A production destined to change the history of the company, Cirque du Soleil first presented Alegría in April 1994, launching an emblematic show that was to win over more than 14 million spectators in 255 cities in 19 years of touring through the end of 2013. The show’s theme song, which was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1995 and continues to be a fan favorite, is the most listened-to Cirque du Soleil song on YouTube.
In light of its 25th anniversary, Cirque du Soleil is revisiting its legendary Alegría through today’s lens—including new costumes and set design, a renewed acrobatic vocabulary, and new musical arrangements —to ensure it is as inspiring now as it was at the time of its creation in 1994. With its signature songs, stunning acrobatics, memorable characters and enchanting artistry that have helped define the Cirque du Soleil aesthetic, Alegría is the reincarnation of a classic, reinterpreted for the age, and rekindled to inspire fans—old and new alike.
Beloved by fans around the world, Alegría (‘joy’ in Spanish) is returning to the Big Top once more to share its timeless story of resilience and hope. The classic power struggle of old-meets-new has been reinterpreted through today’s lens. Carried by an intangible wind of change, an emerging movement strives to shake the established order, instilling hope and renewal to bring light and harmony to their kingdom in decay. With its joyful spirit, Alegría is a vital, energizing force driven by a thirst for a brighter world.
It was a pleasure to sit down with one of the principle players of Alegria, Vincent Lavoie, who is also a member of the LGBTQ community, just a couple weeks before Alegria comes to South Florida Under the Big Top, next to Hard Rock Stadium from December 13, through February 17.
At what age did you start doing any kind of gymnastics?
I started at around 8 years old. I joined a summer camp for tumbling, and really liked the sport and continued on.
When did you start taking it seriously?
I was around 10 when I moved to a more advanced group and we started doing competition and I fell in love with the whole gymnastics thing.
Where have you competed?
I have competed a bit all over the globe. My first international competition was Russia, but I have been to Germany, England, France, Mexico, Bulgaria and all over the US.
When did you realize gymnastics can be your career?
I wanted to join the circus since the age of 11 when I saw the DVD of Alegria, and I fell in love with the show and the Power track number. It was at that point I told my dad that I wanted to join Cirque, and that would be my career.
How did you get hired by Cirque Du Soleil?
The scouts form the company come to the major events, and I started talking with them. After speaking to them I came home and worked on my demo videos and uploaded them to their website. The rest is history!
You performed in La Nouba in Orlando. How long were you there and how was that experience?
I was there for three years and it was my first Cirque show. I was excited to be living the dream. It was good to have my first experience in a residential show, and have a normal life.
Do you have a boyfriend? If yes, how does it work traveling if no, what are you looking for in a man?
No, I do not have a boyfriend. I am looking for someone who understands the klind of life that I am living right now and that doesnt have a problem with me putting career in front of some relationship aspects. Also, someone who can make me laugh is always a big win.
Are you excited to be a part of the updated Alegria?
I am very excited to be apart of the show that made me fall in love with Cirque. To be a part of this and to revamp it is a dream come true. I feel very privileged.
Why should our readers come see Alegria?
If you have seen the original you can expect the same feeling with an updated flare. If they are new to Alegria, this is a great show, one of the best that Cirque has ever done. They will get to dive into the world of Alegria.
For more information on Vincent, you can follow him: Instagram.com/v_lavoie.
Tickets for Alegría, Under the Big Top, next to Hard Rock Stadium, start at only $42, and are available online at Cirquedusoleil.com/alegria. Think about joining Cirque Club where membership is free and benefits include access to advance tickets, special offers and exclusive behind-the-scenes information. To join, visit Cirqueclub.com.
