michael's hits in each 2-hour performance, I flew to Cirque's world headquarters in Montreal for the show's world premiere in October. I can tell you it is absolutely amazing, riveting and extraordinarily entertaining - unlike anything you've ever seen before in an arena touring concert. The legend not only lives on, but also will live forever! It took more than 9,000 hours to create the props and puppets used in "Immortal," including the 6-foot-tall elephants inspired by Elizabeth Taylor's gifts of Baba and Gypsy to Michael. Twelve video projectors are used on the screens, and the cast changes in and out of 252 costumes, which have thousands of individual pieces. # # # Read more of this article here: < http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2011/nov/28/michael-jackson- immortal-world-tour-and-fan-fest-r/ > {SOURCE: Las Vegas Sun} Internal Cirque Memo Announcing Viva Elvis' Closing {Nov.28.2011} ---------------------------------------------------- While the artistic merit of Viva ELVIS is exceptional and has touched close to one million guests with nearly 900 shows since opening in December 2009, we have been notified by our partners at CityCenter of their likely intention to ask Cirque to replace the show at the end of 2012. All of us at Cirque du Soleil are saddened that we may have to bring Viva ELVIS to the end of its journey. However, we respect the decision of our partner as ticket sales have not met expectations. We will now take the appropriate time to focus on redeploying as many of the show's employees as possible, when the time comes, and evaluating next steps for exploring the many possibilities for creative content. We are excited that throughout 2012, we will continue to celebrate the life and legacy of one of the world's greatest music icons. We are grateful to have the opportunity to share this exciting production with hundreds of thousands of guests from around the world during the months ahead. I know we will all continue our work on this production with the same professional drive and enthusiasm for which Cirque du Soleil is known. Like you, I am proud of our work on this show and understand that this is simply a business decision. {SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil} MJ Immortal sells only 40,000? {Nov.29.2011} ---------------------------------------------------- According to Showbiz411.com, Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL album has sold only 40,000 units in its first week... # # # After all the hoopla about Michael Jackson's Cirque du Soleil show, you'd think the CD soundtrack would have sold better in its first week. But "Immortal," an album of remixes taken from the Cirque show, sold just around 40,000 copies last week according to estimates. It finished at number 18 for the week (final numbers will be in later today), far below the new number 1 album from Nickelback (120,000) and chart stalwart Adele, who has two CDs in the top 50. For Jackson, selling 21,000 copies is a sad echo of his halcyon days in the 80s with "Thriller," "Bad," and "Dangerous." But the botching of last winter's "Michael" album-which had no marketing and a whisper campaign that killed it-didn't help. "Immortal" had almost no pre-release publicity. It just sort of appeared. much the way "Michael" did. By contrast, the Beatles' "LOVE" CD-which came from their Cirque du Soleil show-arrived with a greatly thought out plan and lots of explanation for how it was put together. Interestingly, what's happened is that "Immortal" is Jackson music "reimagined" by producer Kevin Antunes. Neither Jackson's long time engineer, Bruce Swedien, nor his famed producer, Quincy Jones, had anything to do with the recording. In the case of the Beatles, it was all George Martin, their highly respected producer, and his son Giles, who reworked the recordings. The result: a gigantic yawn from Michael Jackson fans, who certainly number more than 40,000. # # # Read the original post here: < http://www.showbiz411.com/2011/11/29/michael-jackson-new- immortal-album-sells-21000-copies > {SOURCE: Showbiz411.com} Daniel Lamarre: Let's make Montreal a capital of creativity {Nov.29.2011} ------------------------------------------------------------ MONTREAL - At this very moment, my colleagues on Mystère, O, Zumanity, KÀ, The Beatles LOVE, Criss Angel Believe and Viva Elvis in Las Vegas, and my colleagues on Iris, in Los Angeles are just starting their day. The cast and crew of Quidam in Pittsburgh, La Nouba in Orlando, Fla., Dralion in Puerto Rico, Ovo in Mexico and Varekai in São Paulo are just arriving at their sites to get ready for tonight's performances. This planetwide presence has become the Cirque du Soleil's daily reality. Through their worldwide exposure, our shows have given us the opportunity to serve as ambassadors for Montreal talent in more than 300 cities on six continents. Our creative works reflect the combined efforts of hundreds of talented Montrealers and demonstrate the scope of their creativity. Every day, our homegrown artists and artisans contribute to raising Cirque du Soleil's international profile. Directors, creators, musicians, lighting technicians, stage designers, costume makers, makeup artists, technicians and coaches have grown up, perfected their skills and made their mark right here in Montreal. All these talented people are creating moments of incredible beauty, or "wow" moments - you know, like when an artist leaps off into empty space to catch a trapeze after doing a flip 30 feet up in the air. It is to bring about magical moments like this that our creators come to work every day. That magic is born of the successful coming together of an original idea and our ability to bring it to life. Our creators come up with lots of ideas, each of which seems crazier and more original than the last. There's quite a gap to be overcome between having an idea and bringing that idea to life onstage. And that's where an exciting world comes into play: research and development. At Cirque du Soleil, we have a large R&D team. Like modern-day explorers, these people set out to flush out the talents and ideas that pop up here and there in the four corners of the globe. They track down new technologies and dissect the little thingamajigs that nobody had ever thought about to see how they can be used differently. The team sees the world in a different light, and reinvents it every day. And that exploration, that search for the new and the novel, is carried out in close co- operation with Montreal's researchers. I'd like to quote Simon Brault, president of Culture Montréal. Brault earned a reputation as the driving force behind many projects that reshaped Montreal's cultural landscape throughout his career. In a speech he gave last May, he said: "If our authors, creators, producers, musicians, choreographers and interpreters are irresistibly drawn to the world stage, it is primarily because they are seeking to satisfy a genuine need to express and present to the rest of the planet what we're doing here, in this very city. Montreal is a widely envied hub of experimentation, training, creation and performance that is one of the freest, the best-supported and -defended, the most effective and the most globally oriented of any that exist today." I think that if Montreal wants to position itself strongly in the international arena, we have to build on our strengths. The artistic talent that sets us apart and opens the world's stages to us has to be the cornerstone of our efforts. We often become cynical about our own city. It's true that we have problems and that we have to resolve them. We don't want to be known for the orange cone festival or for our crumbling infrastructure. But I have every confidence that we will be able to find solutions to these issues, and I will leave it up to others to put those solutions in place. More than anything else, I see Montreal as a living, curious and creative city, fertile ground for ideas and initiatives of all kinds. I sincerely believe that creativity is one of our natural resources. As a source of success, creativity is a powerful economic- development tool. It enables everyone who harnesses it to stand out from the rest in this era of globalization. Creativity is one of our most strategically important intangible assets. It must be considered to be a management function that is essential to transforming our businesses, and a keystone that distinguishes us from all the other players in an ultracompetitive marketplace. There's a place up for grabs on the world stage, and we have the right to claim it. The vast pool of Montreal creators and the strength, diversity and quality of the city's artistic realizations testify to that fact. The time has come to mark the occasion and give Montreal the signature and artistic credits that are its due. We can make Montreal the world capital of creativity. Daniel Lamarre is president and chief executive officer of Citque du soleil. This is an edited version of a speech he gave recently to the Canadian Club of Montreal. Read more: < http://www.montrealgazette.com/Daniel+Lamarre+make+ +Montreal+capital+creativity/5776374/story.html#ixzz1f68WZ33i > {SOURCE: The Montreal Gazette} More on VIVA ELVIS' Closing {Nov.29.2011} ---------------------------------------------------- Canada's Globe and Mail has a couple of interesting passages regarding Viva Elvis' closure, slated to occur at the end of 2012: # # # Viva Elvis's lack of success is relative, though. Since the show began in December, 2009, it has been seen by one million people over nearly 900 performances. However, Cirque's dominance in Las Vegas is so strong that Aria Resort was hoping for a packed house every show. Aria's theatre was 60-per-cent full on average for Viva Elvis. This compared to 99-per-cent occupancy for Cirque du Soleil's water-themed show O and its Beatles-musical tribute Love. Those shows have been running 13 years at the Bellagio casino and five years at The Mirage, respectively. And the 19-year-old production of Mystère still fills 82 per cent or more at Las Vegas's Treasure Island Resort, according Cirque du Soleil's senior director of public relations Renée- Claude Menard. Viva Elvis has received mixed reviews, although Lamarre characterized the cancellation by Aria as "simply a business decision." An extended break had been planned early next year to revamp the production. Instead, the show will be only halted briefly between Feb. 4-11, and a new acrobatic act will be added. Lamarre said the company will try to move many of the artists and crew to other productions after the show ends late next year. # # # See it while you can! Who knows if the show will last until the end of 2012. Read the original article here: < http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/vegas-casino- pulls-plug-on-cirques-elvis-show/article2252561/? utm_medium=Feeds%3A%20RSS%2FAtom&utm_source= Home&utm_content=2252561 > {SOURCE: The Globe and Mail} A Cirque du Soleil... Car? {Nov.29.2011} ---------------------------------------------------- Now here's something interesting... The bidder is anonymous, but here's betting you'll be able to identify him or her behind the wheel of this theatrical-looking drive. The Infiniti G37 Art Car, created to commemorate both the car company's 20th anniversary and Cirque du Soleil's 25th, drew a winning bid of $55,000 at a private auction for the charity One Drop during the recent Masquerave event in Whistler. The bidder was among the 1,200 people attendees at Masquerave, where the car was "revealed" with a performance by Cirque du Soleil. Montreal artist Heidi Taillefer reportedly spent more than 300 hours over one month hand-painting the exterior of the vehicle. The driver will need silver tights, glitter makeup, and a feather mask to complete the look. And he or she should have absolutely no problem finding this baby in the mall parking lot. Check out an image of the car and read the original article here: < http://www.straight.com/article-550626/vancouver/cirque- du-soleilstyle-wheels-should-be-easy-spot > {SOURCE: Straight.com Vancouver} ======================================================================= ITINÉRAIRE -- TOUR/SHOW INFORMATION ======================================================================= o) BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau {Corteo, Koozå, OVO, Totem, Varekai & Amaluna} o) ARENA - In Stadium-like venues {Saltimbanco, Alegría, Quidam, Dralion & Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour} o) RESIDENT - Performed en Le Théâtre {Mystère, "O", La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE, ZAIA, ZED, Believe & VIVA Elvis} o) VENUE - Venue & Seasonal productions {Iris & Zarkana} 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 Cirque's website: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/ >. ------------------------------------ BIGTOP - Under the Grand Chapiteau ------------------------------------ Amaluna (Cirque 2012): Montreal, QC -- Apr 19, 2012 to Jul 15, 2012 Quebec, QC -- Jul 25, 2012 to Aug 19, 2012 Toronto, ON -- Sep 5, 2012 to Sep 30, 2012 Vancouver, BC -- TBA Corteo: Paris, FR -- Nov 4, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012 Barcelona, ES -- Jan 20, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012 Amsterdam, NL -- Mar 23, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012 Gijón, ES -- Jul 25, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012 Zurich, CH -- Sep 7, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012 Antwerp, BE -- Nov 2, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012 Koozå: Nagoya, JPN -- Nov 23, 2011 to Jan 22, 2012 Fukuoka, JPN -- Feb 9, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012 Ovo: Mexico City, MX -- Oct 29, 2011 to Jan 1, 2012 Santa Monica, CA -- Jan 20, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012 Portland, OR -- Apr 5, 2012 to May 13, 2012 Brisbane, AU -- TBA Sydney, AU -- TBA Melbourne, AU -- TBA Totem: San Francisco, CA -- Oct 28, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011 London, UK -- Jan 5, 2010 to Feb 16, 2012 San Jose, CA -- Mar 2, 2012 to Mar 25, 2012 Washington, DC -- Jul 11, 2012 to TBA Atlanta, GA -- Oct 25, 2012 to TBA Varekai: Rio De Janeiro, BR -- Dec 8, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012 Belo Horizonte, BR -- Jan 19, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012 Brasilia, BR -- Feb 23, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012 Recife, BR -- Mar 29, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012 Salvador, BR -- May 3, 2012 to May 27, 2012 Curitiba, BR -- Jun 7, 2012 to Jul 1, 2012 Porto Alegre, BR -- Jul 11, 2012 to Aug 5, 2012 Buenos Aires, AR -- Aug 17, 2012 to Sep 16, 2012 Santiago, CL -- Sep 28, 2012 to Oct 28, 2012 ------------------------------------ ARENA - In Stadium-Like Venues ------------------------------------ Saltimbanco: Kiev, UA -- Nov 27, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011 Vilnius, LT -- Dec 15, 2011 to Dec 17, 2011 Riga, LV -- Dec 21, 2011 to Dec 25, 2011 Tallin, EE -- Dec 28, 2011 to Jan 1, 2012 Gdansk, PL -- Jan 19, 2012 t0 Jan 22, 2012 Malmö, SE -- Jan 26, 2012 to Jan 29, 2012 Sofia, BG -- Feb 3, 2012 to Feb 5, 2012 Bucharest, RO -- Feb 8, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012 Bratislava, SK -- Feb 15, 2012 to Feb 19, 2012 Graz, AT -- Feb 22, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012 Rome, IT -- Mar 15, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012 Manila, PH -- Aug 9, 2012 to TBA Alegría: Malaga, ES -- Dec 1, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011 Santiago, ES -- Dec 7, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011 Zaragoza, ES -- Dec 14, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011 Lisbon, PT -- Dec 21, 2011 to Jan 8, 2012 Granada, ES -- Jan 11, 2011 to Jan 15, 2012 Bilbao, ES -- Jan 18, 2012 to Jan 22, 2012 Toulouse, FR -- Jan 25, 2012 to Jan 29, 2012 Nantes, FR -- Feb 1, 2012 to Feb 5, 2012 Lyon, FR -- Feb 23, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012 Toulon, FR -- Feb 29, 2012 to Mar 4, 2012 Nice, FR -- Mar 7, 2012 to Mar 11, 2012 Montpellier, FR -- Mar 14, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012 Strasbourg, FR -- Mar 21, 2012 to Mar 25, 2012 Brussels, BE -- Mar 28, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012 Manchester, UK -- Apr 4, 2012 to Apr 7, 2012 Glasgow, UK -- Apr 11, 2012 to Apr 15, 2012 Birmingham, UK -- Apr 18, 2012 to Apr 22, 2012 Dublin, IE -- Apr 25, 2012 to Apr 29, 2012 Budapest, HU -- May 17, 2012 to May 20, 2012 Prague, CZ -- May 23, 2012 to May 27, 2012 Hambgurg, DE -- May 30, 2012 to Jun 3, 2012 Hanover, DE -- Jun 6, 2012 to Jun 10, 2012 Nuremberg, DE -- Jun 13, 2012 to Jun 17, 2012 Vienna, AT -- Jun 20, 2012 to Jun 24, 2012 Tel Aviv, IL -- Aug 8, 2012 to Aug 18, 2012 Quidam: Fayetteville, NC -- Nov 30, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011 Hampton, VA -- Dec 7, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011 Worcester, MA -- Dec 14, 2011 to Dec 18, 2011 Toronto, ON -- Dec 20, 2011 to Dec 30, 2011 Oshawa, ON -- Jan 4, 2012 to Jan 8, 2012 Windsor, ON -- Jan 11, 2012 to Jan 15, 2012 Detroit, MI -- Feb 2, 2012 to Feb 5, 2012 Hoffman Estates, IL -- Feb 8, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012 Springfield, IL -- Feb 15, 2012 to Feb 19, 2012 Baton Rouge, LA -- Feb 22, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012 Austin, TX -- Feb 29, 2012 to Mar 4, 2012 Frisco, TX -- Mar 7, 2012 to Mar 11, 2012 San Antonio, TX -- Mar 14, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012 Roanoke, VA -- Mar 28, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012 Knoxville, TN -- Apr 4, 2012 to Apr 8, 2012 Evansville, IN -- Apr 26, 2012 to Apr 29, 2012 Winnipeg, MB -- Jul 19, 2012 to Jul 22, 2012 Regina, SK -- Jul 25, 2012 to Jul 29, 2012 Edmonton, AB -- Aug 8, 2012 to Aug 12, 2012 Kelowna, BC -- Aug 22, 2012 to Aug 26, 2012 Abbotsford, BC -- Aug 29, 2012 to Sep 2, 2012 Victoria, BC -- Sep 5, 2012 to TBA Honolulu, HI -- Oct 4, 2012 to Oct 14, 2012 Dralion: Houston, TX -- Nov 30, 2011 to Dec 4, 2011 Lafayette, LA -- Dec 6, 2011 to Dec 8, 2011 Bossier City, LA -- Dec 10, 2011 to Dec 11, 2011 North Little Rock, AK -- Dec 13, 2011 to Dec 14, 2011 Montreal, QC -- Dec 18, 2011 to Dec 30, 2011 Quebec, QC -- Jan 3, 2012 to Jan 8, 2012 Kingston, ON -- Jan 11, 2012 to Jan 15, 2012 Loveland, CO -- Feb 2, 2012 to Feb 5, 2012 Broomfield, CO -- Feb 8, 2012 to Feb 12, 2012 El Paso, TX -- Feb 