============================================================================== ____ _ _____ _ ___ / ___|(_) _ __ __ _ _ _ ___ | ___|/ \ / _ \ | | | || '__|/ _` || | | | / _ \ | |_ / _ \ | | | | | |___ | || | | (_| || |_| || __/ | _|/ ___ \| |_| | \____||_||_| \__, | \__,_| \___| |_| /_/ \_\\__\_\ |_| The Cirque du Soleil Frequently Asked Questions Document & More ============================================================================== Version 3.3.0 -- Jun.03.2008 Copyright (c) 2001-2008 by Ricky Russo ============================================================================== -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [0] TABLE OF CONTENTS -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [General Index] [1] Introduction to the FAQ [2] Cirque du Soleil in General [3] Cirque du Soleil Spectacles (Shows) [4] Cirque du Soleil Musique (Music) [5] Cirque du Soleil Images (Video) [6] Cirque du Soleil Press (Books) [7] Questions about Disciplines [8] Cirque du Soleil Fan Communities [9] Credits and Fine Print [Expanded Index] [1] Introduction [1.1] About the FAQ [1.1.1] Obtaining the Latest Version [1.1.2] Revision History [1.2] About the Author [2] Cirque du Soleil in General [2.1] What is Cirque du Soleil? / How did it start? [2.2] What does "Cirque du Soleil" mean? [2.3] What makes Cirque du Soleil different? } [2.4] What does "Invoke, Provoke, Evoke" mean? [2.5] How can I contact performers? [2.6] Where do performers stay on tour? [2.7] How do I get a job with Cirque du Soleil? [2.7.1] How can I be a performer? [2.7.2] How can I join behind the scenes? } [2.8] When/what is the next show? [2.9] When is Cirque coming to my city? [2.10] How can I see a show/get tickets? [2.11] Where is the best place to sit? [2.12] Is there a Cirque du Soleil Club? [2.12.1] Official Clubs [2.12.2] Unofficial Clubs [2.13] What is "Le Rêve"? Is it a Cirque du Soleil show? [2.14] What is "Cheval"? Is it a Cirque du Soleil show? [2.15] What is "Les 7 Doigts de la Main"? Is it a Cirque show? [3] Cirque du Soleil Spectacles (Shows) } [3.1] How many productions/shows are there? } [3.2] What are their productions? [3.2.1] What is a touring show? [3.2.2] What is a resident show? [3.2.3] what is a seasonal show? [3.2.4] what is an arena show? } [3.3] When did these productions premiere? [3.3.1] Why do some shows have two premiere dates? [3.4] Where has Cirque toured? [3.5] When can I see an act in rotation? [3.6] What acts can I expect to see on a particular date? Note: Items in the following section each have these sub-sections: 1) Theme 2) Creative Team 3) Acts/Performances [A] Touring Shows (Big Top & Arena) [3A.1] Le Grand Tour [3A.2] Le Magie Continue [3A.3] Le Cirque Réinventé [3A.4] Nouvelle Expérience [3A.5] Fascination [3A.6] Saltimbanco [3A.7] Alegría [3A.8] Quidam [3A.9] Dralion [3A.10] Varekai [3A.11] Corteo [3A.12] Koozå [3A.13] Cirque 2009 [B] Resident Shows (Théâtre) [3B.1] Mystère [3B.2] "O" [3B.3] La Nouba [3B.4] Zumanity [3B.5] KÀ [3B.6] LOVE [3B.7] Wintuk } [3B.8] ZAIA } [3B.9] Criss Angel BELIEVE } [3B.10] ZED [3B.11] Elvis 2009 [3B.12] Macao II 2009 [3B.13] Dubai 2010 [3B.14] Kodak 2010 [3B.15] Beijing 2010 [C] Other Shows (Films & Specials) [3C.1] Journey of Man [Imax] [3C.2] Delirium [Arena Concert] [4] Cirque du Soleil Musique (Music) [4.1] When will ... be on CD? [4.2] What language is used in their music? [4.2.1] How can I obtain lyrics? [4.3] Who are the composers? [4.4] Who released/releases the music catalog? [4.4.1] How can I tell which label released what title? [4.5] What is available in the current music catalog? [4.5.1] What is the SPARS code? [4.5.2] Are Cirque Volume 1 and 2 different? [4.5.3] Are Mystère and Mystère (Live) different? [4.5.4] What are the Extended CDs? [4.5.5] Why are there more than one Saltimbanco CD? [4.6] Album Particulars [4.6.1] Title Release Dates [4.6.2] Album Catalog Numbers [4.7] Aren't there Singles of Cirque Music out there? [4.8] Weren't some albums released in metal tins? [4.9] What are the "Tapis Rouge" vinyl mixes? [4.9.1] Which of these traks are available on CD? [4.10] What is that music from the series "Fire Within?" [5] Cirque du Soleil Images (Video) [5.1] When will a show be filmed/released on DVD/VHS? [5.2] Who released/releases the video catalog? [5.3] Curent Cirque du Soleil video catalog [5.4] Why is "La Magie Continue" listed at 90 min and 50 min? [5.5] Title Particulars [5.5.1] Title Release Dates [5.5.2] Title Catalog Numbers [5.6] What Documentaries on Cirque have been produced? [5.6.1] Which of these documentaries are available on VHS/DVD? [5.7] What is ... about? [5.7.1] ... Quel Cirque ... [5.7.2] ... Saltimbanco's Diary ... [5.7.3] ... Truth of Illusion: Alegría ... [5.7.4] ... Full Circle ... [5.7.5] ... Baroque Odyssey ... [5.7.6] ... Alegria: Le Film ... [5.7.7] ... In the Heart of Dralion ... [5.7.8] ... Inside La Nouba ... [5.7.9] ... Making of an Angel ... [5.7.10] ... Fire Within ... [5.7.11] ... Solstrom ... [5.7.12] ... Midnight Sun ... [5.7.13] ... KÀ Extreme ... [5.7.14] ... Lovesick ... [5.7.15] ... Mystery of Mystère ... [5.7.16] ... FLOW ... [5.7.17] ... A Thrilling Ride through Koozå ... [6] Cirque du Soleil Press (Books) [6.1] What books have Cirque du Soleil released? [6.1.1] What is an ISBN? [6.2] When were Cirque du Soleil calendar's produced, and by whom? [6.2.1] 1996 Graphique De France [6.2.2] 2003 Harry N. Abrams [6.2.3] 2004 Harry N. Abrams [6.2.4] 2007 (#1) Barnes & Noble "Poster Art" [6.2.5] 2007 (#2) Barnes & Noble "Desk Calendar" [6.2.6] 2007 (#3) Tide-Mark Press "Character Art" [6.2.7] 2008 Tide-Mark Press "Wall" Calendar } [6.2.8] 2008 Barnes & Noble "Wall" Calendar } [6.2.9] 2009 Silver Lining "Engagement" Calendar } [6.2.10] 2009 Silver Lining "Wall" Calendar [6.3] What is the "Cirque du Soleil" Book? [6.4] What is "Le Cirque du Soleil: La création d'un spectacle?" [6.5] What is "Wings?" [6.6] What is "O, Cirque at the Bellagio?" [6.7] What is "Varekai, Cirque du Soleil?" [6.8] What is "Parade of Colors?" [6.9] What is "20 Years Under the Sun?" [6.10] What is "Dreams of the Solo Trapeze?" [6.11] What is "Dans les coulisses du Cirque du Soleil"? [6.12] What is "The Spark"? [6.13] What is "The Best of Cirque du Soleil: Piano/Vocal/Chords"? [6.14] What is "The Cirque du Soleil Sticker Book"? [7] Questions about Disciplines? [7.1] What is "Adagio"? [7.2] What is a "Russian Swing"? [7.3] What is a "Korean Plank"? [7.4] What is a "Russian Bar"? [7.5] What is a "Washington Trapeze"? [7.6] What is "Contortion"? [7.7] What is "Banquine"? [7.8] What are "Chinese Poles"? [7.9] What is "Tissu"? [7.10] What is/who are "the Tribe"? [7.11] What is the "Spanish Web"? [7.12] What is "Cloud Swing"? [7.13] What is a "German Wheel"? [7.14] What is are "Diabolos"? [7.15] What is a "Rola Bola"? [7.16] What is "Slack Wire" / "Fil de Fer"? [7.17] What is a "Suspended Cradle"? [7.18] What is an "Aerial Cradle"? [7.19] What is "PowerTrack" / "FastTrack"? [7.20] What is/are "Bungee" / "Elastics"? [7.21] What is "Hand to Hand" / "Vis Versa" / "Vis a Vie"? [7.22] What is "Manipulation"? [8] Cirque du Soleil Fan Communities [8.1] CIRQUE DU SOLEIL MAILING LIST [8.1.1] What is the "Cirque du Soleil Group"? [8.1.2] What is the List/Group's Website? [8.1.3] How can I Subscribe/Unsubscribe/Post? [8.1.4] Does the "Cirque du Soleil Group" have RSS Support? [8.1.5] Who is the list owner/moderator? [8.1.6] How many people are part of this group? [8.1.7] What is Cirque Day? [8.2] LE GRAND CHAPITEAU [8.2.1] What is "Le Grand Chapiteau"? [8.2.2] What is Le Grand Chapiteau's Website? [8.3] FASCINATION! [8.3.1] What is "Fascination!"? [8.3.2] What is the Newsletter's Website? [8.3.3] How can I Subscribe/Unsubscribe? [8.3.4] Does "Fascination!" have RSS Support? [8.3.5] How many people are part of "Fascination!" [8.4] CIRQUE TRIBUNE [8.4.1] What is "Cirque Tribune"? [8.4.2] What is Cirque Tribune's Website? [8.4.3] Do I have to subscribe to "Cirque Tribune"? [8.4.4] Does "Cirque Tribune" have RSS Support? [8.4.5] What does "Cirque Tribune" offer? [8.4.6] How many people are part of "Cirque Tribune"? [8.5] CIRQUECON [8.5.1] What is "CirqueCon"? [8.5.2] How can I come to CirqueCon? [8.5.3] Where has CirqueCon been held? [8.6] CELEBRI! [8.6.1] What is "Celebri!"? [8.6.2] How can I come to "Celebri!"? [8.6.3] Where has "Celebri!" been held? [8.7] CIRQUEWIKI [8.7.1] What is "CirqueWiki"? [8.7.2] What is CirqueWiki's Website? [8.8] PREVIOUS COMMUNITIES [8.8.1] What was the Cirque du Soleil Webring? [8.8.2] What was the Group Discute? [9] Credits and Fine Print [9.1] Thank Yous [9.2] Copyright Notice ============================================================================== -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] INTRODUCTION -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [1.1] About the FAQ This Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document is an unofficial Cirque du Soleil FAQ, written and researched by Ricky Russo. This document is copyrighted and should only be used in association with the rules laid down in the "Fine Print" section. This FAQ does, however, contain elements from the Cirque du Soleil FAQ found on their web site. This FAQ is not owned or endorsed by Cirque du Soleil. It is the sole creation of Ricky Russo and those who have helped with their suggestions. If you wish to add to this FAQ, please send your suggestions and/or additions to richasi@azlance.com. Thanks! [1.1.1] Obtaining latest Version The latest version of this FAQ can be found online at . It is currently available only in Text format. [1.1.2] Revision History The FAQ is revised sporadically when any new core information becomes available. It isn't always so, and I must apologize for that. 1.0.0 Jul.24.2001 1.4.0 Nov.01.2001 1.0.1 Jul.25.2001 1.5.0 Apr.10.2002 1.0.2 Jul.26.2001 2.0.0 Apr.23.2003 1.0.3 Jul.28.2001 2.5.0 Apr.01.2005 1.0.4 Aug.01.2001 3.0.0 Jun.17.2006 1.0.5 Aug.02.2001 3.0.5 Aug.10.2006 1.1.1 Aug.21.2001 3.1.0 Jan.01.2008 1.2.0 Sep.15.2001 3.2.0 Feb.15.2008 1.3.0 OCt.17.2001 NOTE: Updates/Additions are denoted by a leading '}' mark. [1.2] About The Author My name is Ricky Russo, or some of you may know me as "Richasi". I reside in Orlando, Florida and as you may be able to guess, I love the Cirque du Soleil. I became aquainted with Cirque long ago through one of HBO's showings of Nouvelle Experience. I had not, however, ever seen a live show until La Nouba in the Summer of 1999. Since then I have rediscovered Cirque and have gone to see them all in some form or another. My love for Cirque du Soleil reaches far beyond me, and manifests itself through my involvement in the Cirque fan community. Below are the projects I have started and/or currently administer: o) "Le Grand Chapiteau" - My personal Cirque du Soleil Website; an archive of information. o) "Fascination! Newsletter" - A medium to release news and information about our favorite circus, and a venue to express reviews of all the Cirque's creations. o) "Cirque du Soleil Mailing List" - a Yahoo! Group discussion community. o) "The Cirque FAQ" - This very document you are reading now; answering as many pressing questions as possible. Partnerships: o) "CirqueWiki" - To have a more dynamic medium in which to display and explore the vast wealth of information relating to Cirque du Soleil. (Partnership with Jeff Tolotti at Cirque Tribune). o) "CirqueCon" - A Cirque du Soleil convention? Correct! A means to bring together the many fans of Cirque du Soleil. (Partnership with Keith Johnson, Lucy Valentine and Rich Alford). o) "Celebri!" - A small gathering of friends to celebrate Cirque du Soleil on tour in various geographical locations. (Partnership with Rich Alford). You can find out more about these (and others') projects in Section 8 of the FAQ. And, if you'd like to chat, you can reach me by email at: < richasi@azlance.com >. