
For Immediate Release
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL AND
A NEW LIVE EXPERIENCE FEATURING CRISS ANGEL
OPENS SUMMER 2008
Always on the lookout for the next artistic challenge, Cirque du Soleil is working with Criss to fuse his revolutionary illusions and mind-blowing artistry with acrobatics, dance, puppetry, music and poetry to tell a story, taking audiences on a bizarre and fascinating journey.
Re-inventing the traditional magic show has been a long-standing desire of Guy Laliberté, Guide and Founder of Cirque du Soleil. Five years of extensive research and development were spent exploring the world of magic and how to re-define the experience.
The crucial element, a young, edgy and talented artist and mystifier, was found in Criss Angel. With his incredibly unique creativity, Criss is now working with the experienced team of Cirque du Soleil creators led by Director Serge Denoncourt to bring this dream to life.
Since he was six years old, Criss Angel has immersed himself in a multitude of art forms, from performance artist to mystifier and provocateur. Since then, a relentless work ethic combined with talent, skill and vision has made Criss one of the most provocative artists of our day. From creator, producer and performer in his television series, specials and live shows, Criss has redefined the term "artist" for the 21st Century.
"I've spent 15 years creating and evolving a concept that the world of entertainment has never seen," said Criss Angel. "Now, I'm thrilled to be working with Cirque du Soleil and Felix Rappaport and his amazing team here at the
Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of
Gilles Ste-Croix, Senior Vice President of Creative Content at
Felix Rappaport, President and COO of
Cirque du Soleil is world-renowned for its distinct brand of theatrical entertainment. Since its founding in 1984, Cirque du Soleil has thrilled over 50 million spectators in more than 130 cities on five continents. In
Criss Angel is one of the most remarkable talents of our time and his fan base continues to grow. He had the highest advance tickets sales during his fourteen month 600 performance off-broadway run of "Criss Angel MINDFREAK" which he created, produced, directed and starred in. Criss Angel MINDFREAK (the television show) is currently on schedule to film its 70th episode in its unprecedented third season shot exclusively at The Luxor Hotel and Casino. Prominent publishing house, Harper Collins will be releasing Criss' highly anticipated first book, Criss Angel MINDFREAK: Secret Revelations in April 2007. Criss has been named 2001, 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2008 Magician of the Year, making him the first five-time and back-to-back recipient ever to be awarded these most prestigious accolades. Criss was also unanimously selected as the recipient of the 22nd Louie Award for outstanding achievement in the art of magic. Recently, Criss has added acting to his long and distinguished resume, guest starring in an episode of the critically acclaimed "CSI:NY". More information on Criss can be found at www.crissangel.com
Providing a striking visual on the
SOURCE: CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