15, 2012 to Feb 19, 2012 Colorado Springs, CO -- Feb 22, 2012 to Feb 26, 2012 Rio Rancho, NM -- Feb 29, 2012 to Mar 4, 2012 Laredo, TX -- Mar 6, 2012 to Mar 7, 2012 Corpus Christi, TX -- Mar 9, 2012 to Mar 11, 2012 Hidalgo, TX -- Mar 14, 2012 to Mar 18, 2012 Highland Heights, KY -- Mar 28, 2012 to Apr 1, 2012 Cleveland, OH -- Apr 4, 2012 to Apr 8, 2012 Hamilton, ON -- Apr 26, 2012 to Apr 29, 2012 Halifax, NS -- May 2, 2012 to May 6, 2012 Saint John, NB -- May 9, 2012 to May 13, 2012 London, ON -- May 16, 2012 to May 20, 2012 Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour: 2011 ---- Las Vegas, NV -- Dec 3, 2011 to Dec 27, 2011 Phoenix, AZ -- Dec 30 & Dec 31, 2011 2012 ---- Boise, ID -- Jan 3, 2012 Denver, CO -- Jan 6, 7 & 8, 2012 Sacramento, CA -- Jan 10 & 11, 2012 San Jose, CA -- Jan 13, 14 & 15, 2012 Oakland, CA -- Jan 17 & 18, 2012 San Diego, CA -- Jan 21 & 22, 2012 Anaheim, CA -- Jan 24 & 25, 2012 Los Angeles, CA -- Jan 27, 28 & 29, 2012 St. Louis, MO -- Feb 7 & 8, 2012 Houston, TX -- Feb 10, 11, & 12, 2012 New Orleans, LA -- Feb 15 & 16, 2012 Tulsa, OK -- Feb 18 & 19, 2012 Kansas City, MO -- Feb 21 & 22, 2012 Indianapolis, IN -- Feb 24 & 25, 2012 Orlando, FL -- Feb 28 & 29, 2012 Miami, FL -- Mar 2, 3 & 4 2012 Jacksonville, FL -- Mar 7 & 8, 2012 Raleigh, NC -- Mar 10 & 11, 2012 Charlotte, NC -- Mar 13 & 14, 2012 Milwaukee, WI -- Mar 16 & 17, 2012 Montreal, QC -- Mar 20, 21 & 22, 2012 Quebec City, QC -- Mar 24 & 25, 2012 Minneapolis, MN -- Mar 27 & 28, 2012 Newark, NJ -- Mar 30 & Apr 1, 2012 New York City, NY -- Apr 3, 4 & 5, 2012 Long Island, NY -- Apr 7 & 8, 2012 Philadelphia, PA -- Apr 10 & 11, 2012 Pittsburg, PA -- Apr 13, 14 & 15, 2012 State College, PA -- Apr 24 & 25, 2012 Columbia, SC -- Apr 27 & 28, 2012 Hartford, CT -- May 2 & 3, 2012 Baltimore, MD -- May 5 & 6, 2012 Worcester, MA -- May 16 & 17, 2012 Dayton, OH -- Jun 6, 7 & 8, 2012 Columbus, OH -- Jun 9 & Jun 10, 2012 Nashville, TN -- Jun 12 & 13, 2012 Austin, TX -- Jun 15, 2012 San Antonio, TX -- Jun 23, 2012 Atlanta, GA -- Jun 29 & 30, 2012 Montreal, QC -- Jul 6 & Jul 7, 2012 Washington, DC -- Jul 13, 14 & 15 2012 Cleveland, OH -- Jul 17 & 18, 2012 Chicago, IL -- Jul 20 & 21, 2012 Ottawa, ON -- Jul 24 & 25, 2012 Boston, MA -- Aug 3 & 4, 2012 Salt Lake City -- Aug 21, 2012 Europe 2012: ------------ Hanover, DE -- TBA Vienna, AT -- TBA --------------------------------- 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. Mystère: Location: Treasure Island, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Saturday through Wednesday, Dark: Thursday/Friday Two shows Nightly - 7:00pm & 9:30pm 2011 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) 2011 Added Performances: o December 30th 2012 Dark Dates: o January 14 - February 8 o May 12 - 16 o September 8 - 12 o November 14 "O": Location: Bellagio, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Wednesday through Sunday, Dark: Monday/Tuesday Two shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm 2011 Ticket Prices: o Orchestra: $150.00 o Loggia: $130.00 o Balcony: $99.00 o Limited View: $93.50 2011 Dark Dates: o December 5-18 2012 Dark Dates: o February 5 - 8 o April 9 - 15 o June 10 o August 6 - 12 o October 14 & 17 o December 3 - 18 La Nouba: Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando (USA) Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday Two shows Nightly - 6:00pm and 9:00pm 2011 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 2012 Dark Dates: o January 17-21 o March 20 o May 15-26 o July 24 o September 18-22 o November 27 Zumanity: Location: New York-New York, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Friday through Tuesday Dark: Wednesday & Thursday Two Shows Nightly - 7:30pm and 10:00pm 2011 Ticket Prices (18+ Only!): o Duo Sofas: $129.00 o Orchestra Seats: $105.00 o Upper Orchestra Seats: $79.00 o Balcony Seats: $69.00 o Cabaret Stools: $69.00 2011 Dark Dates: o December 16-20 2011 Added Performances: o December 31st KÀ: Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark Sunday/Monday Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm 2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 5-12): o Category 1: $150.00 / $75.00 o Category 2: $130.00 / $65.00 o Category 3: $99.00 / $49.50 o Category 4: $69.00 / $34.50 2011 Added Performances: o December 26 o December 31 LOVE: Location: Mirage, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Thursday through Monday, Dark: Tuesday/Wednesday Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm 2011 Ticket Prices: o Lower Orchestra: $150.00 o Upper Orchestra: $130.00 o Lower Balcony: $99.00 o Middle Balcony: $93.50 2011 Dark Dates: o December 1-12 2011 Added Performances: o December 28th o December 31st ZAIA: Location: Venetian, Macao (China) Performs: Every Day, Dark: Wednesday One to Two Shows Daily - Times Vary 2011 Ticket Prices (adult) / (child 2-11): o VIP Seating: MOP$ 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 2011 Ticket Prices (Non-Peak / Peak 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 / ¥8,500 NOTE: ZED will close on December 31, 2011 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. 2011 Ticket Prices (all): o Category 1: $160.00 o Category 2: $130.00 o Category 3: $109.00 o Category 4: $89.00 o Category 5: $59.00 2011 Dark Dates: o December 6-17 VIVA ELVIS: Location: Aria, Las Vegas (USA) Performs: Tuesday through Saturday, Dark: Sunday/Monday Two Shows Nightly - 7:00pm and 9:30pm 2011 Ticket Prices o Category 1: $175.00 o Category 2: $150.00 o Category 3: $125.00 o Category 4: $99.00 2011 Added Performances: o December 26, 31 NOTE: VIVA ELVIS to close by end of 2012 -------------------------------------- VENUE - Venue & Seasonal Productions -------------------------------------- Zarkana: Madrid, ES -- Nov 12, 2011 to Dec 31, 2011 Moscow, RU -- Feb 4, 2012 to Apr 8, 2012 New York, NY -- May 9, 2012 to TBA IRIS: Location: Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, CA (USA) Performs: Tuesday through Friday @ 8:00pm Saturday @ 2:00pm and 8:00pm Sunday @ 1:00pm and 6:30pm DARK: Monday 2011 Dark Dates: o December 5, 6, 7, 25 2011 Ticket Prices: Weekday Matinees: o Category Premium - $253.00 USD o Category 1 - $123.00 USD o Category 2 - $93.00 USD o Category 3 - $68.00 USD o Category 4 - $43.00 USD Saturday Matinee & All Evening Performances: o Category Premium - $253.00 USD o Category 1 - $133.00 USD o Category 2 - $103.00 USD o Category 3 - $78.00 USD o Category 4 - $43.00 USD ======================================================================= OUTREACH - UPDATES FROM CIRQUE's SOCIAL WIDGETS ======================================================================= o) Club Cirque -- This Month at CirqueClub o) Networking -- Cirque on Facebook, Youtube & Twitter --------------------------------------- CLUB CIRQUE: This Month at CirqueClub --------------------------------------- CirqueCon 2011 Visits IRIS {Nov.07} ------------------------------------------------- In May, 2004 over 30 Cirque du Soleil fans from all over North America converged on Vancouver, BC to see Quidam together during its visit there. Cirque du Soleil took notice of the group, provided a bit of a peek under the tent flap of the Grand Chapiteau and with a sprinkle of Cirque magic - voilà! - CirqueCon was born! Calling themselves, "The Unofficial Gatherings of Cirque du Soleil Passionates," the core organizing group has since taken CirqueCon to other exciting cities of the world, including Montréal, Las Vegas, Orlando, Tokyo, Mexico and New York City. This year marks their eighth gathering, and they've chosen to visit IRIS at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood the weekend of December 1-3, 2011. (You might recognize that weekend as also being the first few days of Cirque Week 2011 in Las Vegas - that makes nine Cirque shows with special fan-oriented activities close to each other!) "The 'idea' of CirqueCon is based on camaraderie in a shared interest; fans gathering together to be with other fans," says CirqueCon 2011 Chairman Keith Johnson. "To our surprise and delight, we have also found that whenever there is contact between these Passionate fans and Cirque artists and staff there is a magical, powerful connection. There is appreciation and wonder on both sides of the curtain, and the excitement felt by all attending is palpable and extends long after our 'official' events. With such powerful emotions at play, why wouldn't we want to share it?" CirqueCon defines "Passionates" as devoted Cirque du Soleil fans (which we think applies to everyone reading this!). Their weekend includes several opportunities for fans to meet other fans, including a Thursday evening "Meet & Greet", Friday afternoon Group Meal and Saturday morning "Kaffeeklatsch." And, as always, Cirque will be there to share a few secrets. - The event runs from Thursday, December 1, 2011 to Saturday, December 3, 2011. - IRIS tickets for the conference are for Friday, December 2, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. - The conference is organized by Keith Johnson, LouAnna Valentine and Ricky Russo. This event is not being organized by Cirque du Soleil but we will be there to help make it an unforgettable weekend! For more information, please visit their website, www.cirquecon.com. See you