The Cirque du Soleil smash, “Alegría” is tumbling its way to St. Pete Forum in Tampa for a month’s worth of spectacular performances. From there, the performers will tour throughout Florida, including a run at Fort Lauderdale’s Bank Atlantic Center.
The Show-stopping Cirque du Soleil Classic Hits Florida
The Cirque du Soleil smash, “Alegría” is tumbling its way to St. Pete Forum in Tampa for a month’s worth of spectacular performances. From there, the performers will tour throughout Florida, including a run at Fort Lauderdale’s Bank Atlantic Center.
The classic Cirque du Soleil production has received international acclaim and has amazed over 10 million people throughout the world since its premiere in 1994 in Montreal. After 15 years performing under the big top, Alegría is now presented in arenas throughout the United States and Canada. The Spanish title translates to elation, joy and jubilation, and that is what the show is all about. It features an international cast of 55 performers and musicians from 15 countries and has a baroque and operatic style with flamboyant costumes, original music performed live and an elaborate set that serves to enhance the outrageous athleticism and artistry of its performers.
Artistic director Tim Smith agrees that Alegria is a sight to behold. “It’s a 16-year-old jewel — it’s [Cirque du Soleil’s] signature show,” he said. “It’s gorgeous.”
Part of what makes Alegria such a visual treat is that there are over 400 costume pieces including custom-made shoes, wigs, hats and accessories, in the show.
Artistic Director Smith has been an artist and creator throughout the U.S. and Europe for the past 15 years. He has been part of six original Broadway companies and has also developed televion and film for Sony Pictures Television. He has always had a passion for live performance and he brought that energy to Cirque du Soleil because he wanted to be a part of Cirque’s constant dedication to crafting original, one-of-a- kind and innovative events that continue to stimulate and thrill the minds of their audiences.
“It’s a feast for the senses,” he said about the show.
Smith said that in his opinion, the biggest draw is the music.
“I think the music is the star of the show. It motivates every act of the show and is the highest selling CD of any Cirque show,” he said. “The music of Alegria is the beat of the show.”
Of course, the combination of all of these elements — music, sets, costumes and performances — the show is extremely impressive.
“Ninety percent of the people who leave a Cirque show are like, “’I’ve never seen anything like this before,’” Smith explained.
Tickets are available for all performances at Cirquedusoleil.com/alegria or by calling 1-800- 745-3000.
INFO:
Alegría
June 22-26
St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa
July 20-31
Bank Atlantic Center in Fort Lauderdale
Cirquedusoleil.com/alegria