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [2] CIRQUE DU SOLEIL -- IN GENERAL -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [2.1] What is Cirque du Soleil? Cirque du Soleil is an Avant-Garde (meaning one that develops new or experimental concepts in the arts) circus troupe created in 1982 as "Club des Talons Hauts" or "The High-Heels Club". In June 1984, Cirque du Soleil officially came together in part by contributions and summons by the Québec government to celebrate the 450th anniversary of Jacques Cartier's (1491-1557) arrival. Today Cirque du Soleil is a powerhouse of performance art that defies definition. They are based in Montreal, Quebec -- Canada. [2.2] What does Cirque du Soleil mean? "Cirque du Soleil" is a French moniker and is translated to "Sun Circus" or more appropriately "Circus of the Sun". Hence, their sun logo, which is said to have been created by the troupe's founder, Guy Laliberté, while lying on a beach in Hawaii. [2.3] What makes Cirque du Soleil different? The difference between other circuses and Cirque du Soleil is simply that Cirque du Soleil has no animals in its shows. The acrobats are masterfully skilled. The entire show is themed, right down to elaborate costumes. And, the most important aspect of all is that the music is unique. These factors together make up the Cirque du Soleil experience. INVOKE. PROVOKE. EVOKE. [2.4] What does "Invoke, Provoke, Evoke" mean? INVOKE, PROVOKE, EVOKE is Cirque du Soleil's corporate mission by which they intend to "invoke the imagination, provoke the senses and evoke the emotions of people around the world." [2.5] How can I contact performers? The performers are quite busy as they train constantly, which leaves them little time to answer any correspondence. Unfortunately no email can be accepted for characters/performers directly by Cirque du Soleil; however, you can write at the following address: NAME OF PERSON - ARTIST SHOW THEY ARE IN C/O CIRQUE DU SOLEIL 8400 2nd AVENUE EAST MONTREAL, QUEBEC, H1Z4M6 CANADA Some Cirque du Soleil performers, artists and musicians have their own web sites and may answer email correspondance through them. [2.6] Where do the performers stay on tour? Unlike the circuses of the past, Cirque du Soleil performers do not stay in trailers, trucks or within the tent itself. Usually they are placed in various rooms in nearby hotels, and they arrive there via bus. [2.7] How do I get a job with Cirque du Soleil? [2.7.1] How can I be a performer? It takes skill and dedication to be part of the Cirque du Soleil house troup. Do you think you have what it takes? If so, the first step is sending Cirque du Soleil your profile - This is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the company! Send Cirque your CV, photo, and video/audio demos that showcase your unique talents, achievements and - most importantly - your personality! Hundreds of artists apply at Cirque each day; however, if Cirque du Soleil spots something special within you, you may be called to an open audition. If you are called up, you will be asked to impress them with your skills and artistic potential. It may take dozens of auditions over the span of many years before you are selected to appear in one of their productions, but if you're not picked right away, don't fret - keep trying! Find out more about Cirque du Soleils On-Stage casting at: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/casting/ default.htm > [2.7.2] How can I join the Cirque behind the scenes? As stated on CIrque du Soleil's Casting website: "At Cirque, it's not every employee who walks around balancing balls on their nose … but you never know! Joining our team of almost 2,400 employees means working in a relaxed environment, where social and cultural action is one of our everyday ambitions. In addition to offering competitive benefits and the possibility of developing a stimulating career, Cirque gives you the chance to apply your talents and your creativity to the production of artistic works that are unique in the world. Are you passionate, flexible and able to adapt well to changes? We would love to get to know you …" Find out the newest positions that Cirque du Soleil has to offer at their off-stage recruitment area: < http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/jobs/ offstage/recruitsoft.htm> [2.8] When is the next show/tour? Cirque du Soleil is a creative company and new creations are being created, performed and toured constantly. 1 to 3 new shows are being produced and premiering each year! Follow the details through the Fascination! Newsletter. See Section 8 of the FAQ for further details. [2.9] When is Cirque coming to my city? Cirque du Soleil generally visits a city every 1 to 2 years with a new tour, but its decision to set-up in a city depends on various marketing and demographic statistics. To find out when/if Cirque du Soleil is coming to your city, please visit the Cirque du Soleil official site at the following address: . Information on current show schedules and where the touring shows are currently located is available there. [2.10] How can I see a show/get tickets? Tickets to all shows can be purchased through a variety of means: at the local Cirque du Soleil Box Office (on tour), the theater box office (resident shows), or through Cirque du Soleil directly at www.cirquedusoleil.com. All tickets can be picked up through "will call" at the Cirque du Soleil Box Office, Theater Box Office or self-printed through Cirque du Soleil's website (where applicable) at time of purchase. Some tickets also have the option to be mailed to your home address. [2.11] Where is the best place to sit? Where the best place to sit is varies widely amongst fans and general spectators alike. Many like the intimacy of a front-and-center experience, while others prefer to observe the spectacle from afar, and still others like to sit between sections, next to the sound-booth to hear exactly what the musical engineer is hearing. Whatever your preference, the rule of thumb is to avoid sitting behind a mast (in touring productions), sitting too far to the sides and tops (in both touring and resident productions) and in any other limited-viewing seat, as the view is... limited. [2.12] Is there a Cirque du Soleil Club? There are a variety of clubs (official and unofficial) associated with Cirque du Soleil. [2.12.1] Official Clubs There is currently only one official Cirque du Soleil club, Cirque Club, which was announced at the end of September 2001. You can find Cirque Club on the web at the following: < http://www.cirqueclub.com/ >. In the past, there has been another club associated with Cirque du Soleil and that was the Dralion Internet Club. The club was in operation at the beginning of the North American Tour of Dralion in 1999 and ceased its operations when Cirque Club began. The web site could be found at the following: and was filled with show information, music clips and other special items relating to Dralion only. [2.12.2] Unofficial Clubs There are currently no unofficial "fan clubs" surrounding Cirque du Soleil, but there are many fan-supported facets. You can find out more about these projects in Section 8 of this FAQ: o) Cirque du Soleil Mailing List o) Richasi's Le Grand Chapiteau o) The "Fascination! Newsletter" o) Cirque Tribune o) CirqueCon o) Celebri! o) CirqueWiki [2.13] What is "Le Rêve?" Is it a Cirque du Soleil show? No, while Le Rêve was created and directed by Franco Dragone, the mastermind behind many of Cirque du Soleil's productions through the years (1985-1998), and stars many artists from Cirque du Soleil shows, Le Rêve is not a Cirque du Soleil production. Le Rêve is a production of Créations du Dragone, Franco Dragone's own company, and you can find out more about Le Rêve and Franco's other past and upcoming productions at his website: < http://dragone.be >. [2.14] What is "Cheval"? Is it a Cirque du Soleil show? Cheval, meaning "Horse" in French, was a show directed by Gilles Ste. Croix, one of the founders of Cirque du Soleil (and even an early performer). The only tie to Cirque du Soleil is that he is directing the show. It has absolutely nothing to do with Cirque du Soleil. The production folded in 2003 due to budget concerns. It is no longer on tour or being produced anywhere. The production had a website: < http://www.chevaltheatre.com/ >. [2.15] What is "Les 7 Doigts de la Main"? Is it a Cirque du Soleil show? Les 7 Doigts de la Main is what happens when a group of Cirque du Soleil alumni decide to go it alone and spin off their own brand of theatrical circus show. Meaning "The 7 Fingers of the Hand" - a derivitive from a French expression about working in unison with desterity and coordination, is a masetpiece of theater, acrobatics, dance, performance art, multimedia and comedy set in a much more intimate and independent scale. But it is not a Cirque du Soleil show. The 7 Doigts are... Shana Carrol - veteran of the Pickle Family Circus and former Solo Trapeze artist in Satlimbanco. Sébastien Soldevilla - an accomplished sports acrobat who competed with the French National team and performed as a character, dancer, acrobat and solo-diaboloist with Saltimbanco. Samuel Tetreault - performed in Cirque Eloize's Orchestra show, the Pomp Duck and Circumstance cabaret, and as a solo hand- balancer in Alegría. Patrick Leonard - a former Canadian roller figureskating champion, performed in the San Francisco cabaret Teatro Zinzanni and with Cirque du Soleil in the German cabaret Pomp, Duck and Circumstance. Gypsy Snyder - also performed with the Pickle Family Circus, Teatro Zinzanni, Pomp Duck and Circumstance as well as Saltimbanco. Faon Shane - is a performer of many acrobatic disciplines; hand-to-hand, chair balancing, artistic cycling, vertical rope, trampoline and Korean Cradle. She is best known to Cirque fans as one of Quidam's Spanish Web artists. Isabelle Chassé - renowned contortionist featured in a quartet in Nouvelle Expérience and Saltimbanco and for her solo Aerial Contortion in Silk act in Quidam. Find out about Les 7 Doigts de la main at their website: < www.les7doigtsdelamain.com/ >. {Features text written by Wayne Leung, as published in the "Fascination! Newsletter"} -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [3] CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SPECTACLES (SHOWS) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------- [ ] GENERAL SHOW QUESTIONS ---------------------------------- [3.1] How many productions has Cirque produced? Depending on how you categorize them, since 1984, Cirque du Soleil has created, produced and staged 20 different productions to date, 11 of which are still performing today. [3.2] What are their Productions? [Touring Shows] [Resident Shows] o) Le Grand Tour (1984) o) Mystère (1993+) o) Le Cirque du Soleil (1985) o) "O" (1998+) o) La Magie Continue (1986) o) La Nouba (1998+) o) Le Cirque Réinventé (1987-1990) o) Zumanity (2003+) o) Nouvelle Expérience (1990-1992) o) KÀ (2004+) o) Fascination (1992) o) LOVE (2006+) o) Saltimbanco (1992-2006) o) Wintuk (2007+) } o) Alegría (1994+) o) ZAIA (2008+) } o) Quidam (1996+) o) Criss Angel BELIEVE (2008+) } o) Dralion (1999+) o) ZED (2008+) } o) Varekai (2002+) o) Cirque Elvis (2009) } o) Corteo (2005+) o) Cirque Macau II (2010) } o) Koozå (2007) o) Cirque Kodak (2010) } o) Cirque 2009 (2009) o) Cirque Dubai (2011) [Arena Shows] } o) Delirium (2006-2008) o) Saltimbanco (2007+) [Other Productions] o) Cirque du Soleil: Journey of Man IMAX Film (1999) o) Alegría: Le Film (2000) o) Cirque du Soleil: Fire Within (2002) o) Cirque du Soleil: Solstrom (2003) [3.2.1] What is a touring show? A touring show is one that visits many cities and countries and is housed in a blue and yellow or white colored tent. The thing to remember here is TENT! There are exceptions; as an example: when shows visit London they are usually set up in the Royal Albert Hall, a Victorian-style performence venue. [3.2.2] What is a resident show? A resident show is that which is performed in a specially designated theater. Most of these theaters exist in partnership with MGM/Mirage Resorts in the United States (Mystère, "O", Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE, Luxor 2008 and Elvis 2009) but there are other partnerships, such as: Walt Disney World (La Nouba - consequently the only free-standing theater until Tokyo 2008 is finished), Madison Square Garden (Wintuk), Las Vegas Sands (Macao 2008, Macao 2010), Oriental Land CO (Tokyo 2008), Kodak Theater (Hollywood 2010) and Nahkeel (Dubai 2010). Cirque du Soleil is also persuing partnerships for a resident show in Shanghai and London. [3.2.3] What is a seasonal show? A seasonal show is one that is performed for a very limited time, usually for only one season. Wintuk is an example of a resident show that is also seasonal, as it is only performed from November through January. [3.2.4] What is an arena show? An arena show is one that is made specifically for and showcased directly in a stadium-like venue. These type of shows are akin to traveling concert tours, spending one to four nights in a specific location before packing up and moving on. Current arena productions are: Delirium and Saltimbanco. [3.3] When did these productions premiere? The information is presented as follows: the premiere year, followed by the show title, its exact premiere date and the city in which it premiered. 1984: Le Grand Tour (Jun.16.1984, Gaspe) 1985: Le Grand Tour (May.14.1985, Montreal) 1986: Le Magie Continue (Apr.20.1986/May.18.1986, Sherebrook) 1987: Le Cirque Reinvente (May.07.1987, La Salle) 1990: Nouvelle Experience (May.08.1990, Montreal) 1992: Saltimbanco (Apr.23.1992, Montreal) 1992: Fascination (May.22.1992, Tokyo) 1993: Mystere (Dec.25.1994, Las Vegas) 1994: Alegria (Apr.21.1994, Montreal) 1996: Quidam (Apr.23.1996, Montreal) 1998: O (Oct.19.1998, Las Vegas) 1998: La Nouba (Dec.23.1998/Jan.28.1999, Orlando) 1999: Dralion (Apr.22.1999, Montreal) 2002: Varekai (Apr.24.2002, Montreal) 2003: Zumanity (Jul.31.2003/Sep.20.2003, Las Vegas) 2004: KA (Nov.26.2004/Feb.03.2005, Las Vegas) 2005: Corteo (Apr.21.2005, Montreal) 2006: LOVE (Jun.02.2006/Jun.30.2006, Las Vegas) 2007: Koozå (Apr.19.2007, Montreal) 2007: Wintuk (Nov.01.2007, New York City) } 2008: ZAIA (Jul.26.2008/Aug.28.2008, Macau) } 2008: Believe (Sep.01.2008/Sep.12.2008, Las Vegas) } 2008: ZED (Aug.15.2008/Oct.01.2008, Tokyo) [3.3.1] Why do some shows have two premiere dates? In the case of Le Magie Continue, Cirque du Soleil originally performed at Expo 86 in Vancouver before beginning their Canadian tour. Thus, the official start of the 1986 tour is May 18, 1986. } In the case of La Nouba, Zumanity, KÀ, LOVE, ZAIA, Believe, and } ZED, Cirque du Soleil staged preview performances of these } productions before their official Grand Opening/Gala Premiere. } Therefore, public performances began on the first date, but an } official premiere celebration did on occur until the second. [3.4] Where has Cirque toured? [Touring Productions] Saltimbanco o) North American Tour Apr.23.1992 - Dec.19.1993 o) Japanese Tour Mar.11.1994 - Sep.14.1994 o) European Tour I Mar.03.1995 - Feb.01.1997 Curtain Fell o) Canada Specials (restaged) Oct.14.1998 - Nov.01.1998 o) Asia/Pacific Tour (Australia/Japan) Jan.07.1999 - Nov.21.2001 o) European Tour II Feb.14.2002 - Jul.17.2005 o) Latin American Tour Aug.04.2005 - Dec.10.2006 Curtain Fell Alegría o) North American Tour I Apr.21.1994 - Dec.30.1995 o) Japanese/Hong Kong Tour Mar.22.1996 - Jan.xx.1997 o) European Tour I Mar.06.1997 - Jan.14.1999 o) At Beau Rivage May.20.1999 - Oct.02.2000 