in December! Check out the original post for pictures of the group! < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/2011-11-03- cirquecon.aspx > News from OVO in Mexico {Nov.15} ------------------------------------------------- The OVO family of insects swarmed the streets of Mexico City. On this beautiful day, 21 artists from the troupe participated in the shooting of a commercial for Trident Twist gum, one of our sponsors there who organized the whole event. The passersby were a little weary at first but were quickly taken in by the contagious energy of these colourful characters. It's a good thing it didn't cause a traffic jam! Check out CirqueClub for the commercial: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/2011-11-08- ovo-mexico-insects.aspx > Michael Jackson Fan Fest in Las Vegas {Nov.23} ------------------------------------------------- From December 3 to 14 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas will be held the first-ever Estate-authorized Michael Jackson Fan Fest. Fans will have the chance to experience the legacy of Michael Jackson in a whole new way by ... Walking through the storied gates of Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch, then view his personal book collection in a study filled with his actual furniture. Peeking inside the interior of the 1999 Rolls-Royce Seraph limousine Michael designed himself with 24-karat gold embellishments, then check out the 10-foot-tall statue created for the HIStory tour. Getting the feel of Michael's music videos by wandering through the spaceship set used in "Scream," sit in the actual throne from the Egyptian-themed set of "Remember the Time," then stand before the hostile tank from the live concert performance of "Earth Song." Never has there been an artist like Michael Jackson and never has there been a more intimate and personal glimpse into the career and life of the King of Pop than what will be assembled during this event which coincides with the kick off of the Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour stop in Las Vegas in December. Visit Michael Jackson Fan Fest for more details: < http://www.michaeljacksonfanfest.com/ > Check out CirqueClub for the original article: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/cirque-club/news/2011/2011-11-16- mj-fanfest-cirque-week.aspx > --------------------------------------------------- NETWORKING: Cirque on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter --------------------------------------------------- ---[ "O" ]--- {Nov.09} If you missed "O" on "The Doctors" last night, then you can catch the short performance below. Assistant director of performance medicine for Cirque du Soleil, Kerry Gordon explains how "O" contortionists attain their amazing flexibility and strength. LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dbk7TLVeRQ8 > ---[ ALEGRIA ]--- {Nov.03} Added 2 new photos to the album Alegria's 6000th show! LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set= a.10150433536090746.423694.38543815745&type=1 > {Nov.01} Before opening in Frankfurt tomorrow @ Festhalle, let's discover how Lars Kristensen, Artist Coach and Artist (Power Track) joined Cirque du Soleil and how his passion for acrobatics began! Reporter Katja Sturm, Frankfurter Rundschau, came to see us last week in Köln. Here is what she found out... LINK /// < http://www.fr-online.de/freizeittipps/cirque-du- soleil-hereinspaziert-in-die-zauberwelt- ,1474298,11074242.html > ---[ CORTEO ]--- {Nov.19} Corteo dans le journal télévisé de 20h hier sur TF1 LINK /// < http://videos.tf1.fr/jt-we/corteo-le-spectacle- poetique-du-cirque-du-soleil-6831432.html > {Nov.18} Exclusivité : Parly 2 accueille Corteo du Cirque du Soleil du 21 au 26 Novembre pour une semaine d'animations exclusives. Toutes les informations en cliquant ici... LINK / < http://www.facebook.com/parly2?sk=app_197602066931325 > {Nov.15} Exclusivité : Les Quatre Temps - Cnit accueillent Corteo du Cirque du Soleil du 14 au 20 Novembre pour une semaine d'animations exclusives. Toutes les informations en cliquant ici: LINK /// < www.facebook.com/#!/lesquatretemps?sk =app_197602066931325 > {Nov.09} Corteo dans OUEST-FRANCE LINK /// < http://www.ouest-france.fr/actu/actuDet_-De-la-salle- de-gym-au-Cirque-du-Soleil-_3639- 2009273_actu.Htm?xtor=RSS-4&utm_source=RSS_MVI_ouest- france&utm_medium=RSS&utm_campaign=RSS > {Nov.06} Exclusivité : Vélizy 2 accueille Corteo du Cirque du Soleil du 7 au 12 Novembre pour une semaine d'animations exclusives. Toutes les informations en cliquant ici LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/velizy2?sk =app_192229990808929 > ---[ IRIS ]--- {Nov.17} EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: Meet IRIS music composer Danny Elfman as he describes his approach to creating the music supporting the show's kaleidoscope of movement, moods and images! LINK /// < http://cirk.me/seLflJ > {Nov.10} Discover a new Safewalls limited-edition print created by Amanda Visell, and inspired by IRIS - now available for purchase online (http://cirk.me/skgyOU) and the IRIS souvenir boutique! {Nov.08} Watch: IRIS by Cirque du Soleil's performance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Everyone had a blast! (after the ads) LINK /// < http://www.nbc.com/the-tonight-show/video/monday- november-7-2011/1366982/?tin=2280&__source= tnt%7Chome%7Cslidepromote%7Cslide3 > ---[ KA ]--- {Nov.30} Hey KÀ fans have you seen this? LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2498243854798 > ---[ LA NOUBA ]--- {Nov.30} Once upon a time, there was an Attic that had been abandoned for many years. Among the cobwebs, the forgotten toys, the trunks bursting with memories, strange and fabulous characters lay dormant, just waiting to take up their tale. All she had to do was open the door. As the door swung shut behind her, she found herself beset on all sides by a mad reel of the possible and the impossible, dream and reality, the wonderful and the everyday... Who is she? A: Madame Petite, The Cleaning Lady. ---[ MJ IMMORTAL ]--- {Nov.09} If you've missed it, here's a look at our specially- choreographed performance on "Dancing with the Stars" from last night. LINK /// < http://abc.go.com/shows/dancing-with-the-stars/video- detail/featured/macys-stars-of-dance-king-of- pop/pl_PL5520940/vd_VD55152317 > ---[ MYSTERE ]--- {Nov.09} If you missed Mystère on "The Doctors" last night, then you can catch the short performance below. Assistant director of performance medicine for Cirque du Soleil, Kerry Gordon explains how Mystère hand-to-hand performers balance on each other's hands and feet. LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pETuh1yuc-Q > ---[ OVO ]--- {Nov.18} Cirque Du Soleil amplía temporada en México - Vanguardia LINK /// < http://www.vanguardia.com.mx/ cirquedusoleilampliatemporadaenmexico-1149534.html > {Nov.12} Súper Venta Santander para Ovo LINK /// < http://www.ocesa.com.mx/backstage/noticias/super- venta-santander-para-ovo/ > {Nov.08} Ovo, del Cirque du Soleil - | Chilango.com LINK /// < http://www.chilango.com/cultura/evento/2011/ 11/02/ovo-del-cirque-du-soleil > {Nov.08} Fotos del Cirque du Soleil: OVO, en el D.F. | Chilango.com LINK /// < http://www.chilango.com/galerias/2011/10/fotos-de- cirque-du-soleil-ovo-en-el-df > {Nov.02} Ensaya elenco del Cirque du Soleil LINK /// < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_E7BpLTB4Q > ---[ QUIDAM ]--- {Nov.20} Quidam in the Washington DC Media... LINK /// < http://www.wusa9.com/video/1238772368001/1/Cirque-de- Soleils-New-Show-Quidam > LINK /// < http://www.glittarazzi.com/washington-blog/349- people/111741-meet-cirque-du-soleils-quidam-adrienn- banhegyi.html > LINK /// < http://www.washingtonblade.com/2011/11/10/ endurance-performance/ > LINK /// < http://www.examiner.com/tourism-travel-in-washington- dc/cirque-du-soleil-s-quidam-coming-to-verizon-center > LINK /// < http://snarkinfested.com/2011/11/17/backstage-pass/ > LINK /// < http://www.wireimage.com/ItemListings.aspx? ipp=120&igi=538080&nbc1=1 > LINK /// < http://www.washingtonlife.com/2011/11/17/performing- arts-backstage-at-quidam/ > LINK /// < http://www.tbd.com/pictures/2011/11/cirque-du-soleil- limbers-up-for-verizon-shows/12218-845.html > LINK /// < http://dc.metromix.com/events/standard_ photo_gallery/cirque-du-soleils-quidam/2920046/content > LINK /// < http://mdtheatreguide.com/2011/11/quidam-at-cirque- du-soleil-2/ > LINK /// < http://www.pamelaspunch.com/cirque-du-soleils-quidam- wows-washington-again/ > LINK /// < http://www.washingtonhispanic.com/nota9906.html > LINK /// < http://www.npr.org/2011/11/17/142466017/cirque-du- soleil-reinvents-the-big-top-show > {Nov.16} LIVE morning show from Verizon Center on FOX 5 DC LINK /// < http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/mornings/holly_live/holly- morris-cirque-du-soleil-quidam-111611 > {Nov.13} Quidam in the Philly media... LINK /// < http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/video/6435311- feeding-the-members-of-cirque-du-soleil-quidam/ > LINK /// < http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2011/11/09/cirque- du-soliel-preparing-for-4-day-run-on-temple-u-campus/ > LINK /// < http://www.dailylocal.com/articles/2011/11/11/ entertainment/srv0000015177332.txt?viewmode=fullstory > LINK /// < http://photos.nj.com/4641/gallery/ quidam/index-3.html > LINK /// < http://www.nj.com/gloucester-county/towns/index.ssf/ 2011/11/cirque_du_soleils_quidam_to_ca.html > LINK /// < http://www.philly.com/philly/video/131623893.html > ---[ SALTIMBANCO ]--- {Nov.25} Saltimbanco for the 1st time in Kiev, Ukraine!! Opening soon at the Palace of Sports! LINK /// < http://korrespondent.net/showbiz/1286125-gorod- solnca-korrespondent-net-pobyval-za-kulisami-cirque-du- soleil > {Nov.18} Great story in the METRO Newspaper in St-Petersburg, Russia!! LINK /// < http://www.oldreadmetro.com/show/en/ Petersburg/20111118/1/19/%20- > {Nov.17} Backstage Photo report with the cast & crew of Saltimbanco!! LINK /// < http://www.fontanka.ru/2011/11/16/140/ > {Nov.08} Great Photo review of Saltimbanco in Moscow!! LINK /// < http://panzicov.livejournal.com/210658.html%20-- > {Nov.03} Cirque du Soleil's magic back in Moscow - RT LINK /// < http://rt.com/art-and-culture/news/cirque-soleil-new- show-moscow-469/ > ---[ TOTEM ]--- {Nov.29} Cirque du Soleil 'Totem' role is a real stretch LINK /// < http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/ article.cgi?f=%2Fc%2Fa%2F2011%2F11%2F28%2FDDI11M2EKA.DTL > {Nov.17} San Francisco, CA, USA: Cirque du Soleil's Powerful 'Totem' Hits The Road | Greg is in San Francisco LINK /// < http://www.jetsetextra.com/insiders/gregarcher/2011/ 11/san-francisco-ca-usa-cirque-du-soleils-powerful-totem- hits-the-road/ > ---[ ZARKANA ]--- {Nov.26} Cirque behind Kremlin walls - RT LINK /// < http://rt.com/news/prime-time/cirque-soleil-moscow- kremlin-053/ > ---[ ZED ]--- {Nov.22} Loved having ZAIA by Cirque du Soleil team in the house yesterday. Thank you, ZAiA, for coming to see the show!! LINK /// < http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid= 10150556503066164&set=a.10150144377101164.342824. 41326571163&type=1&ref=nf > ====================================================================== 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) Among the performers in IRIS by Cirque du Soleil are two dancing cameramen. To go along with the show's theme, they shoot real-time images that are projected within the production. o) Danny Elfman's music for IRIS by Cirque du Soleil is primarily orchestral, combining large and small ensembles throughout the show. Its melodies contain references to many genres of film. The choice of the orchestral approach reflects the fact that over 95% of film music since the 1930s has been scored for full orchestras, and this imparts to the Cirque du Soleil show a sonic connection between circus and film, via strings, brass, harps, flutes, clarinets, bassoons and so on, as opposed to the sounds of a jazz or rock ensemble. o) Many of the fog effects in KÀ are created using liquid nitrogen, which has a temperature of approximately -300° Fahrenheit. They then accomplish this effect, by mixing it with hot water, which in- turn creates a low fog effect. o) The Got a Lot at VIVA ELVIS weighs 60,000 lbs and is stored ABOVE the stage! It takes 9 winches with 1/2" cables to fly the set. The rigging system is 10x stronger than it needs to be to be sure it's safe. ------------------------------------ HISTORIA: Cirque du Soleil History ------------------------------------ * Nov.01.1996 -- Alegría opened Hong Kong * Nov.01.2004 -- "20 Years Under the Sun" Book Published * Nov.02.2004 -- Region 01 DVD Release: Fire Within and La Nouba * Nov.02.2006 -- Saltimbanco opened Rio de Janiero, Brazil * Nov.03.1999 -- Quidam opened Madrid, Spain * Nov.03.2005 -- Quidam opened Hong Kong * Nov.03.2010 -- Cirque Announces CIRQUE MJ * Nov.04.2001 -- Dralion wins 3 Emmys: Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special Outstanding Directing for a Variety or Musical Outstanding Costumes for a Variety or Music Program * Nov.04.2004 -- Quidam opened Brisbane * Nov.04.2004 -- Varekai opened Dallas * Nov.04.2009 -- Corteo opened Tokyo * Nov.04.2010 -- OVO opened Atlanta, GA * Nov.04.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Boise, ID * Nov.04.2010 -- Tickets go on sale for Cirque MJ Extravaganza * Nov.05.2002 -- Varekai CD released in Canada (BMG/CDS Musique) * Nov.05.2002 -- NBC purchased BRAVO, the Official Network of Cirque in US * Nov.05.2004 -- Dralion celebrated its 2000th performance [Madrid, Spain] * Nov.05.2010 -- Varekai opened Barcelona, ES * Nov.06.2002 -- Quidam opened Tampa Bay * Nov.06.2003 -- Alegría opened San Francisco * Nov.06.2009 -- Cirque officially announces VIVA ELVIS name * Nov.07.1996 -- Saltimbanco opened Frankfurt * Nov.07.1997 -- Alegría opened Dusseldorf * Nov.07.2002 -- Varekai opened San Francisco * Nov.07.2002 -- Varekai canceled in San Francisco due to Wind Gusts * Nov.07.2009 -- Mystère/KÀ performs at Latin Grammy's * Nov.08.1987 -- Cirque Réinventé (Vol 1) CD Released (Nâga) * Nov.08.1994 -- Cirque Réinventé CD Released in US (RCA/Victor) * Nov.08.1994 -- Mystère CD released in US (RCA/Victor) * Nov.08.2007 -- Corteo opened Orange County, California * Nov.09.1999 -- Dralion CD released in US (RCA/Victor) * Nov.09.2006 -- Varekai opened Brisbane * Nov.09.2010 -- VIVA ELVIS CD Released * Nov.10.1992 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened in Las Vegas * Nov.10.1995 -- Saltimbanco opened Vienne * Nov.10.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Houston, TX * Nov.10.2010 -- Dralion Arena opened Youngstown, OH * Nov.11.2005 -- Corteo opened San Francisco * Nov.12.1996 -- Mystère Live CD released in US (RCA/Victor) * Nov.12.1998 -- Alegría opened Frankfurt * Nov.12.2010 -- Koozå opened Miami, FL * Nov.12.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Prague, CZ * Nov.13.2002 -- Dralion opened Phoenix * Nov.13.2003 -- Cirque presented at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto to Honor Prime Minister Jean Chrétien * Nov.13.2008 -- Corteo opened Miami * Nov.14.2009 -- ZAIA celebrated 500th Performance * Nov.15.1993 -- "Cirque du Soleil" 10th Anniversary Book Published * Nov.16.1995 -- Alegría opened Atlanta * Nov.16.2001 -- Dralion opened Dallas * Nov.16.2007 -- Quidam opened Mexico City, Mexico * Nov.16.2007 -- Koozå opened San Francisco, California * Nov.17.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Guadalajara * Nov.17.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Zagreb, HR * Nov.17.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Phoenix, AZ * Nov.17.2010 -- Dralion Arena opened Windsow, ON * Nov.18.1993 -- Saltimbanco opened Atlanta * Nov.18.2005 -- Dralion opened Bilbao * Nov.19.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Atlanta * Nov.19.1998 -- "O" CD Released in Canada (RCA/Victor) * Nov.19.2001 -- Region 01 DVD Release: Inside La Nouba * Nov.19.2002 -- Alegría premiered on Bravo at 8:00pm EST * Nov.20.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened San Diego * Nov.20.1997 -- Quidam opened Houston * Nov.20.2006 -- Diesel Marketing (Cirque Website) becomes Sid Lee * Nov.20.2008 -- Varekai opened Madrid * Nov.21.1993 -- Nouvele Expérience closed in Las Vegas * Nov.21.2006 -- LOVE CD Released in US (Capitol Records) * Nov.21.2008 -- ZED Celebrated 100th Performance * Nov.21.2010 -- Curtain falls on Quidam Bigtop Tour (Bogota, Columbia) * Nov.22.2001 -- Quidam opened London * Nov.22.2005 -- Saltimbanco opened Mexico City * Nov.22.2007 -- Alegría opened Belo Horizonte, Brazil * Nov.23.2009 -- Dralion Juggling act on Mexican Awards Show, Los Premios * Nov.24.1998 -- "O" CD Released in US (RCA/Victor) * Nov.24.2010 -- Saltimbanco Arena opened Belgrade, SB * Nov.24.2010 -- Alegría Arena opened Tucson, AZ * Nov.24.2010 -- Dralion Arena opened Oshawa, ON * Nov.25.1999 -- Saltimbanco opened Singapore * Nov.25.2004 -- Saltimbanco opened Lille * Nov.26.2004 -- KÀ Premiered (Preview Performances Begin) * Nov.26.2009 -- Dralion opened Mexico City * Nov.27.2008 -- Asociación de Cronistas del Espectáculo awards Alegría * Nov.27.2008 -- Dralion opened Brisbane * Nov.27.2009 -- OVO opened San Francisco * Nov.28.1989 -- Cirque Réinventé opened Phoenix * Nov.28.2002 -- "Run Before You Fly" documentary premiered on BRAVO * Nov.28.2003 -- Saltimbanco opened Valencia * Nov.29.1991 -- Nouvelle Expérience opened Atlanta * Nov.30.2000 -- Dralion opened Atlanta * Nov.30.2002 -- "Fire Within" premiered on ArTV in Canada * Nov.30.2003 -- "SOLSTROM" premiered on CBC * Nov.xx.1999 -- Region 01 DVD release: Alegría: Le Film * Nov.xx.2001 -- Quidam celebrated 2000th performance [Zurich] ======================================================================= FASCINATION! FEATURES ======================================================================= o) "Cirque Media Stocking Stuffers!" By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA) o) "Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation" Part 4 of 4 - "Images: My Thoughts" By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA) --------------------------------------------------------- "Cirque Media Stocking Stuffers!" By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA) --------------------------------------------------------- Perhaps you've missed the numerous advertisements appearing on television, in the radio and in print these past few weeks to months; it's that time of year again - Christmas - which means a lot of scrambling around to find the one perfect gift we know our special Cirque du Soleil fan would love and enjoy. The problem we face, though, is that we're not quite sure what to get them, (or us), right? Cirque du Soleil's online boutique has a plethora of options this year from which to choose - ranging from clothing items to house-hold goods; but they also have a number of interesting media options for those who enjoy listening to or watching their favorite circus: two brand-new audio CDs and two intriguing documentary DVDs. Any one of them (or all four) will make great stocking stuffers! AUDIO ----- On November 21st, Cirque du Soleil released two audio soundtracks onto CD that would make for great stocking stuffers: a single-CD for IRIS, now playing at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood, California, and two different packages for Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour, now touring in arenas across North America. IRIS First, from the live Cirque du Soleil show, IRIS - A Journey Through the World of Cinema, performing exclusively at Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, comes its studio soundtrack by multiple OSCAR nominated composer Danny Elfman. Best known for scoring music for television and movies (The Simpsons and Desperate Housewives and many of Tim Burton's films including Alice in Wonderland) and having earned numerous honors, Elfman joins Cirque du Soleil for the first time to compose and produce the music of a poetic phantasmagoria inspired by the world of cinema. The unique blend of 100 orchestral musicians - the largest number in Cirque du Soleil recording history - spread over large and small ensembles are mixed with the live show's eight house musicians working with and around each other, are now brought together on this 17-song album: 01: "Buster's Big Opening"...... (4:47) 02: "The Twins"................. (4:58) 03: "Kiriki Film"............... (1:29) 04: "Kiriki".................... (5:25) 05: "Silent Movie".............. (0:51) 06: "Patterns".................. (4:51) 07: "Clown Special Effects"..... (1:48) 08: "Pellicule (Part I & II)"... (6:22) 09: "Snake Women"............... (4:20) 10: "Movie Studio".............. (7:03) 11: "The Broom"................. (1:17) 12: "Flying Scarlett"........... (4:42) 13: "Old Toys".................. (0:45) 14: "Film Noir/Pursuit"......... (3:34) 15: "Rooftops".................. (4:55) 16: "Scarlett Balancing"........ (5:09) 17: "IRIS Finale and Bows"...... (4:52) Supporting the show's kaleidoscope of movement, moods and images, Danny Elfman evokes the language of film music, magnifying the emotions of this surrealistic tribute of the seventh art, cinema. And if that doesn't help you decide, check out this fantastic review by MSam (from Queensland, Australia and contributor to the Cirque Tribune forum), as posted on Amazon: "The new Iris soundtrack by Cirque du Soleil is just brilliant! Danny Elfman provides a style that is simply magical. It's incredible, a compelling and generous creation that draws upon ultra, neo-Romantic composing techniques combined with an eclectic mix of world influences all stamped with Elfman's incredible idiosyncratic pallet. There are beautiful piano melodies, exhilarating string arrangements and bold, brassy moments which render the album to be nothing short of ephemeral. This is Elfman at his best. Working on this project for a solid two years, as opposed to the usual soundtrack deal of three months on a movie, the sound-scape of this album is so varied and dynamic it's hard to comprehend the awesomeness on a first listen. Homage to the scores of movies, this soundtrack draws upon references and reinvents popular and stereotypical movie music styles. There are shout outs to jungle blockbusters like Indiana Jones and King Kong ('Snake Women', 'Patterns'), Gothic and magical scores such as The Nightmare Before Christmas and Edward Scissorhands ('Silent Movie', 'The Twins'), the schmooze vibe tones of the trendy 20's ('Film Noir', 'Movie Studio'), and a tour-de-force homage to the syncopated beats of West Side Story ('Rooftops'). Despite their influences, all the tracks inherently original, and the experience is incredible. I'm actually running out of inventive words to use to describe it. The upbeat 'Kiriki' theme is a brilliant fusion of exhilarating rhythmic strings with bows on fire in a distinctly circus and Gothic vibe, and 'Scarlett Balancing' is simply heartbreaking - the lyrics have the potential to be corny and pandering but in this case they come across as esoteric and nebulous combined with the luscious arrangement of the orchestra and the ethereal mixing of the choir. The most coruscating moment on the album is the exquisite and flawless 'The Broom/Flying Scarlett' arrangement. Beginning with a reprise of the opening tune shared delicately between woodwinds and a solo violin while strings flourish softly behind, the piece is utterly stunning. It provokes this incredible but practically indescribable emotion that resembles something like yearning. It's an ephemeral and achingly beautiful piano waltz paired with this forlorn, angelic voice which fragments and harmonizes itself, and slowly layers with chimes and glockenspiels which lead into the striking, driving and powerful orchestra finally accompanying. The arrangement is sweeping. It's been way too long since a soundtrack, and a Cirque du Soleil one at that, has moved and resonated with me. It's been an absolute joy to discover this wonderful soundtrack. Danny Elfman has managed to bring his own style to Cirque du Soleil without alienating or messing up its typical world flavour, and the melodies and motifs he has crafted are some of the most beautiful I think I've ever heard in a soundtrack. Iris is simply stunning - to all Elfman fans, soundtrack aficionados, and music lovers, you will not regret listening to this. Check out the link below to get a listen to the album in full streaming. Simple world-class quality - it's good to see that the Machine du Soleil can still produce magic with the right direction." Get this album today from the Cirque du Soleil online boutique - it's only $15.00! MICHAEL JACKSON THE IMMORTAL WORLD TOUR Although technically not a Cirque du Soleil Musique release (MJ's CDs are released on EPIC Records), this is the soundtrack to Cirque du Soleil's show now touring arenas across North America (and by 2012/2013, Europe too!). Led by esteemed musical designer Kevin Antunes, Immortal takes a fresh, creative approach in redesigning and reimagining more than 40 of Michael Jackson's greatest original recordings into a compilation that allows listeners to experience his music in an entirely new way. After spending a year in the studio working with Michael's original multi-track master recordings, Kevin created this release which offers listeners a new soundscape to Michael's artistry while preserving the power and familiarity of his unparalleled voice and his legendary tracks. Immortal is sure to touch the hearts of passionate Michael fans as the album unfolds his musical legacy with redesigned versions of his hits, electrifying mashups and newly discovered outtakes fans have never heard before including an alternate take on the Jackson 5's "ABC" and a choir that Michael recorded for "They Don't Really Care About Us." And there's two flavors to choose from - the "value" single-CD release and the "deluxe" double-CD compilation for those hard-core Michael Jackson/Cirque du Soleil fans. The value offering, which has an orange-colored cover, contains 20 tracks and a run-time of just over an hour: 01. Workin' Day And Night (3:36) 02. The Immortal Intro (3:07) 03. Childhood (4:35) 04. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' (3:07) 05. Dancing Machine/Blame It On The Boogie (4:49) 06. This Place Hotel (2:08) 07. Smooth Criminal (1:59) 08. Dangerous (2:41) 09. The Jackson 5 Medley (3:45) 10. Speechless/Human Nature (3:18) 11. Is It Scary/Threatened (5:05) 12. Thriller (3:32) 13. You Are Not Alone/I Just Can't Stop Loving You (6:07) 14. Beat It/State Of Shock (3:09) 15. Jam (2:37) 16. Planet Earth/Earth Song (4:04) 17. They Don't Care About Us (3:36) 18. I'll Be There (1:53) 19. Immortal Megamix (9:09) 20. Man In The Mirror (4:17) The Deluxe offering, which has a blue cover, sports 27 tracks and a whopping 1 hour, 42 minute run-time! Disc 1: 01. Workin' Day And Night (3:36) 02. The Immortal Intro (3:07) 03. Childhood (4:35) 04. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' (3:08) 05. Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground) (2:27) 06. Dancing Machine/Blame It On The Boogie (4:04) 07. Ben (3:44) 08. This Place Hotel (2:08) 09. Smooth Criminal (1:59) 10. Dangerous (2:41) 11. The Way You Love Me/Speed Demon/Another Part Of Me (2:52) 12. The Jackson 5 Medley (3:45) 13. Speechless/Human Nature (3:20) 14. Is It Scary/Threatened (5:03) 15. Thriller (3:37) Disc 2: 16. You Are Not Alone/I Just Can't Stop Loving You (6:08) 17. Beat It/State Of Shock (3:09) 18. Jam (2:37) 19. Planet Earth/Earth Song (4:01) 20. Scream/Little Susie (4:45) 21. Gone Too Soon (3:23) 22. They Don't Care About Us (3:37) 23. Will You Be There (4:56) 24. I'll Be There (1:50) 25. Immortal Megamix (9:08) 26. Man In The Mirror (4:14) 27. Remember The Time/Bad (4:39) Not sure either of these CDs is for you? Check out this review from Kaio (in Santa Monica, California) on Amazon: "When I first heard this Cirque soundtrack was going to remix, and in some cases, mash-up, some of the most iconic songs ever recorded, I was worried. But I listen to Michael's original tracks all the time, so I don't feel shortchanged by this reworking of his untouchable classics. If anything, I've really taken to this energized Cirque- ified remix. It's like a concentrated dose of Michael as interpreted through Soleil's prism. Somehow they've managed to retain Michael's essence, yet add their own flair to it, that somehow makes Michael stretch beyond his usual larger than life; which is interesting, considering he's no longer here. Although Michael's presence is clearly missing, his spirit is ever-present, via his own alternate vocal recordings of these impressive songs. It's almost as if he's graduated from Peter Pan to Wizard of Oz! Sizzling with omnipotence and infusing his rhythm and dance from the ethereal beyond. Michael's iconic hits need no introduction. Bottom Line: I've got my MJ "E"-ticket and I'm strapped in for the ride, wherever it goes; from childhood to beyond! Jermaine said it best, "It's time to celebrate Michael's life." Which is easy to do, because Michael's music instantly lifts-off and makes my spirit soar. This soundtrack and Michael's vocals are absolutely stunning. No, Michael didn't have a hand in remixing his iconic songs, but his spirit IS here, through and through; like a true Immortal. So buckle-up and get ready for a fun ride." Both can be found for $15.00 or less at either Amazon.com or the Cirque du Soleil online boutique - order now for prompt delivery before Christmas! VIDEO ----- If neither of the three CDs we've talked about so far tickle your fancy, perhaps one these two intriguing documentary DVDs will: "ZED in Tokyo" and "ZAIA: Crossroads in Macau". ZAIA: CROSS ROADS IN MACAU Inspired by the vastness and diversity of the cosmos, writer and director Gilles Maheu soaked up a few dozen cultures to create a show imbued with the different colors and flavors of the world: ZAIA. A great challenge awaits the artists and craftspeople of this odyssey, which will have to relearn how to move and communicate. They will explore new territories and make the "Crossroads in Macau" their meeting point. Discover the spectacular and poetic world of ZAIA. This documentary, filmed in 2010, takes viewers on the journey from initial spark to premiere of Cirque du Soleil's ZAIA at The Venetian Macao. What makes this show different from previous efforts by Cirque du Soleil is the market in which it is presented - China. Follow the trials and tribulations of a cast and crew trying to give Cirque du Soleil a foothold in this Chinese gambling Mecca while at the same time finding inspiration in the show's theme: space. And though I have not yet seen ZAIA performed live, I've gained a much better appreciation of the show by watching this documentary. It'll never replace a live viewing of the show, nor will it replace a recording (if ever one should be produced); however, "Crossroads in Macau" will give you a taste of what the show is like, even if it is only 68 minutes long and even if it is representative of the show before its huge change this past year. Special Features include "Trampoline and Double Teeterboard (X-Board)" and "Chinese Poles on Globes", full recordings of those acts respectively as if performed in front of a live audience; a "Then & Now" segment, a brief video montage covering all of Cirque du Soleil's creations, from 1984 through to today; "ZAIA - Experience the Unforgettable", the show's video trailer; "On-Stage Career Opportunities", an advertisement for Cirque du Soleil's Casting department; and "A Message from ONE DROP". ZED IN TOKYO Lamenting the pending closure of Cirque du Soleil's ZED? Then relive the fantasy of this expansive and epic show through "ZED in Tokyo", a fantastic peek into Cirque du Soleil's world of the Tarot. Discover the lyrical, sensitive spirit of the ZED show, a creation by Cirque du Soleil captained by stage and screen director François Girard. By way of a series of vignettes, ZED in Tokyo follows the team through the creative process, both on stage and in the wings, as they make their way from Montreal to the busy streets of Tokyo. This documentary portrays a strange and edifying encounter between the land of Cirque du Soleil and the Land of the Rising Sun as expressed by the work of creators, artists and technicians from several different cultures who join forces to stage a truly extraordinary show. Filmed in 2010, this 67 minute peek into the world of ZED is not as expansive as we would like, but it is complete. A number of the show's elements make it to the screen here, even if just for a moment's glimpse, giving those who have seen the show a wonderful flowing memory of what was. Though "ZED in Tokyo" will not replace a full- fledged recording of the show, this documentary does a much better job at capturing the essence of ZED's epic nature than does "Crossroads in Macau" for ZAIA. Fans of the show are also in for a treat; Japan is the land of anime and the documentary comes complete with its very own anime-style introduction montage, which helps takes us out of the real world and into the metaphysical world of ZED. Special Features include "The Tarot", a look into Tarot and how it inspired the creation of ZED early on; "The Composer", a brief look at composing ZED with Rene Dupere (Cirque's long-time musical collaborator); a "Then & Now" segment, a brief video montage covering all of Cirque du Soleil's creations, from 1984 through to today; "Let Your Talent Shine", a montage from Cirque du Soleil scouting; "On- Stage Career Opportunities, an advertisement for Cirque du Soleil's Casting department (interested in joining the Cirque? Pay attention - here's how!); and "A Message from ONE DROP". * * * On a budget and not sure which of these four to get this year? Let me help you! My choice in AUDIO is, without a doubt, the IRIS soundtrack. Danny Elfman has put together a rousing score for Cirque du Soleil's journey through the world of cinema, and as a stand-alone score its one of the more engaging I've listened to lately. MJ IMMORTAL is fun too, but the mixes here just aren't different enough from Michael's regular material to recommend double or even triple-dipping on them, in my opinion of course. In VIDEO, I'd recommend "ZED in Tokyo". Both documentaries are solid visuals of the shows they represent; however "ZED in Tokyo" seems better put together, better executed and offers a better over-all experience of the show than "Crossroads in Macau" for ZAIA. So there you have it and may your stockings fill themselves with Cirque media goodies this year! --------------------------------------------------------- "Remembering ZED: A Timeless Evocation" Part 4 of 4 - "Images: My Thoughts" By: Ricky Russo - Atlanta, Georgia (USA) --------------------------------------------------------- Shocking news hit the Cirque du Soleil fandom around Noon on Sunday, July 24th- ZED, Cirque du Soleil's resident show in Tokyo, Japan would cease operations and close as of December 31, 2011 - and it was the proverbial shot heard around the world for Cirque fans. It was no surprise to learn that ticket sales and attendance had plummeted since the 2011 Tokoku earthquake and tsunami, and Oriental Land Company (OLC), Cirque du Soleil's partner in Japan, said the decision to close the show amounted to just that - low attendance and a bleak overall outlook on the show's future. While we absorb the full impact and meaning of this closure, and contemplate the knowledge that we may never again see ZED staged whole, I'd like to take a moment to reflect upon my experience with ZED and highlight the fascinating characters and acts we'll now miss once the final curtain is called. * * * When I last left you, my friend (and fellow Cirque du Soleil fan) Rich Alford and I had entered the ZED theater complex on the afternoon of November 8 2008 in triumph, though huffing and puffing from the walk, with only a few moments to spare before the curtain would rise again on ZED, Cirque du Soleil's then newest resident production. We had found ourselves at Tokyo DisneySEA that morning as hosts to a CirqueCon lunch for a table of eight patrons at Magellan's, then made our way to the Theater for the afternoon performance. When we arrived, though, we were in for a bit of a shock: our seats were occupied, and our tickets were issued in error! With about a minute before curtain call and with the box office on the phone to Kyoko Hasegawa (our friendly contact at Cirque Tokyo), they found us alternative seats, which we took quickly, settling down to gaze over the white canvas that keeps the world of ZED tightly wrapped. We then discovered the wondrous theater and stage the show would play upon, then took a look at the show's characters and its acts. And now I'll conclude with my thoughts about the show, as viewed on the afternoon of November 8, 2008 - as it would turn out to be the second and last time I'd ever see the show. The Acts BATONS - Meeting of the Two Worlds