A Peek Behind the Curtain

By Josh Bell

Dec. 1-8, times and events vary, two-seven show packages from $150-$540 per person, plus tax and fee. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster

For 51 weeks out of the year, Cirque du Soleil is an amazing force that puts on some of the most graceful, astonishing and creative productions that Vegas has ever seen. But for one week (well, actually eight days), the folks at Cirque du Soleil peel back the (metaphorical as well as actual) curtain for a look behind the scenes at the company’s Vegas shows and the artists and craftspeople who make them work.

Back for its third year, Cirque Week is a chance for fans not only to see up to all seven Cirque shows in Vegas, but also to interact up close with the people responsible for the unique brand of Cirque magic.

The event kicks off with a behind-the scenes look at “O” on Dec. 1. Enjoy a sound and set demonstration at The Beatles LOVE on Dec. 2. At Mystère on Dec. 3, guests can learn about integrating new acts into the show and see a demonstration of the Chinese poles. Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away, the new 3-D movie about Cirque du Soleil’s shows, will be screened twice for Cirque Week participants, on a first-come, first-served basis on Dec. 3 and 7 at Town Square’s Rave Theater. With Zumanity Dec. 4, there’s the opportunity to check out a rehearsal and then ask questions of the cast and crew of Cirque’s sexiest show.

On Dec. 5, CRISS ANGEL Believe steps into the spotlight, as Angel’s right-hand man Maestro provides an interactive view of several tricks. Afterward, show staff participates in
a panel discussion.

features the new comic book collaboration between Marvel and Cirque du Soleil on Dec. 6. Participants can ask questions and get photos with characters. Cirque Week wraps up on Dec. 8 with a special presentation on Cirque’s newest installment, Zarkana, and the difficulty in transporting the set across two continents.