o) Australia/Singapore Oct.10.2001 - Apr.07.2002 o) North American Tour II Jun.12.2002 - Sep.26.2004 o) Japanese Tour II Oct.29.2004 - Nov.27.2005 o) European Tour II Jan.05.2006 - Aug.26.2007 } o) South American Tour } Sep.14.2007 - Sep.14.2008 } o) Asian Tour (Seoul/Taiwan) } October/November 2008 Quidam o) North American Tour I Apr.23.1996 - Nov.29.1998 o) European Tour I Jan.xx.1999 - Dec.30.2001 o) North American Tour II Feb.07.2002 - Dec.08.2002 o) Japanese Tour Feb.07.2003 - Apr.04.2004 o) Canada Tour May.06.2004 - Jul.31.2004 o) Asia/Pacific Tour Aug.12.2004 - Dec.16.2005 o) North American Tour III Jan.19.2006 - Oct.22.2006 } o) Middle East/Mexican Tour } Jan.04.2007 - Mar.16.2008 } o) European Tour II } Apr.20.2008 - Present Dralion o) North American Tour Apr.22.1999 - Dec.14.2003 o) European Tour Jan.14.2004 - Jan.07.2007 } o) Japanese Tour } Feb.07.2007 - Jun.15.2008 } o) Australian Tour } Jul.17.2008 - Present Varekai o) North American Tour Apr.24.2002 - Jul.23.2006 o) Australia Aug.10.2006 - Oct.07.2007 o) European Tour Oct.25.2007 - Present Corteo o) North American Tour } Apr.21.2005 - Dec.28.2008 } o) Japanese Tour } Feb.04.2009 - 2010 Koozå o) North American Tour Apr.19.2007 - Present [Resident Productions] o) in Las Vegas, Nevada: - Mystère / Treasure Island - "O" / Bellagio - Zumanity / New York, New York - KÀ / MGM Grand - LOVE / The Mirage } - Criss Angel BELIEVE / Luxor - Elvis 2009 / MGM City Center o) Others (inside USA) - La Nouba / Walt Disney World; Orlando, FL - Wintuk / Madison Square Garden; New York City, NY - Kodak 2010 / The Kodak Theater; Hollywood, CA o) Others (Outside USA) } - ZAIA / The Venitian; Macau, China } - ZED / Tokyo Disneyland; Tokyo, Japan - Macau II / - Dubai / ; Dubai, United Arab Emirates [Arena Productions] Delirium o) North American Tour Jan.26.2006 - Jul.01.2007 o) European Tour } Sep.13.2007 - Apr.19.2008 } Curtain Fell Saltimbanco o) North American Tour Jul.31.2007 - Present [3.5] When can I see an act in rotation? An act-in-rotation is one that rotates in when a primary or signature act of a particular show is unable to perform. This could be due to injury or scheduling; however, it is not generally known what act-in-rotation will appear and when before it is seen. [3.6] What acts can I expect to see on a particular date? Cirque du Soleil knows well in advance (generally) what acts will be presented in what show; however, this information is not public knowledge and is not known to a show's spectators. ---------------------------------- [A] TOURING PRODUCTIONS (BIG TOP) ---------------------------------- [3A.1] LE GRAND TOUR [3A.1.1] Theme To begin a history for Cirque du Soleil, one has to travel back more than 20 years to 1981. That year a new and exciting union was formed: "Club des Talons Hauts, Inc." (which means "the High-Heels Club"). This non-profit company was founded on principle alone: "to promote circus arts and street performers." And in doing so this new organization went on to produce Cirque du Soleil during its earliest performances at Les Echassiers de Baie St-Paul (1981-1983) and Fête Foraine de Baie St-Paul Le Rendez-vous des amuseurs publics (1982-1984) In June 1984, Cirque du Soleil officially came together in part by contributions and summons by the Québec government. Their name, meaning "Sun Circus" or "Circus of the Sun", was created by the troupe's founder: Guy Laliberté. Once armed with an identity, Cirque du Soleil came together to celebrate the 450th anniversary of Jacques Cartier's (1491-1557) arrival. For the festivities, Cirque du Soleil presented a very special show in Gaspé, the very same place Mr. Cartier's voyager took him so long ago as he desperately tried to find a land route through to the Orient. The show was a smash success and the artists, invigorated by its reception, took their creation on the road and visited a handful of cities nearby: Baie-Comeau, Baie St- Paul, Québec, Magog, Hull, and Sorel et Montréal. [3A.1.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Guy Caron Director of Creation Hélène Dubé Costume & Props René Dupéré Composer Lorraine Turpin Artistic Director Andre Caron Set Designer Jean Leduc Lighting Designer Serge Roy Studio Director Zygmunt Biegaj Trainer [3A.1.3] Acts/Performances o) Les Stagiaires o) Le Tango o) Les Enfants o) «Chatouille» o) Break Dance o) Aluna o) Handbalance o) La Ratatouille o) Juggling o) Tight Rope o) La Fanfafonie o) Denis Lancombe [3A.2] LE MAGIE CONTINUE [3A.2.1] Theme Following on the heels of their Grand Tour success (1984 and 1985 tours), Cirque du Soleil revamped their young show into Le Magie Continue. With a new title and attitude Cirque set off once again on a tour of their native homelands. This seasonal tour visited a handful of Canadian cities - eight in all. Cirque also had the distinction of being part of the festivities surrounding Expo'86 in Vancouver, representing their Canadian heritage and homeland. The magic and fantasy continued to follow them wherever they went propelling Cirque du Soleil to new heights in attendance and success. That success also allowed them to take risks - for the first time in Cirque history they extended an invitation to the Chinese government to have a team of its most talented acrobats take part. That invitation grew into the Spining Meteor performance and a life-long partnership with the Chinese arts. [3A.2.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Guy Caron Director of Creation Lorraine Turpin Artistic Director Jean-Yves Cadieux Costume & Props René Dupéré Composer Fernand Bernard Co-Composer Jean Neron Co-Composer Andre Caron Set Designer Luc LaFortune Lighting Designer [3A.2.3] Acts/Performances o) Cycles o) Equilibriste o) Trapeze o) Chair Balancing o) Tightrope o) Les Cyclones o) Hand-to-Hand o) Juggling o) Spinning Meteor o) Springboard In Rotation: o) Fire Breathing [3A.3] LE CIRQUE RÉINVENTÉ [3A.3.1] Theme Beginning in LaSalle in 1987 and ending in Paris in 1990, Le Cirque Réinventé (or "We Reinvent the Circus"), is the show that brought Cirque du Soleil into the limelight, creating nothing less than a phenomenon. Cirque banked its success on the North American West by performing outside their native Canada at the Los Angeles Festival in summer 1987. From there the show cross- crossed the North American Continent before picking up stakes and traveling across the pond to England and France. By today's standards the production is a simple one, without story or theme, but if you look hard enough you can see a simple thread, the beginnings of a tapestry. The theme centers around a small group of people, called Ordinary People. These people are dressed in everyday clothes, milling about and exchanging looks of amazement with the audience at where they have found themselves. They have been drawn into a realm of fantasy - not knowing whether they are dreaming or whether what they see is real. The truth is that these Ordinary People begin to respond to the forces of this realm, to let out the folly and playfullness buried deep inside them. And they begin to show us that this playfullness is inside of us as well. They begin to dance about... Joined by the Queen of the Night and her helpers (the Infants), she produces the atmosphere from which the transformed people play out their destiny. With the help of the ringmaster transformed into Ti- Claude, he will guide you towards your destiny. Our destiny. Le Cirque Réinventé has won many awards including - La Rose d'Or 1989, Montreux, Switzerland; Emmy Award 1989, United States; four Gemini Awards 1989, Canada; Ace Award 1990, National Cable Television Association, United States; Silver Medal 1990, and the 32nd New York International Film and TV Festival. [3A.3.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Guy Caron Director of Creation Michel Crête Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer Benoît Jutras Composer Debra Brown Choreograper Andre Caron Set Designer [3A.3.3] Acts/Performances 1987 Version o) Ringmaster o) Tower on Wheels o) Handbalancing o) Korean Plank o) Slack Wire o) Voltige (Aerial Acrobatics) o) Chair Balancing o) Trick Cycling o) What a Team! o) Conductor 1988 Version o) Chair Balancing o) Contortion o) Juggling o) Hand Balancing o) Korean Plank o) The Conductor o) Fil de Fer o) Trapèze o) Méchanique o) Bicyclette 1989/1990 Version o) Chair Balancing o) Bicycles o) Fil de Fer o) Hand Balancing o) Acrobatic Dance o) Juggling o) Rola Bola o) Korean Plank o) Angelo o) Trapèze [3A.4] NOUVELLE EXPÉRIENCE [3A.4.1] Theme Something new was always on the horizon for Cirque du Soleil, and the success of Le Cirque Réinventé lent its hand to an explosion of growth for Cirque du Soleil But, what Cirque did not know was how well the company would continue to grow. In June of 1989, Franco Dragone, Michel Crete, Dominique Lemieux, René Dupéré, Gilles Ste-Croix, Luc Lafortune and Deborah Brown sat down and began an adventure of creation and imagination. For months they toiled to create a show that featured new artists, a new theme and would be the biggest most theatrical piece yet produced by the troupe. When work was complete it was discovered they had a new Expérience to show the masses; and thus, Nouvelle Expérience was born. The show began its run in Montréal in May of 1990, and took off on a 19-month whirlwind tour of the North American continent. By the end of 1991, Nouvelle Expérience had been to dozens of cities in which 1.3 million people saw the show. Beginning November 1992, and lasting a year, Cirque du Soleil and Steve Wynn's Mirage Resorts signed an agreement that placed a Blue and Yellow big top on the grounds of the Mirage Resort where the show was staged until November 1993. What tale is behind Nouvelle Expérience? In a protected corner of the universe, in a kingdom all their own, exist a group of creatures called the "Flounes" or Angels (Cécile Ardail, Christophe Lelarge, Patrice Wojciechowski, David Lebel and Isabelle Chassé). The world of the "Flounes" is invaded by characters in red - the Devils - who are the spirit of disobedience. Life comes to their world and spreads like a virus, which they look upon candidly. Each performance is linked together by one long narrative. The "Flounes" keep the narrative going for the most part, but they too have help in the form of David Shiner, a one-of-a-kind master clown. During most of the spectacle, we see him trying on different emotions, hoping to find what it is he is looking for. [3A.4.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer Benoît Jutras Composer Debra Brown Choreograper Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Guy Desrochers Sound Designer [3A.4.3] Acts/Performances o) Contortion o) Antipodisme o) Korean Plank o) Film Scene o) Solo Trapeze o) Russian Bar o) Fil de Fer o) Trampoline o) Aerial Straps o) Balancing on Chairs o) Trapeze [3A.5] FASCINATION [3A.5.1] Theme "Welcome to our big top full of dreams," exclaimed Guy Laliberté in 1988, after the smashing success of Le Cirque Réinventé. He repeated this welcome four years later, only this time not in French or English but in Japanese. In 1992, Cirque du Soleil first visited the Land of the Rising Sun -- Japan. For the first time since Le Cirque Réinventé ventured to London to perform with Circus Knie, a Cirque du Soleil show was to be experienced outside of North America. The show was a limited engagement beginning in May of 1992 and concluding that September 1992, running exactly 118 times across nine Japanese cities. Like some of the older Cirque shows (1984/1985), Fascination remains one of the most illusive; hopefully, we can shed a little light on such a colorful world. Fascination is a combination of Le Cirque Réinventé (1987 – 1989) and Nouvelle Expérience (1990 - 1992), consisting of many of the acts featured in both. But that's where the likeness ends. The costumes were re-imagined and made brighter and more colorful. The casts of each were also merged, and the show itself had a different direction. The crew responsible for the show had old and new names alike. As for theme, the show (like Le Cirque Réinventé) begins with the Prologue. Masked people - Ordinary People - dressed in their ordinary everyday clothes. They mill about, uncertain where they are. Are they dreaming? Are they still in reality? Or somewhere in between? Regardless of where they find themselves, these people begin responding to a mysterious urge deep inside of themselves, a playful urge - full of folly. Then, out of a billowing white cloud the Queen of the Night (Michelle Rawlake) and the King of Fools (Stéphane Drouard) emerges, with their child-like helpers. They wave their hands (full of magic) and transform the Ordinary People in their dull ordinary gray clothes into whimsical, colorful acrobats. Color and movement fill the air as the Transformation (the second step in the opening of Fascination) is complete - dreams and fantasy can now be played out! Many familiar faces fill the stage as the show continues through the acts and performances. Like some of the older Cirque shows (1984/1985), Fascination remains one of the most illusive; hopefully, we can shed a little light on such a colorful world. [3A.5.