Photo by John M. P. Knox - @HopSafariOne of the biggest lessons that everyone can learn from Cirque is how to tell a story - how to repackage something that we've been exposed to previously and turn it into something absolutely stunning. Prior to Cirque, impressions of "circuses" were dirt floor rings, unfocused acts, lack of story, and sometimes the smell of elephant.
Photo by John M. P. Knox - @HopSafariThe best example of this is Zarkana in Las Vegas. Of the shows that I have seen, this is the one that is the closest to traditional circus acts. However, the creative directors added a story, distinct and elaborate costumes, live music and beautifully choreographed movements. It doesn't resemble anything that you might see in a three ring circus.
I was very lucky to get a behind the scenes experience of Varekai. A big thanks to Endicott PR for inviting us see the artists in action. Above is a video compilation show of clips taken by the artists wearing my GoogleGlass and my iPhone during rehearsal. Next, I'll have some photos of the artist during rehearsal and onstage. Enjoy!
This is Karen. She was on the stage when we arrived. 
Karen is from New Hampshire. It is imperative for the artists to practice at a new site because each one is a new space. Movements need to be adjusted and refined to ensure safety. The set takes about 16 hours to set up!
Here she is getting a few pointers.
And this is her on opening night. The costumes and makeup are so elaborate that it is hard to tell which artist is which.
As she leaves the stage, the two Ukrainian artist take a turn on the stage. There are about 50 artists total in this show from 18 different nations. While we walked around backstage, I was certainly exposed to make other languages and accents. It is amazing to think that these artists trust each other with their lives even though they might initially speak different languages.
My palms are still getting sweaty and shaky looking at this photo. I did take a trapeze class after last year's Quidam show. It was pretty scary being 60 feet up in the air hanging onto dear life by some wires. My hands are really sweaty now.
Here they are setting up for the next moves.
After watching these moves, I can not complain about planks or hand stand walks. This is an amazing display of control.
Do you recognize the artists? I wouldn't have! These boys made my heart skip a beat several times!
Icarus, the character, is getting his make up put on. It takes the artists about two hours to prepare their make up and costumes for the performance.
And here he is on stage, falling from the sky.
A big thanks to Cirque Du Soleil for having us during your dress rehearsal and opening night. What a treat!
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Did you see that Cirque du Soleil is building a new permanent show in Riviera Maya? It'll be located in a custom theater between the Cancun airport and Playa Del Carmen. We'll have to take a trip. :-)
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