Corteo by Cirque du Soleil: A Magical Funeral that will leave you Laughing

Corteo’ premiered in 2005 as Cirque du Soleil’s Grand Chapiteau (over the top) show, presented in more than nineteen countries and 64 cities in the original run. Corteo (meaning cortege in Italian) is a joyous procession that takes place before an intimate audience. This clever production is about a clown who pictures his own funeral taking place in a carnival atmosphere. They say it takes a village; the Kamloops show would not be possible without the incredible team of 112 individuals. Please be sure to view the exclusive behind the scenes footage by clicking play on the video above.

Magical & Mystifying

Corteo is a signature Cirque performance that will make you believe in magic. Skilled performances by talented artists, magical settings, and enchanting acts infused with inherent mystery create a lifelike drama.

Cirque’s Corteo is a family-friendly show and you can easily make it a family night-out. Kids are especially attracted to the gymnasts jumping on gigantic beds. That’s what I love about their shows; they make us all feel like a kid again.

Illusion teases Reality

I have always loved Cirque shows and Corteo is not exception. The show is designed around a timeless celebration while serene angels watch from above. I have had the opportunity to attend the media preview and the premier. It was refreshing to see the artists training backstage and the acrobatics rehearsals. Please be sure to click play on the YouTube video above for exclusive footage I took of my time backstage. From death-defying flips to crazy spins, these skilled performers do it so effortlessly that it leaves one reeling. Corteo is a masterpiece that juxtaposes comedy and tragedy while underlining the strengths and vulnerabilities of the protagonist to present a very human picture.

Creepy yet Cool

I was simply mesmerized by Corteo’s Helium Dance. Valentina Paylevanyan, dressed as the Little Red Clowness, soared above the crowd propelled by four huge helium balloons. The performance was interactive and fascinating as whenever she dropped down, one of the audience members would lightly tap her up by the feet and she would keep flying. As photographs were not allowed, I’ve included more photos from the backstage tour below.

Corteo: A Managed Chaos

With a dozen things going on simultaneously, Corteo keeps you hooked. As your eyes drift from the main act, you find more intricate details of the show in the side acts, the hauntingly beautiful sets, the evocative music, and grandiose setting. The impressive performances will keep you on the edge of your seat. I can’t urge you enough to check out Corteo. If you don’t have any plans for this weekend, brace yourselves for a magical night! Cirque will be in Kamloops from October 24-28, 2018. You can also catch Corteo in Toronto from December 12-16, 2018.