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Roger Parent Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer Benoît Jutras Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Catherine Archambault Choreographer Allison Brierly Choreographer Wayne Hronek Clown Acts [3A.5.3] Acts/Performances o) Les Chaises o) Hand-to-Hand o) Contortion o) Trapeze Volant o) Fil de Fer o) Flying Man o) Trapeze Solo o) Rhythmic Gymnastics o) Korean Plank o) Bicycles [3A.6] SALTIMBANCO [3A.6.1] Theme The framework of Saltimbanco - the characters - like all human beings, are born with nothing. These are the Worms, at the very base of society. All similar in appearance yet different one from the other, they must with time adapt themselves to their environment. Thus, as the show goes on, they embody various types of social characters, hoping to one day accede to the rank of Baroque, a cast of visionaries. The Baroques constitute the most important family in the world of Saltimbanco. Armed with a deeply perceptive vision of the world and sleeping under bridges, the Baroques, throughout the fable, reveal the countless contradictions of our civilization where imagination has not yet taken power. Saltimbanco celebrates life. Created as an antidote to the violence and despair typical of the 20th century, this phantasmagorical show proposes a new vision of urbanity, overflowing with optimism and happiness. Saltimbanco is not linear; rather, it is a kaleidoscope, an adventure in which anything can happen. Saltimbanco has its own language-a soul expressed through the voice, the body and music. In 16th century Italy, the saltimbanco (from the Italian - saltare in banco - meaning literally to jump onto a bench) were performers who entertained crowds in the streets and piazzas. Cirque du Soleil's Saltimbanco is also a diversion. It transports the audience to another dimension - an urban environment where the differences between humans are multiplied. [3A.6.2] Creative Team Original Tour (1992-1997) Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer Restaged (1998-2006) Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Andrew Watson Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer François Bergeron Sound Designer André Hénault Mask Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Re-Designer Arena (2007+) Carmen Ruest Director of Creation Hélène Lemay Boleadoras Choreographer François Desjardins Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Designer René Bazinet Clown Acts Creator & Acting Consultant [3A.6.3] Acts/Performances {Big Top Version} Act One: Act Two: o) Adagio Trio o) Russian Swing o) Chinese Poles o) Trapeze (Duo or Solo) o) Double Wire o) Hand-to-Hand o) Juggling o) Elastics/Bungee o) Boledoras In Rotation: Past Acts: o) Diabolo o) Vertical Rope o) Contortion o) Manipulation NOTE: Curtain Fell on Saltimbanco in Rio de Janiero, Brazil on December 10, 2006. This show is no longer performed live in its original configuration. {Arena Version} Act One: Act Two: o) Adagio Trio o) Russian Swing o) Chinese Poles o) Duo Trapeze o) Juggling o) Hand-to-Hand o) Boledoras o) Elastics/Bungee In Rotation: o) Trick Bicycle [3A.7] ALEGRIA [3A.7.1] Theme Power! The transformation of society over the centuries! Ancient monarchies evolving into contemporary democracies! The king, who rules by divine right; the president, elected by the people. Old age. Youth. These are a few of the themes and concepts which were woven together to create the characters that make up the world of Alegría. They include court jesters, minstrels, beggars, old aristocrats and children. They are joined by the clowns who alone have been able to resist the political upheavals and social transformations. Witnesses to the passing of centuries, they serve as the social commentators for Alegría. Alegría, a Spanish word for elation, exhilaration and jubilation, is a celebration of life. It is a spectacular production which evokes a time when fantasy and magic were integral parts of everyday life - a time when a person's world was his family, his village, and beyond was the great unknown. Alegría is a carnival, harkening back to the traveling family circuses which cris-crossed Europe not so long ago. In developing Alegría, Cirque du Soleil searched for a theme that would strike a chord with spectators everywhere and leave them with a lasting impression. What they saw in the world around them was uncertainty - a society in flux - in constant upheaval. They saw a world of contrasts - power and powerlessness, cruelty and kindness. They saw the irony of globalization, where a constantly shrinking world leaves individuals more isolated than ever before. They saw the irony of progress. A dictatorship falls in one part of the world only to be replaced by famine or war in another - as though the sum of evil and hardship in the world remains ever- constant. In this confusing, enigmatic world, one thing is clear. Through all change, uncertainty and hardship, the human spirit remains indomitable - relentless in the face of adversity. Alegría celebrates this strength. It is a rallying cry. Let us embrace change. Let our old habits and structures shake in their foundations. Together, let us build a brighter tomorrow. [3A.7.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer Guy Desrochers Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Re-Designer [3A.7.3] Acts/Performances Act One: Act Two: o) Synchro Trapeze o) Flying Man o) Fast Track o) Russian Bars o) Fire Dance o) Contortion o) Hoops/Manipulation o) High Bar o) Strong Man o) Snow Storm In Rotation: Past Acts: o) Hand Balancing o) Shoulder-Pole Wire o) Juggling o) Aerial Cube o) Solo Trapeze o) Slack Wire o) Flying Man in Silk [3A.8] QUIDAM [3A.8.1] Theme Quidam: a nameless passer-by, a solitary figure lingering on a street corner, a person rushing past. It could be anyone, anybody. Someone coming, going, living in our anonymous society. A member of the crowd, one of the silent majority. One who cries out, sings and dreams within us all. This is the Quidam that Cirque du Soleil celebrates. Quidam marks a turning point in Cirque du Soleil's history. Unlike the troupe's previous shows, Quidam does not take spectators to an imaginary realm of fanciful, larger-than-life characters. Rather, it is an examination of our own world inhabited by real people with real-life concerns. In the words of its director, Franco Dragone - "We wanted this production to be more human. Like preceding productions, Quidam conveys emotion, but it is more raw and intense, more dramatic and personal. Quidam highlights our frailties and our anguish in the face of the new millennium that lies before us." The show emanated from a concern about growing alienation and loneliness in a world that, ironically, is devising ever-more ingenious ways of keeping people in touch with one another. The show depicts human suffering, but at the same time celebrates life. Quidam is about rediscovery - about giving new meaning to the mundane. [3A.8.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer Benoit Jutras Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer François Bergeron Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Designer [3A.8.3] Acts/Performances Act One: Act Two: o) German Wheel o) Handbalancing o) Diabolos o) Spanish Webs o) Contortion in Silk o) Vis-à-vis (Statue) o) Skipping Ropes o) Cloud Swing o) Aerial Hoops o) Banquine In Rotation: Past Acts: o) Juggling o) Manipulation o) Hoops o) Aerial Straps [3A.9] DRALION [3A.9.1] Theme Dralion is an unprecedented fusion of ancient Chinese acrobatic traditions and the avant-garde approach of Cirque du Soleil. It is a contemporary collage of the original and the eclectic, the primitive and the post-modern. Dralion is a celebration of life and derives much of its inspiration from Eastern philosophy with its principles of perpetual discovery and harmony between man and nature. The show pays homage to the four elements - earth, air, fire and water - which take on human form and rule worlds defined by their individual vivid colors. Dralion is an extraordinary voyage through a futuristic dimension- a place without time, ruled by magical laws. Here, the iridescent colors of the costumes are reflected in the metallic glints of a decor straight out of the cinema fantastique. The musical score simultaneously borrows from traditional sources while entering an electro-symphonic realm of a new world. [3A.9.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Guy Caron Director François Barbeau Costume Designer Violaine Corradi Composer Stéphane Roy Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Julie Lachance Choreographer Guy Desrochers Sound Designer [3A.9.3] Acts/Performances Act One: Act Two: o) Hand Balancing o) Spirits o) Bamboo Poles o) Pas de Deux o) Juggling o) Hoop Diving o) Trampoline o) Skipping Ropes o) Double Trapeze o) Chinese Drums o) Ballet on Lights o) Dralions In Rotation: Past Acts: o) Foot Juggling o) Contortion with Bowls o) Aerial Hoop o) Teeterboard [3A.10] VAREKAI [3A.10.1] Theme Deep within a forest, at the summit of a volcano, exists an extraordinary world-a world where something else is possible. A world called Varekai. The sky lets go a solitary young man, and the story of Varekai begins. Parachuted into the shadows of a magical forest, a kaleidoscopic world imbued with fantastical creatures, a young man takes flight in an adventure both absurd and extraordinary. On this day at the edge of time, in this place of pure and undiluted possibility, begins an inspired incantation to a life rediscovered and to a newly found wonder in the mysteries of the world and the mind. The word Varekai (pronounced ver-ay-'kie) means "wherever" in the Romany language of the gypsies-the universal wanderers. Directed by Dominic Champagne, this production pays tribute to the nomadic soul, to the spirit and art of the circus tradition, and to those who quest with infinite passion along the path that leads to varekai. "Varekai is a furious, flamboyant celebration inspired by those artists who, every single day, no matter where the wind carries them, risk their life to challenge the laws of gravity, to jump and dance over the volcano," says Director Dominic Champagne. "To tell the old world that something else is possible." Varekai introduces an international cast of more than 50 artists representing 12 countries including Brazil, Canada, China, Georgia, Italy, Moldavia, Romania, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom. Varekai emerges from an explosive fusion of drama and acrobatics. The impossible becomes possible in stunning displays of skill and power set against innovative music and otherworldly sets, interwoven with vivid choreography that speaks to all in the universal language of movement. The pendulum of time sweeps backward, paying tribute to the ancient and rare circus traditions of Icarian games, water meteors and Georgian dance. Varekai then catapults to the future with revolutionary twists on such acts as Russian swings, body skating and triple trapeze. [3A.10.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Dominic Champagne Director Andrew Watson Director of Creation Stéphane Roy Set Designer Eiko Ishioka Costume Designer Violaine Corradi Composer Michael Montanaro Choreographer Bill Shannon Choreographer Jaque Paquin Rigging Designer Nol Van Genuchten Lighting Designer François Bergeron Sound Designer Francis Laporte Projection Designer Cal McCrystal Clown Acts Designer (duos) Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Designer André Simard Aerial Acts Designer [3A.10.3] Acts/Performances Act One: Act Two: o) Aerial Net o) Body Skating o) Icarian Games o) Solo on Crutches o) Water Meteors o) Aerial Straps o) Triple Trapeze o) Juggling o) Georgian Dance o) Hand-Balancing o) Russian Swings In Rotation: Past Acts: o) Aerial Hoop o) Pas de Deux [3A.11] CORTEO [3A.11.1] Theme Corteo, which means "cortege" in Italian, combines the craft of the actor with the prowess of the acrobat to plunge the audience into a world of playfulness and spontaneity situated in a mysterious area between Heaven and Earth. Corteo is a grand procession, a festive parade imagined by a clown. Juxtaposing the large with the small, the ridiculous with the tragic and the magic of perfection with the charm of imperfection, the show highlights the strength and fragility of the clown, as well as his wisdom and kindness, to illustrate the portion of humanity that is within each of us. The clown is Everyman, a cunning idiot, a colourful loser who shines a light on all that is difficult and beautiful in life. Corteo evokes the full spectrum of emotion and experience: love, friendship, pain, joy, wisdom, beauty, life and even death. Corteo, a timeless revel in which illusion teases reality. The cast of Corteo brings together over 50 artists from 14 different countries: Armenia, Belarus, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, France, Italy, Kenya, Romania, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the United States. Corteo explores the circus arts in a way that is brand new to Cirque du Soleil. Once again, the very limits of acrobatics are challenged as Daniele Finzi Pasca lends his unique touch to Cirque du Soleil's spectacular performances. Corteo redefines the springboard, the Korean frame and the tightwire, and presents acts that are as original as they are innovative. The desire to surprise and move audiences is a big part of the inspiration behind Corteo. [3A.11.