For generations, the circus has been a beloved form of entertainment that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together. From the excitement of the performers to the awe-inspiring acts, there’s something magical about the circus that captivates and inspires us.
A costumed performer welcomes guests at the entrance during the special VIP media night held April 27th 2023 ~ Photo by Monica Wong
There’s really nothing quite like the joy of attending a circus, and Cirque du Soleil’s latest production ECHO is a fresh and contemporary show (three years in the making), based on the original concept of Es Devlin, that highlights the importance of our connection to nature and the art of dance and movement.
Presented by Sun Life Global Investments, the show premiered under the Big Top in the Old Port of Montreal on April 20th, 2023 and held its Media premiere last evening, April 27th 2023.
~ Photo by Monica Wong
ECHO is truly a mesmerizing show that is a true feast for the senses, combining poetry, performing arts, and acrobatics to explore the delicate balance between humans, animals, and the world we share, with a fluid narrative expressed through motion.
The story follows Future, a brave female protagonist, who invites the audience into a fantastic world filled with animal and human characters that climb, bend, juggle, pile, push and pull at the construction blocks that form the central cube ( our world) .
Together, they join forces to rebuild their planet by navigating different environments and creating a better world through the power of collaboration, inventiveness, and empathy.
On the official program , Mukhtar Omar Sharif Mukhtar, the writer and director of ECHO, had this to say:
“The notion of connection is one of the biggest reasons ECHO is important…Because the world right now – what we need today is more love. We have to lean on each other to make it to the finish line. I’m honored to be able to go on this journey with you.”
He also stresses the significance of his dance background.
He believes that incorporating movement and emotion into the dazzling acrobatic acts will elevate the performers from mere gymnasts into true artists.
Artists: Taras Hoi (Ukraine), Antino-Tisson Pansa ( French Guiana)
Photo by Monica Wong
With ECHO, Cirque du Soleil immerses audiences in a universe of a thousand colors, wonders, and possibilities including very creative interactions with the central cube.
Also of special note, Echo employs several performers of color and from various ethnic backgrounds – A fine representation of cultural diversity !
On opening night, the performers left the audience spellbound with their breathtaking acts which included Slackwire by Taras Hoi from Ukraine, Cadre Humain led by a group of talented Ethiopian acrobats, and Suspension par les Cheveux by Charlotte O’Sullivan from Canada and Penelope Scheidler from Austria – two female aerial acrobats whose extraordinary act is mostly performed while being suspended entirely by their hair.
According to O’Sullivan, maintaining a smooth, synchronized, and elegant quality of movement is crucial in the style they perform. They aim to create an illusion of floating on air, and they prioritize portraying an angelic and graceful image rather than something that appears painful or bizarre…
Photo by -Monica Wong
The up-beat music of the show is one of the special features of the production.
As well as playing different instruments , the 7 members live band , most wearing animal heads with elongated antlers, also sing collectively, thus shaping an ethereal musical universe comprised of powerful voices.
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Overall , Cirque du Soleil’s latest production ECHO takes the magic of the circus to the next level by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and leaving the audiences to feel amazed and inspired.
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ECHO is a hymn to the thrilling collective experience that only a live show can offer, and it’s sure to leave you inspired and uplifted.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the circus or a first-time attendee, ECHO is sure to be an experience you’ll never forget.
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The Big Top of the Old Port is the perfect venue for this spectacular show, and Cirque du Soleil invites its fans to join them from April 20 to August 20, 2023, for an unforgettable live experience.
** VIP packages with open bar service and premium seating and special backstage tour passes are available for individuals and corporate groups of 10 or more.
Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind production!
For tickets and more information, please visit https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/echo.