Pittsburgh Arts, Regional Theatre, New Work, Producing, Copyright, Labor Unions,
New Products, Coping Skills, J-O-Bs...
Theatre industry news, University & School of Drama Announcements, plus occasional course support for
Carnegie Mellon School of Drama Faculty, Staff, Students, and Alumni.
CMU School of Drama
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Interview: Rachel Lancaster, Artistic Director of CIRQUE DU SOLEIL'S KURIOS, on Pushing Ideas to Their Limit and Surviving the Pandemic
www.broadwayworld.com: Since 1996, it's become something of an annual tradition to see Cirque du Soleil pop up at the Royal Albert Hall. This year, making its European bow, the company returns to the Royal Albert Hall this month with Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities, a steampunk-inspired story.
2 comments:
B Hanser
said...
I like that, different from the broadway world, Cirque du Soleil adapts its shows as the artists develop their crafts over time, working on the same production. I think this is an exciting way to build interest for audiences to see the same show twice since the show may have changed. Similarly, another difference I love is the big top. As Cirque moves across the country, rather than installing their stuff in large spaces like arenas, they put up big tops that enhance the company's circus feeling, giving people a visual signifier when Cirque comes to town. Obviously, most theatre and theatre-adjacent events were shut down due to COVID, but I love hearing how many people are able to find some silver lining and spend time working on something they enjoy. Also, I'm still laughing about how the Cirque du Soleil founder tried to go to the international space station as a business trip. Completely unreasonable. However, I bet it would make a great plot for one of their shows!
Lancaster's insights into the creative process and the role of art in society provide a unique perspective on the impact of the pandemic on the industry. One of the key takeaways from the interview is the importance of creativity and innovation in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic. Lancaster highlights the need to adapt and find new ways of engaging with audiences, despite the limitations posed by the pandemic. This is a reflection of the resilience and ingenuity of the live entertainment industry, which has had to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape.
The interview also touches on the role of art in society and the importance of pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas. Lancaster's perspective highlights the power of art to challenge and inspire, and the need to support and encourage creativity and innovation. As the industry continues to navigate the impact of the pandemic, it will be fascinating to see how creativity and innovation continue to shape its future.
2 comments:
I like that, different from the broadway world, Cirque du Soleil adapts its shows as the artists develop their crafts over time, working on the same production. I think this is an exciting way to build interest for audiences to see the same show twice since the show may have changed. Similarly, another difference I love is the big top. As Cirque moves across the country, rather than installing their stuff in large spaces like arenas, they put up big tops that enhance the company's circus feeling, giving people a visual signifier when Cirque comes to town. Obviously, most theatre and theatre-adjacent events were shut down due to COVID, but I love hearing how many people are able to find some silver lining and spend time working on something they enjoy. Also, I'm still laughing about how the Cirque du Soleil founder tried to go to the international space station as a business trip. Completely unreasonable. However, I bet it would make a great plot for one of their shows!
Lancaster's insights into the creative process and the role of art in society provide a unique perspective on the impact of the pandemic on the industry. One of the key takeaways from the interview is the importance of creativity and innovation in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic. Lancaster highlights the need to adapt and find new ways of engaging with audiences, despite the limitations posed by the pandemic. This is a reflection of the resilience and ingenuity of the live entertainment industry, which has had to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape.
The interview also touches on the role of art in society and the importance of pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas. Lancaster's perspective highlights the power of art to challenge and inspire, and the need to support and encourage creativity and innovation. As the industry continues to navigate the impact of the pandemic, it will be fascinating to see how creativity and innovation continue to shape its future.
Post a Comment