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Daniele Finzi Pasca Creator and Director Line Tremblay Director of Creation Jean Rabasse Set Designer and Decorator Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer Philippe Leduc Composer and Musical Director Maria Bonzanigo Composer and Musical Director Martin Labrecque Lighting Designer Jonathan Deans Lighting Designer Danny Zen Acrobatic Rigging Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-up Designer With Teatro Sunil: Hugo Gargiulo Acting Designer Antonio Vergamini Acting Designer Dolores Heredia Dramaturgical Analyst [3A.11.3] Acts/Performances Act One: Act Two: o) Chandeliers o) Paradise o) Trampoline Beds o) Duo Adagio o) Roue Cyr o) Ladder o) Tightwire o) Aerial Strap o) Juggling o) Tournik o) Korean Plank In Rotation: Past Acts: o) Acrobatic Duo o) Rhythmic Gymnastics [3A.12] KOOZA [3A.12.1] Theme Koozå, whose name is inspired by the Sanskrit word "koza," meaning "box," "chest" or "treasure," tells the story of a melancholy loner (The Innocent) in search of his place in the world and through his search we are taken on a journey through strength, fragility, laughter, turmoil and harmony. Koozå also represents a return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil. Koozå is a return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil that combines two circus traditions - acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. The show highlights the physical demands of human performance in all its splendor and fragility, presented in a colorful mélange that emphasizes bold slapstick humor. Between strength and fragility, laughter and smiles, turmoil and harmony, Koozå explores themes of fear, identity, recognition and power. The show is set in an electrifying and exotic visual world full of surprises, thrills, chills, audacity and total involvement. [3A.12.2] Creative Team David Shiner Writer and Director Serge Roy Director of Creation Stéphane Roy Set Designer Marie-Chantale Vaillancourt Costume Designer Jean-François Côté Composer Clarence Ford Choreographer Martin Labrecqu Lighting Designer Jonathan Deans Co-Sound Designer Leon Rothenberg Co-Sound Designer Rogé Francoeur Props Designer Danny Zen Acrobatic Equipment & Rigging Designer André Simard Acrobatic Performance Designer Florence Cornet Makeup Designer [3A.12.3] Acts/Performances: Act One: Act Two: o) Charivari o) Wheel of Death o) Contortion o) Juggling o) Solo Trapeze o) Chair Balancing o) Duo Unicycle o) Teeterboard o) Highwire [3A.13] CIRQUE TOUR 2009 [3A.13.1] Theme To Be Determined [3A.13.2] Creative Team Deborah Colker Director Chantal Tremblay Director of Creation Gringo Cardia Set Designer [3A.13.3] Creative Team To Be Determined ----------------------------------- [B] RESIDENT PRODUCTIONS (THEATER) ----------------------------------- [3B.1] MYSTÈRE [3B.1.1] Theme It is performance art without boundaries. Ballet without gravity. It is theatre without actors. It is Mystère, the surrealistic celebration of music, dance, acrobatics and comedy from the artists who hold the patent on imagination bending, Cirque du Soleil. Mystère is the story of the universe - a rich voyage from the dawn of time to the end of the millennium. Mystère is also mans journey from infancy to adulthood - his desire to understand the universe, his search for answers and his ultimate discovery that life itself is a mystery. Mystère is a celebration of life. From the genesis of the first life forms to the rise of human civilizations, the driving force has always been the vital spark of life, throbbing, struggling, reproducing, weaving through death and rebirth. From the infinitesimally microscopic to the infinitely vast, from the most majestic to the most terrifying, from the most fragile to the most powerful, all is the making of life. Mystère is a voyage to the very heart of life where past, present and future merge, and all our emotions converge. Mystère is the enigma of time, the bearer of hopes and dreams but also of tragedy. It is above all the remembrance of time past, memories of life unfolding, following its course and ultimately surviving against all odds. You may call it art. You may call it theatre. We call it Mystère. [3B.1.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Re-Designer [3B.1.3] Acts/Performances Current Acts: o) Aerial Cube o) Fast Track o) Chinese Poles o) Korean Plank o) Hand-Balancing o) Trampoline o) Hand-to-Hand o) High Bar o) Bungee/Elastics o) Taïko Past Acts: o) Manipulation o) Flying Trapeze o) Le Filet [3B.2] "O" [3B.2.1] Theme Beyond circus, beyond theatre, with "O" Cirque du Soleil has created an entirely original form of live entertainment. "O" pays tribute to the magic of the theatre - from the simplest street performance to the most lavish of operas - where anything is possible and where the drama of life plays itself out before our very eyes. "O" is a homage to the theatre, the place where we try to entertain all of humanity," says Dragone. "For it is in the theatre where humanity tries to understand itself." In creating "O", Cirque du Soleil imagined a spectacular production unlike any other show on Earth. After three years in development, they surpassed their own expectations by creating a truly magical oasis in the middle of the Nevada desert. The fantastic story of "O" centers around an unsuspecting theatre-goer named Giufa - our unwitting guide through this magical realm. When Giufa is chosen to give the show's opening speech, the curtain is suddenly swept away carrying him high up into the air. As his laughter echoes through the theatre, the stage dissolves to reveal an aquatic universe teeming with amphibious creatures and larger than life characters. The incredible adventure has begun. On the other side of the proscenium, Giufa is no longer a mere onlooker, but a witness, a conspirator, an actor in a world that changes constantly before his eyes. While Giufa guides us through "O", each spectator undertakes his or her own odyssey. "O" frees us to lose ourselves in a world without limits - where dreams are not only encouraged, but where they come true. [3B.2.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer Benoit Jutras Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer François Bergeron Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Designer [3B.2.3] Acts/Performances o) Nage (Synchro Swimming) o) Cadre o) Duo Trapeze o) High Dive o) La Barge (Banquine) o) Washington Trapeze o) Bateau o) Contortion o) Fire o) Cerceaux (Aerial Hoops) o) Russian Swings [3B.3] LA NOUBA [3B.3.1] Theme "La Nouba" means "to party" and that is what Cirque du Soleil has produced. It is an unforgettable journey through the universe. La Nouba is the story of all stories, the site of all mysteries, where dreams and nightmares sleep side by side. La Nouba is memory, individual and universal. It beckons to us, challenges us to uncover passions we thought we'd lost long ago. Here, anything is possible. This world then contains two types of families: the colorful Cirques (circus people) and the Urbanites (faceless people). But as in fables, it is not so much this contrast as the interplay between these two groups which sparks our curiosity and feeds our imagination. From this encounter is born fear and ecstasy. From this encounter is born La Nouba. [3B.3.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Franco Dragone Director Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer Benoit Jutras Composer Michel Crête Set Designer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer François Bergeron Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Designer [3B.3.3] Acts/Performances o) German Wheel o) Aerial Ballet in Silk o) Funambule (High Wire) o) Balancing on Chairs o) Diabolos o) Flying Trapeze o) Cycles (BMX) o) Power Track o) Aerial Cradle [3B.4] ZUMANITY [3B.4.1] Theme Zumanity [zü'man-eh-tee] is described as "an intense visit to a world where human inhibitions are both unveiled and discarded, where style and intense sensual passion share an uncommon stage." Cirque recently offered this definition of the word: "n. n. Neologism dating from 2003, contraction of the words "zoo" and "humanity." 1. A human zoo. 2. A new form of eroticism which blends dance movement, acrobatics and beautiful bodies with the sensual caress of the human voice and the pulse of exotic rhythms. 3. An exploration that awakens the most primal urges in human beings." [3B.4.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Dominic Chapagne Writer/Director René Richard Cyr Writer/Director Andrew Watson Director of Creation Thierry Mugler Costume Designer Stéphane Roy Set Designer Simon Carpentier Composer Debra Brown Coreographer Marguerite Derricks Coreographer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer Cal McCrystal Comedic Director Natcha Merritt Photographer/Projection Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Designer Jaque Paquin Rigging/Acrobatic Designer Normand Blais Props Designer Anna Liani Additional Music/Lyrics [3B.4.3] Acts/Performances Current Acts/Running Order: o) Extravaganza o) Dance on TV o) Wind o) 2Men o) Wassa o) Pom Poms o) Waterbowl o) Market o) Hoops o) Straps o) Castroses o) Knives o) Scotch Baggies o) Tissus o) Hand 2 Hand o) Midnight Bath o) Expressions o) Gentle Orgy o) Dislocation o) Finale Past Acts: o) Fire o) Acrobatic Pas de Deux [3B.5] KÀ [3B.5.1] Theme KÀ combines acrobatic performances, martial arts, puppetry, multimedia and pyrotechnics to illustrate the nature of duality. Created and directed by acclaimed theatre and film director Robert Lepage, the show applies the visual vocabulary of cinema to a live spectacle creating a vibrant narrative that conjures an entire empire on stage. KÀ tells the epic saga of separated twins-a boy and a girl-who embark on a perilous journey to fulfill their linked destinies. As the plot unfolds, danger lies in wait for them at every turn. Archers and spearmen hunt the twins relentlessly, as their quest takes them through a succession of challenging landscapes, from mysterious seashore through menacing mountains and foreboding forests. Cirque du Soleil Founder and CEO, Guy Laliberté, describes KÀ as "the most theatrical show we've ever done." It is scripted with a strongly defined almost cinematic narrative, with clearly identified characters and story arcs. The execution of that narrative called for more technologically advanced visual effects than Cirque du Soleil has ever attempted. "That's why I wanted Robert Lepage to write and direct the show. With his vast experience in theatre and film, his knowledge of the technology and his curiosity and innovative spirit, he was the only man for the job." The KÀ Theatre is an astonishing performance space, seating 1,951 guests. "The arrival of KÀ is the crown jewel in the renaissance of MGM Grand," says Gamal Aziz, MGM Grand president and COO. "Throughout our reinvention, we have strived for the best in dining, entertainment and service. With the unveiling of KÀ, MGM Grand is taken to a new level." The show's title, KÀ, is inspired by the ancient Egyptian belief in the "ka," an invisible spiritual duplicate of the body that accompanies every human being throughout this life and into the next. That concept is also reflected in the show's visual signature, which evokes the central theme of duality as personified by the twins and the symbolic use of fire. The logo is influenced by Asian iconography. [3B.5.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Robert Lepage Creator and Director Guy Caron Director of Creation Mark Fisher Set Designer Marie-Chantale Vaillancourt Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer and Arranger Jacques Heim Choreographer Luc Lafortune Lighting Designer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer Holger Förterer Interactive Projections Michael Curry Puppet Designer Patricia Ruel Props Designer Jaque Paquin Acrobatic Equipment/Rigging André Simard Aerial Acrobatics Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-up Designer [3B.5.3] Acts/Performances o) The Pagent o) The Blizzard o) The Storm o) The Flight o) The Deep o) Twin Brother Captivity o) The Archer's Den o) Forest People o) Wash-up on the Shore o) Slave Cage o) The Shadow Play o) The Battle Begins o) The Climb o) Aftermath Past Acts: o) Pillars o) Forest Jumping Between Poles [3B.6] LOVE [3B.6.1] Theme LOVE, the latest Cirque du Soleil creation, a co-production with Apple Corps Ltd., celebrates the musical legacy of The Beatles and is presented exclusively at The Mirage in Las Vegas. This joint artistic venture marks the first time that The Beatles company, Apple Corps Ltd., has agreed to a major theatrical partnership. The project was born out of a personal friendship and mutual admiration between the late George Harrison and Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté. LOVE brings the magic of Cirque du Soleil together with the spirit and passion of The Beatles to create an intimate and powerful entertainment experience. It captures the essence of love that John, Paul, George and Ringo inspired during their astonishing adventure together. Using the master tapes at Abbey Road Studios, Sir George Martin and Giles have created a unique soundscape for LOVE. "We wanted to make sure there are enough good, solid hit songs in the show, but we don't want it to be a catalog of 'best of's'," said Sir George Martin. "We also wanted to put in some interesting and not well-known Beatles music and use fragments of songs. The show is a unique and magical experience." Dominic Champagne, who directed and wrote the original concept for the show, explained his vision for LOVE. "I wanted to create a Beatles experience rather than a Beatles story, taking the audience on an emotional journey rather than a chronological one, exploring the landscapes and experiences that have marked the group's history," said the director. LOVE is a Rock 'n' Roll poem, a magical mystery tour into the heart and soul of The Beatles music through an exploration of the aesthetic, political and spiritual trends of the 1960s. Inspired by the poetry of the lyrics, the creative team designed a series of scenes inhabited by colorful characters in extravagant costumes. The international cast of 60 channels a raw, youthful energy evoking the exuberant and irreverent spirit of The Beatles. High-energy fusions of urban, freestyle dance, aerial performance and fast-paced athleticism make LOVE a visual and musical feast. [3B.6.