Corteo, means “cortege” in Italian, a joyous procession, centering around a clown who imagines his own funeral taking place, all the while being watched over by angels. A magical, dreamlike world is created where the set seems to come to life. The set design helps to create a heavenly type atmosphere. Set Designer Jean Rabasse has divided the stage in two, so the audience is divided and faces each other. This device has never been used in any other Cirque show. Dominique Lemieux used more than a hundred different fabric and trims on the more than 260 costume pieces – something no other Cirque show can offer. The combination is a colourful explosion reminiscent of circuses from the 50s and 60s.
Corteo is more story driven than some of the other Cirque shows. There were a lot of interesting acts including the acrobatic ladder, where the performer balances on various ladders trying to reach an angel flying overhead. The three gorgeous chandeliers, where four women perform aerials on. The suspended pole dance, which captivates and pushes the boundaries of human strength and core definition.
Being the imagination of a clown, the performance adds a lot of fun to it. There are a few specific clown acts we don’t usually see in full length during other Cirque shows. Teatro Intimo which involves eight characters presenting an unusual version of Romeo and Juliet will delight young and old. And, my faourite; helium walk, where the artist literally walks over the audience suspended by four helium balloons.
Corteo has been in rotation since 2005 and have visited over 60 cities and has enthralled 8 million people. It was originally a Big Top show but was transformed into an arena show a few years ago. Some new acts have been added when it was adapted for the arena space. There are only six performances remaining and I hear Saturday night is already booked out.
Toronto Show Schedule at the Scotiabank Arena:
Friday, December 14, 2018 – 3:30 pm & 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 15, 2018 – 3:30 pm & 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 16, 2018 – 1:00 pm & 5:00 pm
With notes from Nicole Fairbairn
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