Defying the laws of what can be done creatively with the human body is what makes a Cirque du Soleil show one of a kind.
Indianapolis will have an opportunity to witness Cirque du Soleil’s “Dralion” show Aug. 3-7 at Conseco Fieldhouse. Ticket prices range from $37-$102. The show fuses a 3,000 year-old tradition of Chinese acrobatic arts with the incredible yet surprising innovative performances Cirque du Soleil is known to create. The Recorder spoke with “Dralion’s” artistic director Sean McKeown, who is responsible for the show’s content and quality to learn about what it takes to create such amazing performances.
What is the concept of “Dralion”?
We wanted to do a show that combined Chinese acrobat history, which is about 3,000 years old. Cirque du Soliel has a very modern way of doing things so the director went to China and worked with a troop there and brought them to Canada and put together a beautiful show.
How do you and the director work together?
I think it’s important that our shows continue to evolve. Unlike a Broadway-style show we don’t have a set book that we have to abide to. We certainty keep the integrity of our characters, but we also have a lot of flexibility, which means we can introduce new elements into the show.
I think one of the reasons we’ve been able to stay so current is because we have continued to upgrade the show to make sure the rhythm of the show is with the times. We have to work together to ensure that continues to happen. People change and tastes change and times change. It’s important for us to keep the show alive and full of energy that it demands.
How long does it take to put a show together?
It’s about a two-year process from the idea of the show to the show actually being on stage. It takes a while because the artistic talent we’re using is very unique and that’s something that we pride ourselves on; having talent working with us from all over the world. In order to get that talent it takes time because (they) have other contracts (with other shows) as well.
What are you looking for? What makes a performer stand out?
What stands out is the quality of their skill and the level that they’re working at with that skill. People have to have either an amazing level within their specific skill or the ability to develop that level. We invest a fair amount of time in people focusing on raising the level of their performance.
What is Indianapolis going to see during “Dralion”?
They’re going to see an original live production with live music and live performances. I’ve tested this show on someone’s grandfather and someone’s 3-year-old child so there is a broad appeal for the show. There is some incredible acrobatics, there is some theatrical clown acts and amazing solo acts. I think there is something that will touch everyone and at the end of the day it’s entertainment. It’s nice to escape life for a couple of hours and come play in our world.