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide, Show Concept Creator Dominic Champagne Director, Writer & Show Concept Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation, Show Concept Chantal Tremblay Associate Director of Creation Jean Rabasse Theatre and Set Designer Philippe Guillotel Costume Designer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer Yves Aucoin Lighting Designer Francis Laporte Video Projection Designer Hansel Cereza Choreographer Dave St-Pierre Choreographer Guy St-Amour Acrobatic & Rigging Designer Daniel Cola Acrobatic Performance Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-up Designer Patricia Ruel Props Designer Michael Curry Puppet Designer Guest Creators: Geneviève Dorion-Coupal Choreographer Daniel Ezralow Choreographer Margie Gillis Choreographer Alexis Martin Dramaturge Consultant François Pérusse Comic Audio-clips Designer André Simard Aerial Acrobatic Designer For Apple Corps Ltd.: Sir George Martin Music Director Giles Martin Music Director Neil Aspinall Executive Producer [3B.6.3] Acts/Performances: o) Nowhere Land o) Strawberry Fields o) Because o) Parade o) Get Back o) Within You, Without You o) Glass Onion o) Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds o) Eleanor Rigby o) Octopus' Garden o) I Am the Walrus o) Lady Madona o) Rock'n Roll Run o) Here Comes the Sun o) Abbey Road o) Come Together o) Gnik Nus / Something o) Revolution/Back in the USSR o) The Benefit of Mr. Kite o) While my Guitar Gently Weeps o) Help! o) A Day in the Life o) Blackbird o) Hey Jude o) Yesterday o) Sgt Pepper (reprise) o) Jam Session o) All You Need is Love [3B.7] WINTUK [3B.7.1] Theme Wintuk is an enchanting winter tale about a boy named Wintuk and his quest to find snow and adventure. Wintuk lives in a city where the arrival of winter has brought long shadows and intense cold - but no snow! He interacts with an extraordinary cast of high-energy urban street characters, including acrobats, dancers and talking marionettes. But when the snow does not arrive, he embarks on a quest with three companions - a female shaman who's lost in the city, a shy man destined to discover his courage, and the shadow of a young girl - to find the snow and bring it back to where it belongs. The adventurers journey to an imaginary Arctic - a world without sunlight - where they encounter the rich culture of the People of the North and extraordinary giant characters made of ice. When at last the sun returns, they fly home on the wings of a giant crane and generate a swirling snowstorm. The show is playful, musical, and bursting with the energy of the city and the broad sweep of nature. A cast of 50 performers weaves thrilling circus arts, breathtaking theatrical effects and memorable songs into a meaningful seasonal story that resonates with the whole family. [3B.7.2] Creative Team Richard Blackburn Director Fernand Rainville Director of Creation Patricia Ruel Set and Props François Barbeau Costume Designer Simon Carpentier Composer Jim Corcoran Songwriter Catherine Archambault Choreographer Yves Aucoin Lighting Designer Francis Laporte Projections Designer Jonathan Deans Sound Co-designer Leon Rothenberg Sound Co-designer Daniel Cola Acrobatic Performance Designer Guy St-Amour Acrobatic Equipment and Rigging Eleni Uranis Make-up Designer [3B.7.3] Acts/Performances o) Aerial Straps o) Rola Bola o) Charivari o) Rag Doll o) Cyr Wheel o) Russian Bars o) Hoops o) Slack Wire o) Inner Tubes o) Swiss Balls o) Juggling [3B.8] ZAIA [3B.8.1] Theme ZAIA is about a young girl who journeys into space on a strange, yet familiar voyage of self-discovery. As she travels, she encounters the beauty of humanity and eventually brings it back with her to share with the inhabitants of earth. ZAIA presents a young girl’s perception of the stars and planets, space and infinity, all populated by a panoply of fantastic, literally out-of-this-world creatures. ZAIA is a show that highlights dance, movement and aerial acrobatics, soaring to the farthest reaches of space and human beauty. (Working Name: "Cosmos") [3B.8.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Gilles Ste-Croix SVP, Creative Content Gilles Maheu Writer and Director Neilson Vignola Director of Creation Guillaume Lord Set Designer Dominique Lemieux Costume Designer Violaine Corradi Composer & Musical Director Martino Müller Choreographer Jeff Hall Acrobatic Choreogpraher Rob Bollinger Acrobatic Performance Designer Guy Lemire Acrobatic Equipment & Rigging Axel Morgenthaler Lighting Designer Jimmy Lakatos Projection Designer Raymond Saint-Jean Projection Designer Steve Dubuc Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-up Designer Leonid Leykin Clown Acts Designer [3B.8.3] Acts/Performances To Be Determined [3B.9] Criss Angel BELIEVE [3B.9.2] Theme On his death bed, legendary magician and escape artist, Harry Houdini told his wife the following; "After my death, many people will claim that they are still able to communicate with me. If their claims are valid, they will be able to tell you a code word - that word is BELIEVE." CRISS ANGEL Believe will be a haunting exploration deep inside the inventive mind of mystifier Criss Angel as he hovers between the land of the living and a surreal world uniquely woven together by the distinctive imaginations of Criss Angel and Cirque du Soleil. Unlike traditional magic-themed shows, CRISS ANGEL Believe transcends any preconceived notion of what it means to be truly emotionally engaged by the arts of mysticism and illusion. Imagine a fantasy, an allegory, a highly theatrical tableau of mood, reverie and emotion set against a backdrop of dreamlike darkness and light. Criss Angel stars as a surreal, enigmatic Victorian Noble. Along a path of imaginative exploration, he encounters Kayala and Crimson, two women who represent different aspects of femininity, four bizarre Ushers, who will introduce the audience to the baroque theater of Criss's mind and a high-energy troupe of characters and dancers who mix a multitude of styles into a high-energy visual feast, punctuated by moments of grace and sensuality. The stunning illusions in CRISS ANGEL Believe will not be presented as stand-alone elements, but as interdependent components using heightened imagery, fantastical creatures and impossible feats of legerdemain, which will all be integrated into the dazzling, colorful fabric of the story. [3B.9.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Gilles Ste-Croix SVP, Creative Content Criss Angel Illusions Designer/Star Serge Denoncourt Director & Co-Writer Pierre Phaneuf Director of Creation Christiane Barette Associate Director of Creation Ray Winkler Set Designer Mérédith Caron Costume Designer Éric Serra Composer, Musical Director & Arranger Wade Robson Choreographer Jeanette Farmer Lighting Designer Francis Laporte Images and Projection Jonathan Deans Sound Designer Jaque Paquin Acrobatic Equipment & Rigging André Simard Acrobatic Performance Michael Curry Props & Puppets Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-up Designer [3B.9.3] Acts/Performances To Be Determined [3B.10] ZED [3B.10.1] Theme ZED is a living poem, a timeless evocation that draws on the Tarot and its arcana, an imaginary world that conjures the vitality of the human condition and holds up a mirror to our true selves. The central, larger-than-life character Zed represents all of humanity in all its guises, from wisdom to folly, from discovery to adventure. Zed grows as he discovers the world on his journey of initiation. Through this undertaking the people of the sky and the people of the earth are trying to connect with each other; through Zed, they come together. The world of the arcana, in which ZED finds its inspiration, teems with life and vibrant characters, including the Great Goddess, The Fool, The Sphinxes and the Satyrs - all engaged in a lyrical odyssey to the heart of the human experience. (Working Name: "Zed") [3B.10.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Gille Ste-Croix SVP, Creative Content François Girard Writer and Director Line Tremblay Director of Creation François Séguin Set Designer Renée April Costume Designer René Dupéré Composer and Arranger David Finn Lighting Designer Debra Brown Choreographer Jean-Jacques Pillet Choreographer François Bergeron Sound Designer Scott Osgood Acrobatic Equipment and Rigging Florence Pot Acrobatic Performance Designer Eleni Uranis Make-up Designer Serge Lamothe Playwright [3B.10.3] Acts/Performances To Be Determined [3B.11] ELVIS 2009 [3B.11.1] Theme In the same vain as The Beatles: LOVE, Cirque du Soleil will take audiences into the world of Elvis Presley through his collected works. [3B.11.2] Creative Team Vincent Paterson Director Armand Thomas Director of Creation Mark Fisher Set Designer Stefano Canulli Costume Designer Marc Brickman Lighting Designer Jonathan Deans Sound Designer Guy St-Amour Acrobatic Equipment and Rigging Daniel Cola Acrobatic Performance Designer [3B.11.3] Acts/Performances To Be Determined [3B.12] MACAO II 2010 [3B.12.1] Theme To be Determined [3B.12.2] Creative Team René Simard Director Serge Roy Director of Creation Stéphane Roy Set Designer Alan Hranitelj Costume Designer Alain Lortie Lighting Designer Michel Cusson Composer Steve Dubuc Sound Designer [3B.12.3] Acts/Performances To Be Determined [3B.13] KODAK 2010 [3B.13.1] Theme Cirque du Soleil will celebrate the golden age of Hollywood and then some with this production scheduled to open late 2010 at the famous Kodak Theater in Hollywood, California. [3B.13.2] Creative Team [3B.13.1] Acts/Performances [3B.14] DUBAI 2011 [3B.14.1] Theme To Be Determined [3B.14.2] Creative Team Guy Caron Co-director Michael Curry Co-director Fernand Rainville Director of Creation [3B.14.3] Acts/Performances To Be Determined ------------------------------- [C] OTHER & ARENA PRODUCTIONS ------------------------------- [3C.1] JOURNEY OF MAN [3C.1.1] Theme Journey of Man is Cirque du Soleil's first IMAX film production Presented in IMAX 3D Technology). Lasting approximately 38 minutes, this large screen presentation contains many of the best acts from many Cirque du Soleil shows, including: The Taïko, Bungee, the Cube Man, the Statue Act and Banquine. Each are assembled to tell the story, or the journey, of man -- from birth to old age. Cirque du Soleil Journey of Man is a breathtaking odyssey that follows the stages of human development from birth to maturity, with each stage presented by a Cirque du soleil act. The signature Cirque du Soleil celebration of color, light, music and costume combine with a backdrop of various natural and historical landmarks around the world, creating a triumph of artistry beyond compare. From the opening explosion of light and sound that represents the universe's formation, Cirque du Soleil Journey of Man leads us through the birth of the Universal Child as it travels from childhood, through adolescence and manhood, on to maturity. An awe-inspiring feast for the senses, incomparable artistry and stylish elegance make this an adventure of a lifetime. [3C.1.2] Creative Team Keith Melton Director Peter Wagg Producer/Co-Writer Andre Picard Producer Antoine Compin Co-Producer Charis Horton Co-Producer Reed Smoot Director of Photography Benoit Jutras Composer [3C.1.3] Acts/Performances o) Taiko o) Aerial Cube o) Synchro Swimming o) Hand-to-Hand o) Elastics/Bungee o) Banquine [3C.2] DELIRIUM [3C.2.1] Theme DELIRIUM is the quest for balance in a world that is increasingly out of sync with reality. It pushes the limit of arena performance through technical magnitude, human introspection and creative prowess. DELIRIUM is an urban tale, a state-of-the-art mix of music, dance, theatre, and multimedia. Pumped by this re-energized Cirque du Soleil rhythm, the DELIRIUM tour transports audiences into a universe of delirious sensory folly. For the first time in Cirque du Soleil history, lyrics have been created for the instrumental tracks and real words integrated in place of invented language, bringing to the music a fresh poetic dimension. The texts are in English, French, Spanish, Wolof and Portuguese. Robbie Dillon, who contributed texts for Cirque du Soleil's ZUMANITY, composed the English lyrics for DELIRIUM. In all, 20 of Cirque du Soleil's most memorable musical moments originally created by René Dupéré, Benoît Jutras and Violaine Corradi have been re-mixed by Quebec producer, composer and arranger Francis Collard, who deftly injects new life into these powerful classics. The result is a hyper-energizing urban tribal beat that explodes with electronic sounds, percussions and world rhythms. To heighten the musical experience, DELIRIUM is infused with acrobatic dances choreographed by Mia Micheals, as well as classic Cirque du Soleil feats including aerial, acrosport and hand balancing acts. [3C.2.2] Creative Team Guy Laliberté Guide Gilles Ste-Croix Director of Creation Michel Lemieux Creators, directors, multimedia Victor Pilon and scenic designers Francis Collard Musical Director/Producer Mia Michaels Choreographer Michel Robidas Costume Designer Alain Lortie Lighting Designer Yves Savoie Sound designer Anne-Séguin Poirier Props Designer Carmen Ruest Director of Creation Ian Tremblay Associate producer/Musical [3C.2.3] Acts/Performances DELIRIUM is a "Live Musical Event" therefore its performance Differs somewhat from other Cirque du Soleil productions. o) Aerial Hammock o) Aerial Hoop o) Hand-to-Hand o) Handbalancing o) Acrosport o) Aerial Ring o) Manipulation [3C.3] SALTIMBANCO [3C.3.1] Theme Saltimbanco-from the Italian "saltare in banco," which literally means "to jump on a bench"-explores the urban experience in all its myriad forms: the people who