For just seven performances, Cirque Du Soleil is bringing its acclaimed show Corteo to Duluth’s Infinite Energy Arena from August 29th to September 2nd. Whether you are a Cirque enthusiast or a newbie, Corteo promises an atmosphere unseen in other shows, along with the magical acrobatics and theatricality synonymous with the grand expectations one should have for a Cirque Du Soleil presentation.
The title Corteo, which means ‘cortege‘ (as in, a funeral procession) in Italian, belies soul-lifting joy of the production. The story revolves around a clown imagining his own funeral, but instead of it being a somber, mournful occasion, it is a carnival–a celebration of life. The show illustrates the wide range of experiences and feelings of the clown, who is standing in for all of us and showcasing humanity’s scope. All of this taking place somewhere between Heaven and Earth, the set features hand-painted curtains which add a stunning eternality, unique among arena performances.
Corteo originally premiered in Montreal in 2005 and since then has become one of Cirque Du Soleil’s most popular productions. It has been enjoyed by over 8 million people in 64 cities all over the world. It features an international cast of over 50 performers, of which 16 nationalities are represented. A practically unfathomable 1200 costumes are used in each performance.
Cirque Du Soleil’s humble beginnings were the streets of a small village outside of Quebec City, Canada over 40 years ago. Year by year it grew, always being mindful of being an animal-free show, eventually growing to present its big-top and arena spectacle around the world. The first time a Cirque touring production came to the United States was 1987 and their shows have gained an unparalleled reputation for a dazzling evening of wonder.
For tickets go to cirquedusoleil.com/corteo