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