live there, their idiosyncrasies and likenesses, families and groups, the hustle and bustle of the street and the towering heights of skyscrapers. Between whirlwind and lull, prowess and poetry, Saltimbanco takes spectators on an allegorical and acrobatic journey into the heart of the city. Saltimbanco is a characteristic Cirque du Soleil show inspired by the urban fabric of the metropolis and its colorful inhabitants. Decidedly baroque in its visual vocabulary, the show's eclectic cast of characters draws spectators into a fanciful, dreamlike world, an imaginary city where diversity is a cause for hope. [3C.3.2] Creative Team Carmen Ruest Director of Creation Hélène Lemay Boleadoras Choreographer François Desjardins Sound Designer Nathalie Gagné Make-Up Designer René Bazinet Clown Acts Creator & Acting Consultant [3C.3.3] Acts/Performances o) Adagio o) Russian Swing o) Chinese Poles o) Duo Trapeze o) Juggling o) Hand to Hand o) Boleadoras o) Bungees -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [4] CIRQUE DU SOLEIL MUSIQUE (MUSIC) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [4.1] When will .... be on CD? Most show music appears on CD (Cirque du Soleil no longer releases its content on Cassette) several months after the show's world debut. However, there isn't a set timeframe or release schedule for when a certain production's musical score will be available, or in what format it may be. [4.2] What language is used in their music? Cirque du Soleil shows feature a made-up language, Cirque du Soleil originally referred to it as "Saltimbanco Language" because it was made up for Saltimbanco. Today, this made-up vernacular is known as "Cirque Language", which fans have dubbed "Cirquish." The words have no literal meaning and therefore official transcripts of these lyrics are usually not available. There are some exceptions. [4.2.1] How can I obtain lyrics? Some of these imaginary language lyrics can be found in the song books for Mystère, Quidam, Saltimbanco and Alegría, unfortunately they are long out-of-print. English transltions and other lyrics for "Quidam" and "Let Me Fall" can be found in the "Quidam" CD Booklet. "Ombra," "Ballare," and "Miracula Æternitatis" can be found in the "Dralion" CD Booklet. The lyrics to "Alegría" are found inside the "Alegría" CD Booklet. And, the vocal pieces to "Varekai" found in the Sountrack (but not necessarily in the show) are found within the "Varekai" CD Booklet. These songs are sung in French, English, Spanish, and Italian. Delirium features English lyrics with Cirque du Soleil musical tracks. [4.3] Who are the composers? Through the years a number of composers have created music for Cirque du Soleil productions, they are: o) René Dupéré o) Benoît Jutras .) Le Grand Tour .) Le Cirque Réinventé .) Le Magie Continue .) Fascination .) Le Cirque Réinventé .) Mystère .) Nouvelle Expérience .) Quidam .) Fascination .) "O" .) Saltimbanco .) La Nouba .) Mystère .) Journey of Man .) Alegría .) Alegria: Le Film .) KÀ .) Tokyo 2008 o) Violaine Corradi o) Simon Carpenter .) Dralion .) Zumanity .) Varekai .) Wintuk .) Solstrom .) Macao I (2008) o) Jean-François Côté o) Philippe Leduc .) Corteo .) Solstrom .) Koozå .) Corteo o) Maria Bonzanigo o) Michel Cusson .) Corteo .) Macao II (2010) [4.4] Who released/releases the Cirque du Soleil Music Catalog? The first release of Cirque du Soleil music was a vinyl 45 from LE FANFAFONIE, Cirque's first band. The release featured two songs from the 1985 tour, which has never been re-released. Originally, Cirque du Soleil released its own music on LP, Compact Discs and Cassette Tapes through their own in-house label - Nâga - which was part of Cirque's "Le Groupe du Soleil" Services division. Nâga released "Cirque du Soleil" in 1987 and "Nouvelle Expérience" in 1990. An earlier release sporting a Cirque du Soleil record was the 1985 release of the Fanfafonie 45, a vinyl record containing but two songs from the 1985 Tour. In 1992, Cirque du Soleil music interests were released through the RCA/Victor label in the United States and Canada. The agreement with RCA/Victor ended in 2002. In 2002, Cirque du Soleil created its own music imprint called Cirque du Soleil Records/Musique and re-released the majority of their music catalog in association with BMG Canada. In 2004, Cirque du Soleil launched its own music label called Cirque du Soleil Musique, which they dedicated to the creation, production and marketing of music associated with current and future Cirque du Soleil productions, and to the creation of a new musical repertoire through the support and development of emerging artists. Cirque du Soleil Musique products are distributed by Zing Distribution in Canada and by RED Distribution in the U.S. Both are owned or affiliated with the Sony BMG music group. It is interesting to note that RCA/Victor and BMG Classics are also now part of the Sony BMG music conglomeration. [4.4.1] How can I tell which label released what title? This is often tricky to determine, as generally the album cover artwork, insert booklet contents and general packaging visuals did not change from label to label (although the recent incarnations by Cirque du Soleil Musique do sport visual changes), but differences can be discerned by examining the album's catalog number, located on the spine of the album or on the album's back cover. This number will generally be displayed in a string of letters and numbers, hyphenated into three sections: a prefix, a selection code (often also denoting the product number) and a suffix. The album's prefix helps determine the lablel and the suffix helps determine in what medium the album was released. All RCA/Victor releases are denoted with a Catalog Number prefix of 09026. Example: Mystère Live (09026-68596-2) Also note that the suffix (-2) denotes a Compact Disc release. There are also (-1) Vinyl and (-4) Cassette notations where applicable. An RCA/Victor Logo is also promanently displayed on the album visual. All BMG/CDS Musique releases are denoted with a Catalog Number prefix of 40000 or 74321. The suffix here is omitted as all releases were in Compact Disc format. A Cirque du Soleil Musique logo is promenantly displayed on the album back cover. All Cirque du Soleil Musique releases are denoted with a Catalog Prefix combination explained as follows: Prefix: C Cirque D du S Soleil M Musique C Core Music (Show Music) N New Music J Jewel Case D Digipak P Promo L Limited Edition Selection: 10 Canadian Release (Zing) 20 US Release (RED) xxx Product ID Suffix: -1 Vinyl -2 CD -4 Cassette Therefore, as an example, the Saltimbanco (2005) album is denoted: CDSMCJ-10005-2 in Canada and CDSMCJ-20005-2 in the United States accordingly. [4.5] What is available in the Cirque du Soleil's Music Catalog? [Currently Available] {Show Music} o) Saltimbanco (2005) o) Delirium o) Mystère (Live) o) Corteo o) Alegría o) LOVE (Capitol/Apple) o) Quidam o) Wintuk o) "O" o) Koozå o) La Nouba o) Dralion o) Varekai o) Zumanity o) KÀ {Specials} o) Le Best Of o) Solarium-Delirium o) Tapis Rouge: Solarium o) Alegria: Le Film o) Journey of Man [Out of Print] o) Fanfafonie 45 (LP) o) Saltimbanco (1994) o) Cirque du Soleil, Vol 1 o) Saltimbanco (Extended) o) Cirque du Soleil, Vol 2 o) Alegría (Extended) o) Nouvelle Expérience o) Quidam (Extended) o) Collection o) Varekai (Extended) o) Mystère [4.5.1] What is the SPARS code? Many CDs are inundated with a 3-letter code known as the SPARS code. SPARS, an acronym for Society of Professional Audio Recording Studios, tells the consumer how the album was recorded, mixed and transferred. "A" stands for Analog and "D" stands for Digital. You'll find three (3) combinations on CD packaging: AAD: Analog recording and mixing; Digital transfer ADD: Analog recording, Digital mixing and transfer DDD: Digital recording, mixing and transfer. [4.5.2] Are Cirque Volume 1 and 2 different? In 1987, Cirque du Soleil released the music for Le Cirque Réinventé on their own in-house label - Nâga - and titled the CD/LP release "Cirque du Soleil", as the show had yet been titled. In 1989, Cirque du Soleil released a second version of the show's music and subtitled the release "Volume 2" so as to avoid confusion between the two different albums. In 1992, when Cirque du Soleil music interests were released through the RCA/Victor label in the United States and Canada, only Volume 2 was selected; therefore Volume 2 is the more widely known issue. But to confuse matters, the RCA/Victor release did not include the "Volume 2" notation. To answer the question outright; yes both Cirque du Soleil Volume 1 and 2 are different. Volume 1 has a few selected tracks that were not remixed for Volume 2 and Volume 2 features a few tracks from Volume 1 remixed as the show evolved. Neither album is currently available in the Cirque du Soleil Musique label catalog. [4.5.3] Are Mystère and Mystère (Live) different? Before the Cirque du Soleil Musique releases in 2005, little confusion existed between these two titles; however, after the CDS Musique releases, one title was dropped -- "Mystère" -- and the other renamed -- "Mystère Live" to "Mystère" -- but the latter is still the live recording. To help clarify: In 1994, RCA/Victor released the studio recording of the production Mystère, entitled "Mystère." Two years later (in 1996), RCA/Victor released a live compliation of the show it entitled "Mystère Live." While both albums were distributed under the RCA/Victor and BMG/Cirque du Soleil Musique alliances, the original studio (1994) album was not selected for distribution under the Cirque du Soleil Musique label (created in 2004). Instead, Cirque du Soleil chose to rename "Mystère Live" to simply "Mystère" and change the album artwork. The studio recording featuring musical compliations by René Dupéré from the original debut of Mystère is no longer in production or available in the Cirque du Soleil Musique catalog. [4.5.4] What are the Extended CDs? In 2002, the BMG/Cirque du Soleil Musique alliance re-released three studio albums with two extra tracks apiece: Saltimbanco, Alegría and Quidam. All tracks were recorded live under the bigtop and tacked on to the original studio album masters without much fanfare. The extended editions were also released without the consent of the composers and have since been discontinued, but not necessarily due to any objections. [4.5.5] Why is there more than one Saltimbanco CD? Other than the original studio album (denoted "Saltimbanco (1994)") and the Extended edition album (denoted "Satlimbanco (Extended)"), one other commercially available album exists under the Saltimbanco moniker. Its official title is simply "Saltimbanco" but denoted (2005) because the album's music was remixed and re-released that year making it different from the original studio and limited Extended edition albums that have been previously released by either RCA/Victor or BMG/Cirque du Soleil Musique alliances. The "Saltimbanco (2005)" album is the only one currently in production and available. Consequently, there is one other Saltimbanco album in the Cirque du Soleil repertoire: "Saltimbanco Live in Amsterdam." The album is an employee issue CD, recorded live under the big top in Amsterdam 1996 through the sound board. Since it was never commercially available, the title is not considered a canon album in the Cirque du Soleil music catalog (listed above). [4.6] What are the particulars of each Album? [4.6.1] Title Release Dates Cirque du Soleil music is now available in countries around the globe. Each region has had their own CD releases, so for simplicity sake, the release dates listed below are the first time the album was released in Canada or the United States, delimited = Canada Release / US Release. [Nâga] (1985-1990) Fanfafonie 45 = Jan.01.1985 Le Cirque Reinvénté (1) = Nov.08.1987 Les Pengoins 45 = Nov.xx.1988 Le Cirque Reinvénté (2) = Jul.xx.1990 Nouvelle Expérience = Aug.09.1990 [RCA/Victor] (1992-2000) Saltimbanco = Oct.09.1992 (US) Nouvelle Expérience = Mar.23.1993 (US) Mystère = Mar.29.1994 / Nov.08.1994 Alegría = Sep.27.1994 / Oct.11.1994 Le Cirque Réinventé = Nov.08.1994 (US) Mystère Live = Aug 14.1996 / Nov.12.1996 Quidam = Jan.14.1997 (US) Collection = Oct.28.1997 / Mar.24.1998 "O" = Nov.19.1998 / Nov.24.1998 Alegria: Le Film = Mar.23.1999 / Feb.22.2000 La Nouba = Jun.22.1999 / Jun.29.1999 Dralion = Oct.26.1999 / Nov.09.1999 Journey of Man = May.02.2000 [BMG/CDS Musique] (2002-2003) Quidam (Extra Tracks) = Feb.19.2002 Saltimbanco (Extra Tracks) = Mar.19.2002 Alegría (Extra Tracks) = Jun.11.2002 La Nouba = n/a "O" = n/a Mystère Live = n/a Mystère = n/a Dralion = n/a Varekai = Nov.05.2002 / Jan.07.2003 Varekai (Split Track) = Dec.17.2002 Tapis Rouge (Solarium) = Sep.01.2003 Varekai (Bonus CD & DVD) = Oct.01.2003 [CDS Musique] (2004+) Varekai = Jul.20.2004 / Jul.27.2004 Alegría = Jul.20.2004 / Aug.03.2004 Le Best Of = Sep.21.2004 Tapis Rogue: Solarium = Oct.19.2004 Saltimbanco (2005) = Feb.17.2005 Zumanity = Mar.22.2005 Solarium-Delirium = May.17.2005 Quidam = Jun.14.2005 Dralion = Jul.12.2005 "O" = Aug.16.2005 / Sep.06.2005 La Nouba = Aug.16.2005 / Sep.06.2005 Mystère (Live) = Aug.16.2005 / Sep.06.2005 KÀ = Oct.18.2005 Delirium = Jul.25.2006 Corteo = Oct.03.2006 LOVE (Capitol/Apple) = Nov.21.2006 Wintuk = Nov.01.2007 } Koozå = May.01.2008 / Jun.24.2008 [4.6.2] Album Catalog Numbers Cirque du Soleil albums have been released throughout the world. Many of the world's releases share the same catalog numbers with their North American counterparts. There are exceptions; however, which is beyond the scope of this FAQ. The catalog numbers below represent the Canadian Release/Catalog Numbers for the Cirque du Soleil music collection: [Nâga] (1985-1990) Fanfafonie 