ZED is the meeting of two worlds: the heavens - where iridescent colors, paler shades and pearl and silver predominate - and the earth, which emphasizes ochre, green, turquoise, gold and Venetian blue, explode before us. And Djinn, the baton master, marshals this big bang by combining dance and gymnastics, and demonstrating great agility and exceptional control as he spins three batons around his neck, arms and legs. In the darkness, light or fire, he tosses and spins the batons high into the air and catches them just as easily. BUNGEE - Birth of the Sky As the energy from the meeting of the two worlds begins to dissipate, Nouit descends from the heavens to spread her wings, beautifully framing four artists suspended from bungees who fall precipitously from the heights above the audience to dance a wonderful ballet of happiness, as their movements leave trails of light in their wake. LASSOS - Birth on Earth Just as the heavens exuberate in their new-found creation, the earth also comes into its own. Here six guardians of Abraka, master of the Earth, operate lassos with incredible dexterity, their undulating waves helping to harness and amplify the energy of this pristine land to further its existence along all creation. POLES AND TRAMPOLINE - Reaching Up Combining Chinese Poles with the Trampoline, the earth-bound stop at nothing to reach the heavens above where The People of the Sky reside. Using the trampoline as a springboard, the artists bounce high in the air, precisely criss-crossing each other on their way to grab the poles. SOLO TISSUE - First Sight In a stunning display of agility and strength, the graceful performer becomes one with the column of blue fabric that supports and cradles her female form. This breathtaking aerial dance combines elements of acrobatics, contortion and movement to create a stirring and powerful image... one that catches Zed's attention. WIRE - Pendulum A wire is suspended 8 meters over the floor. Above it, a mesmerizing burning pendulum swings back and forth, back and forth. Through balance and precision the tightrope walkers pass each other at a frenetic pace and perform death-defying leaps and breathtaking columns all while trying to keep from plummeting to their doom. JUGGLING - Kernoun's Fire Ascending from Kernoun's lair, a father, mother and their children juggle bowling pins and plates at a dizzying speed, on the floor, in columns of two and three. Then the family transforms juggling into an unforgettable moment of drama using flaming torches that illuminate the stage with a huge dome of fire. BANQUINE - Babel Highlighting the extraordinary agility of the human body, the house troupe mystifies by performing acrobatics and human pyramids in a series of dramatic movements and perfectly synchronized crossings that depend on absolute trust. Sure to astound, Banquine is one of Cirque du Soleil's signature pieces of performance art. STRAPS - Zed in Love Two artists use straps to bring the game of seduction to life with Zed in this amazing routine. Their movements show incredible agility, balance and great strength as they soar into the heavens hand-in-hand. One represents the People of the Air, the other the People of the Earth; separate they are longing, but together they bring about the concept of love. HAND TO HAND - Two Worlds Meet With strength and flexibility, two artists in constant contact move almost imperceptibly to take positions that demonstrate an infallible sense of balance. In their quest for harmony, the performers rely on their intuition and concentration to present a moment of pure serenity. FLYING TRAPEZE - Celebration A combined group of trapeze performers from two different family troupes came together to present a spectacularly energetic aerial ballet. (It's very fast-paced!) Perched on two parallel platforms, they soar in acrobatic flight to reach the hands of their catchers on the trapeze over and over and over again. The speeds at which they fly across the skies of Zed are astounding! CHARIVARI - A Fond Farewell The whole troupe gathers to present an acrobatic parade of strength and elegance with a series of impressive numbers that combine gymnastics and aerial acrobatics. Among the highlights in the number: human pyramids, flying and daring dives achieved through individual strength. ZED's Tableau As we've seen thus far, ZED's tableau is replete with amazing and stark images, an area that many claim Cirque du Soleil has been lacking in a number of its newest productions. Though I can't claim to enjoy every act, nuance and moment in the show unconditionally, a number of images within ZED both greatly surprised and impressed me. One such image is the dramatic opening of the show, a gasp-inducing moment guaranteed to send chills down even the most rigid unfeeling spine. Void, null and invalid are words that help define for us the concept of nothing, the very state of the world as we first come upon ZED in Cirque du Soleil's beautiful theater in Tokyo. But the notion of nothingness is merely a misnomer, as much of this world is merely hidden from us behind the behemoth of white canvass known as "the Vortex", a scrim which comprises more than 5,600 square materials of material. The Vortex evokes images of what the world might have looked like before the heavens met the earth. For a moment it is a peaceful existence, interrupted only by the cries and laughter of Zed, our guide. But when Zed falls from the heavens into the fertile plains of the earth below - the impetus of the big bang, the Vortex is whisked away at more than six meters per second, making the entire surface vanish in 25 seconds flat. The spectacular birth is one of the most jaw-dropping reveals in a Cirque du Soleil show since the "O" curtain. Another comes as the energies from the creation of the universe begin to dissipate. Nouit (Johanna Lillvik, singer) - the incarnation of the Great Goddess, descends from the heavens to spread her silvery wings. It's a striking image, beautifully framing four artists suspended from bungees who fall precipitously from the heights above the audience to dance a wonderful ballet of happiness. A third comes during the Lassos number. Although this number is lifted from the traditional Chinese circus (and performed roughly the same there as here at Cirque du Soleil), it's the staging and what's going on around the act that commands the most attention. Towering above all, his massive wings outstretched and undulating under the power of his fierce voice, is Abraka, providing the song of earth's creation. As he crescendos and holds that final powerful note, his wings (long, colorful capes that radiate in every direction from his core), break away and fly off into deep space, crafting not only a commanding conclusion to an act, but a powerful transformation for the character. Another comes during the juggling act; Kernoun ascends from the depths of the stage as the entire area is awash in yellow flame. But one of the most spine tingling has to be at the conclusion of the Hand-to- Hand act, performed by Quidam alumni Yves Decoste and Marie-Laur Mesnage. As the act progresses, dozens of performers on wires descend from all points of the theater and converge together on stage. After the entire cast gathers, they perform as a chorus the last verse of the act's song "The World's Meet". It was such a beautiful moment that I couldn't help but shiver in goose-bumps. * * * It saddens my heart to know that very soon ZED will have its final curtain call, the light from all its magnificent stars will dim and this spectacular show will potentially not see another audience again. I may have only seen the show twice, while others have had the opportunity to experience Zed's world dozens of times; I feel privileged that I at least had the opportunity just that once. We'll miss ZED but at least we have it in our hearts and souls. Perhaps that's all that matters in the first place. Sayonara. ======================================================================= SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION ======================================================================= Fascination! is a monthly publication, available through subscription via the World Wide Web in text format at the newsletter's website: < http://www.CirqueFascination.com/ >. To subscribe, please visit our website and enter your name and email address in the "About Fascination" box and press Subscribe. You,ll receive an email to confirm your selection. Once confirmed you,ll be added to our mailing list. 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/ >. Join us on the web at: < www.cirquefascination.com > Realy Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed (News Only): < http://www.cirquefascination.com/?feed=rss2 > ======================================================================= COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER ======================================================================= Fascination! Newsletter Volume 11, Number 12 (Issue #95) - December 2011 "Fascination! Newsletter" is a concept by Ricky Russo. Copyright (c) 2001-2011 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. { Dec.10.2011 } =======================================================================