A quiet morning at Parc Jean-Drapeau recently turned extraordinary when Cirque du Soleil performers unexpectedly launched into acrobatics. Visitors to the Biosphere were treated to an impromptu spectacle of flips and feathers.
We got an exclusive preview of Cirque du Soleil's ECHO, and the shots from photographer David Rawalia capture the day the circus really did come to town.
Two performers pose in front of the Montreal Biodome.@davidwallyrawalia | MTL Blog
Performers in rainbow-hued suits and aviary outfits showed off intricate costumes, detailed make-up and jaw-dropping moves from the circus' latest production at the Montreal landmark on May 18.
They balanced, leaped and weaved in a display of strength and teamwork, where trust was key and gravity, optional.
A close-up of the Cirque du Soleil sparrow costume.@davidwallyrawalia | MTL Blog
Playing at the big top in Montreal's Old Port, ECHO is a celebration of life, through storytelling, technology and remarkable acrobatics that create a dreamscape with a message.
The story follows a character named Future and a band of quirky animal characters exploring the relationship between humans and nature.
Acrobats mid-jump, while others pose.@davidwallyrawalia | MTL Blog
Every scene in ECHO delivers mind-boggling feats of physical discipline and precision. There are trapeze artists dressed as fireflies, clinging to each other using nothing but their mouths as they swing high above the stage, and feathered performers "taking flight" on a teeterboard, miraculously avoiding collision as they crisscross.
A captivating live score accompanies the spectacle with melodies so enchanting you'll probably find yourself humming them after the show ends.
One performer does the splits while balancing on one hand atop the Biodome.@davidwallyrawalia | MTL Blog
The aerial performances and balancing acts in ECHO are not only breathtaking but also carry a profound message, reminding viewers that our actions shape both our future and that of the planet.
Props, like boxes, shift around the stage, often carried by clowns to symbolize change and transformation. They represent the dynamic state of life on Earth and the importance of maintaining balance.
Eye-catching make-up on an acrobat.@davidwallyrawalia | MTL Blog
ECHO drives home a straightforward message: life can be ordinary or extraordinary based on our choices and actions.
During the show, Cirque du Soleil uses acrobatics not just for entertainment but as a tool for reflection. The unexpected performance at the Biosphere was just a sample of the skills that fill the main show under the big tent.
A spot of bird-watching using the Biosphere binoculars.@davidwallyrawalia | MTL Blog
ECHO proves that wondrous moments can spring up anywhere — even during a casual stroll around the Biosphere.
Cirque du Soleil ECHO
When: Until August 20, 2023
Where: Big Top, Old Port of Montreal
Cost: $50+/general admission
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