45 = CIR-001 (Vinyl) Le Cirque Reinvénté (1) = CSCD-1187 (CD) = CS1987C (Cassette) = CS-1187 (Vinyl) Les Pengoins 45 = CS-1188 (Vinyl) Le Cirque Reinvénté (2) = CSCD-0790 (CD) = CS1990C (Cassette) = CS-0790 (Vinyl) Nouvelle Expérience = CSCD-0890 (CD) = CS1990C (Cassette) = CS-0890 (Vinyl) [RCA/Victor] (1992-2000) Note: all albums released by RCA/Victor except "Journey of Man" were released in both CD and Audio Cassette format. CD is denoted -2 and Cassette -4 at the end of the Catalog Number Suffix. Saltimbanco = 09026-61486-2/4 Nouvelle Expérience = 09026-61531-2/4 Mystère = 09026-62686-2/4 Alegría = 09026-62701-2/4 Le Cirque Réinventé = 09026-62523-2/4 Mystère Live = 09026-68596-2/4 Quidam = 09026-68601-2/4 Collection = 09026-68989-2/4 "O" = 09026-63358-2/4 Alegria: Le Film = 09026-63454-2/4 La Nouba = 09026-63502-2/4 Dralion = 09026-63559-2/4 Journey of Man = SK 89097 [BMG/CDS Musique] (2002-2003) Quidam (Extra Tracks) = 74321-91493-2 = 40000-504453-3 = BVCF-31117 (Japan) Saltimbanco (Extra Tracks) = 74321-91655-2 = BVCF-31076 (Japan) Alegría (Extra Tracks) = 74321-93442-2 Varekai = 74321-93928-2 La Nouba = 40000-504448-9 "O" = 40000-504451-9 Mystère Live = 40000-504452-6 Mystère = 09026-62686-2 Dralion = n/a Varekai (Split Track) = n/a Tapis Rouge (Solarium) = 40000-504640-7 Tapis Rouge (Solarium) = 40000-503654-5 Varekai (Bonus CD & DVD) = 40000-503805-1 [CDS Musique] (2004+) Varekai (+) = CDSMCx-10017-2 Alegría (+) = CDSMCx-10007-2 Le Best Of (+) = CDSMCx-10022-2 Tapis Rogue: Solarium (+) = CDSMCx-10019-2 Saltimbanco (2005) = CDSMCJ-10005-2 Zumanity = CDSMCJ-10023-2 Solarium-Delirium = CDSMCD-10021-2 Quidam = CDSMCJ-10010-2 Dralion = CDSMCJ-10016-2 "O" = CDSMCJ-10013-2 La Nouba = CDSMCJ-10015-2 Mystère (Live) = CDSMCJ-10009-2 KÀ = CDSMCJ-10024-2 Delirium = CDSMCJ-10004-2 Corteo (CD Only) = CDSMCJ-10025-2 Corteo (w/Bonus DVD) = CDSMCL-10025-2 LOVE (CD Only) (*) = CDP-0946-3-79808-2-8 LOVE (CD/DVD) {CD} (*) = CDP-0946-3-79810-2-3 LOVE (CD/DVD) {DVD} (*) = C9-046-3-79810-9-2 } Wintuk = CDSMCJ-10027-2 } Koozå = CDSMCD-10026-2 NOTE (*): LOVE is released through Capitol Records/Apple Corps and is not an official Cirque du Soleil Musique release. NOTE (+): Varekai, Alegría, Le Best Of, and Tapis Rogue: Solarium were originally released as a Digipak, thus the catalog number would have been CDSMCD-xxxxx-x; however, they have been reissued in Jewel Cases, so their catalog numbers are now denoted CDSMCJ-xxxxx-x. [4.7] Aren't there Singles of Cirque music out there? Yes, there are! Many of the CD singles have only been released in Europe, and therefore are hard to find in many other places around the world. The list below is by no means comprehensive, but has been assembled over the years through exhaustive searching online and cataloging what has appeared on online auction sites: o) Title: Alegría Catalog: BMG #74321-46703-2 Catalog: BMG #74321-47661-2 (Europe) Tracks: 1. "Irna" [4:48] 2. "Alegría" (Album Version) [5:49] The cover simply features the Alegría poster image from 1994, black background with the bird-mask. o) Title: Gamelan Catalog: BMG #BQP-85 Tracks: 1. "Gamelan" (Radio Edit) [3:11] The cover features the same cover as the "O" album. The CD itself features a pose from the contortion act. o) Title: Love Leaves Someone Behind Catalog #: Unknown Tracks: 1. "Love Leaves Someone Behind" [4:03] The cover features a black background with Giulietta from the poster posed over a red rose. The back features the meeting between Giulietta and Frac during a performance of the show. Frac is in an "old bird" costume, with its head piece removed. o) Title: Querer Catalog #: BMG #74321-48491-2 (1997-Europe) Catalog #: BMG #43214-84915-2 (1997-BMG Nederland BV-Holland) Tracks: 1. "Querer" [4:34] 2. "Jeux d'Enfants" [4:40] The cover features the Alegría band in a press photo on a blueish background. Each of the band members is holding their respective instruments. o) Title: Quidam Catalog: BMG #BQP-62 (1996-Canada) Tracks: 1. "Quidam" (Radio Edit) The cover features a picture from inside the Quidam tour programme -- a painting of a man whose head is covered by a bowler hat. o) Title: Quidam Catalog: BMG #64635-27432-1 (1999-Europe) Tracks: 1. "Quidam" (Radio Edit) 2. "Quidam" (Album Version) The cover features a picture from inside the Quidam tour programme -- a painting of a man whose head is covered by a bowler hat. o) Title: Stella Errans Catalog #: BQP-107 Tracks: 1. "Stella Errans" [4:37] The cover features a live shot of the Hand balancing act from Dralion. o) Title: Let Me Fall Catalog #: BMG #74321-60499-2 (Holland) Tracks: 1. "Let Me Fall" (Radio Edit) [3:36] o) Title: Child in His Eyes Catalog #: BMG #74321-67537-2 Tracks: 1. "Child in his Eyes" (Radio Edit) [3:40] 2. "Alegria" (New Arrangement) [4:20] The cover features a black background with Giulietta from the poster posed over a red rose. The back features the meeting between Giulietta and Frac during a performance of the show. Frac is in an "old bird" costume, with its head piece removed. o) Title: Kumbalawe Catalog #: BMG #74321-26040-2 (EU) Catalog #: BMG #74321-27393-2 (GER) Tracks: 1. "Kumbalawe" [5:34] 2. "Saltimbanco" [5:19] 3. "Pokinoi" [5:08] o) Title: Tzelma Catalog #: Unknown Tracks: 1. "Tzelma" [3:00] [4.8] Weren't some albums released in metal tins? Yes, Brisa, a German company, released special editions of the Cirque du Soleil music catalog in metallic tins featuring the album visuals at the time (which mirrored the RCA/Victor releases). Tins were released for the following albums: La Nouba, Quidam, Dralion, Mystère Live and "O". All of the tins were rectancular except La Nouba, which was circular. [4.9] What are the "Tapis Rouge" vinyl mixes? Cirque du Soleil Musique released a variety of dance music mixes on their label outside of North America, primarily in European markets. Many of these tracks were subsequently featured on the "Tapis Rouge Solarium" album as well as the later "Solarium-Delirium" remix album (not to be confused with the "Delirium" showtrack album.) The vinyl releases are as follows: o) Africa (Tapis Rouge Vol 1) CDSM001/CDSM-12001 (UK) A1. Africa (CottonBelly Remix) [4.35] A2. A Tale (Chilluminati Mix) [6:14] B1. Le Reveur (Thievery Corp Remix) [5:08] B2. Emballa (Llorca Remix) [5:46] o) Ombra (Tapis Rouge Vol 2) CDSM002/CDSM-12002 (UK) A1. Ombra (Afterlife Remix) [5:03] A2. Gamelan (Cantoma Remix) [6:02] B1. Africa (Banzai Republic Equator Bound) [6:12] B2. El Pendulo (Fenomenon Northern Comfort Mix) [4:32] o) Aborigenes Jam (Tapis Rouge Vol 3) CDSM003/CDSM-12003 (UK) A1. Vocal Mix (Francois K & Eric Kupper) [8:15] B1. Dub Mix (Francois K & Eric Kupper) [7:45] o) Emballa (Tapis Rouge Vol 4) CDSM004/CDSM-12004 (UK) A. Album Mix (Louie Vega feat. Jaffa) [6:23] B1. Ritual Mix (Louie Vega feat. Jaffa) [6:23] B2. Sun Dub (Louie Vega feat. Jaffa) [5:54] o) Kumbalawe (Tapis Rogue Vol 5) CDSM005/CDSM-12005 (UK) A. Release Mix (Roger Sanchez) [8:33] B. Release The Dub (Roger Sanchez) [7:47] o) Mer Noir/Africa (Tapis Rogue Vol 6) CDSM006/CDSM-12006 (UK) A. Mer Noire (Tiesto Remix) [8:55] B. Africa (Quicksound Remix) [8:55] [4.10.1] Which of these tracks are available on CD? You'll find the following tracks from the vinyl releases on three Cirque du Soleil Musique CD releases. Not all of the tracks released on vinyl made it to CD and thus are only available on that medium. All tracks listed are the same length as their vinyl counterparts unless otherwise noted: o) On the "Tapis Rouge: Solarium" album: - Africa (CottenBelly Remix) - Ombra (Afterlife Remix) - Gamelan (Cantoma Remix) - Africa (Banzai Republic Equator Bound) - El Pendulo (Fenomenon Northern Comfort Mix) o) On "Varekai (Bonus CD/DVD set)" album: - Emballa (Llorca Remix) o) On "Solarium-Delirium" remix album - Aborigenes Jam (Vocal Mix) [as 6:42] - Emballa (Album Mix) [as 6:22] - Kumbalawe (Roger Sanchez Release Mix) [as 7:51] - Mer Noire (Tiesto Remix) [as 6:44] - Africa (Quicksound Remix) [as 8:48] [4.10] What is that music from the series "Fire Within"? Ever since the series aired in both Canada and the US, one of the hottest topics concerning "Fire Within" has been the music used in the series. "Who did this song?" "That sounds like a Cirque song, but..." and "Where can I find it?" have all been posted to discussion boards at one point. Below is a brief run-down on the music by both Cirque du Soleil musicians and by selected guest artists used throughout the 13-episode series (information compiled by Keith Johnson and originally published in the "Fascination! Newsletter"): Cirque du Soleil Musique ------------------------ Written by Violaine Corradi Créations Méandres Inc. Cirque du Soleil Musique * "Abduction" (w/Hélène Dorion) - Episode 12 * "Amours 1" (w/Hélène Dorion) - Episode 7, 10 * "Avancée ouverture" - Episode 1, 8, 9, 12 * "Bamboo" - Episode 4, 5 * "Célébration 1" - Episode 6, 7, 12 * "Contrebasse" - Episode 12 * "Duduk" - Episode 2, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12 * "Fall and Wings" - Episode 2, 10, 11, 12 * "Filet" - Episode 10, 11 * "Georgians" - Episode 8, 9, 10, 12 * "Gitans" - Episode 10 * "Icarians" - Episode 8, 9, 10, 12 * "Octavio Jug" - Episode 10 * "Olga" - Episode 11, 12 * "Music Box" (w/Hélène Dorion) - Episode 12 * "Parade des Musicos" - Episode 9, 10, 12, 13 * "Patzivota" - Episode 13 * "Rain One" (w/Tina Grace) - Episode 13 * "Slippery" - Episode 1 * "Stella Errans" - Episode 4, 13 * "Straps" - Episode 12 * "Swing to Swing" - Episode 12, 13 * "Triple Trapeze" - Episode 12, 13 * "Vova" (w/Hélène Dorion) - Ep 1,2,3,6,7,8,9,11,12 Written by Benoit Jutras Créations Méandres Inc. Cirque du Soleil Musique * "Hervé" - Episode 7 * "Isabelle" - Episode 5 * "Jeux d'Eau" - Episode 5, 8, 10, 13 * "Marelle" - Episode 10 * "Rivage" - Episode 10 * "Simcha" - Episode 5 * "Steel Dream" - Episode 10, 11 * "Terre Aride" - Episode 4, 8 Written by René Dupéré Créations Méandres Inc. Cirque du Soleil Musique * "Boléro" - Episode 6 * "Icare" - Episode 1-13 * "Ibis" - Episode 7, 8 * "Il sogno di volare" (w/Franco Dragone) - Episode 5 * "Méandres" - Episode 6, 7 * "Pokinoï" - Episode 6 * "Rideau" - Episode 5, 8, 9, 13 * "Taruka" - Episode 7 * "Valsapena" (w/Manuel Tadros) - Episode 6, 7 Créations Méandres Inc. Cirque du Soleil Musique * "Africa" - Traditional - Episode 12 * "Alegria Remix" - Written by Claude Amesse / Franco Dragone / Manuel Tadros / René Dupéré - Episode 7 Featured Artists ---------------- Written/Performed by Daniel Toussaint * "Damn Bouka" - Episode 8, 10, 13 * "Fire Music" - Episode 4 * "Love Theme" - Episode 5 * "Set Dance" - Episode 5 * "Osmose" - Episode 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 * "Stella's Dance" - Episode 4 Written by Jesse Dorsey JWD Publishing * "Artus" - Feautured in Episode 1, 3, 5, 7, 8 * "Marcus" - Episode 1, 8 * "Long Way" - Episode 2 * "Wrong Way" - Episode 2 * "Summer Assault" - Episode 9, 10, 13 Written/Performed by Jason Breckenridge/Tiago Conceição/Alexandre Desilets * "11.11" - Episode 9, 10, 11 * "Desert" - Episode 9 * "Happy Dog" - Episode 4, 13 * "Livin' Flow" - Episode 1, 3 * "On veut ton corps" - Episode 1 Written by Stephan Durand and Ariel Engle Performed by Moufette * "Chew Your Heart" - Episode 6 * "Face the Sun" - Episode 9 * "Little Forest" - Episode 7 * "When Will it Be" - Episode 7, 9 * "Ghost" - Written/Performed by Jorane Avalance - Sound Publishing - Tacca Musique/DKD - Episode 2,3,8 * "Hello" - Written and performed by Bullfrog - Bullfrog Productions - Ropeadope Records - Episode 3 * "Immemory" - Written by Robin Rimbaud - Performed by Scanner - Published by Big Life Music - Sulphur Records UK - Episode 4, 11 * "Installation" - Written by Akufen - Force Inc. - Episode 9 * "Love Rack" - Written and performed by Tony Babinski - The Foxglove Concern - Episode 3, 4 * "Love Shack" - Written by Pierson/Schneider/Strickland /Wilson - EMI BLACKWOOD MUSIC INC. (BMI) - Episode 2 * "Mire Jaka / Borki" - Written by Erasmo Treglia - Performed by Acquaragia Drom - Finisterre - Episode 2 * "Multipass" - Written by Steve Beaupré - Force Inc. - Episode 9 * Music from "Nemesis" - Written and Performed by Scanner - Episode 13 * "Pineapple" - Written by M. Graca and S. Tremblay - Performed by Miguel Graca - Beyond Music - Bombay Records - Episode 4 * "Plug in Time (Post War Mix)" - Written/Performed by Walken - JWD Publishing -Episode 1, 3, 4, 8 ,9, 10, 11 * "Quand les hommes vivront d'amour" - Écrite par Raymond Lévesque - Gracieuseté de Patricia, Semi Société - Episode 5 * "Reverse Psychology" - Written by James Sobers - Performed by Bullfrog - Bullfrog Productions - Ropeadope Records - Episode 4 * "Sonnenlicht" - Written by Robin Rimbaud - Performed by Scanner - Published by Big Life Music - Sulphur Records UK - Episodes 2, 11 * "Târgul de Oameni" and "Cazuta de Mâine" - Written and performed by Adrian Berinde - Episode 5 * "Think" Written by Theodore White and Aretha Franklin - Fourteenth Hour Music Inc. - Episode 1 * "Ussa Sa" - Performed by Acquaragia Drom - Finisterre - Episode 4, 5 * "Who Needs It?" - Written/performed by Bernie Berns - Episode 1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [5] CIRQUE DU SOLEIL IMAGES (VIDEO) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- [5.1] When will .... be on video? Cirque du Soleil used to have a credo that as long as their shows were still performing live you would never see them on Video. This promise was broken when Quidam was filmed in Amsterdam and later released. Since then, most of their current productions (sans the permanent shows Mystère, "O", Zumanity, KÀ and LOVE) have made their way to DVD and VHS. [5.2] Who released/releases the Cirque du Soleil video catalog? In the 1980's, Cirque du Soleil's television productions w